Hong Kong: HK reports 1 imported virus case

The Centre for Health Protection today said it is investigating one additional COVID-19 case involving a 16-year-old boy who arrived from the UK.

In light of the local preliminary positive COVID-19 case involving the L452R mutant strain, people connected to seven specified premises are required to undergo compulsory testing.

The Government will set up a new specimen collection station at North Transition Deck, L6, Terminal 1, Hong Kong International Airport tomorrow for airport staff subject to compulsory testing.

A total of 40 cases were reported in Hong Kong in the past 14 days, including two import-related cases.

For information and health advice on COVID-19, visit the Governments dedicated webpage.

This story has been published on: 2021-07-11. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
South Africa: President Ramaphosa condemns acts of violence

President Cyril Ramaphosa has condemned the recent sporadic but increasingly violent protests in some parts of the country.

Key infrastructure like national roads have been affected, slowing down the transportation of goods and services that keep our economy running.

Property has been destroyed. Cars have been stoned. People have been intimidated and threatened, and some have even been hurt.

These acts are endangering lives and damaging our efforts to rebuild the economy, the President said on Sunday evening, while updating South Africans on the developments in the countrys response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

He said the countrys Constitution guarantees everyones right to freely express themselves and to engage in peaceful protest.

While there are those who may be hurt and angry at this moment, the President said, there can never be any justification for such violent, destructive and disruptive actions.

He said it is a matter of concern to all South Africans that some of these acts of violence are based on ethnic mobilisation.

This must be condemned by all South Africans at all costs as we are a nation committed to non-racialism and non-tribalism that is underpinned by the diversity and unity of all the people of South Africa, whatever their language, culture, religious beliefs and race.

Our commitment to our democratic Constitution is based on the fundamental principle that all people are equal before the law, and that all people have the right to equal protection before the law, President Ramaphosa said.

He said the rule of law safeguards against the abuse of power, adding that the rule of law protects the poor and the vulnerable.

Since the advent of democracy, institutions like the Constitutional Court have been at the forefront of improving the lives of South Africans.

Let us be clear, as a nation, that we will not tolerate acts of criminality.

The President warned that those who are involved in acts of violence will be arrested and prosecuted.

Those found guilty of breaking the lockdown regulations will receive the stipulated penalty. This will be done without fear or favour.

The President further condemned attempts to create confusion by sharing false images and videos, often from events that took place many years ago.

I ask that you think carefully before sharing anything on social media or elsewhere that may not be accurate or verified.

He said the vast majority of this countrys citizens have shown that they want to live in peace and harmony.

They want to work and earn a living. They want to see our country recover from this pandemic. We are confronting the COVID-19 pandemic together.

We are working to rebuild our economy together so that more jobs can be created, so that more businesses can be supported, and so we can put food on the table, send our children to school and support our families, President Ramaphosa said.  SAnews.gov.za

This story has been published on: 2021-07-11. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
South Africa: Adjusted Alert Level 4 extended for further two weeks

South Africa will over the next two weeks remain on Adjusted Alert Level 4 of the COVID-19 regulations, albeit with minor adjustments, President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced.

Among the adjustments was that schools would now reopen on 26 July, a week later than initially planned. Restaurants will now be able to serve patrons but not host more than 50 customers at a time. Smaller restaurants will have to keep to a maximum of 50% of its capacity.

Addressing the nation, the President said for the last two weeks, the country had consistently recorded an average of nearly 20 000 daily new cases. As of Sunday, the country had over 200 000 active COVID cases.

In the last two weeks, over 4 200 South Africans have lost their lives to COVID-19, he said.

Gauteng, he said, continues to be the countrys epicentre, accounting for more than half of new infections. However, cases were rapidly increasing in the Western Cape, Limpopo, North West and KwaZulu-Natal.

Our health system countrywide remains under pressure. Daily hospital admissions across the country are likely to reach the levels observed during the peak of the first two waves. COVID-19 related deaths in hospitals are also increasing, he said.

Deaths in hospitals had already surpassed those observed at the peak of the first two waves.

Until 25 July, all social, political, religious and other gatherings would remain prohibited as would the curfew between 9pm and 4am.

Only those with permission to do so may leave their homes during this time. The sale of alcohol also remains prohibited.

Schools will remain closed until the 26th of July.

It remains mandatary in other words, compulsory to wear a mask that covers your nose and mouth. Whenever you are in public.

Other adjustments to the alert level include that gyms and fitness centres would now open while activities such as agricultural livestock and game auctions could proceed, subject to the conditions outlined in regulations, since the onset of the pandemic.

SA guided by advice of experts

The President reiterated that the countrys response had been guided by the latest available evidence and advice of experts.

And this is what we know; we know that reducing the instances where people are in close proximity to others helps to contain infections.

We know that the Coronavirus spreads at funerals, in office meetings, at parties and family occasions, and restaurants, and that is why we have Adjusted Alert Level 4. We have had to prohibit religious, social and political gatherings. We also know that as more people move the virus moves with them, and spreads," he said.

We know that curfews reduce movement and limits the late night social gatherings that increase the potential for transmission. We know that restrictions on alcohol sales reduce the number of admissions at hospitals and emergency rooms with alcohol related trauma, such as motor vehicle accidents and interpersonal violence.

Reducing alcohol frees up hospitals

He said reducing alcohol harm frees up much needed capacity in health facilities to deal with COVID-19 cases, saying alcohol abuse was also associated with gatherings and non-adherence to public health regulations.

At the same time, we know and recognize the vital contribution of the alcohol industry to our economy, he said.

Ultimately, he said, the most important measures to limit transmissions are those that are within an individuals control.

The Delta variant is more transmissible. We need to be far more diligent in following the basic precautions with which we are all familiar with, as we implement measures to limit the number of infections. We are acting to protect as many people as possible through vaccination.

SAs vaccination programme

Turning attention to the countrys vaccination programme, President Ramaphosa said this was expanding.

To date, over 4.2 million people in South Africa have received a vaccine dose, with one million of these having been done over the past seven weekdays.

The pace of vaccination has more than doubled in the last month, and will continue to increase, he said.

Presently, South Africa was on average inoculating 190 000 each weekday.

The President said government and the private sector were working together in an unprecedented way to build additional capacity to vaccinate many more people a day.

Currently, the vaccination programme is administering jabs on the 60+ and 50+ age groups.

From Thursday, the over 35 age group will be able to register on the Electronic Vaccination Data System and begin getting vaccinations on 1 August.

The programme was also inoculating essential workers in basic education, the police and the defence force.

We are working to ensure that vaccination sites are located closer to where people live to make it easier for them. We will continue to work with community, religious and traditional leaders to mobilise communities to get vaccinated, the President said.

Plans are in place in all provinces to expand many sites to vaccinate either six or seven days of the week.

He said this would be achieved by the provision of funds for overtime and the recruitment of additional medical staff and health science students.

President Ramaphosa urged all those who qualify for vaccination to pre-register to speed up the process at vaccination sites.  SAnews.gov.za

This story has been published on: 2021-07-11. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
by Vladimir Rozanskij

Russian-Laotian friendship goes back a long way, a legacy of Moscows ties with the local communist regime. Thanks to its infrastructure projects, Beijing now plays a dominant role in the country. Nonetheless, Russia and Laos want to renew trade and military collaboration.

Moscow (AsiaNews)  The recent visit to Laos by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov focused on the China factor.

Beijing plays a dominant role in the small Southeast Asian country, above all through the construction of strategic infrastructures.

The Chinese are currently building a railway that will connect the Laotian capital Vientiane to Kunming, in the Chinese province of Yunnan, a US$ 7 billion project that is going ahead despite the pandemic.

Laos, like other Chinese partners, is becoming an eternal debtor to China.

To counterbalance the influence of its powerful neighbour, Laos is seeking Russian support; Moscow however lacks the wherewithal it had during Soviet times, and can hardly compete with China for control of the country.

Despite the huge distance that separates Russia from Laos, relations between the two countries have always remained very close and friendly.

Minister Lavrov met with Laotian Prime Minister Phankham Viphavanh and President Thongloun Sisoulith on Thursday without translators, a legacy of 60 years of close ties between the Lao People's Democratic Republic and its Russian brothers, the USSR first and now the Russian Federation.

At the start of the visit, Lavrov and his Laotian counterpart Saleumxay Kommasith submitted themselves to the traditional photo op. The two officials took off their masks and warmly hugged exchanging compliments in Russian.

Before starting his career, Kommasith studied for six years at Moscow State University of International Relations and Lavrov was one of his professors.

In Soviet times, President Sisoulith studied at the Leningrad State Pedagogical Institute, now the Herzen State Pedagogical University of Russia in St Petersburg (formerly Leningrad), and then headed the Russian language programme at the National University of Laos.

During his rise through the ranks of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party, the only party allowed in the country, he never missed an opportunity to visit his second homeland, Russia.

More than any other country, the Soviet Union helped the Lao People's Democratic Republic since its founding in 1975, supplying cars, fuel, food and consumer goods.

Kommasith thanked Russia for its help in the fight against COVID-19, which remains a major challenge in the country, albeit not as great as in other countries in the region.

Back in March Laotian authorities rolled out a major vaccination campaign administering the Russias Sputnik-V vaccine.

Although facing shortages at home and a new pandemic wave, Moscow pledged to send large quantities of the vaccine to Laos.

Lavrov and Laotian leaders also discussed ways to resume trade. But military cooperation topped the agenda.

A special group of Russian deminers cleared an airstrip from more than a thousand pieces of unexploded ordnance left by the US between 1964 and 1973.

Now Moscow will help Laos upgrade the military airfield, bringing new supplies and advanced military technologies, and providing training to the countrys armed forces.
Honda Vietnam sees higher auto sales but less motorbike deliveries in June

Honda Vietnam posted an 8.9-percent increase in retail sales of automobiles but a 16.9-percent drop in that of motorbikes in June, the firm announced on July 10.



It sold 1,550 automobile units last month, up 8.9 percent month on month but down 51.4 percent year on year.





Motorbike production at Honda Vietnam in the northern province of Vinh Phuc. (Photo: VNA)





Honda City remained the most sought-after model, with 802 vehicles delivered to customers, accounting for 51.7 percent of the total sales.



Meanwhile, 149,853 motorbikes were sold during the month, down 16.9 percent month on month and 14.2 percent year on year



Wave Alpha was the bestseller, with 32,578 units, or 21.7 percent of the total, while Vision was the most popular scooter, with 38,542 units delivered, or 25.7 percent.



Honda Vietnam also exported 17,151 motorbikes to foreign markets.
Vietnam looks to digitalise COVID-19 vaccination database

Military-run telecom group Viettel has developed a digital health record system that allows people to register for COVID-19 vaccination, make health declarations, and receive information on time and venue for the inoculation online.



It is part of Vietnams efforts to apply technology in managing and certifying COVID-19 vaccination as the country is about to start a nationwide inoculation drive this month.


Xinjiang People refute lies about Xinjiang with facts

18:10, July 10, 2021 By Wang Xiaobo ( People's Daily

Photo shows the 12th press conference held by northwest Chinas Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region on Xinjiang-related issues in Beijing on July 5. (Photo/Tianshannet)

Victims of the highly violent crimes involving beating, smashing, looting and arson that took place on July 5, 2009, in Urumqi, capital of northwest Chinas Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region, their family, officials of relevant authorities of the region, as well as representatives of industry associations and enterprises revealed the truth about Xinjiang with their own experiences at the 12th press conference held by the region on Xinjiang-related issues in Beijing on July 5.

They disproved lies fabricated by Western anti-China forces about Xinjiang and denounced their acts of grossly interfering in Chinas internal affairs and severely trampling on international law and the international order in front of domestic and foreign media.

For a long time, anti-China forces in the West, including the U.S., have concocted plenty of disinformation and lies about Xinjiang, using the guise of human rights to achieve their political ends, said Xu Guixiang, a spokesperson with the government of Xinjiang.

They have damaged the fundamental human rights of people of all ethnic groups in Xinjiang, with the intention of meddling in Chinas Xinjiang affairs, which are the domestic affairs of China, and suppressing the development of the country, Xu said at the press conference.

As I have said many times, instead of human rights, ethnicity, and religion, Xinjiangs problems are about violent terrorism, radicalization and separatism, said Elijan Anayat, another spokesperson of the government of Xinjiang, at the press conference.

Its ridiculous for some countries including the U.S. and Canada to criticize and attack the human rights situation in Xinjiang according to fake evidence and groundless lies, he noted.

Saytjan Sawur, a policeman and one of the victims of the incident on July 5 in Urumqi, attended the press conference and told reporters his experience that day.

On that night, Sawur and his colleagues were patrolling the Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar in Urumqi. To protect over one thousand tourists stranded at the bazaar, Sawur and a dozen of his colleagues were besieged and attacked by mobsters.

A gang of thugs mobbed me and hit me brutally with stones and bricks. After more than ten minutes, I passed out due to excessive bleeding and lack of physical strength, Sawur recalled.

Although 12 years have passed, we still feel the pain caused by those mobsters. They are the enemy of people of all ethnic groups in Xinjiang and the enemy of us Uygur people. Now everything is going well in Xinjiang, and we cherish our life very much, he added.

There have been no violent terrorist cases in Xinjiang for over four consecutive years, according to Anayat, who said that the region has enjoyed high-quality economic development and witnessed its comprehensive economic strength constantly reach new heights.

Xinjiang has scored a complete victory in its fight against poverty, with all 3.06 million rural residents living under the current poverty line being lifted out of poverty, and all 3,666 impoverished villages and 35 poor counties getting rid of poverty. The absolute poverty problem in Xinjiang has been resolved historically, Anayat pointed out.

There has been significant improvement in the lives of people in Xinjiang, thanks to the decision of the regional government to spend 70 percent of its fiscal expenditure on safeguarding and improving peoples livelihood in a bid to make sure the fruits of development benefit people of all ethnic groups more and in a fairer way, which is the best story about Xinjiangs human rights protection, Anayat told reporters at the press conference.

After suppressing Xinjiangs cotton and textile industry, the U.S. has employed state power again and targeted it at the photovoltaic industry of the region this time, Xu pointed out.

Pursuing trade protectionism and bullying in the name of safeguarding human rights, the U.S. has severely violated international trade rules, the principles of market economy, and basic morality and justice, and posed serious threats to the safety of global industrial and supply chains, Xu explained.

Xinjiang never fears sanctions, as all of them are merely a waste of paper, Xu said, adding that Chinas photovoltaic industry doesnt exist just for one country, but has become an important part of the global photovoltaic industry chain.

Some countries spread rumors that enterprises in Xinjiang have assigned employees from ethnic minority groups as forced labor and violated peoples human rights. The U.S. Department of Commerce even used it as an excuse to impose sanctions against four polysilicon companies in Xinjiang, including our company. Ive been outraged at such news, said Zulbiya Ahmat, a machine operator of a company in Xinjiang, at the press conference.

How could they just indiscriminately stigmatize and impose sanctions against companies? Do they want to shut down the businesses we work for? Do they want to see workers like me lose jobs? Ahmat asked indignantly.

Ahmat was born in a farmers family in Turpan, Xinjiang. According to her, her family werent quite well-off when she was little, and she and her parents have been satisfied with her stable employment in the company.

I signed a labor contract with the company. It pays contributions for my old-age pension, medical insurance, unemployment insurance, and maternity insurance, workers compensation, and housing provident fund schemes, and guarantees the benefits, salaries, rest and vacations, and freedom of religious belief of employees from all ethnic groups. Not one person has been treated differently here because of his or her ethnicity and religious belief, Ahmat said.

We admonish certain countries in the West, including the U.S., not to willfully smear and defame Xinjiang and hurt diligent workers like us, she stressed.

More than 90 countries have voiced support for Chinas just stance on issues related to Xinjiang through joint speech, separate speech, and letters at the 47th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), Xu noted.

The evil deeds of anti-China forces in the West are bound to fail, as they run counter to the norms governing international relations, undermine international cooperation on protecting human rights, and betray human conscience, he emphasized.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Bianji)
Growing express delivery capacity helps unleash consumption potential in China

18:14, July 10, 2021 By Li Xinping ( People's Daily

Villagers pick up express parcels from an express delivery service station in Luci village, Fuchunjiang township, Tonglu county, east Chinas Zhejiang province, May 28, 2021. (Peoples Daily Online/He Xiaohua)

Chinas express delivery sector has continued to maintain robust momentum for growth since the beginning of 2021, with the number of parcels handled exceeding 50 billion as of July 4, close to that of the whole year of 2018, according to the countrys State Post Bureau (SPB).

It only took the industry six months to register a business volume of 50 billion this year, about two months earlier than in 2020. In addition, the sector serves an average of about 600 million customers per day, and handled up to over 400 million packages a day during the annual 618 (June 18) online shopping festival, continuously creating notable new records.

The rapidly rising business volume and increasing delivery speed reveal the countrys flourishing consumer market and witness a boom in online retail market of China.

Of the 50 billion parcels handled in the country, about one third were sent to rural areas, representing a fast growth. The consumption potential of rural residents has been gradually released as the network of Chinas consumer market extends to rural areas, and manufactured goods enjoy increasingly smooth channels for transport, sales and marketing in the countryside.

While the number of parcels sent to rural areas increases, the amount of packages sent out from these areas has also surged, reflecting huge potential for sales growth of agricultural products in urban areas.

Due to poor logistics, Raohe county of Shuangyashan city, northeast Chinas Heilongjiang province, a core area of national nature reserve for black bees, had difficulty selling local honey and increasing local residents income.

After express delivery services became available in our village, we can sell individually wrapped honey on e-commerce platforms at a price of up to 40 yuan (about $6.16) per kilogram. Our life is much better now, Li Shuying, a beekeeper in Raohe county, told Peoples Daily.

According to Li, before the village was connected to the countrys express delivery network, her family could only sell the honey they harvested to a few passersby, and then sell the rest in bulk at low prices to processing plants.

In one of the areas covered by express delivery service outlets in Raohe county, where there are 21 beekeeping households and about 75,000 kilograms of honey is produced a year, the income of beekeepers has increased by 1.2 million yuan after express delivery services have been launched in the locality.

Encouraged by the SPB, courier companies in China have pushed ahead efforts to make express delivery services available in rural areas by adopting various models according to local conditions in recent years.

By 2020, all the townships in China had been basically covered by express delivery network, and more than 50 percent of the packages had been able to be sent directly to villages.

The ever-expanding express delivery network and improving express delivery services in rural areas have brought more and more agricultural products onto dining tables of urban residents, while helping rural residents enjoy continuous increase in their income.

As their income has grown, rural residents show stronger willingness to spend, which has further speeded up the introduction of manufactured products into rural areas and made rural market a new growth driver for express delivery sector and a new blue ocean of consumer market.

The service capacity of the express delivery sector decides to some extent the product mix of consumers online shopping list. After all, efficient express delivery services can surely make online shopping more appealing.

Looking forward, express delivery sector in China is expected to contribute more to unleashing consumption potential and facilitating the forming of a new development pattern.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Bianji)
Liaison office of central gov't in HKSAR strongly condemns European Parliament for distorting facts

Xinhua) 08:58, July 11, 2021

HONG KONG, July 10 (Xinhua) -- The Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) has strongly condemned the European Parliament for its calling white black, passing a so-called "resolution" relating to Hong Kong, wantonly slandering the national security law in Hong Kong and advocating "sanctions" against China.

A spokesperson for the office said on Saturday that the European Parliament, ignoring international law and the basic norms governing international relations, grossly interferes in China's internal affairs, which fully demonstrates the blatant double standards and gangster logic of some anti-China politicians.

The attempt runs against the will of the people and is doomed to fail, said the spokesperson.

The spokesperson noted that since the implementation of the national security law in Hong Kong, Hong Kong's rule of law and social order have returned to the right track, and people's personal rights and peaceful life have been guaranteed, adding that this is a hard-earned situation cherished by all sectors of the Hong Kong society.

The spokesperson said that the HKSAR government and the Hong Kong police taking actions in accordance with laws against acts and persons suspected of violating the national security law in Hong Kong is a just move to safeguard national security and the constitutional order of the HKSAR.

No place in the world will turn a blind eye to acts that endanger its national security but will take effective counter measures, the spokesperson noted.

The spokesperson stressed that Hong Kong is China's Hong Kong, and that the Chinese people will not be scared by intimidation and threats. The European Parliament is advised to stop interfering in Hong Kong affairs and China's internal affairs in any way.

"Our determination to safeguard China's sovereignty, security, and development interests is unshakable, any sinister intention of external forces of undermining Hong Kong's prosperity and stability and hindering China's peaceful development is doomed to fail," the spokesperson said. Enditem

(Web editor: Xian Jiangnan, Bianji)
French official's remarks on vaccines "hybrid of racism": Russian Foreign Ministry

Xinhua) 10:10, July 11, 2021

MOSCOW, July 10 (Xinhua) -- The remarks by a French official of not recognizing Russian and Chinese COVID-19 vaccines were "a hybrid of racism, imperial hegemonism and neo-Nazism," a spokesperson of the Russian Foreign Ministry has said, according to an article published on the website of Russian media outlet Russia Today (RT) recently.

French Minister of State for European Affairs Clement Beaune has made the remarks to the European Union members earlier this week, which was quite inappropriate and went against laws, ethics and morality, Maria Zakharova said on her Telegram channel.

"It is particularly striking that Western countries with cold-bloodedness, cynicism and cruelty are fighting for profits during the period of mankind's struggle against the pandemic," she wrote.

According to the Chinese Foreign Ministry on Friday, China has provided more than 100 countries and international organizations with 500 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines and concentrates, accounting for one-sixth of the current global COVID-19 vaccine production.

China has also actively supported other developing countries in producing vaccines to expand the global vaccine capacity, the foreign ministry said.

(Web editor: Xian Jiangnan, Bianji)
U.S. demonization of China could be "colossal strategic blunder": S. Korean media

Xinhua) 10:52, July 11, 2021

SEOUL, July 10 (Xinhua) -- An opinion piece in the Korea Times on Thursday raised doubts about the U.S. demonization of China, saying it could be "a colossal strategic blunder."

"Is practically every China claim in the South China Sea wholly invalid? Is it invariably the case that China is always in the wrong?" said Tom Plate, author of the opinion piece and a professor at Loyola Marymount University in California.

"This morbid American mentality about China, a historic country and civilization which in all fairness deserves at least as much respect as watchfulness, has the potential to become a colossal strategic blunder," said the opinion.

The United States cannot see China straight anymore, it said.

Noting that "the Cambridge-New York-Washington crowd" has lost its cool, the opinion said "the brain trust of the West" is trending neurotic.

Lacking an adequate sense of history, the West which "cannot seem to develop sensible coping mechanisms" resorts to "the old hand-jerk cowboy response: Shoot the bad guy," it said.

The United States is ready to pounce on anything that it believes makes Beijing look bad, said the opinion, adding that it is possible that the U.S. establishment with such smug ideology and calculating heart could "lose" Asia as well as China.

(Web editor: Xian Jiangnan, Bianji)
China firmly committed to South-South cooperation

Xinhua) 14:11, July 11, 2021

BEIJING, July 10 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday sent a congratulatory letter on the 5th anniversary of the establishment of the South-South Cooperation Assistance Fund (SSCAF) and the Institute of South-South Cooperation and Development (ISSCAD).

China set up both of these, and they highlight the country's unyielding commitment and concrete contributions to South-South cooperation.

Over the past five years, the SSCAF has worked closely with more than 10 international organizations to implement more than 100 livelihood projects in more than 50 countries, benefiting more than 20 million people. It has made tangible contributions to the UN 2030 Sustainable Development Goals implementation, ranging from responding to tropical cyclone Idai to combating Ebola and the COVID-19 pandemic.

The SSCAF has also been involved in promoting maternal and child health, solving migration crises, strengthening agricultural governance, enhancing civil aviation safety, and helping people with disabilities find employment to reduce poverty.

The ISSCAD has enrolled more than 200 master and doctoral students from nearly 60 countries, introducing national development theories, sharing experiences in governance, building research and exchange platforms, and contributing to the training of high-end talents for many developing countries. The participants have witnessed China's ongoing efforts to build a community with a shared future for humanity and experienced the vitality of the flourishing South-South cooperation.

With the joint support of all parties, the SSCAF and the ISSCAD have developed into a vital public product in the cause of South-South cooperation and a significant international brand for developing countries to promote South-South cooperation and sustainable development.

Siddharth Chatterjee, the United Nations Resident Coordinator in China, has sent congratulations on the occasion, expressing appreciation of the SSCAF and willingness to continue partnering with the SSCAF and the ISSCAD, especially on sharing development experience.

If history is any guide, China has continuously demonstrated a spirit of internationalism and humanitarianism. It supports other developing countries' efforts to improve their people's lives and achieve development.

From the establishment of the People's Republic of China in 1949, even though China was itself short of funds, it started offering assistance to needy countries in support of their efforts to promote economic and social development. It laid a solid foundation for long-term friendship and cooperation with those countries. After launching reform and opening up in 1978, China has provided other developing economies with even more aid in more diverse forms to boost development.

China is ready to work with other developing countries to further release the potential of South-South cooperation and share development opportunities, Xi said in the congratulatory letter, underlining China's continued willingness in this regard.

Despite China's tremendous achievements, two realities have not changed: China is in the primary stage of socialism and will remain so for a long time to come, and China is still the world's largest developing economy.

"China's vote in the United Nations will always belong to the developing countries," Xi said at the general debate of the 70th session of the UN General Assembly in 2015.

China's development cooperation is a form of mutual assistance between developing countries. It falls into the category of South-South cooperation and therefore is essentially different from North-South cooperation. China is a staunch supporter, active participant, and a vital contributor to South-South cooperation. It will continue to shoulder the international responsibilities commensurate with its development level and capacity and further expand South-South cooperation to promote mutual development.

China will continue to share without reserve its governance experience and all appropriate technology. The world's largest developing country will increase the supply of global public goods, channel more resources to developing countries to support their sustainable economic and social development, and do more to help them remove development obstacles.

(Web editor: Xian Jiangnan, Bianji)
As part of Vicenzaoro September (10-14 September 2021) VO Vintage will be back for the second edition of the event devised by IEG - Italian Exhibition Group, specifically for all collectors, enthusiasts and onlookers of vintage watches and jewellery. From Saturday 11th to Monday 13th September 2021, a precious moment and vis-a-vis encounters for every player in the high-range vintage world, a sector that is expected to grow constantly from now to 2025, with watch sales in the second-wrist market estimated at between 29 and 32 billion dollars. And thats not all. VO Vintage also offers a trip into the wonderful world of jewellery that has become iconic with time.



Community and culture are the key words behind this free for all exhibition, devised and created thanks to the expertise of IEG which, with its Jewellery Agenda, oversees top gold-jewellery events in the world. VO Vintage is a moment of exchange, reunion and the sharing of a passion that inspires all those who gravitate around the vintage watch and jewellery world. Immersed in a distinctive location, they will have the exclusive opportunity to find unique pieces that created the luxury dimension in the past, as well as top experts from the sector. A much and long-awaited chance to build relations after almost a year of forced standstill for this physically-attended event which, as guarantee of exhibitor and visitor privacy and safety, will take place in the foyer on the first floor of the Vicenza Expo Centre in an exclusive and restricted context.



The sectors four most important dealers are expected to attend, great enthusiasts even prior to becoming market operators, each with a selection of rare and highly-sought watches: Stefano Mazzariol, Maurizio De Angelis, Elvio Piva and Corrado Mattarelli.

Rolex Daytona ref.-6263 Elvio-Piva  Rolex

Exceptional individuals who make VO Vintage a chance for visitors and collectors to admire the very best of luxury vintage watches and share their story and manufacturing peculiarities with the greatest experts and satisfy their curiosity about the various models.

The programme, organized under the directorship of Michele Mengoli, advisor for VO Vintage, foresees three full days of talks with sector experts and high-profile figures, including Dody Giussani and Mario Peserico, in moments of exchange and in-depth investigation amid focuses on the fascination of watches and the ambitious future of the vintage world.



To round off, two high-quality educational moments, each in partnership with a prestigious institution. On Sunday, technical training held by educators from CAPAC in Milan, the Trade and Tourism Polytechnic, which represents Lombardys excellence in the field of training services in the watch sector. Monday will be the turn of the Watch Essentials Class, an unprecedented course held by the FHH Federation Haute Horlorogerie, a Geneva-based institution that, for over 10 years, has been promoting and disseminating watch-making excellence and its culture around the world. The class will have an outstanding educator: Ugo Pancani, Watch-making, Mechanics and Electronics Professor and FHH Ambassador.



VO Vintage is the chance to admire and learn the gold-jewellery tradition of the past and be seduced by the charm of those precious items that have gone down in history as symbols of their own era, yet are still contemporary due to their uniqueness. In fact, selected traders in the specialized valuable antique and vintage high-jewellery will be in attendance, including Montegrandi Gioielli, Luise Gioielli and Barbara Bassi.



VO Vintage has three partners: AHCI - Academie Horlogere des Createurs Independants, the historical Swiss association whose aim is to keep the art of independent watch-making going; the new Watchouse Forum dedicated to watch enthusiasts and founded by Bruno Bergamaschi, a key opinion leader in the sector; WP - Watch Passion, a category association for new, second-hand, contemporary and vintage watch dealers.



But VO Vintage is not only timepieces and vintage jewellery: the new entry at Vicenzaoro September 2021 will be VO Clock, the B2B area dedicated to contemporary watches, a new and lively community that already counts 25 independent brands on display. Every enthusiast of the vintage wrist watch world, its stories and its most iconic brands, will be able to register and take part in the event, which is open to the public and free of charge, on the following link: https://visita.vovintage.com/reserved-are.

Every enthusiast of the vintage wrist watch world, its stories and its most iconic brands, will be able to register and take part in the event, which is open to the public and free of charge, on the following link: https://visita.vovintage.com/reserved-area.
At number 23 of Place Vendome, in the very heart of the Ville Lumiere and the temple of High Jewellery, Bulgari unveils its redesigned and historically restored Parisian flagship store. Here architect Peter Marino has created a new concept and architectural identity for Bulgari that draws on its Roman roots and cultural heritage, and which emphasizes a distinctively Italian approach to modernity.



As to craft one of its exquisite creatio ns, for the occasion the Maison brought together world-renowned designers and artisans to realize this jewel of a store while sealing the extraordinary encounter between Rome and Paris  officially twinned in 1956 , during the era golden era of Dolce Vita, and since then in a mutual exchange of artistic heritage, know-how and unrivalled sense of beauty. The iconic location of Place Vendome, the creative vision of Peter Marino with a focus on materiality, colour, and historicism  an interplay between old and new - together with Bulgaris obsession with magnificence and skilful craftsmanship distinguish this extraordinary new flagship store. An evocative journey from Rome to Paris experienced through the language of architecture, interior design and the poetry of traditional artisan techniques.



The love affair between Bulgari and la Ville Lumiere begun in 1979, when the Roman Jeweller opened its first Parisian store at the legendary Hotel Plaza Athenee. Now, more than 40 years since, Bulgari inaugurates its new Parisian maison in what is the most illustrious address of High Jewellery since 1898, year when the Ritz Hotel opened on the north-west side of the square.



Built at the end of the XVII century, the two palais hosting the new Bulgari boutique, the Hotel de Boullongne and Hotel Peyrenec de Moras, were officially acknowledged as historical buildings in 1930 and have now undergone a major restoration in complianc e with the Cahier des Charges de la Place Vendome - a collection of architectural and technical indications to intervene on the facades of the buildings facing the square.



Four were the artisan laboratories accredited to return the age-old grandeur to this architectural jewel. Atelier Chevalier has restored and reintegrated all the stone elements of the facade including the sculptures, recreating its original geometry through careful study and work. Atelier Perrault, a real institution in the craftsmanship of wood since 1760, took care of all wooden windows as well as of the creation of the eye - catching blue wooden door of the main entrance, entirely faithful to the original. The highly intricate and iconic decorative locksmiths and ironworks were realize d by VLD Paris, while with an incredible eye for detail, Art Mural has restored the paintings and gilding on the wooden windows and wrought iron elements.



Continuing the journey, the contrast and the perfect fusion between the buildings historical exterior and the newly renovated interior recreate the exciting dialog ue between cultural heritage and eternally modern taste Bulgari stands for.

New Boutique Place Vendome  Bulgari

Those who will come through the doors of Place Vendome 23 will be dazzled by more than just the jewels. Flooded with radiant light from its 13 windows and impressive skylights, one of which decorated with a motif that echoes the famed Piazza del Campidoglio by Michelangelo in Rome. All materials are enhanced with natural sunlight that in Rome has it warm radiance and apricot colour tones. Indeed, the archistars motto  The largest luxuries in life are light, space and time  is here truly translated into reality. Many different mate rials have been selected by Marino to convey a touchable feel of Romes radiance, warmth and joy. Painting with spectacular marbles from Pavonazzetto to Breccia di Seravezza, ultra-refined walnut wood, glowing iron and brass, opulent silks and velvets, I talian artisans have put their individual skills at the service of this masterpiece of creativity and craft. The parquet floor, for example, not only boasts a special degrade effect achieved by exposing the wood for different time lapses under the sun, it is also assembled in a magnificent star pattern. Technique, savoir faire and an all-Italian sense of aesthetic, for a simply magical final effect.

Some of the selected pieces, have literally travelled from Rome to Paris. A pair of columns placed at the ent rance of the boutique, two red porphyry vases and an inlaid console table initially planned for Romes flagship store in via Condotti 10, have found a new life within the walls of Place Vendome. The inspiration that comes from the Eternal City and Italian design is everywhere, from Romes images immortalized by Canadian photographer Nicolas Ruel to the spectacular chandelier by Gio Ponti, an original piece from the Sixties.

There is no shortage of references to the realm of jewellery: the faceted floating staircase, composed of geometrical marble steps, is framed by a hexagonal mesh in brass and stainless steel inspired by a Bulgari heritage bracelet of the 30 and dotted with rounded elements inspired by the smooth cabochon rubies and brilliant cut diamonds that embellish the jewel.



The boutiques diamond is the enchanting mosaic of the ground floor laid by Italian specialized artisans. Several pieces of fixtures are a tribute to the best of Italian design (Scarpa, Mangiarotti, Borsan i, Ponti). Architecture, Design and art are Bulgari source of inspirations.



Bulgari was born as the Roman High Jeweller 137 years ago and our unchanged mission is to continue to amaze the world with our unrivalled mastery in making magnificent creations," says Jean - Christophe Babin, Chief Executive Officer Bulgari Group.

"We are proud to have built a new home within the global home of High Jewellery, and to be present here as the only Italian jeweller expressing a style, a know - how and a creative spirit like no other.

The overall feeling of the store is that of a luxurious Roman home - a place where visitors feel like guests, while enjoying some Roman vibes at the heart of Paris.



On top of a gallery of unique heritage and high jewels, a new experience of a gems room. Bulgari is the master of color gems and for the first time a dedicated area with dynamic showcases go unveil the Bulgari jewels magnificent expertise and artisanship.
Rwanda on Friday deployed 1,000 members of the army and police to Mozambique to help the southeast coastal nation fight terrorism and insecurity in its northern Cabo Delgado province.

The deployment came at the request of Mozambican President Filipe Nyusi.

"The joint force will closely work with Mozambique Armed Defence Forces and forces from the Southern African Development Community in designated sectors of responsibility," Rwandan authorities said in a statement.

"The Rwandan contingent will support efforts to restore Mozambican state authority by conducting combat and security operations, as well as stabilization and security reform."

At an extraordinary summit of heads of state held in Mozambican capital Maputo on 24 June, SADC agreed to deploy a regional standby force to support Mozambique's efforts in combating terrorism and violent extremism in Cabo Delgado.

The 16-member SADC bloc has yet to deploy its forces, however. A virtual meeting of SADC's ministers of foreign affairs held on June 28 set and approved a multinational military force fund of $12 million to be contributed to by each member state. The money was expected to be ready by July 9.

Rwanda is not a member of the SADC.

Militant attacks by suspected Islamist insurgents in Cabo Degaldo, a province on the border with Tanzania famed for natural gas and rubies, have escalated since the first attacks were reported in 2017.

The extremists have mounted indiscriminate attacks on civilians, maiming and killing as well as destroying key national infrastructure. Up to now, Mozambique has been using its own scant resources and private security companies to repel the insurgency.

According to the United Nations agencies, nearly 3,000 people have been killed and over 700,000 people have been displaced by the conflict since 2017.

One of the bloodiest attacks in the province took place on the coastal town of Palma in March, when dozens of people were killed and nearly 30,000 people were displaced as they fled from the violence.
-- The hasty withdrawal is widely regarded as a defeat for the United States, both in Afghanistan and throughout the region.

-- The U.S. mission in Afghanistan asserted it was to annihilate terrorists, bring about peace and help Afghans establish a peaceful and prosperous society, but fighting has been continuing and Afghans are still suffering.

-- The most conservative estimates by local and international rights groups suggest that close to 47,600 civilians have been killed and more than double that number injured in Afghanistan during the 20 years of war.

by Abdul Haleem

BAGRAM, Afghanistan, July 11 (Xinhua) -- Still surrounded by concrete walls and razor wire, the Bagram Airfield, also known as Bagram Airbase, had been home to the U.S. troops in Afghanistan in the past 20 years.

The airbase was handed over to the Afghan forces early this month.

"Nothing important has left at the airbase," Gen. Mir Assadullah Kohistani, now commander of the airbase, told Xinhua. "The U.S. forces had destroyed all the facilities and military equipment that the Afghan forces could not use or their shifting to America was expensive."

Piles of trash heaped up at the airbase are to be sold to local dealers, said Gul Mohammad, a scrap dealer in Bagram.

But the real mess the U.S. troops have left behind in the country is triggering concern across the world.

Photo taken on July 2, 2021 shows the Bagram Airfield after all U.S. and NATO forces evacuated in Parwan province, eastern Afghanistan. (Photo by Sayed Mominzadah/Xinhua)

FAILURE ON EVERY FRONT

U.S. President Joe Biden in April ordered the complete withdrawal of the country's troops from the war-torn Afghanistan by Sept. 11 this year, the 20th anniversary of the terrorist attacks on New York and Washington that precipitated the so-called U.S. war on terror.

Claiming to be in pursuit of Osama bin Laden, the alleged mastermind of the 9/11 terror attacks, the U.S.-led military forces invaded Afghanistan and ousted the Taliban within weeks of the terror attacks.

With over 90 percent of the withdrawal being completed now, Biden said that the mission was to be concluded by Aug. 31, a few days ahead of the original deadline.

Photo taken on July 6, 2021 shows a damaged wall at the site of a car bomb blast in Kandahar, capital of Kandahar province, southern Afghanistan. (Photo by Sanaullah Seiam/Xinhua)

Taliban militants have been more active since the withdrawal of the U.S. troops at the beginning of May, resulting in the deteriorating security situation in Afghanistan.

According to a Taliban source, the group now controls 85 percent of Afghanistan's territory. A visiting Taliban delegation to Moscow said on Friday that their militias have controlled 250 out of 398 districts in the country, though the claims cannot be verified so far.

The hasty withdrawal is widely regarded as a defeat for the United States, both in Afghanistan and throughout the region.

The United States invaded Afghanistan under the pretext of fighting terrorism in late 2001 and dethroned the Taliban regime and its alleged supporter al-Qaida network, Atequllah Omarkhil, a retired army general as well as a military and political analyst, told Xinhua.

According to Omarkhil, only the Taliban and al-Qaida were operational in Afghanistan in 2001. Today more than 20 militant groups, including the Islamic State, are active.

People shovel earth onto the tomb of a victim of a car bomb in Kabul, capital of Afghanistan, May 9, 2021. (Photo by Rahmatullah Alizadah/Xinhua)

Twenty years later, the United States left Afghanistan with fighting and violence still ravaging the country, the retired army general said.

The legacy of the U.S.-led forces' 20-year presence in Afghanistan is nothing more than brutal fighting and insurgency, he said, adding that the "ongoing war and destruction are the outcome of the U.S.-led military invasion."

FORGOTTEN COMMITMENTS

The United States termed its mission in Afghanistan as a defensive maneuver against terrorists, and the mission was supposed to bring peace to Afghanistan and help the Afghans establish a stable society.

The Pentagon claimed recently that over 2,400 U.S. troops have been killed and 20,000 others wounded in Afghanistan over the past two decades.

Photo taken on July 3, 2021 shows scraps abandoned by U.S. forces after all U.S. forces evacuated in Parwan province, eastern Afghanistan. (Photo by Rahmatullah Alizadah/Xinhua)

The most conservative estimates by local and international rights groups suggest that close to 47,600 civilians have been killed and more than double that number injured in Afghanistan during the 20 years of war, according to figures from the Watson Institute of International and Public Affairs at Brown University.

The whole affair has been a brutal fiasco, serving no perceptible purpose and achieving nothing at all.

"After Vietnam, Afghanistan is the second country that the U.S. military is leaving after suffering military defeat," Khan Mohammad Daneshjo, an analyst, told Xinhua.

"The U.S. defeat and its troops' departure from Afghanistan would further increase the already fierce fighting in the conflict-plagued country," Daneshjo said.

The U.S. mission in Afghanistan asserted it was to annihilate terrorists, bring about peace and help Afghans establish a peaceful and prosperous society, but fighting has been continuing and Afghans are still suffering, said the analyst.

Photo taken on May 31, 2021 shows displaced children at a makeshift camp of Internally Displaced People (IDP) in Kabul, capital of Afghanistan. (Photo by Rahmatullah Alizadah/Xinhua)

The Bilateral Security Agreement inked between the United States and Afghanistan years ago was a commitment by Washington to defend Afghanistan "whenever needed," an obligation conveniently overlooked during the withdrawal, Daneshjo said, adding that the United States has left Afghanistan at war with itself, a war characterized by insurgency, fear and poverty.

The United States and the Taliban signed a peace deal in February last year, calling for a gradual withdrawal of the U.S. troops on condition that the Taliban cut ties with terrorist groups. With vicious fighting still a daily occurrence following the deal, negotiations between the Afghan government and the Taliban, including the latest round in Iran, have made no palpable progress.

Photo taken on July 2, 2021 shows the gate of Bagram Airfield after all U.S. and NATO forces evacuated in Parwan province, eastern Afghanistan. (Photo by Sayed Mominzadah/Xinhua)

"The security situation in the country has turned from bad to worse with the withdrawal of troops especially from Bagram airbase," Amin Agha, a Kabul resident, told Xinhua.

The United States, in disregard of its responsibilities and obligations, hastily withdrew from Afghanistan, leaving a mess and turmoil to the Afghan people and regional countries, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Wang Wenbin told a regular press conference on Friday.

"This further exposed the hypocritical face of the United States under the cover of 'defending democracy and human rights,'" he said.

(Video reporters: Shi Xiantao; Video editor: Luo Hui)
Press Release

July 11, 2021 West PH Sea key to addressing hunger, poverty, & brownouts: Pangilinan FIVE years since the arbitral ruling on the West Philippine Sea favoring the country, Senator Francis "Kiko" Pangilinan said the people must continue to assert their rights over their waters, which is key to addressing hunger, poverty, and high power cost. The senator pointed out that the waters of the West Philippine Sea are home to vast marine resources, from oil and gas reserves deep beneath its surface, to the fishes and other seafood that could support the people's needs as well as provide a source of income to Filipino fishermen. "May mga banta na ng brownouts, ng linggo-linggong pagtaas ng presyo ng langis, at ang gutom na kinakaharap ng milyon-milyong Pilipino. Ang sagot sa lahat ng ito ay ang responsableng paggamit ng yaman ng ating karagatan (There are the threats of looming brownouts, weekly spiraling oil prices, and the hunger plaguing millions of Filipinos. The answers to all these could be found if we harness responsibly the wealth of our waters)," Pangilinan said. He stressed that the arbitral ruling is an important legal victory that has the force and effect of a law and recognized by the international community, "The international tribunal ruling seals our stake on the disputed waters. Pero kailangan pa rin nating igiit ang ating mga karapatan at alagaan ang ating teritoryo. Dapat nagkakaisa tayo bilang isang bansa (But, we have to continue asserting our rights and safeguarding our territory. We have to be united as a nation)," he said. Pangilinan lamented China's continued violation of the arbitral ruling that invalidated its extensive nine-dash claim over the South China Sea. Over the years, it continues to send fishermen, coast guard ships, and maritime militia ships to the part of the West Philippine Sea that is the critical waterway within the Philippine exclusive economic zone. He lauded the Philippine Coast Guard and Filipino fishermen patrolling portions of the waters and bravely standing up against the giant ships of China. "Kahit na binubully o hina-harass ang mga mangingisda natin, tuloy lang sila sa pag-giit ng kanilang kalayaan na mamalakaya at kumita para sa pamilya nila. Hindi sila dapat pinagkakaitan ng talaga namang atin (Despite the bullying and harassment against our fishermen, they remain relentless in asserting their freedom to sail and earn their livelihood for their families. They should not be deprived of the resources that are ours)," Pangilinan said. "Dapat may kalayaang maglayag sa ating exclusive economic zone. Ito ang isang paraan para mapatupad ang Hague ruling (There must be freedom of navigation in our exclusive economic zone. This is one way of enforcing the ruling)," he said. Aside from its oil potential and resources, Pangilinan echoed scientists in saying that the West Philippine Sea may also hold the key to biomedical breakthroughs. It can also help in studies about ecosystem changes to measure the human impact on the environment. "Nagbibigay pag-asa ang yaman ng West Philippine Sea na maiahon tayong mga Pilipino sa mga problema natin. Hindi maaaring alisin sa atin ito (The resources of the West Philippine Sea offers hope of alleviating the Filipinos from their woes and this should not be taken away from us)," Pangilinan said.
TOLENTINO AIRS CONCERN OVER LOW HENLEY PASSPORT INDEX RANKING OF PH PASSPORT

Senator Francis "Tol" Tolentino expressed concern over the low ranking of Philippine passports in the 2021 Henley Passport Index.

Tolentino aired his concern during the hearing of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, chaired by Senator Koko Pimentel, saying that the country's No. 77 ranking should not be taken lightly by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).

"It is indicative not just of the survey done, but the power of our passport," Tolentino said.

"The passport is the badge of citizenship and you should be proud of that. Ngayon, kung downgraded ang passport natin, medyo downgraded ang pagtanggap sa atin ng host country," he added.

In the 2021 Henley Passport Index, the Philippine passport is ranked 77th most powerful passport in the world, meaning it can be used visa-free in 66 destinations and with visa in 160 destinations.

The country is tied with Cape Verde Islands and Dominican Republic in the latest passport ranking.

The country's ranking, released London-based research firm Henley & Partners, was three spots lower from last year. The country also ranked 77th in 2019.

Also, Tolentino called on the Department of Foreign Affairs to tap the help of the Philippine Postal Service when it comes to passport applications.

The Senator said the DFA should consider it since the practice is already being implemented in the United States and in the European Union.

For his part, Senator Sherwin Gatchalian asks DFA to maximise the use of online transaction, underscoring that technology has no limit and that it should be applied to passport renewal for the convenience of everyone, especially the senior citizens.

The DFA, through Office of Consular Affairs Executive Director Maria Alnee Gamble, said it would consider Tolentino's suggestion.
At the conclusion of every high school season, SBLive's Tyler Cleveland will crunch the numbers to award Mississippi high school athletic programs who achieve the highest level of success in the most sports.
European Court of Human Rights rules in favor of killed lecturers mother from Georgia

By Veronika Malinboym

European Court of Human Rights has announced its decision in the case of Tkhelidze v. Georgia. According to the court ruling, the police systematically failed to prevent gender-based violence which led to Marika Tsivtsivadze, lecturer of the English language, being murdered by her ex-husband.The lawsuit to ECHR was filed by the mother of Tsivtsivadze who has failed to find justice in the local courts in Georgia. An investigation into the case was launched in 2014 but was later dismissed due to the fact that the person liable for the crime passed away. However, according to the mother of the deceased Tsivtsivadze. The inaction of the police in regards to the case could be regarded as gender-based discrimination.The ECHR has found that the Georgian police were aware that the murderer of Tsivtsivadze had a history of drug abuse, pathological jealousy, and and was otherwise mentally unstable, becoming particularly aggressive when drunk.The court also ruled that the police officers must have known that Tsivtsivadze was in danger but failed to implement necessary protective measures:All in all, the Court finds that the law-enforcement authorities demonstrated a persistent failure to take steps that could have had a real prospect of altering the tragic outcome or mitigating the harm. In flagrant disregard for the panoply of various protective measures that were directly available to them, the authorities failed to display special diligence to prevent gender-based violence against the applicants daughter, which culminated in her death. When assessed against the similar findings of the international and national monitoring bodies, the Court finds that the police inaction in the present case could be considered a systemic failure, the ECHR ruling reads.According to the ECHR decision, Georgia will have to pay EUR 35,000 to the mother of the deceased lecturer in respect of non-pecuniary damage.
DEFEA 2021, Defense Exhibition in Athens will also see the participation of national and international naval defense companies. The naval shipbuilding industry will present the latest developments in warship design as well as the prospects for developing platforms suitable for the 21st' century maritime supremacy.

DEFEA will also involve the International Naval Defense Industry. (Picture source DEFEA 2021)



Despite being a member of the EU and NATO, Greece is geographically situated in a conflict-prone region where the use of force in inter-state relations may still be considered as an option. Therefore, in order to safeguard its security, the challenge for a status quo country like Greece in the early twenty-first century will be to broaden and deepen its ties with its EU and NATO partners, at a time of internal and external adaptation of these organizations.

The Hellenic Navy should maintain technological superiority. The acquisition of force multipliers, in the form of C4I systems, advanced weapons and electronic warfare systems should be a priority. The acquisition of over-the-horizon maritime-borne strike capability will provide a significant operational capability and a strategic advantage against potential aggressors. Sustainability in the conduct of maritime operations in the Aegean cannot be neglected.

It seems that the multi-role Frigate will continue to be the main unit of the Hellenic Navy. A modern multi-role frigate has operational capabilities in line with operational requirements, personnel limitations and logistical support capabilities. Increased air defense capabilities in the field of area defense, which are absent from current operational capabilities, should be given high priority.

The Hellenic Navy's fleet of warships and auxiliary boats is harbored in the two major HN naval bases at Salamis Island near Piraeus and at Souda Bay on the island of Crete. Internationally, the Navy used the prefix HS (Hellenic Ship) for its vessels.

The Hellenic Navy relies mainly on frigates as its primary surface heavy boats. The fleet consists of thirteen frigates. The types operated are the Hydra class (Type: Meko-200HN) and the Elli class (Type: Kortenaer). The Elli class frigates HS Elli and HS Limnos were sold to Greece during construction, the rest were bought directly from the Dutch Navy. The Hydra class vessels were constructed in Greece by Hellenic Shipyards Co., except from HS Hydra that was constructed by the German company Blohm and Voss based in Hamburg.

The acquisition of new frigates for the Hellenic Navy is a top priority for the Greek government, as well as the upgrade of existing warships. Greece could invest 5 billion euros in the acquisition of four new frigates. DEFEA is a unique opportunity for shipyard companies to present the latest generation of frigates and submit state-of-the-art ships to the Hellenic Navy.
Welcome Guest! You Are Here:
Seguin, Texas (78155)

Today

Cloudy skies this morning will become partly cloudy this afternoon. High 92F. Winds SSE at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Some passing clouds. Low 73F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph.
If you are currently a print subscriber but don't have an online account, select this option. You will need to use your 7 digit subscriber account number (with leading zeros) and your last name (in UPPERCASE).
SpaceCast Weekly is a NASA Television broadcast from the Johnson Space Center in Houston featuring stories about NASA's work in human spaceflight.

They include the International Space Station and its crews and scientific research activities, and the development of Orion and the Space Launch System, the next generation American spacecraft being built to take humans farther into space than they've ever gone before.

Please follow SpaceRef on Twitter and Like us on Facebook.
There was no stopping Time To Dance on his way to the winners circle in the 53rd running of the Governors Plate, presented by Summerside Chrysler Dodge, Saturday evening (July 10) at Red Shores at the Summerside Raceway.

Driver Marc Campbell was aggressive from Post 1, setting his trainee on the lead in the $25,000 final while forcing hard-leaving Woodmere Ideal Art to get in the two-hole headed to a :27 opening quarter. Day Delight found himself caught on the outside as the field approached a half of :55.2, and that is when Time To Dance opened on the lead going to the three-quarters in 1:24.3 and then closing the mile in 1:53.1.

Rose Run Quest went up the passing lane in the stretch drive to finish eight lengths back in second with Avatar J rallying for third to complete the $157.20 triactor ticket.

Brent Campbell of Charlottetown and Matt McDonald of Edwards, Ont., share ownership of the winning five-year-old A Rocknroll Dance gelding, who scored his 23rd victory.

It was a five-win night for driver Campbell as he also won the $7,500 Bob Dewar Memorial Governors Plate consolation with Imalookertoo in 1:53.2 for trainer Danny Romo and owner Robert Sumarah of Halifax, N.S.

Campbells other wins came with Cyclone Alvie (1:58.1) for Ralph Sweet of OLeary, Hunger Pangs (1:56.3) for trainer Hughie Murphy and with Roselily (1:54.4) from his own stable.

The Campbell barn had another large win on the evening in the $5,000 Ruby Chappell Memorial Open Pacing Mares final as Redmond Doucet picked up the catch drive on the Campbell-trained Dreamfair Zenfire and got up in the final strides to win in 1:55.2 for owners Ryan and Everett MacLeod of Souris.

Woodmere Stealdeal tasted defeat for the first time in his 14-race career as he had to settle for second in a $16,400 Atlantic Sires Stakes "A" division for three-year-old colt pacers as Dustylanegoliath battled past in the stretch to win in 1:54. Gilles Barrieau trains and drives Dustylanegoliath for owner Daniel Ross of Belfast.

The other $16,400 "A" division for sophomore colts saw Jadensmagicsteel deliver the biggest win of his career in 1:55.3 for Boys Will Be Boys Racing of Charlottetown and trainer Ron Gass. It was the third-straight win for the son of Steelhead HanoverMeridian Magic. Myles Heffernan Sr. sat in the sulky.

The $3,000 "B" divisions of the Atlantic Sires Stakes for three-year-old colts had Whistler and Jason Hughes prevail in 1:58, with Silver Jake and Devon Wallace winning in 1:58.3 in the other split.

Moonwriter and David Dowling won the $3,100 Premiers Pace in 1:55.2 for trainer Colin Johnson while the Minister Of Finance Pace was claimed by Woodmere Beachline and Ken Murphy in 1:56.2 from the Wade Sorrie stable.

The night had an all-time record handle for the Summerside Raceway with $120,231 wagered on the program.

Live racing continues Sunday evening (July 11) at 6:30 p.m. (ADT) with Friday nights rescheduled program featuring the Atlantic Sires Stakes for three-year-old pacing fillies.

(Red Shores)

To view Saturday's harness racing results, click on the following link: Saturday Results - Summerside Raceway.
Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), a leading infrastructure solutions provider in Africa, has appointed Kirstine Damkjaer, former CEO of Denmarks export credit agency EKF, to its board of directors as an independent nonexecutive director.

Prior to joining EKF, Damkjaer worked for several years at the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and the World Bank in various senior capacities, including as Global Industry Head of Equity, manager in the Department of Global Infrastructure and Natural Resources, Principal of the IFC Asset Management Company and Principal Portfolio Manager at the World Bank Treasury, Pension Plan and Endowments.

She also serves as non-executive director at several companies.

AFC President and CEO Samaila Zubairu said: Kirstines expertise in development finance, infrastructure investment and asset management are entirely aligned with AFCs mission of unlocking Africas potential growth and job creation through provision of vital infrastructure.

We look forward to working with Damkjaer to help us steer the Corporation into its next phase of strategic growth, he added.

Damkjaer, a qualified Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) with a Masters degree from the University of Aarhus, will be serving on the Corporations Board Audit and Compliance Committee, and the Board Risk and Investment Committee.

I am honoured to be joining AFC at such a pivotal time when, more than ever amid the Covid-19 pandemic, the corporations technical expertise and unique access to global capital is critically needed by African governments working towards resilient economic recovery, said Damkjaer.

AFC has invested over $8.7 billion in 35 countries across Africa, driving development and integrating the continents economies.

It has 31 member countries, representing more than half the continent, and was recently named as an eligible organisation for providing Official Development Assistance (ODA) through the OECD Development Assistance Committee. - TradeArabia News Service
After facing unprecedented changes in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) confidence in Mena is on the rise, according to the latest research by Mastercard.

The inaugural Mastercard Middle East and Africa (MEA) SME Confidence Index found 81% of SMEs in Mena are optimistic about the next 12 months. In fact, 77% are projecting revenues that will either grow or hold steady. Over half (56%) are projecting an increase.

As many regional economies gradually enter the normalisation and growth phase, and social restrictions continue to ease, small and medium sized businesses in Mena have identified better data and insights (42%), easier access to credit (41%) and upskilling staff (40%), as the top three drivers for growth. This highlights the opportunities for small businesses that arise from both internal transformation as well as industry regulations and trends.

Making sure that SMEs have all the support they need to go digital and grow digital is a key focus for Mastercard. The company works closely with government, financial organisations and the wider business community to create opportunities for SMEs across the region.

Mastercard has pledged $250 million and committed to connect 50 million micro, small and medium size businesses globally to the digital economy by 2025 using its technology, network, expertise and resources in support of the companys goal of building a more sustainable and inclusive digital economy. As part of these efforts, Mastercard is focused on connecting 25 million women entrepreneurs. For many small businesses, reducing their dependence on cash through digital payments acceptance, has played a major factor in being able to get paid and maintain revenues.

The results from the SME Confidence Index clearly indicates an upliftment in sentiment that most business across Mena are feeling today. This is a positive sign for the region on its journey to economic recovery, and a clear indication of the power of technology in helping enable this growth. As a technology enabler of choice, Mastercard is working closely with small and medium businesses across the region to ensure that their needs are being heard and met with the latest tools and technology that can help them make the most of out of an evolving digital economy, said Khalid Elgibali  Division President, Mena, Mastercard.

When asked about the main thing that keeps them up at night, 50% of SMEs in Mena mentioned the challenge to maintain and grow their business was their top issue.

Looking at concerns over the next 12 months, over half (53%) identified the rising cost of doing business, while 39% cited access to capital. Private sector partnerships (58%) and government-led initiatives (53%) were identified as having the biggest potential to positively impact SMEs and the wider Mena market.

With rising costs among the key concerns of SMEs in Mena, it is crucial that we prioritise a safe and secure digital economy that can keep commerce going, enable healthy cash flows, and support access to capital by virtue of a digital track record. A strong digital economy benefits everyone in multiple ways, from SMEs being able to grow their customer base through eCommerce, to consumers having a choice of payment methods. Transforming a smart economy through technology, insights and omni-channel solutions is how Mastercard supports businesses of all sizes, added Elgibali.

As consumer trends evolve in a post-pandemic world, businesses must adapt and prepare for the future. Mastercards Economic Outlook 2021 estimated that 20-30% of the Covid-19 related surge in e-commerce would be a permanent trend in share of overall retail spending globally. Furthermore, recent studies from Mastercard showed that 74% of consumers in Mena are shopping more online than they did since the start of the pandemic and 95% of the regions shoppers would consider making a purchase with an emerging payment technology over the next year. -- TradeArabia News Service
Former CNN Business emerging markets editor and anchor John Defterios has joined APCO Worldwide as a senior adviser, bringing more than 35 years of experience covering top business developments with a special focus on trade, geopolitics and energy, CEO Brad Staples announced.

John is highly sought after at high-level meetings, as both a speaker and a moderator, by global leaders looking for his insight and perspective on pressing issues, founded on decades of experience being on the frontline covering world-shaking events, Staples said.

With deep knowledge of critical issues impacting emerging markets, including climate change, healthcare, energy and sustainable development, Johns insight will surely be highly sought after by clients, as well as by APCO colleagues around the world.

Based in London, but splitting his time between Europe and the MENA region, Defterios will support the development of branded content for global media platforms.

I have watched with great interest and respect APCOs strategic expansion into the most relevant sectors and high-growth emerging markets over the past two decades, said Defterios. The inroads it has made, especially on the Arabian Peninsula, have been impressive.

Until recently retiring from CNN, Defterios was based in the networks Abu Dhabi bureau since 2011. As an award-winning journalist, Defterios established a reputation for securing exclusive interviews with high-level figures, including interviews with Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai; King Abdullah II of Jordan; as well as Ali Al Naimi, Khalid Al Falih and Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman Al Saud, of Saudi Arabia. He received The Abdullah bin Hamad Al-Attiyah International Foundation award for the Advancement of Energy Journalism.

"John joining APCO Worldwide represents a unique addition to our MENA team, particularly in the Gulf countries, as he will strengthen an already deep bench that the company enjoys in terms of managing government relations with senior officials, developing advanced communication strategies for the most critical government projects, as well as actively contributing to a variety of regional and international programmes, Mamoon Sbeih, president of APCO in the MENA region, said. I am delighted to welcome John to APCO, and I look forward to his insightful counsel.

Defterios joins APCO at a time of growth for the company. In May, it unveiled .Pomelo, a new creative practice in the MENA region. It also recently launched APCO Impact  the companys global nerve centre, supporting and accelerating its work on sustainability and social impact  and kicked off a strategic partnership with Vector Center  a leader in AI-powered, real-time environmental intelligence. In January, APCO acquired the Global Philanthropy Group, a consulting firm specialising in helping individuals, foundations and corporations design and implement philanthropic strategies and programmes.

With decades of experience covering global business issues at CNN, Reuters and PBS, Defterios has in-depth insight and perspectives on emerging markets strategies based on international and intergovernmental collaboration  with a particular focus on the Middle East, global energy issues and sustainability.

He further augments APCOs advisory and advocacy capabilities and expertise, joining other experts at APCO, including Sbeih, MENA CCO Elizabeth Sen, Dubai Managing Director Imad Lahad, Abu Dhabi Managing Director Muhannad Al Badri, Saudi Arabia Managing Director Liam D. Clarke, Bahrain General Manager Jolyon Kimble, APCO Impact Global Lead Denielle Sachs, Senior Director Jennifer Butte-Dahl, Climate and Sustainability Global Lead Heather McGeory, ESG expert Julie Jack, co-lead of the European Energy & Sustainability Practice Danuta Slusarska, healthcare expert Dr. Joyeta Ghoshal, health communications and stakeholder engagement expert Stephanie Tan, Director Elaine Yang and emerging markets specialist Nic Labuschagne. - TradeArabia News Service
British Airways (BA) said it is preparing to welcome an increased number of holidaymakers back to the skies from July 19 in time for the start of the school summer holidays.



Within a couple of hours of this mornings Government statement around the elimination of quarantine for fully vaccinated people in England when they fly back into the country, the airline had seen a 96% increase in the number of views on its website as compared to the same day last week.



The top destinations being searched included Barbados, Palma, Ibiza, New York, Antigua, Malta and Malaga. As it stands, British Airways flies to more amber and green list countries than any other UK airline, 43 in total.



To coincide with the announcement, British Airways has agreed further reassurance measures which mean customers travelling until September 30, 2021 to a country which is added to the red list from amber while they are at their destination will be able to change their flight without any change to the cost of their flight, subject to availability.



The move is expected to support Britons when they travel to a country that might be on a Government watchlist to help them get home.



The airline has already publicly confirmed that its rules around the wearing of masks will remain in place to protect travellers, provide reassurance and boost customer confidence. Despite the relaxation of the mask rules, the Government has also recommended the wearing of masks in busy public areas and British Airways asks its customers to remain mindful of the rules around mask wearing in airports at a customers destination.



Sean Doyle, British Airways Chairman and CEO said: This is an important step for Britain as we start to make travel possible again after 18 difficult months. There is still more to do, including opening the US, but we are enthusiastic about welcoming more of our customers back over the summer period and reassuring them that British Airways is ready.



Our people have been working relentlessly behind the scenes to make important changes to the customer experience that will ensure our customers receive a first-class experience and complete peace of mind.



The airline recently announced a proving trial in partnership with Heathrow and Virgin Atlantic to demonstrate that all WHO approved fully vaccinated travellers can safely enter the UK seamlessly using digital technology to prove vaccination status. VeriFLY, which already provides British Airways customers with access to an app to host verification documents, will be a key partner.  TradeArabia News Service
The UAE has announced the suspension of all inbound flights for national and international carriers coming from Indonesia and Afghanistan, effective 11:59 on July 11.



The travel suspension includes inbound transit passengers except transit flights coming to the UAE and heading to these countries, reported the Emirates News Agency (WAM), citing a statement from General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA).



The GCAA indicated that it is required for those coming from Indonesia and Afghanistan through other countries that the period of their stay in the latter countries is not less than 14 days to be allowed access to the UAE.



Cargo flights between these countries and the UAE will continue, as usual, the statement added.



The GCAA affirmed that UAE nationals and their first-degree relatives, diplomatic missions between the UAE and the two countries, official delegations, businessmen -after getting prior approvals- and golden and silver residency permit holders, in addition to the holders of essential jobs according to the classification of the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA), the staffs of UAE embassies in the two countries and crews of foreign freight and transit planes, are excluded from this decision.



The excluded category should present a negative Covid-19 test obtained within 48 hours of departure, a mandatory 10-day quarantine and a PCR test at the airport as well as another test on the fourth and eighth days of entering the country.



According to the decision, the period of the required PCR test is reduced from 72 hours to 48 hours, provided that the tests are issued by accredited laboratories and carrying the QR Code.



UAE citizens are prohibited from travelling to Indonesia and Afghanistan, except for the country's diplomatic missions in these countries, emergency treatment cases, official delegations, and previously authorised economic and scientific delegations.



The authority called on all travellers affected by the decision to follow up and communicate with the airlines to amend and schedule their flights and to ensure their safe return to their final destinations without any delay or other obligations.
by Stephen Chapis

On June 29, 1921, the 104th Observation Squadron was federally recognized at the now-extinct Logan Field in the Baltimore suburb of Dundalk. This National Guard squadron was the first such post-World War I unit to be equipped with its own aircraft, which initially comprised thirteen Curtiss JN-4 Jennies. During World War II, the 104th flew anti-submarine patrols out of Atlantic City, New Jersey and later from Langley Field, Virginia.

After the war, the unit reactivated at Baltimore Municipal Airport (which closed in December 1960) as the 104th Fighter Squadron (FS), fielding P-47D Thunderbolts. In 1955, the 104th transitioned into a fighter-interceptor squadron (FIS) with F-86H Sabres. Two years later the 104th relocated to an airfield then-known as Glenn L. Martin Company Airport (now Martin State Airport) in Middle River, Maryland. In 1970, the 104th replaced its Sabres with Cessna A-37 Dragonflies, which were in turn replaced with brand-new Fairchild A-10A Thunderbolt IIs in 1979. Three years after their A-10s arrived, the squadrons military facilities became renamed Warfield Air National Guard (ANGB) base in honor of Major General (Ret) Edwin Warfield III, former Adjutant General of Maryland.

Following the al Qaeda terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, members of the 175th Wing repeatedly volunteered or were mobilized to take part in the Global War on Terror. From January to June 2003, the 104th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron formed and deployed to Bagram Air Base in Bagram, Afghanistan, where they flew strikes against Taliban and al Qaeda forces; they earned the distinction of being the longest-deployed Air National Guard fighter squadron at Bagram.

In the early 2000s, the Pentagon selected the 104th to become the U.S. Air Forces lead unit in converting to the new precision engagement A-10C Thunderbolt II. Wing personnel were deeply involved in the test and evaluation process and in September 2007, the 104th Fighter Squadron became the first unit to take the A-10C into combat, when it deployed to Al Asad Air Base, Iraq. With the A-10 fleet currently undergoing a wing-replacement program, it is likely that the 104th will continue to operate their beloved Warthogs well into the units second century of operations.

On June 29, 2021, Marylands Lt. Governor, Boyd Rutherford, presided over a ceremony at Warfield ANGB kicking off a year-long celebration of the Maryland Air National Guards (MD ANG) 100 years of service to the state and nation. For 100 years, the Maryland Air National Guard has been a cornerstone of the defense of this nation, and the protection of this state, said Marylands Governor, Larry Hogan. When we need the Guard most, it answers the call every single timewhether its to protect Marylanders, support humanitarian efforts, or respond to a global pandemic. We could not be prouder of the men and women of the Guard.

We are incredibly proud of our rich and distinguished history answering our nations call and serving the citizens of Maryland, continued U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Paul Johnson, the 175th Wings Commanding Officer. The future of [the] Wing is bright as our Airmen lead the way by bringing air power to support allies across the globe and protecting our digitally connected world with first-class cyber capabilities.

A specially marked 104th FS Thunderbolt II served as the backdrop to this event, this being A-10C 79-693 resplendent in a retro paint scheme inspired by the liveries of aircraft which the squadron flew during the 1930s: the Curtiss O-11 Falcon, Consolidated O-17 Courier, and Douglas O-38.
Fauci: Too Soon to Say if Booster Shot Needed

By The Associated Press

WASHINGTON - The top U.S. infectious diseases expert said Sunday it is entirely conceivable, maybe likely that Americans will need a booster dose of the COVID-19 vaccine in the coming months, but it is too soon for the government to recommend another shot.Dr. Anthony Fauci, who is President Joe Biden's chief medical adviser, said the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Food and Drug Administration did the right thing last week by pushing back against drugmaker Pfizers assertion about a booster within 12 months. Hours after Pfizer's statement Thursday that it would seek authorization for a third dose, the two agencies said they did not view the booster shots as necessary at this time.Fauci said clinical studies and laboratory data have yet to fully bear out the need for a booster to the current two-shot Pfizer and Moderna vaccines or the one-shot Johnson & Johnson regimen.Right now, given the data and the information we have, we do not need to give people a third shot, he said. That doesnt mean we stop there. ... There are studies being done now ongoing as we speak about looking at the feasibility about if and when we should be boosting people.He said it was quite possible in the coming months as data evolves that the government may urge a booster based on such factors as age and underlying medical conditions. "Certainly it is entirely conceivable, maybe likely at some time, we will need a boost,'' Fauci said.Currently only about 48% of the U.S. population is fully vaccinated. Some parts of the country have far lower immunization rates, and in those places the delta variant is surging. Last week, Dr. Rochelle Walensky, the CDC director, said thats leading to two truths  highly immunized swaths of America are getting back to normal while hospitalizations are rising in other places.On Sunday, Fauci said it was inexplicable that some Americans are so resistant to getting a vaccine when scientific data show how effective it is in staving off COVID-19 infections and hospitalizations, and he was dismayed by efforts to block making vaccinations more accessible, such as Biden's suggestion of door-to-door outreach.Gov. Asa Hutchinson, R-Ark., agreed Sunday that there is a vaccine resistance in Southern and rural states like his because you have that more conservative approach, skepticism about government."Describing his efforts to boost vaccinations in his state, which is seeing rising infections, Hutchinson said no one wants an agent knocking on a door," but "we do want those that do not have access otherwise to make sure they know about it.The grassroots component of the federal vaccination campaign has been in operation since April, when supplies of shots began outpacing demand. It was outlined and funded by Congress in the $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief bill passed in March and overwhelmingly is carried out by local officials and private sector workers and volunteers.Rep. Adam Kinzinger, R-Ill., blasted opposition to vaccination efforts from some GOP lawmakers as absolute insanity." He said House Republican leader Kevin McCarthy of California and others in the party need to speak out against these absolute clown politicians playing on your vaccine fears for their own selfish gain.Fauci appeared on CNN's State of the Union, ABC's This Week and CBS' "Face the Nation"; Hutchinson spoke on ABC, and Kinzinger was on CNN.
Videos

Sorry, there are no recent results for popular videos.
Commissioners unanimously voted to approve the creation of the two positions, but over the next several weeks will have to consider which other projects they would like to move forward with. Although final allocations will likely not be made until the fall, commissioners plan to hold several meetings to openly discuss how they plan on allocating the funds.
We're always interested in hearing about news in our community. Let us know what's going on!

Go to form
The 23-year-old Hanover man driving the car that struck the motorcycle was taken into custody after he pulled his car over to the shoulder some distance from the crash, police said.
So it was, it was really interesting to receive those. You know, I corresponded back and forth a few times. One of the problems has been that there are various families whose loved ones were shot in the massacre, and they live in Ciudad Juarez, and because of the COVID virus, for most of, if not all of, 2020 they werent allowed to cross the border. And so thats been a separation. I dont know what the circumstances are now, in terms of whats going on in El Paso ... whether theyre able to [cross] because theres just a bridge, you know, that formerly people could just walk over ... from Juarez. I dont know how that stands now, but were looking forward to meeting family members, as many as we can, when we go in August.
Clay Center, KS (67432)

Today

Partly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High around 85F. Winds E at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Clear to partly cloudy. Low 63F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph.
Sadly, for more than two decades now, denying the genocide in Srebrenica has been a go-to tool for making sure that the people (of Bosnia) are kept divided between us and them. This is precisely the division that has brought so much suffering to so many lives in the 1990s, said Judge Carmel Agius, president of the U.N. court that is completing war crimes trials stemming from the breakup of Yugoslavia.
On Saturday night, members of the community walked along Collins Avenue, the citys main thoroughfare, to celebrate the crews that have come from across the country  and as far as Israel and Mexico  to help in the rescue, and now recovery, effort. The Israeli search and rescue team arrived in South Florida shortly after the building collapsed on June 24 and was heading home Sunday.
The man suffered gunshot wounds to the face and chest. He was taken to Mount Sinai Hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 9:25 p.m. The Cook County medical examiners office had not identified the 31-year-old as of Sunday morning, but preliminary data from the medical examiners office says the victim was located at 2701 S. California Ave., also near the jail but in a different location. A police spokesman said he could not explain the different addresses.
Shots are believed to have been fired from an unknown vehicle traveling south on I-55, based on the initial investigation, troopers said. The vehicle that was shot at veered off the road to the left and crashed into the concrete median wall on the left side of the interstate before coming to a stop on the left shoulder.
It was unclear whether the woman had intentionally entered the river or what she was doing before the call about a body in the river. Police did not say who found the womans body or called authorities.
As short journeys uninterrupted by trains go, its a veritable paradise. But all those century-old viaducts come with their own hassles. For one, as excessive rainfall events become more common, the viaducts are prone to flooding. Nearly every time several inches of water are dumped from the sky in a short period of time, the main route from my house to the rest of town, Dixie Highway, is closed by a flooded viaduct. Between Matteson and Richton Park, flooding is so frequent at a viaduct on Governors Highway that gates were installed to prevent motorists from killing their cars and becoming stranded.
At a moment when Jews around the world are facing more and more anti-Semitic attacks, we can all learn from Nates example, when as a POW he stood tall in front of his Nazi captors and proudly told them I am a Jew, Schneider said in an email. May his memory be a blessing for all who had the privilege to know him and those who learn his story.
The park-and-shuttle agreement between the Bears and the mall management is classified as a outdoor special event under Vernon Hills village code, and will include tents, an inflatable archway and inflatable Bear heads. As part of the agreement, the Bears will be required to take down all equipment at the end of each day.
China is firmly opposed to the United States adding 23 Chinese entities to its "entity list" of export controls, a spokesperson for the Ministry of Commerce (MOC) said Sunday.

The move, in disregard of facts, came on so-called grounds such as "human rights," as the United States generalized the concept of national security and abused export control measures, according to the MOC spokesperson.

"This is an unjustified suppression of Chinese enterprises and a serious damage to international economic and trade rules, which China firmly opposes," the spokesperson said.

Urging the United States to immediately stop the wrong practice, the spokesperson said China will take all necessary measures to safeguard Chinese companies' legitimate rights and interests.
You are here: World

 Flash

Algerian Prime Minister Ayman Benabderrahmane has tested positive for COVID-19, official APS news agency reported on Saturday.

Benabderrahmane is placed in the self isolation for a period of seven days in accordance with medical guidelines, carring out his work at home, according to a statement by the Prime Minister's Office.

He is also due to undergo another screening test at the end of the self isolation.

Benabderrahmane was appointed as prime minister on June 30.

Algeria has seen a surge in COVID-19 cases in recent days, with confirmed cases rising from around 200 a day last month to more than 800.
 Flash

Bulgarians all over the world went to polls on Sunday to vote in the country's early parliamentary elections.

More than 6.7 million voters are eligible to elect 240 lawmakers from 15 political parties and eight coalitions, according to official data.

As many as 13,005 polling stations opened across the country at 7 a.m. local time (0500 GMT) and are due to close at 8 p.m. (1800 GMT), the Central Election Commission of Bulgaria said.

Meanwhile, 782 more ballot boxes are available in 68 countries for Bulgarians living abroad to cast their ballots from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. local time on Sunday, the Foreign Ministry said.

Polling stations in New Zealand opened first, followed by those in Australia. Election day abroad will end the latest in San Francisco, the United States, the ministry said.

According to the country's legislation, parties and coalitions need to gain at least 4 percent of the votes to enter the parliament. The votes received by those failed to enter the parliament will be redistributed proportionally to the qualified parties and coalitions.

Exit polls will be announced immediately after stations closed in Bulgaria, and official results are expected on Thursday.

The previous parliamentary elections in Bulgaria were held on April 4 this year. The then ruling party GERB together with its ally Union of Democratic Forces got only 75 seats and failed to form a government, while both of "There Is Such A People," the second largest party in the parliament with 51 seats, and Bulgarian Socialist Party, the third largest party in the parliament with 43 seats, refused the proposal by Bulgarian President Rumen Radev to form a government.

Therefore, in accordance to the country's constitution, Radev has signed a decree on the holding of new parliamentary elections, dissolved the National Assembly, and appointed a caretaker government.
Evangelist Nick Vujicic is starting up a new pro-life bank to see more of "God's money" go to protecting the unborn instead funding abortion providers.

Vujicic told The Christian Post he was moved to found ProLife Bank after discovering that most major banks in the US support Planned Parenthood, the largest abortion provider in the country.

"Most banks  90%, in fact  give philanthropically toward abortion," the Life Without Limbs founder told the website.

The venture is not a for-profit bank but rather what Vujicic dubs a 'for giving' bank, with half of its net profits to be donated to "Judeo-Christian-aligned non-profit organizations to further the Kingdom of God."

"Just like Noah's saved lives, so we're going to save lives with ProLife Bank," he shared. "It's based on the understanding that God wants to take back His role and redistribute [money] through His faithful students."

The 38-year-old is founding the bank together with his "spiritual mother" Betsy Gray, the executive director of Network Medical Women's Center in Santa Barbara, California.

Vujicic said the decision to found the bank did not come easily but only after three months of prayer about it with his wife during which his "world turned upside down".

"We had a grenade at our house; I had a false article published in a gay magazine that I fired someone from being gay. I had a lawsuit threat against me by somebody internationally. I had a spy drone above my house, and I got kicked out of a bank, all within a matter of 16 weeks after that prayer," he said.

He added, "It was evident to me that this is an issue close to the Lord's heart."

It marks a significant shift in the kind of ministry Vujicic has dedicated his life to so far, having spent the last 20 years travelling the world to preach the Gospel at evangelistic events.

"The last 20 years of my life was sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ to millions around the world. The next 20 years will be, preach where I can, but also bring change, tangibly," he said.

"In America, there have been 77 million abortions  that's 23% of our population. And one in three Christians has had an abortion. I'm doing my part to rattle the cages of the Church to say, 'You can't afford not to tell people that half the abortions in America are done by a Christian'."



Reposted with permission from Christian Today
One of the reasons why hes seeking to extend his powers is he understands that his approval rating is artificial, and its based on COVID, and its about to fall off, Proto said of Lamont. The longer he can unilaterally rule the state and do things on his own and take credit for those things, he thinks it will move his approval rating back up. The legislative Democrats seem to be more than happy to abdicate their constitutional responsibilities to give him that authority.  Theyre hiding behind his purple robe  as cowards usually do.
The watch was worn by Dr. Howard Fisher during a voyage on the Cunard Line ocean liner RMS Lusitania. On the afternoon of May 7, 1915, the Lusitania was torpedoed off Old Head of Kinsale, Ireland, by the German U-boat U-20. Fisher and the watch survived. The watch is now on display at The Mariners' Museum and Park in Newport News. (Courtesy of photographer Brock Switzer/The Mariners' Museum and Park)
The quavering voice on the other end belonged to a mother of four. This last Tuesday in June, the woman said she was trying her best. But she had lost her job during the pandemic. Her bills had run away from her, and the start of the month was just around the corner.
The mission for the day center is to become a safe haven for the homeless and a resource for the homeless and to work toward the mission and the vision of the city to eradicate homelessness, White said. The mission is to make it a one-stop shop, so if youre homeless and you come to Four Oaks, youre going to get connected with all of the different services that you need.
Near the end of the protest, Jones outlined several new initiatives and programs that Black Lives Matter 757 will work on over the next year, including an anti-community violence initiative, as well as a mentoring program and a video series to educate people on their rights when interacting with police. Jones said that the organization will fundraise for the initiatives and it hopes to establish an office space this year.
Karimnagar: AIMIM city president Syed Gulam Ahmed Hussain on Saturday appealed to Muslim community not to kill cows in Qurbani Wazeeb during Bakrid festival, as it would be considered a crime under law.

The appeal was made when Gulam Ahmed, along with other AIMIM leaders, met city mayor Y. Sunil Rao and requested him to take necessary steps for making elaborate arrangements for Bakrid festival in Karimnagar city.

Speaking on the occasion, the AIMIM city president said history tells us that Moghul emperors Babar, Akbar, Jehangir and Aurangzeb banned killing of cows during their reign, considering them sacred animals for Hindus. The last Nizam of Hyderabad state Mir Usman Ali Khan also implemented the law prohibiting cow slaughter from 1920.

Gulam Ahmed said, According to Islamic law, the work we do as part of our routine should not harm and hurt feelings of people belonging to other religions. Even Prophet Mohammad preached the same to people of Muslim community.

The AIMIM city chief said Qurbani Wazeeb is being given from the time of Ibrahim-ale-Salaam and Ismail-ale-Salaam, which will continue until people exist in this world. But due to Coronavirus pandemic, many families are finding it difficult to make ends meet. Under these conditions, it will not be wrong if they do not offer Qurbani Wazeeb, he underlined.

Former deputy mayor Mohammad Sami, corporators Syed Barkath Ali, Mohammad Sharfuddin, Mohammad Asifa Atheen, Ali Baba and Azahar Dabeer were among those present at the meeting with mayor Sunil.
Hyderabad: IT minister K.T. Rama Rao said that the TRS government will fight not just with Andhra Pradesh government but even God to get its justifiable share of water from Krishna river.

Rama Rao on Saturday launched a slew of development programmes in Narayanpet district.

Addressing a public meeting, he stated that the state government will speed up Palamur Ranga Reddy lift irrigation scheme for utilising Krishna water to irrigate the entire erstwhile Mahabubnagar district. He said that Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao has laid special focus on completing the Palamur RR project within a year.

"The CM focussed on the Kaleshwaram project in the past three years. Due to his untiring efforts, the world's largest lift irrigation project Kaleshwaram could be completed in a record time. Now, he has shifted his focus to the Palamur RR project. This will meet irrigation and drinking water needs of the south Telangana districts," Rama Rao said.

KTR pointed out that Narayanpet district borders Karnataka and asked people whether any of the schemes being implemented in Telangana were being implemented in Karnataka.

"The Telangana BJP leaders criticise the TRS government day in and day out. Neighbouring Karnataka is ruled by BJP. I challenge Telangana BJP leaders to show at least one scheme that is being implemented in Karnataka, which is better than Rythu Bandhu, Rythu Bima, 24x7 free power to agriculture, uninterrupted power supply to all sectors, Mission Bhagiratha, Mission Kakatiya, 2BHK dignity housing scheme. Even if they show one scheme better than Telangana, I will never comment against BJP," Rao said.
The country was in dire need of ideological differences since the secular Opposition had failed to counter the BJP, he said. (Twitter)

Hyderabad: The Opposition lacks a clear-cut stand on critical issues including the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and National Registry of Citizens (NRC). Hence, the common man is hitting the streets and playing the role of an effective Opposition, as seen in the protests by farmers and other groups, said MIM president Asaduddin Owaisi on Saturday.

Speaking at an online event organised by the Indian School of Business (ISB) on Saturday, Owaisi said the country was in dire need of ideological differences since the secular Opposition had failed to counter the BJP and safeguard the foundational principles of the Indian Republic and the Constitution. The secular Opposition was carrying the majoritarian Hindutva agenda which is not a good sign and is a potential threat to democracy, Owaisi said.

Speaking on the topic, Does India lack an effective opposition, Shiv Sena MP Priyanka Chaturvedi said that the Opposition lacked coherence. She said that due to the aristocratic government at the Centre, the four pillars of democracy were under serious threat and the implementation of the Constitution was compromised on numerous occasions.

She said that the Opposition should have a common minimum programme and the coalition Aghadi government in Maharashtra had shown the way to countering the BJP.

Former Union minister Manish Tewari, a Congress MP, pointed to the longer period of anti-incumbency. He said that due to the lack of an effective Opposition the BJP was in power for 15 years in Madhya Pradesh, the Congress had ruled New Delhi for 15 years, the UPA government was in power for 10 and the NDA dispensation is in its second term.

Tiwari said that 2014 had opened up a new phase in democracy, giving rise to a government with a strong ideology. The strong ideology has been weakening democratic values; the ideology is an onslaught to the Constitution, he said. Due to the failure of the Opposition, the judiciary played an activist role during the Covid-19 pandemic, Tiwari pointed out.

Sanjaya Baru, political commentator and policy analyst, emphasised on the role of effective Opposition. He recalled the role that the communists played during the Congress regime from 1950 to until 1980.

He said that the Opposition is relatively weak now when compared to the Communists, though less in number. He saw the period between 1990 and 2014 as a consensual phase in India politics when Prime Ministers P.V. Narasimha Rao, Atal Behari Vaypayee and Dr Manmohan Singh carried forward the development agenda.

Baru said that from 2014, the radical policy-making changes and ideology have posed a greater challenges to the economic-political situation. Whether in power or not, political parties should work within the foundation principles of the Constitution for democracy to prevail.
So far, 14 people from Thiruvananthapuram have tested positive for Zika. (Photo: Pixabay)

Thiruvananthapuram: One more person has been infected with Zika virus in Kerala, taking the total number of cases in the state to 15.

Health minister Veena George said the samples of a 40 year-old man from Nanthancode here were sent to the National Institute of Virology at Alappuzhaand found to be positive for the vector borne infection.

So far, 14 people from Thiruvananthapuram have tested positive for Zika.

Samples of 17 people sent earlier were negative and in the second batch of 27 samples, one has tested positive, the minister said in a press statement.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said Zika has been reported in Kerala and it was not unexpected as it is spread by the Aedes Aegypte mosquitoes, which causes dengue and Chickungunya.

Vector control units at the district and state level would be further strengthened, he told reporters.
Chennithala is also the former Leader of Opposition in the Kerala Assembly. (Photo: PTI)

Thiruvananthapuram: Slamming the Centre for creating a new Ministry of Cooperation, senior Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala on Sunday urged secular parties in the country to come together and launch a joint fight against the "move by the BJP and Sangh Parivar to take control" of the key sector.

"This is an unconstitutional and communal move by the Modi-government to gain control of cooperative societies in states like Kerala, Karnataka and Maharashtra where the co- operative movement has a strong presence", Chennithala said.

Urging all the secular forces to come together and fight jointly against the move, the senior Congress leader said a delegation of opposition parties should meet the President of India seeking his intervention in the matter.

Chennithala, who is also the former Leader of Opposition in the Kerala Assembly, said the opposition should also seek a legal option into the matter as Cooperative Societies is a state subject in the 7th Schedule via entry 32 of the State List in the Constitution of India.

His statement comes a day after the Kerala government said that it would first try to understand the motive behind the Centre creating the Ministry of Cooperation before taking any action.

"Since cooperative societies are a state subject, it is natural for states to have such a concern," Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said on Saturday.

Noting that it is a state subject, Vijayan has said there are multi-state cooperative societies, which are not large-scale institutions, warranting a separate ministry.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who was given the charge of the newly-created Ministry, has said the government is determined to make cooperatives and all cooperative institutions more empowered.
Reddy wrote an open letter to Chief Minister K. Chandrahekar Rao on unemployment and other issues. (Photo: PTI/File)

Hyderabad: TPCC president A. Revanth Reddy expressed displeasure over the state government's decision to recruit 50,000 jobs when the Biswal committee had identified around 1.91 lakh vacancies in the state.

He wrote an open letter to Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao on unemployment and other issues here on Saturday.

The letter was after contract outsourcing nurses urged Reddy to mount pressure on the state government over reinstatement of 1,640 staff nurses, who were terminated by the government on Tuesday.

He reminded Rao that he had himself praised nurses as goddesses at the peak of Covid-19 pandemic. It is inhuman to remove them, he said while assuring them of complete support from Congress.

Is Pragathi Bhavan the official residence of the Chief Minister or an office of Kalvakuntla Private Limited Company? Reddy wondered.

Distressed staff nurses had tried to plead with the Chief Minister, but police forcibly shifted them away, he said. Why is the Chief Minister not able to spend at least five minutes to listen to the frontline warriors, he asked.

Reddy demanded the immediate release of the schedule for recruitment into government jobs.

If TRS government tries to delay the recruitment process, TPCC will prepare an action plan to fight it out, he said.

Meanwhile, Andhra Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) president Sake Sailajanath, along with a delegation, met Reddy here on Saturday, and wished him for his new assignment.
Nizamabad: BJP state president Bandi Sanjay Kumar alleged that Telangana was recognised as the most corrupt state in the country during the Telangana Rashtra Samiti (TRS) rule. TRS president and Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao was involved in several scams as union minister in the UPA government, he said, adding that the BJP would definitely send Chandrashekar Rao to jail on corruption charges in near future.

Addressing the BJP district executive committee meeting at Chittapur in Balkonda mandal on Saturday, Sanjay Kumar said Chandrasekhar Rao had met union home minister Amit Shah after the GHMC polls and had shown willingness to work with the NDA government. Chandrashekar Rao himself told his Cabinet colleagues about his induction into the union Cabinet as agriculture minister and offered the Chief Ministers post to other family members.

The BJP state unit chief said Amit Shah did not encourage Rao and was firm to bring the BJP into power in Telangana. TRS ministers and MLAs should realise the credibility of Chandrashekar Rao after union cabinet rejig, he said. He reiterated that the BJP was not against Islam and Christianity, and it worked for all. The AIMIM won six MLAs in Bihar purely on religious lines, then why could BJP not polarise votes of majority people in Telangana, he questioned.

Sanjay Kumar said Muslim intellectuals realised that MIM was using the community for vote bank politics and it was not sincere in development and welfare. Triple talaq Bill provided justice to Muslim women, he said, adding that the kin of Telangana martyrs and separate statehood movement leaders were ignored by the TRS government.

MP Dharmapuri Arvind, former MLA and BJP state vice president E. Laxminarayana, party senior leader G. Premender Reddy, party district president Baswapuram Laxminarsaiah, Aleti Mallikarjun Reddy and others were present.


remaining of

Thank you for reading! On your next view you will be asked to log in to your subscriber account or create an account and subscribepurchase a subscription to continue reading.
Emporia, KS (66801)

Today

Partly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High around 85F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Mostly clear. Low 64F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph.
KB Financial Group Chairman Yoon Jong-kyoo speaks during the group's management strategy meeting, at the head office of KB Kookmin Bank in Seoul, Friday. Courtesy of KB Financial Group



By Lee Min-hyung



The heads of KB Financial Group and Woori Financial Group have underscored the need to establish "digital culture" driven by the so-called MZ generation  a combination of millennials and Generation Z  for their swift digitization in the post-pandemic era, the financial holding firms said Sunday.



"KB should pay more attention to voices from the MZ generation that has been the driving force in the digital era," KB Financial Group Chairman Yoon Jong-kyoo said during a management strategy meeting on Friday.



"A number of big companies have disappeared from the market due to their failure in responding agilely to changes. KB's management needs to swiftly carry out tasks proposed by the generation, so as to establish a No.1 financial platform."



Yoon also urged the group's executives to have a stronger sense of duty for the environmental, social and corporate governance (ESG) management, as another crucial task that the group needs to focus on during the second half of the year.



"KB has to upgrade its ESG management capability and be fully committed toward the environment, society, shareholders and customers," he said. "We should do the utmost for co-prosperity with our customers by humbly serving them."



KB is the nation's largest financial holding firm by market capitalization. The group has taken a series of preemptive actions to fulfill ESG management criteria. Last year, KB announced its group-wide vision of achieving anti-coal finance for the first time in the nation's financial industry. The leader of KB also pledged recently to expand its support for other ESG-active companies, in a move to display the group's strong determination to help achieve Korea's green finance.





Woori Financial Group Chairman Son Tae-seung speaks during a workshop at its headquarters in Seoul, Friday. Courtesy of Woori Financial Group




Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Hong Nam-ki speaks at the G20 finance ministers' meeting in Venice, Italy, July 10 (local time). Courtesy of Ministry of Economy and Finance



Discussion to continue through October



By Lee Kyung-min



The government asked that a "digital tax" for local firms be set at 20 percent, the lowest rate possible within the range of between 20 percent and 30 percent agreed upon at the G20 finance ministers' meeting, the country's top policymaker said Sunday.



This is to reduce the burden for firms that are expected to pay soaring corporate taxes in accordance with an ongoing financial initiative pursued by the OECD and the G20 on countering base erosion and profit shifting (BEPS).



The OECD/G20 Inclusive Framework (IF) involving about 130 countries agreed that governments should be able to tax multinationals on profits generated in their countries.



They agreed that a digital tax will be imposed on multinational companies with annual sales exceeding 20 billion euros (27.2 trillion won) and profits higher than 10 percent.



The tax will be divided into two pillars. The first pillar states that the countries where the firms generate profit will be able to tax firms between 20 percent and 30 percent for profits exceeding 10 percent. The second pillar states that a corporate tax of at least 15 percent must be paid by businesses that have consolidated sales exceeding 750 million euros.



"Different opinions were exchanged about the range of 20 percent to 30 percent, and the Korean government made it clear that the rate should be 20 percent," Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Hong Nam-ki said in a meeting with reporters in Venice, Italy. "Discussions will continue for three months until October's G20 meeting."





Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Hong Nam-ki, right, poses with International Monetary Fund Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva at the Venetian Arsenal in Venice, Italy, July 10. Courtesy of Ministry of Economy and Finance
gettyimagesbank



The inclination against having babies and raising a family, particularly stronger among South Koreans, has turned out to be a trend that apparently not even money can solve.



South Korea's total fertility rate hit a record low of 0.92 in 2019, way below the 1.63 average of members of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, proving that over 140 trillion won ($122.4 billion) in state funds poured into tackling the nation's low birth rate crisis over a decade since 2006 was futile.



This trend does strike as particularly troublesome especially during an economy weighed down by the COVID-19 pandemic  as reduction in jobs and thus overall income are undoubtedly detrimental toward efforts to overturn the country's low-birth, aging society conundrum.



Under the circumstances, policymakers are keeping close tabs on the looming demographic challenge, as a structural change in the overall population is projected to have deep economic impacts on both the macroeconomic and individual scales.



Last week, South Korea's top economic policymakers laid out a rough policy vision on dealing with the demographic crisis at hand, with a focus on sustaining the size of the country's working-age population, during an interagency meeting reviewing the state of the economy.



South Korea's working-age population is projected to decline an average of 330,000 per year in the 2020s when baby boomers, born from 1955-1963, will reach over age 65.



The country is also widely expected to become a super-aged society in 2025, in which the proportion of those aged 65 and older will hit 20 percent of the total population.



To deal with this problem, the government said it aims to put priority on strengthening child care services to prevent more women from experiencing a career break due to childbirths and raising their children.



"We will extend the child care program for elementary school students and expand all-day child care services to promote women's participation in economic activities," Finance Minister Hong Nam-ki said at the meeting on Wednesday.



The announcement came as more working moms had to quit their jobs to look after their children who study at home as they found it difficult to hire child care workers during the pandemic.



Another means of making up for loss in the size of the working population is by admitting more workers from overseas. The government announced it plans to expand the issuance of F-2 visas for foreign talented workers in promising sectors.



F-2 visas are issued for long-term foreign residents. Authorities also plan on introducing a new visa category centered on remote work for exceptional foreign talent in areas of information technology and other cutting-edge fields.



The government also plans to initiate a national debate to discuss ways to reform the labor market system regarding senior workers, including areas related to their employment and wage structure, through the presidential economic, social and labor council.



Officials, however, dismissed speculation that the country is considering extending the retirement age, currently set at 60.



Whether to extend the retirement age, possibly to 65, has become a hot-button social issue as the country is expected to face the so-called demographic cliff in coming years.



On the aging population topic, the government vowed to push for measures to help senior citizens better use medical services and strengthen the financial status of state pension and health insurance schemes to cover rising welfare costs.



The country will also consider introducing "home medical services," under which doctors and health workers will visit the houses of elderly patients to treat them. It will also push for the adoption of non-contact medical services for senior citizens.



Officials also plan to deal with the problem of so-called regional dissipation, or the population exodus of young people from rural areas, by introducing programs to foster growth of key urban areas across various regions.



The government task force plans to announce follow-up measures, including four major strategies and 13 related itineraries, in four successive notices until September, according to officials.



Many experts say that the government in general appears to be headed in the right direction in terms of dealing with the problem. But some note that the government should come up with more concrete measures in terms of solving the low birth rate and youth unemployment problem.



Others also note the limitations in addressing the demographic challenge at hand through arbitrary government policies, stressing the need for the underlying social culture to change as well in order to better deal with the problem.



"Rather than focusing on ways to promote child birth through incentives or support programs, it will be better to promote a social environment and culture that nurtures and champions parents' child rearing," a researcher at the Korean Women's Development Institute said. (Yonhap)


In this April 2016 file photo, a group of defectors fly balloons containing anti-North Korea leaflets at a border village of Paju, Gyeonggi Province. South Korea has rebutted concerns expressed by a group of U.N. special rapporteurs that a new law that bans the launching of anti-Pyongyang propaganda leaflets across the inter-Korean border could restrict freedom of expression, documents show. Yonhap



South Korea has rebutted concerns expressed by a group of U.N. special rapporteurs that a new law that bans the launching of anti-Pyongyang propaganda leaflets across the inter-Korean border could restrict freedom of expression, a government document showed Saturday.



In April, Tomas Ojea Quintana, special rapporteur on North Korea's human rights situation, along with three other rapporteurs, voiced concerns in a letter towards South Korea's so-called anti-leafleting law passed late last year. They expressed concerns that the ban may "negatively impact the enjoyment of the right to freedom of expression" and the "legitimate activities" of nongovernmental organizations in Seoul.



The law prohibits the launching of anti-Pyongyang leaflets across the border, with violators subject to a maximum prison term of three years or a fine of 30 million won ($27,400).



In response, the South Korean government delivered a written response on the matter to the Office of the U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights on Friday, according to the U.N. rights office. In it, Seoul argued that the law restrains freedom of expression to the minimum level to protect public safety and is in line with levels permitted by international human rights agreements.



The government also stressed the need to control leafleting activities through the law, as such actions have brought about continuous threats to the lives of residents living in the border area despite repeated administrative measures against the actions.



The government also explained that the nature of the law wasn't about the restriction of freedom speech but rather centered on applying minimum limitations to a specific method in expressing one's opinion.



South Korea has stressed that the leafleting ban is necessary to protect the lives and safety of residents living in the border areas as such leaflets could provoke the North to take bellicose action. (Yonhap)


President Moon Jae-in and Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga / Yonhap



By Nam Hyun-woo



The Korean government has issued a warning against continued reports from Japanese media outlets about President Moon Jae-in's possible visit to Tokyo on the occasion of the Summer Olympics later this month, saying Korea's foreign affairs ministry may not be able to continue consultations with its Japanese counterpart over a summit between Moon and Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga.



The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement on Sunday that it expressed "strong regrets over leaks of the two sides' consultations through media reports describing Japan's unilateral perspective citing Japanese government officials," claiming "it may be difficult for the two government to continue consultations over a summit. We urge Tokyo's prudent responses."



The warning came hours after the Nihon Keizai Shimbun (Nikkei) reported that the Japanese government informed Korea recently that it would agree to hold a Moon-Suga summit, adding the Korean government has been calling for a meeting of the two leaders if Moon visits the opening ceremony of the Tokyo Olympics on July 23.



A slew of Japanese news outlets have been reporting that Moon has been seeking a summit with Suga to improve the soured bilateral relations, but the governments have been denying the reports. Cheong Wa Dae has been saying that nothing has been decided on Moon visiting Tokyo, and it will only consider such a visit if the presidential office can expect proper outcomes through a potential summit.



"The Korean government has been maintaining its stance that Japan should lift its export restrictions against Korea and the two countries should resolve historic issues through talks," the ministry said.



"Through diplomatic channels, the two countries have been in consultation about using the Tokyo Games as a vehicle to address pending bilateral issues, and it is true that we have studied the feasibility of a summit in case there is any momentum for resolving those issues and proper formality is provided."



As reports continue to imply that Korea is more desperate for the summit, the Korean government has been expressing its regrets indirectly, and the foreign affairs ministry officially announced its regrets, while the consultation process is trapped in a deadlock.



It is said the two sides have yet to narrow their differences on the type of summit. While Korea is seeking a formal meeting that lasts about one hour, Japan is insisting on a 15-minute casual meeting, such as a pull-aside meeting. Citing an official at Japan's Prime Minister's office, Kyodo News Agency reported that Suga may meet leaders visiting the opening ceremony for about 15 minutes each.



Even if the summit is organized, the chances are slim that the two countries will resolve their disputes in a grand bargain. Japan has been insisting that Korea come up with solutions to resolve soured bilateral ties following a 2018 Korean Supreme Court ruling that ordered Japanese firms to compensate surviving South Korean victims of Japan's wartime forced labor, which is difficult for the Korean government to accept.






Cheong Wa Dae reiterated Sunday that President Moon Jae-in's potential attendance at the opening ceremony of the upcoming Tokyo Olympic Games depends on whether the visit would guarantee a fruitful summit meeting with Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga.







Cheong Wa Dae has left the door open for Moon's possible attendance at the opening ceremony set for July 23 and a summit meeting.







The possibility of Moon's visit to Japan is reportedly getting slimmer, however, amid a wide gap of opinion between the two countries over the nature of the envisioned summit.







"So far, we have talked (with Japan) about two conditions for Moon's Japan visit, a summit meeting and (related) results," a Cheong Wa Dae official told Yonhap News Agency. "Above all, there should be results (from the summit)."







Seoul has been seeking to arrange the Moon-Suga summit, with an eye to finding resolutions to thorny issues with the neighboring country, such as Japan's export curbs on certain materials for semiconductor manufacture in South Korea as well as its planned release of radioactive water into the sea from Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant, which has been disabled following a 2011 nuclear accident.







Japan, however, appears to be reluctant, with the country's Kyodo News reporting earlier in the day that Suga's talks with foreign guests, including Moon, may be limited to about 15 minutes each due to time constraints.







The report also said Japan excludes the possibility of consultation or negotiations in the envisioned Seoul-Tokyo summit, only considering the possible expression of its basic stance on major historical issues. (Yonhap)






By Kwon Mee-yoo







A provincial education office has canceled a planned class on make-up for school nutritionists, after being criticized for causing gender discrimination against and sexual objectification of nutritionists, who are mostly women.







The North Gyeongsang Provincial Office of Education sent out a notice, Thursday, announcing a training session for some 820 school nutritionists and nutrition teachers in the province on July 29.







During the three-and-a-half-hour program, 90 minutes were allotted to a lesson on applying make-up "for improving the satisfaction level of the school meal service."







School nutritionists raised questions over the topic of the training program, which they said could be interpreted as claiming that nutritionists should have to beautify themselves to enhance the satisfaction of food being served to students and teachers. The work of certified school nutritionists in Korea involves planning and managing school menus, as well as providing education on nutrition.







The North Gyeongsang provincial branch of the progressive Korean Teachers and Education Workers Union released a statement, Friday, accusing the provincial education office's training program of discriminating against female nutritionists and nutrition teachers.







"The education office lacks gender sensitivity and offering a class on applying make-up for nutritionists is totally anachronistic," the union said in the statement.







As backlash grew, the provincial education office canceled the program.







"We tried to offer the class on applying make-up as part of a general culture program, because many nutritionists are suffering from skin irritation due to having to wear masks for a long time. But the class has caused misunderstandings. We are sorry about it," an official at the education office said.


Streaks of light are seen as Israel's Iron Dome anti-missile system intercepts rockets launched from the Gaza Strip toward Israel, as seen from Ashkelon, Israel, May 12. On June 28, the South Korean military announced that it would launch a project to develop a South Korean version of the Iron Dome system next year, aiming to complete it by around 2035. Reuters-Yonhap



Korean version of Iron Dome, SLBMs under development



By Jung Da-min



South Korea is accelerating the development of advanced weapons systems to strengthen its deterrence against possible military threats, mainly from North Korea.



On June 28, the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) announced that it would launch the development of a South Korean version of Israel's Iron Dome system next year, aiming to complete it by around 2035, reducing the development period by two or more years. In August of last year, the military unveiled a long-term project to develop an interceptor system that could target North Korea's Scud-type or more powerful missiles.



Along with the interceptor system, South Korea's submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) technology also drew attention following media reports saying the military has recently succeeded in a test launch of its SLBM from an underwater platform. The military declined to comment, although defense experts said they believe the military has succeeded in securing core SLBM technology.



But military watchers have expressed mixed responses regarding what benefits the military could see by securing such advanced weapons systems, considering the costs of development and future use after deployment.



For the Korean Iron Dome development project, DAPA allocated a 2.89 trillion won ($2.54 billion) budget. The missile and artillery-interception system is aimed at protecting the country's core facilities and military and security infrastructure by shooting down long-range artillery shells and other projectiles using guided missiles. Guided-missile launchers are installed in various locations in the capital Seoul to form an air defense network.





This photo from March 9, 2020, released by North Korea's state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), shows a military drill at an undisclosed location in North Korea. AP-Yonhap



North Korea has deployed about 1,000 long-range artillery pieces along the border area near the Military Demarcation Line (MDL), according to the military's estimate. Among them, it is said that six battalions with 170-millimeter self-propelled guns with a range of 54 kilometers and about 10 battalions with 240-millimeter multiple rocket launchers with a range of 60 kilometers are targeting the Seoul metropolitan area directly.



Some military watchers cast doubts on the efficiency of the Iron Dome project, saying intercepting a ballistic missile flying in flank direction would not be as easy as intercepting one flying in front direction, and acquiring such advanced technologies would require huge human resources and financial investments.



But other military experts said the interceptor system is worth developing.



"The military had earlier reviewed introducing the Israeli Iron Dome system, but decided to develop its own domestically developed system instead, as South Korea has already secured related technologies," said Shin Jong-woo, a senior researcher at the Korea Defense and Security Forum. "The questions regarding the efficiency of the interceptor system seem to stem from the wrong expectation that it is meant to protect all areas of the capital. The interceptor system is more about protecting core military facilities."



Moon Sung-mook, a senior researcher at the Korea Research Institute for National Strategy, said developing the country's own interceptor system could save a lot in terms of future costs, as the nation would be able to maintain and upgrade the system after development.



"I understand that there could be criticism regarding the technology, but there is still time to advance the technology during the development process," Moon said.





South Korean submarine Dosan Ahn Chang-ho is docked at Okpo Shipyard of Daewoo Shipbuilding and Marine Engineering on Geoje Island in South Gyeongsang Province, in this Sept. 14, 2018, photo, during its launching ceremony. Joint Press Corps
Han River Park in Yeouido is crowded with local residents and visitors on Friday night. Korea reported 1,324 new COVID-19 cases on Sunday amid growing concerns over a fourth wave of the pandemic. Starting Monday, private gatherings of more than two people will be banned after 6 p.m. in the Seoul metropolitan area according to the Level 4 social distancing rules. Yonhap
People Power Party Chairman Lee Jun-seok, right, speaks during a preparatory meeting for the party's primary to select its presidential candidate at the National Assembly in Yeouido, Seoul, Friday. Yonhap



By Nam Hyun-woo



Lee Jun-seok, chairman of the main opposition People Power Party (PPP), stirred up controversy by calling for the dismantlement of South Korea's Ministry of Unification, which is in charge of dealing with North Korea.



Lee claimed recently that ministries that have been failing to show results should be abolished, singling out the unification ministry as well as the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family. However, his comments have drawn strong backlash from not only the ruling bloc, but also Lee's own party, raising questions over his views on the reunification of the two Koreas.



Lee first created a stir during an interview with CBS radio, Friday, saying he has "always been calling for the dismantlement of the unification and gender equality ministries."



He added, "The separation of the foreign affairs ministry and the unification ministry can be inefficient" and "the unification ministry has been the weakest and the most neglected ministry, because inter-Korean relations are being controlled by either Cheong Wa Dae or the National Intelligence Service."



Lee continued commenting on Facebook on Saturday.



"Just like the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family does not resolve gender conflicts, the existence of the unification ministry does not make noticeable steps toward unification," Lee wrote. "I believe the next administration should amend the Government Organization Act, because the ministry's role is uncertain and it is not doing its job properly."



He also criticized Unification Minister Lee In-young, saying, "If Lee thinks the ministry is necessary, then he is the one who is not doing his job properly."





Unification Minister Lee In-young speaks during an event at the ministry's Office of Inter-Korean Dialogue in Jongno District, Seoul, July 5. Yonhap



Following criticisms toward his ministry, Minister Lee replied on Facebook on Saturday that "Chairman Lee should stop showing off his shallow historical awareness and social consciousness."



The PPP chief and the minister continued exchanging salvos on Sunday. Minister Lee wrote Chairman Lee has a "weird understanding of gender equality," firing back at the PPP leader's criticism that the ministry's event of presenting flowers to female workers on International Women's Day was a waste of taxes. Chairman Lee replied that "the minister should improve his awareness of human rights" of North Koreans. Minister Lee wrote, "awareness of human rights starts from respecting others."



As controversy grew, Lee Nak-yon, former prime minister and a presidential hopeful from the ruling Democratic Party of Korea (DPK), joined the fray on Sunday.



"(Chairman Lee's) claim is nonsense that anyone who knows about national tasks would never come up with," he wrote on Facebook. "By mentioning the dismantlement of the unification ministry, South Korea's policies on the Korean Peninsula will face questions and many adversities will follow in the country's diplomatic relations and inter-Korean relations."





Former Prime Minister Lee Nak-yon announces his policy pledges to enhance safety for women at the National Assembly in Yeouido, Seoul, Sunday. Yonhap
Courtesy of Tim Mossholder



By David A. Tizzard




By Noel Mackey





For the past 14 years, Korea has been honoring individual immigrants who have made significant contributions to the country by handing out "Immigrants of the Year" awards. Irish-born Catholic priest Daniel Brendan O'Keeffe was the latest recipient of this honor. On May 20, "People of the World Day," O'Keeffe, formation program director of the Missionary Society of Saint Coumban, was awarded a presidential citation by Justice Minister Park Beom-kye for his more than 40 years of dedicated service to marginalized people in Korean society.







When O'Keeffe first heard that he had received the award, he was rather surprised, believing that there were many other immigrants who had made far greater contributions than he. O'Keeffe came to Korea in 1976 and spent his first four years familiarizing himself with the Korean language and customs as well as getting to know the people.







When I asked him why he got involved with the apostolate for workers, he said that he had studied liberation theology while he was a seminarian in Ireland. At a meeting organized for newly-arrived missionaries, he had listened to input from a Maryknoll priest, sister and lay person working as a team in the workers' apostolate. They convinced him that the ministry was necessary and worthwhile for factory workers.







In 1980, he moved to Bucheon in Gyeonggi Province and worked in a team that operated an "open house" where young workers could gather. There were numerous small factories in the area that employed teenagers who had come from the countryside. They were only given one day a month to rest.







Many of these uneducated workers came to the open house where they were able to share the stories of their lives in a safe environment. They were also invited to participate in courses in self-development, critical thinking, worker's rights and labor laws. O'Keeffe says that many of the young workers who took those educational courses later became key people in the formation of labor unions in the late 1980s.







Having spent 10 years in the young workers apostolate, O'Keeffe, together with fellow Columban missionary, Charles (Chuck) Lintz, became involved in the Seoul Archdiocese's Urban Poor Apostolate in 1992. Living in a shanty town in Bongcheon, Gwanak District of Seoul, they became aware of the plight of the poor tenants who lived there.







At that time, Seoul City authorities were "redeveloping" the area. In essence, it involved large construction companies being allowed to appropriate, by fair or foul means, portions of lands on which they would build high rise apartments. To procure the land, the construction companies paid as little as possible to the owners of houses in the many shanty towns that surrounded Seoul.







While the house owners got compensated, the poor renters were being thrown out onto the streets with their few belongings. Neither the construction companies nor Seoul City authorities were willing to assist them in any way.







O'Keeffe and Lintz gradually befriended people running day care centers, study rooms as well as a number of Christian church leaders in the shanty town. They began to meet and hold events in the area and finally formed a residents' association. Linking up with other people who are active in similar areas of Seoul, they ran educational programs to help the tenants become aware of their rights and thus enabled them to demand their rightful compensation during the redevelopment process.







During the presidential award ceremony, O'Keeffe received another unexpected surprise. While the justice minister was congratulating all those who had received different awards, he suddenly stopped and politely asked O'Keeffe to stand up and take a bow. He then revealed that he himself had actually lived as a "binmin" or a poor resident of the very shanty town where the priest had helped establish a tenants' association.







In another coincidence, the minister added that having qualified as a lawyer, he had established a counselling center for workers in Bucheon where O'Keeffe had operated the "open house" for young factory workers many years earlier. The minister mentioned a Korean saying, "When I walk alone I can go fast, however when I walk with others then I can go further."







I am not sure if that was the cue for O'Keeffe to say in an interview with The Korea Times that "if the believers of the different faiths, who together comprise 50 percent of the Korean population, worked together on ecological issues, they could make a huge contribution."









Noel Mackey (





noel.mackey@gmail.com ) lives in Namyangju City, Gyeonggi Province. He has worked as a native English speaker for 10 years in both middle and elementary public schools. He is a freelance teacher, interpreter, translator and writer.
By Jason Lim





Growing up in Korea, the Korean War was always referred to by the date when it started: 625, for June 25, 1950, the date when well-armed North Koreans invaded South Korea across the 38th parallel. Referring to important historic events by their dates is typical in Korea, so I never questioned that 625 was the definitive term we would use to refer to the Korean War.



However, more recently, the date 727 made its way into the mainstream narrative of the Korean War. July 27, 1953, was the date when the armistice was signed, pausing the Korean War that continues to this day. It was supposed to be followed by a treaty that would mark the official end of the war, but that never happened. Seeing that Koreans never refer to historic events by their end dates, how did 727 enter into the Korean War lexicon?



Well, I had the privilege to witness this process. There is an oft-quoted maxim by Margaret Mead: "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed individuals can change the world. In fact, it's the only thing that ever has." In this case, however, it was essentially one person: Hannah Kim.



It was Hannah who first told me about the armistice date back in 2007 when she was about to start grad school at George Washington University in Washington, D.C. She would also weave this date into a larger narrative about bringing recognition and honor to the veterans  she would call them "grandfathers"  of the forgotten war and even larger narrative about bringing peace to the Korean Peninsula.



It sounded preposterous even then. She didn't really have a strategy, let alone a plan to make this happen. What she did have was the unwavering belief in her vision and willingness to act upon it. She just did it. I don't exactly know what she did or how she did it, but she did it. This is what "it" includes so far.



Starting in 2008, Hannah organized an annual event on July 27 that gathers hundreds of people to light candles at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool at 7:27 p.m. to pay tribute to the sacrifices of Korean War veterans and to renew the call for peace on the peninsula.



In 2009, Hannah successfully lobbied to pass legislation that established July 27 as the National Korean War Veterans Armistice Day in the United States. I still remember watching in awe as American flags flew at half-mast around the Washington Monument for the first time.



This is when 727 started to gain mainstream legitimacy and widespread use in the Korean War lexicon. It was amazing to watch people start using these dates to talk about the armistice and the unfinished business of the Korean War. A simple date had the power to shift the narrative of the war from its beginning to its potential end, from blaming to reconciling, and from past pain to future potential.



Of course, nothing is so simple on the Korean Peninsula. The introduction of 727 didn't magically bring about peace. However, the storytelling about the war shifted fundamentally. It no longer had a hold on the Korean psychology as something that was currently happening. It was now something that happened that needed closure.



Most people would stop there. Hannah, however, after serving as chief of staff and communications director to Rep. Charles B. Rangel (D-N.Y.) until his retirement, traveled the world across six continents and 26 countries in 2017 to personally meet and thank Korean War veterans from every country that participated.



She followed this up in 2018 with a visit to all 50 U.S. states to meet with the surviving Korean War veterans across America and raise awareness and funds to construct the Wall of Remembrance in Washington, D.C., that would engrave the names of those killed in the war, including the 7,200+ Korean soldiers killed as part of the Korean Augmentation to the U.S. Army (KATUSA).



This past May during his visit to the U.S., President Moon Jae-in spoke at the groundbreaking ceremony for the Wall of Remembrance.



As another July 27 approaches, Hannah has organized another event to raise even more awareness and help educate a new generation of young people about the sacrifices that underlie what Korea is today.



She launched the Worldwide Photo Essay and Video Contest for folks to submit pictures and captions or a video up to five minutes in length about the Korean War, offering $10,000 in prizes. Visit remember727.com to find more information. I am honored to serve as one of the 100 judges around the world.



When looking back at history, there is a certain inevitability to what happened. However, what I know now is that such inevitability comes from the actions and decisions of specific individuals to work for what they believe in despite what the world tells them.



We are taught to mock and pity the Don Quixotes of the world as they futilely charge at the windmills. On second thought, per-haps these Don Quixotes are the only ones that change the world.





Jason Lim (jasonlim@msn.com) is a Washington, D.C.-based expert on innovation, leadership and organizational culture.


Nation should focus on tackling low birthrate, population aging



The low birthrate and population aging issues have already reached a critical point in this country. According to the Ministry of the Interior and Safety, 32.5 percent of registered residents were in their 40s and 50s as of June, up 2 million from December 2008. In contrast, those in their 20s and 30s accounted for 26.2 percent of the entire population, down 2.18 million from 2008. The average age of Koreans rose 6.4 years, from 37 to 43.4, during the same period. The proportion of senior citizens aged 65 and older is expected to climb from 15.7 percent in 2020 to 20.3 percent in 2025 and 43.9 percent in 2060.



Even more serious is the low birthrate. Korea's total fertility rate  the average number of children a woman bears in her lifetime  was 0.84 last year, an unprecedentedly low level worldwide. Some experts even predict the rate could drop to the 0.70 range this year. As the low birthrate and rapid population aging proceed, the working-age population is dwindling steeply. The number of economically active people aged 15-64 peaked at 37.65 million in 2018 but fell by 290,000 to 37.36 million just two years later.



All this explains why Economy and Finance Minister Hong Nam-ki tweeted recently, "Without special measures, an 'agequake' will hit Korea in 2030-2040 following a demographic cliff." The nation should take this matter very seriously. The Korea Economic Research Institute estimated Korea's population would fall by half in 2060, saying the country will have to worry about its existence itself in four decades.



The biggest problem is there is no clear solution. The government says it would develop various countermeasures, but it seems to have missed the right time already. Astronomical sums of money have been spent, but the birthrate keeps falling. Extraordinary measures are needed. The entire nation should pay attention to the declining birthrate and population aging by placing foremost priority on these issues. The next decade will decide whether the country can avoid the demographic cliff or not. Korea should mobilize all policy capabilities before it crosses the bridge of no return.


Military should go all-out to prevent sex crimes



Military prosecutors have indicted 10 service members over the death of an Air Force master sergeant who was sexually harassed by her colleague in March. On Friday, the Ministry of National Defense announced the indictment, disclosing the interim results of its month-long investigation into the case.



However, critics are questioning whether the ministry has done its best to get to the bottom of the case and its sincerity to take stern action against those responsible for her death. The ministry and the military still cannot avoid criticism for failing to conduct a thorough investigation and get tougher on the perpetrator and other service members who tried to cover up the case.



The alleged sexual harassment and the ensuing suicide of the victim have incurred the rage of the public. The master sergeant, identified by her surname Lee, killed herself in May after she suffered harassment by a colleague of the same rank, surnamed Jang. The incident occurred in a car when they were on their way back to their base from a private gathering. She reported the incident to senior officers, but they persuaded and even threatened her to reconcile with the perpetrator.



The ministry's investigation revealed that the officers and their higher-ups had even tried to cover up the incident. The victim was found to have suffered secondary victimization without getting any protection from her unit or the Air Force which failed to separate her from the offender immediately. She was transferred to another base at her request two months later. Then she was subject to further damage because details about the case were leaked.



The ministry also found that she reported sexual harassment twice previously by two warrant officers  in 2019 and 2020. This means that the Air Force has done nothing to investigate her complaints properly, punish the perpetrators and stop further harassment. The Air Force even reported Lee's death to the defense ministry without mentioning her sexual harassment complaints. It flagrantly ignored regulations on how to deal with sexual harassment cases.



That's why many people still cannot give credence to the ministry's interim investigation results. Vice Defense Minister Park Jae-min said that 38 other service members will either face investigation or disciplinary measures. Yet the ministry should conduct a more thorough investigation to shed light on the case. It also needs to accept a request by the victim's family that a special military prosecutor be appointed to carry out an independent investigation.



It is urgent to work out comprehensive measures to stamp out widespread sexual harassment and violence in the military. The ministry has decided to set up an organization that will deal exclusively with sex crimes in the barracks. Yet this is insufficient. More than anything else, the government should reform the military criminal justice system to crack down effectively on any violators of the law or regulations.




The Geumgang (Silk River) from the walls of the mountain fortress in Gongju in 2017. Robert Neff Collection



By Robert Neff



When John K. Jackson, an American Peace Corps Volunteer, arrived in Gongju in February 1971, the first thing he noticed was Geumgang (Silk River) and its "lovely sandy shores." The river would become an important part of his life while he lived in that city and is still one of his most cherished memories.



Jackson lived in a "thatch roof farmer's house" in a large pine thicket near the river, which he had to cross to get to the university where he taught. One day, in the summer, rather than walking the twenty minutes to the bus stop to take the ten minute bus trip to his school, he decided to wade across the seemingly shallow river as a shortcut. Holding his book bag, pants and shoes over his head, he started across, only to realize that it was far deeper than he initially thought.



"I taught my classes in a shirt wet up to my chest. It was one way to beat the heat when there was no air conditioning."



Another way to cross the river was by the Bear Ferry Crossing  basically a small skiff that would ferry passengers across the river for about 50 won one way. It was a fairly simple system with no timetable. If the ferry was on the opposite bank, the would-be passenger merely needed to get the ferry operator's attention (either by waving or yelling) and he would promptly respond. However, it didn't always work that way.





A small ferry in the Gongju area in 1971. Courtesy of John Keaton Jackson



On several occasions, Jackson saw the skiff on the opposite bank but not the ferry operator. After yelling several times and receiving no answer, Jackson, leaving his clothes and book bag on shore, swam across the river to get the skiff, where he found its operator "passed out on makgeolli [a Korean rice wine] in the bottom of the skiff." The ferry operator always claimed "he had a war wound" as an excuse for his intoxicated state. In order to retrieve his books and clothing, Jackson learned how to scull the skiff and this experience awoke in him a desire to get to know the river more intimately.



"Living on that river, it seemed natural to wish to take advantage of an adventure waiting to be had," explained Jackson, and so, the day before the start of the three-day Chuseok holiday, he and an American soldier (who was stationed in Okinawa but was in Korea on vacation) built the "Jini Ho," a crude raft made from a plywood deck resting on 4 old oil drums. It had a mast  from which flew the Korean flag  and a scull device so that it could be somewhat steered.



The raft was named in honor of a woman whom Jackson greatly admired, Hwang Jini. Also known as Myeongwol (Bright Moon), she was a famous 16th-century gisaeng poet famed for her overwhelming beauty and intelligence. One of Jackson's students presented him with a copy of one of her most famous poems, which had a deep impact upon him.



She was, declared Jackson, "Beautiful, talented, and had a quicker wit than the men who thought they could use her." Indeed, the name was quite a name for such a humble vessel.





Jackson aboard a local bus in Gongju in the early 1980s. Courtesy of John Keaton Jackson



The following morning, the Jini Ho and her crew began their great adventure:



"As it was Chuseok holidays, our two-night-three-day journey was a moving visual feast as we floated past farmers along the shore, decked out in their finest hanbok outfits and traveling here and there with bundles balanced on their heads."





Unfortunately, there are only one or two images from the voyages and they are in poor condition. Jackson and his fellow crewmembers preparing the Jini Ho II for their voyage in 1972. Courtesy of John Keaton Jackson

Apparently the Korean farmers were somewhat surprised and amused to see the two Americans floating idly down the river.



Jackson admits, that with the passage of time, "Most of the journey is a blur now," but, he insists, "What happened near the coast [of the West Sea] is as clear as if it happened yesterday."



They were nearing their final destination, Gunsan, when the tide turned at dusk and they were forced to row to the relative safety of the riverbank where, as in the previous night, they climbed into their sleeping bags and went to sleep.



"The next thing I knew," recalled Jackson, "I was awakened by an angry voice shouting in Korean and ordering us to show our faces. Which we did, of course, only to find ourselves staring into the muzzle of a rifle being aimed at us by a young soldier standing on the shore."



Jackson quickly identified himself as "a professor from a university up the river" and after the soldier determined they were not spies, he allowed them to continue their journey. Unlike the previous evening, however, the tide was now with them and they "were propelled downstream at an impressive clip."





The Geumgang and Goransa Temple in Buyeo in the 1930s. Robert Neff Collection



They were soon were confronted with a new dilemma. As they neared the docks at Gunsan, they realized that they were unable to steer the Jini Ho and that there was a real possibility that they could be swept out into the Yellow Sea, which, Jackson jokingly explained, could have resulted in an "international maritime incident" or, at the very least, "an embarrassing rescue at sea."



Fortunately, Lady Luck and Mother Nature had an affinity for the hapless American would-be sailors, and the Jini Ho drifted near the docks, where some fishermen stared in dumb amazement. "Unlike the [Korean] soldier, they were impressed, and doubly so when they saw it was a couple of [foreigners]" sailing the strange vessel. It was through the fishermen's quick reactions that the Jini Ho was soon safely moored to the dock.



Once ashore, [Jackson] trekked into town to look for a junk yard in order to sell the oil drums, leaving the [American soldier], who spoke no Korean, to answer the many questions the fishermen were asking. When [Jackson] returned soon with a buyer, to [his] utter astonishment, the raft  oil drums intact  was sitting high and dry atop the dock."



"And," confides Jackson, "to this day, I regret not having had the opportunity to watch those fishermen manhandle that heavy bulky craft up and out of the water."





The Geumgang from above Goransa Temple in Buyeo in 2020. Robert Neff Collection



Jackson enjoys telling this tale to his Korean friends and he is always amazed when they insist that "a Korean would never have imagined" building a raft and sailing down the river in the 70s  but that isn't quite true.



The very next year, Jackson and a couple of his students built another raft, appropriately named the Jini Ho II, and drifted down the river. They were not blessed with the glorious fall weather of the first voyage or its good fortune. Instead, they were drenched with rain and when they stopped for some makgeolli at a small drinking establishment along the river, they almost lost the raft when it broke loose from its mooring.



When they tied the raft up for the night, they used a line tied to a local ferry and in the morning were suddenly confronted by the angry ferry operator, who claimed they had damaged his boat. He demanded compensation and  as they had no money  they were forced to relinquish the bottle of beer they were saving to celebrate their safe arrival at Gunsan.



For the first two days of their journey, they dined on Chuseok treats that the students had brought with them and he recalls "dining on instant noodles while being swept in circles in a whirlpool caused by the incoming tide." However, on the night they pulled ashore near Gunsan, they were completely out of food. One enterprising student, sent out to find them something to eat, returned with a little rice he had apparently liberated from an unmonitored kitchen, as there was no place to buy anything. The less said about the incident, the better.





Goransa Temple in Buyeo in 2020. Robert Neff Collection



Jackson later learned that the university's president heard of the voyage of the Jini Ho II and was somewhat displeased, but kept his displeasure to himself. I like to imagine that he was a little jealous of Jackson and his students' daring  the ability to act like carefree kids during the hard times of the 1970s.



The voyages of the Jini Ho (one and two) are Jackson's most enduring memories of Chuseok  the exhilaration of rising to a challenge which one could not afford to fail and the adventures and misadventures of the task.



Jackson laments, "These experiences have pretty much spoiled me forever when I find myself passing the Harvest Moon Festival while eating treats in an apartmentand, like the river, time has flowed and things have changed and those days will never return."



Jackson still continues his half-century-long exploration of Korea's mountains and rivers. His photographs can be viewed at: Jackson later learned that the university's president heard of the voyage of the Jini Ho II and was somewhat displeased, but kept his displeasure to himself. I like to imagine that he was a little jealous of Jackson and his students' daring  the ability to act like carefree kids during the hard times of the 1970s.The voyages of the Jini Ho (one and two) are Jackson's most enduring memories of Chuseok  the exhilaration of rising to a challenge which one could not afford to fail and the adventures and misadventures of the task.Jackson laments, "These experiences have pretty much spoiled me forever when I find myself passing the Harvest Moon Festival while eating treats in an apartmentand, like the river, time has flowed and things have changed and those days will never return."Jackson still continues his half-century-long exploration of Korea's mountains and rivers. His photographs can be viewed at: https://farthereast.zenfolio.com/





Jackson in a Farmer's Dance in the 1970s. Courtesy of John Keaton Jackson



Robert Neff has authored and co-authored several books including, Letters from Joseon, Korea Through Western Eyes and Brief Encounters.




POSCO's steel sheets are ready for export at the company's Gwangyang steel plant. Yonhap
Firefighters work at the site of a fire that broke out at Hashem Foods factory in Rupganj, Narayanganj district, Bangladesh, July 10. Reuters-Yonhap



Police in Bangladesh arrested eight people Saturday on murder charges in connection with a factory fire that killed at least 52 people, many of whom were trapped inside by an illegally locked door, a senior police official said.



The blaze began Thursday night at the five-story Hashem Foods factory in Rupganj, just outside the capital Dhaka, sending huge clouds of black smoke billowing into the sky. Police discovered piles of bodies Friday afternoon after the fire was extinguished.



''We have arrested them for murder charges,'' Jayedul Alam, police superintendent for Narayanganj district, told The Associated Press by phone. ''They are in our custody now.''



Home Minister Asaduzzman Khan said that among those detained is the managing director of Sajeeb Group, which owns the factory.



The minister did not provide further details, but said those responsible would be punished.



''It's a murder,'' Khan told reporters as he visited the factory site Saturday.



By Saturday evening, a court in Dhaka allowed all eight suspects to remain in police custody for four days for interrogation.



Bangladesh has a tragic history of industrial disasters, including factories catching fire with workers locked inside. Big international brands, which employ tens of thousands of low-paid workers in Bangladesh, have come under heavy pressure to improve factory conditions.



In similar cases, factory owners have faced culpable homicide charges for negligence, and it's illegal for a factory to lock its exits when workers are inside during production hours.



The main exit of the factory that caught fire Thursday was locked from the inside, a Fire Service and Civil Defense official said, and many of those who died were trapped.



One of them was 23-year-old Rima Akter, who made desperate calls to her family as the fire engulfed the factory.



On Saturday, her mother and other family members struggled to identify the young woman's remains in the morgue at the Dhaka Medical College Hospital.



''We have checked 36 body bags, but it is very difficult to identify her,'' her brother-in-law Arafat Rahman said.



Her mother, Josna Begum, cried as officials tried to reassure several families waiting outside the hospital that their loved ones' bodies would be returned once DNA tests were completed. Forensic experts worked to identify the dead, taking DNA samples from victims' family members, and by late Saturday afternoon samples from 33 of the deceased had been collected, officials at the hospital said.



''My daughter worked to provide for her educational expenses. She was attending online classes and exams. I have no one else in the world ... what is there left for me to do now?'' Josna Begum said.



Prova Barman, father of Kompa Rani Barman, who died in the fire, spoke to reporters in front of the factory Saturday.



''My daughter's body was found over here. She was on the third floor. The supervisor locked in many girls there, including my daughter, during the fire. Many girls could not escape after the gate was locked,'' he said.





Flames rise after a fire broke out at a factory named Hashem Foods in Rupganj of Narayanganj district, Bangladesh, July 9. Reuters-Yonhap
Italy's Economy and Finance Minister Daniele Franco delivers his speech during a panel at a G20 Economy and Finance ministers and Central bank governors' meeting in Venice, July 9. AP-Yonhap



G20 finance ministers on Saturday gave their backing to a historic deal to overhaul the way multinational companies are taxed, and urged hold-out countries to get on board.



Some 132 countries have already signed up to a framework for international tax reform, including a minimum corporate rate of 15 percent, struck earlier this month.



But the endorsement by the 19 biggest economies plus the European Union will help ensure it becomes a reality following years of negotiations.



"We have achieved a historic agreement on a more stable and fairer international tax architecture," the ministers said in a final statement following two days of talks in Venice, hosted by G20 president Italy.



"We endorse the key components of the two pillars on the reallocation of profits of multinational enterprises and an effective global minimum tax."



U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, among those attending the grouping's first face-to-face meeting since February 2020, said the momentum must not now be lost.



"The world is ready to end the global race to the bottom on corporate taxation," she said in a statement, adding that it "should now move quickly to finalize the deal".



French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire said it was a once-in-a-century opportunity for a "tax revolution", adding: "There is no turning back."



His German counterpart, Olaf Scholz, tweeted: "Finally, large corporations can no longer escape their tax liability."



The reforms aim to prevent countries competing to offer the lowest tax rates to attract investment, which has often resulted in multinationals paying derisory levels of tax.



Final agreement is expected in the run-up to the G20 leaders' summit in Rome in October, with hopes the reforms can be in place by 2023.





EU Commissioner for Economy Paolo Gentiloni, center, arrives for a G20 meeting of Economy and Finance ministers and Central bank governors at Venice, July 9. AP-Yonhap



Pressure on hold-outs



Countries including the United States, France and Germany have been pressing for a higher minimum tax rate.



But some nations are opposed to 15 percent, including Ireland, which lured Apple and Google to Dublin with low tax rates.



In their final statement, the G20 ministers "invite" countries to sign up.



Without the agreement of Ireland and other EU hold-outs Hungary and Estonia, the European Union cannot implement the deal.



And while hailing an "unprecedented agreement", EU economic affairs commissioner Paolo Gentiloni warned: "Our work is not done."



Non-governmental groups that analyze the tax affairs of multinationals, like Oxfam, have criticized the reform for letting rich countries keep most of the extra tax revenue.



Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, who attended the Venice talks remotely, said that "further work needs to be done to ensure a fairer, sustainable and inclusive tax system which results in meaningful revenue for developing countries".





Italy's Economy and Finance Minister Daniele Franco delivers his speech during a panel at a G20 Economy and Finance ministers and Central bank governors' meeting in Venice, July 9. AP-Yonhap



Worldwide rules



Italian Finance Minister Daniele Franco said what had been achieved must not be underestimated.



"To have worldwide rules for taxing multinationals, for taxing profits of big companies is a major change, it's a major achievement," he said.



The minimum tax rate is expected to affect fewer than 10,000 major companies, but the OECD estimates an effective 15 percent rate would generate an extra $150 billion in revenue per year.



The measure is one of two so-called pillars of global tax reform that have been under negotiation for years, and were given new impetus under U.S. President Joe Biden.



The other would give countries a share of the taxes on profits earned in their territory.



Multinationals operate in many countries but usually pay taxes on profits only in tax domiciles cherry-picked for their low rates.



The profit reform would initially apply to the top 100 or so companies, and is targeted at the most aggressive users of tax-reducing domiciles, such as technology giants Google, Amazon, Facebook and Apple.



The changes agreed will ensure "that the right companies pay the right tax in the right places", British Finance Minister Rishi Sunak told AFP.





Italian policemen clash with protestors in Venice during a gathering called by the group "We are the tide" to protest against the G20 meeting between finance ministers and central bankers, July 10. AFP-Yonhap
The Asbury Park Press (app.com),part of the USA TODAY NETWORK,is looking for a dining reporter with a big personality and great social media skills to tell stories about restaurants, food-focused retail stores and businesses, trends and people who are part of the food scene in Monmouth and Ocean counties in New Jersey.





Daily emphasis will be on mobile-friendly content that is relevant and compelling to local residents and will keep our audience coming back, and the reporter will balance that with sophisticated journalism and projects that deliver rich insights.





We seek a passionate, focused and curious multi-media reporter and nimble storyteller willing to jump on trends but also engage audiences in the stories and issues behind the food brought to their tables. We will expect breaking news, deep-dive profiles, trend pieces, long-term enterprise, compelling multimedia assets and social engagement.





Most important, the reporter will be expected to build relationships with members of diverse communities to enable delivery of food and dining stories that reflect the entirety of our population.





The reporter will cultivate an engaging, active and inclusive social-media presence, and will be responsible for the tone, tenor and content mix of our branded food social-media accounts. The reporter will coordinate with our visuals team but should have basic photo, video skills, and must be comfortable appearing on video, and at personal appearances at food-related events.





The position requires strong knowledge of SEO and a thorough understanding of audience metrics. Our top candidates will be creative thinkers who can bring their own ideas for dining journalism, based on their knowledge of the market and our audience.





This is not a role for an influencer. Our dining reporter must know how to report and write, as demonstrated by published work, in a newspaper, magazine or online site.





The food, drink and culture reporter will work at times in partnership with USA TODAY food and features reporters throughout New York and the Atlantic region and sometimes beyond.





The reporters will also collaborate with marketing and sales partners on events and other activities. Occasional weekend and evening hours are required. Must have a positive, collaborative attitude; be flexible and willing to pivot as news demands.





This role requires a valid driver's license, reliable transportation, and the minimum liability insurance required by state law.





KEY CONSIDERATIONS





Strong writing skills and a command of grammar and style.

Experience with social media as a tool to build audience and as a source for beat development.

Experience with and interest in multimedia, including video and podcasting.

A self-starter who owns the beat yet works collaboratively with others locally and regionally to meet common goals.

A journalist committed to values of fairness, diversity, inclusion and professionalism.





REQUIREMENTS





Bachelor's degree or equivalent professional experience.

One to two years of experience as a reporter/writer.

Proven experience with content management systems and social media channels.

Good time management and organizational skills.





We are eager to learn more about you and how you fit this role. When you apply, don't limit your upload to a resume; show us what you've done. Please include:





Your resume - one to two pages





A cover letter that outlines how you would approach the job





Links to 3-5 online samples of your work. Show us what you've written, produced, or had a hand in that best reflects what you can do.

#content






Req #16902 Tuesday, June 29, 2021 Gannett Co., Inc. (NYSE: GCI) is a subscription-led and digitally focused media and marketing solutions company committed to empowering communities to thrive. With an unmatched reach at the national and local level, Gannett touches the lives of millions with our Pulitzer-Prize winning content, consumer experiences and benefits, and advertiser products and services.



Our current portfolio of media assets includes USA TODAY, local media organizations in 46 states in the U.S., and Newsquest, a wholly owned subsidiary operating in the United Kingdom with more than 120 local news media brands. Gannett also owns the digital marketing services companies ReachLocal, Inc., UpCurve, Inc., and WordStream, Inc., which are marketed under the LOCALiQ brand, and runs the largest media-owned events business in the U.S., USA TODAY NETWORK Ventures.



To connect with us, visit www.gannett.com. The Greenville News / Greenvillnews.comis seeking a reporter to cover Clemson University and the city of Clemson in Pickens County, South Carolina. Were looking for an aggressive reporter who knows how to file effective FOIA requests, and also knows how to tell the stories of real people affected by the issues that come along with a university that is trying to be a Top 20 university, as well as being able to cover one of the fastest-growing cities in the Southeast. Students at Clemson are striving to be heard on issues of diversity and equality, and the university is beginning to listen. The challenges of helping Clemson become a more diverse institution both in student enrollment and on staff are fertile ground for investigative and enterprise work. Other challenges facing the university include town-gown relations in a small city that is home to states premier research university. Clemson is growing, but city residents sometimes feel left out of the conversation. And as expected, a small town and a major university often have conflict where they intersect, and these, too, offer opportunity for enterprise work about how the community and the university are changing. This also is an accountability beat. We want to be a watchdog for how Clemson University and the city of Clemson are spending taxpayers money, whether they are being transparent and who is spending money to influence them. Critical thinking, a creative approach to the reporting process, interacting with students and clear and insightful writing about sometimes complex issues are critical to this job. Well be looking for work samples that demonstrate an aptitude for data-driven stories, and a track record of producing compelling, timely, well-sourced stories that tell stories about the people behind the data. We expect that you can recognize compelling, socially shareable stories and that you will be quick to jump on them. Responsibilities: Creates storytelling that accurately informs, entertains and engages specific audiences and platforms through the use of metrics.

Becomes the leading voice on Clemson University issues.

Connects with the community through storytelling and outreach (social media, on camera, forums, community leadership, etc.) Provides thoughtful analysis of complex issues.

Works with content strategist to evaluate what's working and what's not and develops ongoing plans to better satisfy audience needs.

Collaborates with content team to provide all appropriate elements for stories (i.e. photos, videos and graphics). Captures basic photos and video as needed.

Promotes personal brand, the brands of colleagues and the institutional brand.

Provides great customer service, helping readers find answers and solutions.

Requirements: Bachelor's masters degree in communications, journalism, business, marketing or related filed preferred or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Some reporting experience, but well consider excellent and motivated recent college grads.

Experience with datasets and/or retrieving public records through the FOIA process.

Work samples that demonstrate storytelling techniques on multiple platforms.

Proven experience producing accurate reports under deadline pressure, in a style that resonates with mobile and social audiences.

Effective communicator; able to get along with diverse personalities.

Ability to shoot basic photos and videos in a breaking news situation

Strong news judgement and ability to multitask

Strong command of AP grammar and style.

Strong copy-editing skills and the ability to produce content that is clean, accurate and "publication ready."

Is passionate and enthusiastic about news and content that will work well with audiences on social platforms.

Is comfortable using social media such as Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and Snapchat to enhance reporting and promote stories.

Understands reporting ethics and sourcing.

Excels in a fast-paced news environment and understands the digital first mission.

Collaborates well with others and can work with a team on the biggest stories.

Must be able to work occasional night and weekend shifts.

This role requires a valid drivers license, reliable transportation, and the minimum liability insurance required by state law.

Employment is contingent on passing a post-offer pre-employment background check and drug screen (for all driving roles only).

We are eager to learn more about you and how you fit this role. When you apply, dont limit your upload to a resume; show us what youve done. To do so, put together a single document file that includes the following, in this order: Your resume one to two pages. A cover letter that outlines how you would approach the job. Links to a variety of 3-6 online samples of your work. Show us what youve produced or had a hand in that best reflects what you can do in your desired role. These examples should show beat reporting and enterprise on different digital platforms.

It is important that these items be assembled into a single document and uploaded in PDF format. Completing these steps will ensure that your application receives the highest consideration.



#content

#Gan.content Gannett Co., Inc.is a proud equal opportunity employer. We are a drug free, EEO employer committed to a diverse workforce. We will consider all qualified candidates regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, gender identity, family responsibilities, disability, education, political affiliation, or veteran status. Job Family Frontline Journalists

Job Function Consumer

Pay Type Hourly Other details

recblid dep34468htl44xp783edz2z8qpc23b






Our Pennsylvania team is looking for an experienced Construction Layout Crew Chief to join us in the York, PA region.

Preferred candidates will have experience with most of the following:

Trimble Robotic Total Station

GPS Rover

Construction layout

GPS machine control grading

topographic, volumetric, and bathymetric work

UAVs & 3d scanning.

Please email resumes via email by clicking APPLY NOW!!

recblid x9imoa1wys6nt3jp7ah63vwty2youn


Location: Richland Center - Wisconsin

Job Description Who is Rockwell Do you want to make a difference in the world? At Rockwell Automation you can do just that and more. Rockwell is a global leader in industrial automation and digital transformation. We connect the imaginations of people with the potential technology to expand what is humanly possible, making the world more productive and sustainable. Rockwell was recognized as one of the World's Most Ethical Companies in 2020. We place a high value on integrity which fosters an environment where all employees can and want to do their best work. To learn more about how we are bringing The Connected Enterprise to life across industrial enterprises, please visit www.rockwellautomation.com. What Rockwell Brings to You Rockwell cares about our employees and our benefits package is just one way we support you. Rockwell provides options for medical, dental and vision insurance, 401K plan including company match, generous vacation allowances, and many more options available. To learn more about our Benefits Package, please visit https://raquickfind.com/. What Rockwell Needs from You We need a diverse workforce to do our best work. We need the makers, the forward thinkers, the problem solvers, and everything in between. That is where you come in. We are looking for a Material Handler 3. This is a 1st Shift role (M-F, 7:00AM - 3:30PM), in the Warehouse department with a starting rate of $15.94 per hour. Job Summary: Performs the physical or administrative tasks involved in the shipping, receiving, storing, and distributing of materials, parts, supplies, and equipment. Unpacks and checks goods received against purchase orders or invoices, maintains records of received goods and rejects unsatisfactory items. Lifts heavy items and may operate a forklift. Prepares and maintains records of merchandise shipped. Posts weights and shipping charges and prepares goods for final shipment. Examines, stocks, and distributes materials in inventory and on manufacturing lines. May prepare kitting packages for assembly production. Responsibilities and Essential Functions: Reviews documentation and leverages SAP/external systems to assess, replenish, and prioritize material and finished goods to support production and shipping processes. Provides documentation support, materials administration, and process support. Uses judgment to propose solutions and troubleshoot material flow or documentation issues. May operate Powered Industrial Vehicles to load, unload and transfer materials/finished product. Skills: Problem solving

Using a computer to view, log, or find appropriate job related information

Safe use of Powered industrial vehicles and other material handling equipment

Use of Scanning Devices

Self-directed in a team environment Minimum Qualifications: A minimum of High School Diploma/GED OR 2 years of verified related experience

Legal authorization to work in the US is required. We will not sponsor individuals for employment visas, now or in the future, for this job opening. Preferred Qualifications: Typically requires a minimum of 2 years of related experience We are an Equal Opportunity Employer including disability and veterans. If you are an individual with a disability and you need assistance or a reasonable accommodation during the application process, please contact our services team at +1 (see application details).




VICE PRESIDENT, INFORMATION & DATA SECURITY JEFFERSON CITY, MO At FCS Financial, part of the nationwide Farm Credit System, we are looking for a Vice President, Information & Data Security to join our Team! If you are looking for an opportunity to lead information and data security efforts and looking to have a significant influence and impact in safeguarding our Association, this career opportunity is for you. We want someone with the knowledge and initiative to proactively safeguard the Association in the ever-changing world of information and data security. FCS is seeking a pro-active, confident, and flexible individual that is responsible for recommending and maintaining sound data security policies, guidelines, and procedures; leading the framework for detection, containment, and response to security incidents; and developing and documenting contingency and/or incident recovery plans. Dont miss this opportunity to join our progressive cooperative that will help you advance your career, apply now! A Bachelors Degree in Information Systems or related field and 7 years of related experience is required. A CISSP Certification is preferred. Preferred office location is Jefferson City, Missouri. Remote work environment and other FCS Financial office locations will also be considered. Please submit Cover letters and resumes

recblid 5hk02qn7j314t6v6e9khw4vcxqh6fi






PowerSouth EnerguyCooperative

Real Estate Specialist II

PowerSouth Energy Cooperative, an electric generation and transmission cooperative serving Alabama and Northwest Florida, is seeking a Real Estate Specialist in the T&D Engineering & Construction Department at the Headquarters Office located in Andalusia, Alabama. The purpose of this position is to provide assistance in securing ownership of all right-of-way easements and property required by the Cooperative for transmission lines, substations, and other Cooperative facilities and in the management of Cooperative-owned easements and property. Applicants must have a four (4) year degree in Natural Resources with a Forest Management emphasis, Agricultural Business with a Marketing and Sales emphasis, or a closely related field with equivalent education requirements, supplemented with specialized experience and training in the following areas: appraising, negotiating, title abstracting, and land surveying.

Employment is subject to a negative drug test, background check and completion of a comprehensive application for employment. PowerSouth offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits program.



EOE, including disability/veterans

recblid bgf7vihfkwjcj089z4je6id0nur4u7


Salary $78,416.00 - $119,724.80 Annually Location Arlington *METRO-accessible*, VA Job Type Full-Time Department Department of Environmental Services Job Number 2002-22A-DES-DB Closing 7/22/2021 11:59 PM Eastern Position Information Arlington County's Department of Environmental Services (DES) is seeking an experienced Facilities Project Specialist to perform senior level professional construction management work for Facilities Management Bureau projects. This employee serves as the senior project manager for the administration and coordination of complex building construction projects from initial development through final inspections and turnover to County user groups. County building projects include libraries, community and recreation centers, fire stations and office buildings.



Specific duties include: Planning and directing major new construction, design engineering and renovation projects;

Preparing initial programming documents, such as capital budget estimates and scope of work;

Leading the project permitting and approval process and coordinating with involved citizen groups and County review staff;

Directing the project design team in the preparation of construction documents, specifications, and project contract scope of work - priority on HVAC, Security, Building Envelope, and Energy Efficiency;

Leading the construction contractor selection process and monitoring contractor schedule and quality of work, ensuring compliance with scope of work and requesting corrective action where required;

Reviewing and approving change orders and recommending changes in designs, specifications and schedules to accommodate conditions at construction site or to expedite construction;

Monitoring and overseeing the project budget and dispersal of funds; reviewing all pay requests and change orders for appropriateness; and

Managing the project close out and hand over of completed project to County user group and Facilities Management Bureau and providing follow-up actions as required during the warranty period.

Arlington County offers a competitive salary and a great benefits package including a Defined Benefit (pension) plan. For more information on Arlington's family friendly benefits click here .

Selection Criteria Minimum : Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Architecture, Construction Project Management or a related field;

Three (3) years of progressively responsible experience in project management and administration as a Facilities Engineer or Construction Project Manager or related field.

Substitution : Additional qualifying experience may substitute for the education requirement on a year for year basis.



Desirable : Preference may be given to candidates who are registered as an Architect or Professional Engineer in Virginia or a state with reciprocity and/or have experience with one or more of the following:

Managing design or construction of new or renovated municipal, industrial or commercial facilities that have achieved LEED certification;

Supervising or coordinating the work of professional staff, including managing the work of designers and contractors to ensure compliance with specifications and contract requirements;

Project management in a local government environment;

Using project management and/or construction scheduling software; and/or

Managing facility operations and maintenance programs for the replacement of mechanical and related systems and subsystems.

Special Requirements The applicant must possess a valid driver license, or the applicant must have the ability and willingness to use alternative methods of transportation to perform assigned duties and responsibilities at locations other than the primary worksite. The applicant must authorize Arlington County to obtain, or the applicant must provide a copy of the applicant's official state/district driving record. Any offer of employment may be contingent upon a favorable review of the applicant's driving record.



Employees that are registered as a Professional Engineer will be eligible for an additional pay premium of $2,600 annually.



Completion of the Commonwealth of Virginia Statement of Economic Interest form will be required of the successful candidate upon hire and annually thereafter.

Additional Information Work Hours: 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. A flexible work schedule is encouraged and some evening or weekend work hours may be required.



Your responses to the supplemental questionnaire are considered part of the selection process and are required for this position. Please do not give "see resume" as a response to the questions. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Arlington County Government employee benefits depend on whether a position is permanent, the number of hours worked, and the number of months the position is scheduled.



Specific information on benefits and conditions of employment can be found on the Arlington County Human Resources Department website: (see application details)



Permanent, Full-Time Appointments

All jobs are permanent, full-time appointments unless otherwise stated in the announcement. The following benefits are available:



Paid Leave : Vacation leave is earned at the rate of four hours biweekly. Leave accrual increases every three years until eight hours of leave are earned biweekly for twelve or more years of service. Sick leave is earned at the rate of four hours biweekly. There are eleven paid holidays each year.



Health and Dental Insurance : Three group health insurance plans are offered - a network open access plan, a point-of-service plan, and a health maintenance organization. A group dental insurance plan is also offered. The County pays a significant portion of the premium for these plans for employees and their dependents. A discount vision plan is provided for eye care needs.



Life Insurance : A group term policy of basic life insurance is provided at no cost to employees. The benefit is one times annual salary. Additional life insurance is available with rates based on the employee's age and smoker/non-smoker status.



Retirement : The County offers three vehicles to help you prepare for retirement: a defined benefit plan, a defined contribution plan (401(a)), and a deferred compensation plan (457). The defined benefit plan provides a monthly retirement benefit based on your final average salary and years of service with the County. You contribute a portion of your salary on a pre-tax basis to this plan. General employees contribute 4% of pay; uniformed public safety employees contribute 7.5% of pay. Employees become vested in the plan at five years of service. The County also contributes to this plan.



For general employees, the County also contributes 4.2% of pay to a defined contribution plan (401(a)) . The County also matches your 457 contribution, up to $20 per pay period, in this plan. The 457 deferred compensation plan allows you to set aside money on either a pre-tax (457b) or post-tax (457 Roth) basis up to the IRS annual limit. New employees are automatically enrolled with a pre-tax contribution equal to 2% of your base pay.



Other Benefits: The County also offers health, dependent care, and parking flexible spending accounts; long-term care insurance; tuition assistance; transit and walk/bike to work subsidies; a college savings plan; wellness programs; training opportunities; and a variety of other employee benefits.



Permanent, Part-Time Appointments:

Part time employees who work ten or more hours per week receive paid leave and benefits in proportion to the number of hours worked per week.



Limited Term Appointments:

Benefits are the same as permanent appointments except that the employees do not achieve permanent status.



Temporary Regular Appointments:

Temporary regular employees who work 30 hours or more per week are eligible for health, dental, and basic life insurance as described above. They are also eligible for vacation, sick leave, and paid holidays.



Temporary Seasonal and Occasional Appointments:

Temporary employees who work on a seasonal basis or variable hours receive sick leave, but do not normally receive other paid leave or benefits. Exceptions are noted in individual announcements.


Town of Greeneville Public Works

General Maintenance - performs gen maint duties, i.e. mowing, spraying weeds, litter pickup, weed eating/trimming, etc. Exp with zero turn mowers/weed eaters a plus. Valid TNDL req.

Maintenance Technician II - operates variety of trucks, equip & power tools necessary for maint of streets & sidewalks. Exp in concrete/asphalt required  backhoe exp a plus. Valid Class B CDL req.

Min of HS Diploma/GED req. Must meet physical requirements. Salary DOE. Download applications by visiting www.greenevilletn.gov, or pick up at Town Hall. Return in person, postal mail to ATTN: HR Employment, 200 N. College St., Greeneville, TN 37745, or email hrstaff@greenevilletn.gov.

Open until filled/EOE

About the Town of Greeneville

Nestled at the foot of the Appalachian Mountains, Greenevilles rich heritage as the home of the 17th U.S. President features the Andrew Johnson National Historic Site and National Cemetery.

Greeneville has grown to a population of 15,170 and is the county seat of Greene County, an area known for its scenic mountains and agricultural traditions.

The mission of the Town of Greeneville is to enhance our vibrant community by delivering high quality public service and effective communication to citizens and visitors.

The towns unique spelling of GreenEville is in honor of Nathanael Greene, a heroic general to many Greene County men who served in the Revolutionary War. Civil War history and many other local artifacts are preserved in the Greeneville-Greene County History Museum, located downtown at the corner of West McKee and South Main streets.

Main Street is lined with numerous churches, reflecting Greene Countys strong faith base with more than 250 places of worship.

Also on Main Street is the General Morgan Inn historic hotel and state-of-the-art Conference Center, where you can start A Walk With The President tour.

If youre planning to visit our town, check out Greeneville-Greene County Tourisms website : https://discovergreenevilletn.com/

If you need more information about Greenevilles government services, including the Board of Mayor and Aldermens 20/20 Vision for the future, please explore our site at www.greenevilletn.gov. Welcome to Greeneville.

recblid olxm410y238jug1rskd8csssv447bk
The Columbia County Criminal Docket will be heard Thursday at the Justice and Detention Facility.
Magnolia, AR (71754)

Today

Partial cloudiness early, with scattered showers and thunderstorms during the afternoon. High 91F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%..

Tonight

Thunderstorms. Low 72F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 80%.
The MCB Forward Foundation (MCBFF)has made a contribution of EUR 41,040,to the UNDP Small Grants Programme to improve agricultural land resilience through nature-based solutions and support the farmers community.

This UNDP SGP Increasing Farmers Resilience to Climate Change by Adopting an Agroecological Approach project- includes the design of an innovative drain to increase the resilience of agricultural land against recurring floods, and will benefit threeco-operative societies namely:La Chaumiere Agricultural Marketing Co-operative Society Limited, Plaine Sophie Mixed Farming Cooperative Society Ltd and Les Jardins Bio de Britania Mixed Farming Cooperative Society Ltd.

Each year, the growing intensity and extreme weather events including torrential rains and droughts cause important damage to agricultural production with heavy impacts on farmers livelihoods. The government of Mauritius has long recognised the problem and is now determined to put in place various mitigation and adaptation strategies.

The MCBFF funding support comes at a timely moment to support the design of bioswales (shallow and broad planted drains designed to convey, storm or infiltrate storm water and runoff) in 3 pilot agricultural fields, namely La Chaumiere, Plaine Sophie and Britania. Growers of these 3 pilot regions, will also benefit from a complementary contribution of USD 150,000 (6,394,479MUR) fromthe UNDP GEF Small Grants Programme.

During the signature ceremony, Mr. Gnany, Executive Director of MCB Group Ltd, stated:

Through this agreement, we want to help farmers in La Chaumiere, Britannia and Plaine Sophie not only to increase their productivity, but also to cope with the adverse effects of climate change. At MCB, we are convinced that promoting local production will have a positive effect on our economy and the country as a whole, whilst, at the same time, contributing to our climate change efforts. We hold this initiative close to our hearts because it tackles problematics on which we are already very committed through our various actions.

Ms. Amanda Serumaga, UNDP Mauritius and Seychelles Resident Representative acknowledged the MCBFF for its financial support and extended her thanks to the Food and Agricultural Research Extension institute (FAREI) which is also a partner to the project. UNDP Mauritius and Seychelles representative stated that the partnership marks a milestone as it brings together the private sector, the UNDP GEF Small Grants Programme and local growers.Ms. Serumaga also stressed that Much still needs to be done to build resilience against the changing climatic conditions, and to support local growers to cultivate the land in innovative, resilient and sustainable ways.

MCBFF supports UNDP Small Grants Project MCBFF supports UNDP Small Grants Project MCBFF supports UNDP Small Grants Project MCBFF supports UNDP Small Grants Project

The bioswales drains, designed by Atelier LD / LD Austral, will be an innovation for agricultural fields in Mauritius and have the potential to be replicated all over the island to bring further support to the farming community.
Now that we know Musikfest will be back and in-person with top musical acts such as Darius Rucker and Zedd, we all want to know about the food.
The California Independent System Operator warned of potential power shortage, not only because of mounting heat, but because a wildfire in southern Oregon was threatening transmission lines that carry imported power to California. Gov. Gavin Newsom issued an emergency proclamation on Friday suspending rules to allow for more power capacity, and the ISO requested emergency assistance from other states. On Saturday, Newsom issued another proclamation allowing the emergency use of auxiliary ship engines to relieve pressure on the electric grid.
I mean, everyone deserves a shower, right? Amundsen said on a bench by his business. Parking is the bulk of the Amundsen family business, located just off the boardwalk, on 24th Avenue in North Wildwood. Thats about as common as they come at the Jersey Shore, but the name of their business  Wildwood Daytrippers with Showers painted in bold red and white beside it  hearkens to a Shore of bygone days, when bathhouses outnumbered parking lots and few but the wealthy could stay overnight there.
We have now updated the Pennsylvania vaccine dashboard to better reflect the reality that more Pennsylvanians are stepping up to get fully vaccinated. In fact, more than 60,000 additional Pennsylvanians are fully vaccinated, and it more accurately reflects the number of people who have received the first of a two-dose vaccine.
: boyf (), : CellularPlan

 : Mint Mobile data breach allowed attacker to port phone num

: BBS  (Sat Jul 10 22:00:27 2021, )







https://appleinsider.com/articles/21/07/10/mint-mobile-data-breach-allowed-

attacker-to-port-phone-numbers





Carrier Mint Mobile has revealed it was the victim of a data breach, one

which allowed a number of customer phone numbers to be ported out to another

carrier, along with possible access to subscriber data.



An email sent on Saturday to affected customers by Mint Mobile discloses

there was a breach of the carrier's systems. The breach, which occurred

between June 8 and June 10, reveals a "very small number of Mint Mobile

subscribers' phone numbers were affected by the incident.



According to Mint, phone numbers associated with the accounts were "

temporarily ported to another carrier without permission," reports Bleeping

Computer. Mint also admits the attacker may have gained access to some

account information, including names, phone numbers, email addresses,

passwords, and account numbers.



Mint did not say how the breach took place, but it is likely to have been a

compromise of an application used by customer service agents. The carrier

does advise customers who receive the email to change their account password

, and to be vigilant of other accounts that uses the phone number for two-

factor authentication purposes.



... ...



--

 :boyf  Jul 10 22:01:20 2021 [FROM: 199.]

 :WWW  mitbbs.com [FROM: 71.]


Sayre, PA (18840)

Today

Cloudy with showers. High 69F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%..

Tonight

Mostly cloudy skies early, then partly cloudy after midnight. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low around 60F. Winds NW at 5 to 10 mph.
National

Farmers clash with police in Haryana; BJP face wrath

YAMUNANAGAR, JUL 10 ( AGENCIES) | Publish Date: 7/10/2021 1:35:12 PM IST

As the impasse between farmers and the government continues over the three contentious agricultural laws, protesters under the banner of Samyukt Kisan Morcha faced off with police while trying to disrupt a Bharatiya Janata Party meeting in Yamunanagar on Saturday, leading to minor injuries on both sides, reports Hindustan Times.

As police started rounding up protesters, the farmers failed to show black flags to BJP leaders or disrupt the meeting.

We had announced to stage a dharna till the end of the meeting, but police forcibly took away a few of us in buses. We asked them to release our men or face consequences, and they did, said Sanju Gudiana, district president of Bhartiya Kisan Union (Charuni).

Aashish Chaudhary, deputy superintendent of police, said seven to eight cops received minor injuries and it will be ascertained if a legal action is required. A few men were detained as a precautionary measure, and were released after the meeting ended peacefully, he said.

BJP leaders face farmers wrath in Jind, Hisar

In Hisar, farmer leader Vikas Sisar lashed out at the authorities of Guru Jambeshwar University for allowing the meeting of BJP state chief OP Dhankar even after cancelling its booking on Friday evening.

It is evident that the BJP government has been using educational institutes to conduct its party meetings and the varsity officials are following its each and every direction, he said.

Later, farmers blocked the Hisar-Delhi highway near Ramayana toll plaza after some women protesters alleged that a man accompanying BJPs Hansi MLA Vinod Bhayana made derogatory gestures at them. Bhayana was not available for comment.

In Jind, Kamlesh Dhanda managed to leave the meeting being conducted at the BJP office after getting news about farmers reaching the venue in large numbers to protest. However, Sunita Duggal and Jind MLA Krishan Middha got stuck in the office, and were later taken away in a police vehicle amid heavy security.

The administration is helping BJP leaders in conducting meetings against the peoples sentiments. We will continue to protest against them until the farm laws are repealed, said BKUs Jind district president Azad Palwan.
International

Taliban says it sees China as a friend; promises not to host Uyghur militants

BEIJING, JUL 10 | Publish Date: 7/10/2021 1:48:42 PM IST

The Taliban has said it sees China as a friend of Afghanistan and assured Beijing that it would not host Uyghur Islamic militants from the volatile Xinjiang province, which is a major worry for the Chinese government, according to a media report.

The comments came as the Taliban made territorial gains in the war-torn country amid the withdrawal of the US forces. China has already evacuated 210 of its nationals from Afghanistan by a chartered flight this week.

Beijing is concerned that under Taliban rule, Afghanistan will become a hub for the East Turkistan Islamic Movement (ETIM), a separatist outfit aligned to Al-Qaeda which is waging an insurgency in Xinjiang.

The resource-rich Xinjiang shares about 80-km-long border with Afghanistan.

Playing down Chinas concerns, the Taliban spokesman Suhail Shaheen said they see China as a friend to Afghanistan and is hoping to talk to Beijing about investing in reconstruction work as soon as possible.

Suhail also said the Taliban would no longer allow Chinas Uyghur separatist fighters from Xinjiang, some of whom had previously sought refuge in Afghanistan, to enter the country.

The Taliban would also prevent al-Qaeda or any other terrorist group from operating there, he said.

We have been to China many times and we have good relations with them, Suhail told Hong Kong-based South China Morning Post, recalling the few meetings hosted by China in the past for Taliban delegations.

China is a friendly country and we welcome it for reconstruction and developing Afghanistan, he said adding that If (the Chinese) have investments, of course, we will ensure their safety, Shaheen said.

Sharply critical of the US move to pull out its troops without stabilising the peace process in Afghanistan, China this week has asked its close ally Pakistan to step up cooperation to contain the security risks in the war-torn country following the withdrawal of the foreign forces.

(China and Pakistan) need to defend regional peace together. Problems in Afghanistan are practical challenges that China and Pakistan both face, especially the expansion of both international and regional terrorism, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Tuesday addressing a meeting of the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations with Pakistan.

While the American troops withdrawal and resurgence of the Taliban should strategically benefit China as the Taliban shares close ties with Pakistan, both Islamabad and Beijing are concerned as they faced threats from the Islamic militant groups which were part of Al-Qaeda and Taliban.

China has been eying big scale investments in Afghanistan as the country has the worlds largest unexploited reserves of copper, coal, iron, gas, cobalt, mercury, gold, lithium and thorium, valued at over USD one trillion.

In 2011, the China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) won a USD 400 million bid to drill three oil fields for 25 years, containing roughly 87 million barrels of oil.

Chinese firms have also gained rights to mine copper at Mes Aynak in Logar province, according to the Post report.

But observers say China will remain very cautious and concerned about the Taliban delivering on its promises.

Whatever benign language the Taliban use, China remains highly concerned about the security situation there, Andrew Small, a senior transatlantic fellow with the German Marshall Funds Asia Programme told the Post.

He said Chinas biggest concern in its dealings with the Taliban had always been whether it was sheltering Uyghur separatists.

Chinas crackdown in Xinjiang, observers say, has exasperated the resentment among native Uyghur Muslims in Xinjiang. The US, the EU and international human rights organisations have accused Beijing of committing genocide in the province.

The 12th report of the Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team of the UN last month confirmed the presence of ETIM militants in Afghanistan.

The Eastern Turkistan Islamic Movement (ETIM) consists of several hundred members, located primarily in Badakhshan and neighbouring Afghan provinces, the report submitted to the UN Security Council said.

The report said that large numbers of Al-Qaeda fighters and other foreign extremist elements aligned with the Taliban are located in various parts of Afghanistan.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa is yet to respond to MDC-T leader Douglas Mwonzoras proposals for dialogue, a month after the opposition leader said he was given assurance that his request would be prioritised.

Mwonzora met Mnangagwa at State House on June 11 where he submitted a four-page document to the Zanu PF leader and one of the alleged proposals was to postpone by-elections.

The MDC-T leader claimed the president had promised to respond within two weeks, but his spokesperson Lloyd Damba yesterday said there had been no response.

No, not yet, we are still waiting for the responses, Damba said. We are very patient on that.

The developments come at a time when Zanu PF is already preparing for elections in what could be an indication that Mwonzoras proposals were not being taken seriously.

According to the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission, about 26 seats were left vacant after the MDC-T recalled MDC Alliance legislators. Some seats also fell vacant following deaths of its representatives.

On July 2, Zanu PF invited its members intending to contest in by-elections to submit their curricula vitae.

Last year, the government, through Vice-President and Health minister Constantino Chiwenga, indefinitely suspended by-elections in the wake of the Covid-19 outbreak, a position that angered the opposition MDC Alliance and other stakeholders, who felt it was undemocratic and unconstitutional.

Meanwwhile, MDC-T has suffered a major setback after two top of its officials in Mashonaland East province resigned from the opposition party.

Provincial information and publicity secretary Farai Nyandoro and secretary-general Emmanuel Chiroto both tendered their resignations saying they were venturing into private business.

Chiroto, who hails from Murewa district, is a former Harare deputy mayor while, Nyandoro is a former Marondera mayor, who both served between 2008 and 2013.

According to a letter dated July 4, addressed to provincial chairperson Piniel Denga and co-signed by the duo, the top opposition activists said their new interests demanded them to leave active politics.

We would like to notify your esteemed office of our decision to leave active politics with immediate effect, reads part of the letter.

This unfortunate decision has been as a result of our desire to pursue private businesses, which do not allow us to engage in active politics.

We wish you all the best in your endeavour in trying to unite Mashonaland East province. Nyandoro yesterday confirmed the authenticity of the letter.

We have left the party. We are focusing on something private, he said. Chiroto yesterday confirmed that he had left the party but refused to divulge more details.

Denga yesterday professed ignorance over the matter saying he was yet to see the letter. Standard
A case where a Zanu PF activist wants the Constitutional Court to overturn a High Court ruling on Chief Justice Luke Malabas continued stay in office will be heard on Wednesday amid mounting controversy over the suitability of the judges set to handle the matter.

Three High Court judges ruled in May that Malaba ceased being a judge when he reached the retirement age of 70.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa extended the top judges term using controversial constitutional amendments that raised the retirement age for judges to 75.

Max Mupungu filed a ConCourt challenge against the High Court ruling and is being represented by Lovemore Madhuku.

Alec Muchadehama, a veteran human rights lawyer, said the ConCourt judges were conflicted because they were cited in the application by Madhuku. I dont see how they will sit, Muchadehama told The Standard.

They (judges) also happen to be the judges of the ConCourt, they are still the same people and they are interested parties. Madhuku has applied to a party, who is interested in the matter.

It is like going to interested parties to seek relief. That is against natural justice because a judge cannot judge over his own case.

He added: They were supposed to wait for the matter before the Supreme Court, then launch a fresh case than going to a different court seeking the same relief when the matter is before another court.

The matter before the ConCourt is the same as the one before the Supreme Court. The same matter cannot be determined by a different court.

If they really wanted to pursue the matter, they should have applied to be friend of the court and assist than bring the same issues arising in the same case.

Muchadehama said while Mupungu did not cite the judges, who were party to the May 15, 2021 matter, the reality was that the judges of the ConCourt are themselves on trial on 14 July.

He said there was no way the courts integrity would remain unscathed by the decision to have conflicted judges preside over a matter they are interested in, which they appealed against and is before another court.

It has since emerged that the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has roped in Harare lawyer Tawanda Zhuwarara to join the case as a friend of the court. The JSC made the announcement in a letter to Madhuku on July 8.

Mupungu argued that Mnangagwa acted constitutionally by extending Malabas term of office following controversial constitutional amendments.

Justices Happias Zhou, Edith Mushore and Jester Charewa ruled that incumbent judges could not benefit from the amendment of the constitution, which extended their term limits.

The government appealed against the High Court ruling at the Supreme Court, but before a date could be set to determine the matter, Mupungu lodged the ConCourt appeal.

Madhuku immediately wrote to the ConCourt seeking to have his matter heard as a matter of urgency.

A ConCourt ruling favourable to Mupungu will likely kill all the cases before the High Court and Supreme Court challenging Malabas stay in office.

Muchadehama said government went to the ConCourt with the same matter before the Supreme Court because it was avoiding the embarrassment of failing to constitute a Supreme Court full bench to hear its appeal.

This was after Zimbabwe Human Rights NGO Forum director Musa Kika, in his application that was upheld by the High Court, cited all Supreme Court and ConCourt judges.

Mupungu did not cite Malaba, his deputy Elizabeth Gwaunza and other judges in the matter despite the application being filed long after governments Supreme Court appeal.

Before Zhuwararas inclusion, the JSC, working with Justice minister Ziyambi Ziyambi, reportedly wanted to field another applicant to raise some issues that Madhuku did not bring out in his application.

In a case management meeting held on June 11, Kikas lawyers requested that Justice Gwaunza recuse herself from hearing the matter since it sought to overturn a judgement on a case where she was cited as an interested party, but she refused, arguing that she was not cited in Mupungus case. Standard


SOUTH African police have arrested two suspected Zimbabweans caught with R3 million worth of Remington Gold cigarettes they were smuggling into that country through the Beitbridge border post.

The cigarettes of Zimbabwean origin were stashed inside the trailer of a bus and one suspect reportedly fled.

The fight against the smuggling of illicit cigarettes continues following the arrest of two foreign nationals at Beitbridge border post on Friday morning, 09 July 2021 after they were stopped in their tracks, allegedly smuggling a large consignment of illicit cigarettes into the country, Limpopo province police spokesman Brigadier Motlafela Mojapelo said in a statement.

The police received a tip-off about a bus with a trailer carrying illicit cigarettes in the vicinity of Beitbridge.

He said the bus was spotted and routinely directed to the searching bay where police, together with customs officials, started searching the trailer and found 239 master boxes of Remington Gold cigarettes and 35 cartoons worth over R3 million.

Two suspects were immediately arrested and the third one managed to evade arrest, Mojapelo said.

The search for the escaped suspect is still continuing. The suspects, aged 30 and 63, will appear in Musina magistrates court on Monday 12 July 2021 on a charge of possession of illicit cigarettes.

It remains a mystery how the bus managed to go past all security roadblocks towards the border in Zimbabwe where a special operation is underway against smuggling and other illegal cross-border activities.

One wonders how the bus passed scanning at the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra), said one shipping clerk. This is how we lose money through illegal exports,

Although the Zimbabwean government has pressed its foot hard against smuggling of foodstuffs into the country, economists say its efforts should be directed towards goods leaving the country.

Our losses are not from things coming into the country which are basically for consumption, said a Zimra official on condition of anonymity.

Our losses are through under-declaration and smuggling of exports. It is high time the government takes this seriously, they know it.

On one of his visits to Beitbridge, Finance and Economic Development minister Mthuli Ncube said Zimra officers would be trained to evaluate minerals.

Zimbabwe could be losing billions of dollars in export duty loses through under-declaration of minerals.

Other losses are through rampant smuggling of gold and other precious minerals done mostly by those who are well connected to top officials. Standard
Pfizer said it has its own data showing that immunity against the coronavirus declines in vaccinated people over time, particularly in the elderly, but some scientists and health officials have cautioned that only the company has seen that data so far. The company will share the data with the FDA.
They said they were tired of sharing space with outside schools, and suggested BMS could fill its revenue gaps by doubling down on lessons and outreach. They argued that starting a new private school was fundamentally different than renting space to an existing one  and would pull the school away from its original mission.
Theyre still going to be in the booth, but theyre also going to be out of the booth, which is from my perspective much better from a customer-service point of view, Meyer said during a meeting of the New York City Transit Riders Council. They can give you help with the MetroCard vending machines. They can open the exit gate if its not working. ... They can also walk up and down the subway platforms to make sure everybody is safe and everybody is complying with our rules.
Heroes heralded: The essential and front line workers who kept New York City moving during the pandemic were honored Wednesday with a parade in The Canyon of Heroes in Manhattan. Doctors, nurses, delivery people, transit workers and others were celebrated with confetti and floats as humbled, appreciative New Yorkers came out to say thanks. Noticeably absent were members of FDNY EMS, the paramedics and emergency medical technicians who largely became the face of the COVID-19 response in the city. The first responders boycotted the parade over the lack of pay parity with other uniformed services. City firefighters, correction and probation officers also sat out the festivities.
It happened so fast. There were a lot of people in the restaurant. Everyone started running. People started running into the kitchen, she said. We all hid, just because we were afraid they might keep shooting. It happened so fast. He didnt say anything. He just fell.
The two-alarm blaze ripped through the building, leaving the second floor completely charred and burned out. It took 106 firefighters an hour to bring the blaze under control, officials said.
I never heard arguing or fighting. He seemed like a gentle man. He was always out there [on his stoop] smoking cigarettes, said Anthony Jenkins, 47, a next-door neighbor. When I came out, they just said he was burned. I didnt know he died.
A teenager was fatally shot on a quiet residential block in Queens early Sunday, police said. The 19-year-old victim was shot once in the left thigh in front of a three-story house on Quencer Road near Ovid Place in St. Albans about 12:15 a.m., police said. (Theodore Parisienne/for New York Daily News)
There were two males that were arguing outside the barbershop here over who ran a race faster, Houston Police Department Assistant Chief Wendy Baimbridge told KTRK. So at that point, one of the victims started walking away from the argument. The suspect then shot him twice in the shoulder.
I didnt know how to talk to them, I didnt want to go out with them, she said. And then, along came Jimmy Carter and my life has been an adventure ever since.
Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium said it will pay for the rabies shots of the 186 campers deemed at risk, and gave them refunds as well. Several staff members were also encouraged to get the shot.
Defense attorney Tim Rensch also says in the filing that Boevers history of alcohol and prescription drug abuse lends credence to their claims. According to The Daily Beast, an autopsy found that Boever had much more Lorazepam (190 ng/ml) in his system than a therapeutic dose. Rensch claims the higher dosage could have caused suicidal ideation in Boever.
While in flight from Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) to Charlotte (CLT) on July 6, the crew on board American Airlines flight 1774 reported a potential security concern after a customer attempted to open the forward boarding door and physically assaulted, bit and caused injury to a flight attendant, American Airlines told TMZ. For the safety and security of other customers and our crew, the individual was restrained until the flight landed at CLT and could be met by law enforcement and emergency personnel.
We have failed for so many years, and we have allowed the fallout of the Trump administration to have an overreach in philosophy and not on-the-ground real issues that are facing everyday New Yorkers, he added.
Twelve of New Yorks congressional Democrats are demanding that the federal government immediately reimburse the citys public hospital system for at least $864 million in coronavirus-related emergency spending after the Daily News reported that the feds have dragged their feet on the payout for nearly a year.
Joe Biden has brought our country to the brink of ruin, Trump told his audience. Right here in Texas, we are the epicenter of a border and migration crisis unlike anything anyone has seen before.
The reason why were very concerned is that we have some sort of a schism between some states and some areas that have a very low level of vaccination, which is really unfortunate, said Fauci, who was widely seen as a voice of reason through the Trump administration and continues to serve as chief medical adviser to President Biden.
We are very concerned about the delta variant and other variants that could emerge and threaten recovery, The New York Times quoted Yellen as saying. We are a connected global economy. What happens in any part of the world affects all other countries.
I am happy to be able to keep the Sunday appointment of the Angelus, even here from Gemelli Polyclinic, Pope Francis said. I thank everyone. I felt your closeness and the support of your prayers.
It was woefully inadequate. Rather than discussing these ongoing anti-Semitism acts alone, he interwove them with the more general rise in hate crimes. Following the anti-Israel playbook, Rodriguez linked it closely to the rise of Islamophobia, first by mentioning 9/11, which still rears its ugly head today, and then claiming how the Gaza-Israel conflict has also triggered acts of hatred against Muslims. Similar dynamics were evident in a statement issued by congressional Democrats, who could only pass a strong condemnation of anti-Semitism if it was also linked to anti-Muslim actions. Indeed, a Black and Jewish diversity officer, April Powers, recently resigned from her post at the Society of Childrens Book Writers and Illustrators after being severely criticized for not mentioning Islamophobia in a statement shed issued about the rise in anti-Semitism.
If I were to stumble and fall (which is commonplace) or faint under the strong sun (also common), only my mahram would be allowed to carry me, revive me and tend to me, provided he was by my side; male paramedics would be out of bounds. This circumstance would repeat itself when we arrived in the valley of Mina and the authorities segregated us into the womens and mens tents; and again, when we traveled together to the Plain of Arafat for the second rite of Hajj and were separated into womens tent grounds and mens tent grounds.
With so many folks getting together with family and friends, theres a lot to celebrate this summer, Obama said in a tweet with an image of his playlist. Heres a playlist of songs Ive been listening to lately  its a mix of old and new, household names and emerging artists, and a whole lot in between.
Some further sleuthing turned up that he was hardly the devoted son he made himself out to be. Fraden, whod been put through college by his folks and then set up in an expensive flat on Manhattans Upper East Side, was constantly at odds with his them for his less-than-fervent efforts to find a job.
Inside the Camry was Woods, Anthony Barnes, 17, and Jacarious Jermaine Simpson, 18, along with the driver, according to police. The three passengers all started shooting and Jeremiah is believed to have fired an AR-style rifle that hit Tavyiah in the head, wrote OPD Det. Annemarie Esan in the affidavit. Police recovered nearly 40 shell casings from three different firearms, including one with Simpsons fingerprints on it, the affidavit said. No one else was hurt in the shooting.
Multiple sources in Haiti, requesting anonymity for their safety, have confirmed to the Herald that the detained men said they were hired by CTU, and several of the men indicated they had been in Haiti for at least three months, some longer. It is unclear if they knew or believed CTU leaders were aware of the assassination plot.
How divided has our nation become over race, gender and politics? And how we can even tell who is right or wrong, or who the good guys and bad guys are? The good guys are the ones who dont support erasing history, taking away peoples rights and silencing free speech. Over 70 million Americans voted for President Donald Trump, more than had ever voted before for a sitting president. A large segment of those voters are both disappointed and skeptical over the results of the last election. The difference between being a liberal and a conservative has never been more stark. We are not the same.
Im ticked off at the radio station that chooses to replace the song and artist info on my car radio with an advertisement for some ambulance chaser! I paid extra for a radio that will do that, but this greedy radio station cares more about making money than they care about people! I switched my radio to another station, and I will never listen to your station again!
Oswego, NY (13126)

Today

Mostly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 74F. Winds N at 10 to 20 mph..

Tonight

Partly to mostly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low around 65F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph.
Log on if you are already subscribed or Subscribe...
"I'm not an anti-vaxxer. I'm not a pro-vaxxer. I'm somebody that's looking at this thing and trying to figure it outI feel like a vaccination in a weird way is just generally kind of going against natureLike, I mean, if there is some disease out there -- maybe there's just an ebb and flow to life where something's supposed to wipe out a certain amount of people, and that's just kind of the way evolution goes. Vaccines kind of stand in the way of that. Do you follow what I'm saying? Does that make sense to somebody in medicine?"

Newsmax host Rob Schmitt

NO.

Everyone in medicine
A Place for All Conservatives to Speak Their Mind.
A missive fire was reported in Delhi's Tikri area on Sunday night, a fire service official said.

The fire official said the blaze broke at the PVC (polyvinyl chloride) market in Tikri. "Fire is mainly in the open area of a warehouse spread over a large area," the official said.

A total of 36 fire tenders have been rushed to the area. No casualties were reported yet, the officer added.
Britain has reported another 32,367 coronavirus cases in the latest 24-hour period, bringing the total number of coronavirus cases in the country to 5,089,893, according to official figures released on Saturday.

The country also recorded another 34 coronavirus-related deaths. The total number of coronavirus-related deaths in Britain now stands at 128,399. These figures only include the deaths of people who died within 28 days of their first positive test, the Xinhua news agency reported.

Nearly 87 per cent of the country's adults have been inoculated with their first dose of Covid-19 vaccine while over 65 per cent have had their second jab, according to the latest figures.

Ministers are considering exempting fully vaccinated National Health Service (NHS) staff in England from having to self-isolate if they are traced as a Covid contact.

A source said that no decision had been taken and ministers wanted to see evidence the move would be safe.

British Health Secretary Sajid Javid has said that from Aug. 16, people in England who have received two doses will no longer have to self-isolate if they come into contact with someone who has tested positive for Covid-19.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson confirmed Monday that most coronavirus restrictions are set to end on July 19 as part of the final step of England's roadmap out of the lockdown, despite warnings from scientists that lifting all restrictions at this stage will increase likelihood of dangerous variants.

To bring life back to normal, countries such as Britain, China, Russia, the US as well as the European Union have been racing against time to roll out coronavirus vaccines.
New York (United Nations), 11 July 2021 (SPS) -The Representative of the Frente POLISARIO at the United Nations and member of the National Secretariat, Dr. Sidi Omar, confirmed in a letter addressed on Friday to Permanent Representatives of Member States to the United Nations, in response to a disinformation message circulated recently by the Ambassador of the occupying state of Morocco, that the status of the Frente POLISARIO is anchored in solid foundations shaped and cemented by the sacrifices of the Sahrawi people.

The Sahrawi Ambassador, Dr. Sidi Omar, reminded Member States of the history of the Frente POLISARIOs relationship with the international organisation since the 1970s when the General Assembly recognised the Representation of the Frente POLISARIO and the Front as a national liberation movement with its legal status, contrary to the false claims propagated by the representative of the occupying state.

The Sahrawi diplomat also underlined that the Moroccan ambassadors attempts to deny the existence of the Frente POLISARIO and to avoid mentioning it by name will not change the fact that the Frente POLISARIO is one of the two parties to the conflict, and that the occupying state of Morocco sits side by side along with the Sahrawi Republic within the African Union as two Member States of the continental organisation.

The full text of the letter as received by SPS is as follows:

The Permanent Representatives

of Member States to the United Nations

New York

New York, 9 July 2021

Excellencies,

You will have received a letter from the ambassador of the occupying state of Morocco in which he once again engages in his habitual exercise of trying futilely to mislead Member States of the United Nations regarding the status of the Frente POLISARIO, the national liberation movement of Western Sahara, and its Representatives at the United Nations.

The letter circulated recently by the above-mentioned individual is meant as a response to our letter addressed to you on 27 June 2021 in which we refute with solid and documented arguments every single one of the unfounded claims that he made before the latest session of the Special Committee on Decolonisation (C-24) regarding the internationally recognised legal nature of the question of Western Sahara.

Nonetheless, instead of responding to the substance of our letter due to his lack of anything meaningful to say, the ambassador of the occupying state of Morocco has brazenly resorted to argumentum ad hominem, which seems to be the only thing that he can produce when faced with solid and irrefutable arguments.

In his letter, the above-mentioned individual questions the status of the Representative of the Frente POLISARIO at the United Nations and claims that he does not have any accreditation at the United Nations. This is another example of this individuals unlimited capacity to shamelessly make the most preposterous claims that are an insult to everyones intelligence.

No one can deny that the Frente Popular para la Liberacion de Saguia el-Hamra y de Rio de Oro (Frente POLISARIO) is the internationally recognised legitimate representative of the people of the Non-Self-Governing Territory of Western Sahara in accordance with General Assembly Resolutions A/RES/34/37 and A/RES/35/19, among others. No one can also deny that the Frente POLISARIO is equally recognised by both the General Assembly and the Security Council as one of the two parties to the conflict in Western Sahara in accordance with their respective Resolutions A/RES/36/46 and S/RES/658 and subsequent resolutions.

The Frente POLISARIO has been represented at the United Nations since the 1970s. It was in this context that, on 22 June 1979, the Security Council (S/PV/.2153) invited the Representative of the Frente POLISARIO to address the Council on the question of Western Sahara during the meeting that was requested by the occupying state of Morocco that was incurring heavy losses on the battlefield at the time.

As has always been the case, the Representatives of the Frente POLISARIO at the United Nations are duly accredited by the United Nations to discharge their diplomatic mission in accordance with the established procedures of the Organisation. They have their own UN accreditations that give them full access to the UN Headquarters to attend meetings on Western Sahara and to meet with UN senior officials, including the Secretary-General.

The ambassador of the occupying state of Morocco also rehashes his characteristically mendacious propaganda by describing the Frente POLISARIO as an armed group which he associates with his often-repeated false claims.

The Frente POLISARIO is an internationally recognised national liberation movement that was established by the Sahrawi people on 10 May 1973 to fight against Spanish colonial presence in Western Sahara. In this regard, it is worth recalling the conclusions of the Report of the United Nations Visiting Mission to Western Sahara (the then Spanish Sahara) and the neighbouring countries in May-June 1975 (A/10023/Add.5).

The Report of the UN Visiting Mission underlined that: (1) the Frente POLISARIO, although considered a clandestine movement before the Missions arrival, appeared as a dominant political force in the Territory, and it had considerable support among all sections of the population (paras. 21; 219); and that (2) it became evident to the Mission that there was an overwhelming consensus among Sahrawis within the Territory in favour of independence and opposing integration with any neighbouring country (paras. 202; 229).

Today more than ever, these undeniable facts are becoming more consolidated as the people of Western Sahara, under the leadership of the Frente POLISARIO, continue their recognised legitimate struggle (General Assembly Res. A/RES/34/37, among others) against Moroccos illegal occupation of our land, which has been going on since 31 October 1975.

The occupying state of Morocco knows very well, as everyone else does, that it was the Frente POLISARIO that bravely fought it for 16 years and eventually forced it to accept the UN-OAU Settlement Plan providing for the 1991 ceasefire and the referendum on self-determination.

The occupying state and its agents cannot deny that the Frente POLISARIO captured more than 3,000 Moroccan prisoners of war (POWs) who were released after the ceasefire in coordination with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).

Since 13 November 2020, following the documented breach by the occupying state of Morocco of the ceasefire, it is the Frente POLISARIO whose liberation army is resisting the Moroccan new act of aggression.

Moreover, the occupying state of Morocco cannot deny that today it sits side by side along with the Sahrawi Republic (SADR), the founding member of the African Union (AU) to which Morocco was admitted in 2017 after signing and ratifying, without any reservation, the AU Constitutive Act and thus adhering to its fundamental principles including respect for borders existing on achievement of independence (b; article 4).

These are established facts that the Moroccan occupying state cannot deny.

The problem of the ambassador of the occupying state of Morocco is that he confuses United Nations Member States and the international public opinion with his own domestic opinion that he is used to dupe with his mendacious propaganda. It is also no secret that, since his arrival in New York, this individual has been doing what it takes to please his mentors and avoid falling into disgrace as was the fate suffered by his immediate predecessor. This is simply what explains this individuals objectionable behaviour and his utter disregard for the minimum standards of decorum and tact.

His reluctance to even refer to our national liberation movement by its proper name is at odds with the conduct of his predecessors and senior Moroccan officials. Suffice it to recall, for instance, the letters addressed to the President of the Security Council (S/2009/197) and to the Secretary-General (S/2011/207) by the foreign minister of the occupying state of Morocco in which he referred expressly to POLISARIO without the qualifying attributes used often by the above-mentioned individual. Former ambassadors of the occupying state of Morocco to the United Nations also referred to our movement by its proper name (S/2008/221 and S/2008/348, to cite a few examples).

In conclusion, however persistent are the occupying state of Morocco and its agents in their mendacious propaganda, the status of the Frente POLISARIO at the United Nations and elsewhere is firmly established because it has been shaped and cemented by the sacrifices of our people and their unwavering determination to liberate our illegally occupied land and exercise our inalienable right to freedom and independence.

Please accept, Excellencies, the assurances of my highest consideration.

Dr Sidi M. Omar

Ambassador

Representative of the Frente POLISARIO at the United Nations." (SPS0

090/500/60 (SPS)
Im not surprised really, to be very honest, she said. He was arrogant. I dont know anything about him. He was just arrogant. He told me, I will not move. I am staying here. You cant make me move. This was the way he was. Im here. I can do what I want. I think he enjoyed it  until he got arrested.
The finding exemplifies the disorganized system. Leaders for three of the towers supplied evidence to the Sun Sentinel showing they had indeed been certified. Hollywood officials late Thursday clarified that two of the towers had not paid a $300 fee, but did so Tuesday. The third had submitted its checklist three years early and was told in writing that it was set for 10 years, but the city now has reversed that position.
I need this information because the residents of Lake Ridge came to me for answers, and so far, I am at a total loss to explain this one, Lauer wrote. I have never seen anything like this. I have prosecuted and defended numerous cases just like this in state and federal courts, and I cannot explain why a career criminal who committed a serious crime on video was allowed to walk away.
1. Haiti President Jovenel Moise was killed and his wife wounded in an overnight raid conducted by a squad of gunmen at their home. Moise, 53, took over the leadership of the Caribbean nation from an interim president who held the office because of claims of fraud in the original election, in which Moise was headed for a runoff with another candidate. Moise eventually won a special election and took office when?
Bob Prary, who manages the Buck-Inn Bar in the town of about 600 people, said he saw at least six houses destroyed after Saturdays flareup. The fire was smoldering Sunday in and around Doyle, but he feared some remote ranch properties were still in danger.
Police look on as Haitian citizens gather in front of the U.S. Embassy in Tabarre, Haiti, on July 10, 2021, asking for asylum after the assassination of President Jovenel Moise, citing insecurity in the country and fear for their safety. (VALERIE BAERISWYL/AFP/AFP/TNS)
Whats tragic is that in some cases, relief programs have been scaled back because of the lack of funding. This has happened in Yemen and more recently in South Sudan. Syrian refugees in Jordan recently had their rations reduced because there was not enough funding. In Madagascar, families are so desperate because of the drought that children are dropping out of school to search for food. If there is enough funding, we could provide school meals for all of them and keep them in class learning. In Yemen, small children are dying of malnutrition. This global tragedy could be avoided with more resources. We know the wealthiest among us have made charitable donations before, but we also know they can do more. We know they are capable of getting things done. We just ask they put their talents more toward humanity and less toward space tourism and the competition for who gets their first.
Our senator completely ignores the people of Florida. As some others and I tried to drop off a letter at his Miami office, four security guards showed up to remove us. We were forced to shove the letters under the door. Almost 1,000 people entrusted me to deliver their messages to the senator and we had to push the letters under a door. Rubio has never responded to our letters, petitions or phone calls. He ignores the people he represents and refuses to hold town hall meetings. If we cant reach him through normal channels at his Senate office, we have to try however we can.
Shinji Naganawa was born in 1949 in Nagoya, the fourth biggest city in Japan, with 2.2 million inhabitants. When he was 25 he decided to travel around Europe to obtain new experiences and find his place in the world. That place turned out to be Alora, a small town of 13,000 inhabitants which gave him a home and a family.

"I feel more 'perote' [the name by which people of Alora are known] than Japanese," says Naganawa, who has been painting since he was a child.

His house in the centre of the village has a light-filled studio on the top floor, where he talks to us amid books, pictures and sketches for his highly colourful works.

Naganawa's adventure in Europe began in the late 1970s. The artist, who started painting when he was 13, following in his father's footsteps, had saved money throughout his adolescence so he could go and explore the world.

His first stop was Paris, where he spent nearly two years soaking up French culture.

"After that I couldn't stand the cold any longer and decided it was time to move on," he says.

That was when he went to Madrid, in 1981. After several weeks there, the Japanese artist came down to Andalucia to visit its main cities, including Malaga.

"While I was in Malaga, a Japanese friend told me that he had a house in Alora and he said I could go and stay there," says Naganawa, who at that time spoke no Spanish at all.

"I could only speak French. When I bought my ticket for Alora it was very difficult to explain where I wanted to go, because at first they couldn't understand me," he jokes.

When he got off the train in Alora, he was disconcerted.

"I couldn't see a town. I didn't know where I was. Then somebody pointed upwards and I realised that was where the town was. I was amazed; it looked beautiful, a town of white houses that seemed to embrace you like a swan," he says.

His friend hadn't given him an exact address for the house, just an infallible method of finding it.

"He told me to ask people for 'casa de Ise' and they would know where I had to go," he says.

After asking around the village he found his destination, an empty house where he could stay during his visit, which he expected to be short.

"A neighbour told me he would bring sheets and towels the next day, but he didn't turn up until two or three days afterwards, and I had bought sheets by then. That's when I found out that when people say 'manana' they don't mean the next day, it will be sometime after that," he says, laughing.

Of all the cultural differences between Spain and Japan, he believes the main one is that life here is less restricted. "It's much more fun and straightforward," he says.

The friendliness and kindness of local people captivated him, and after spending a few months in Alora he decided it was time to collect the belongings he had left in Madrid and Paris and make the town his home.

"Every day someone would invite me to the bar for a drink. One time, a neighbour took me to his house, where some of his family were." And that was how he met his wife, Dolores Cortes, a local flamenco artist.

"It wasn't easy, marrying her, because she is from a gypsy family so it wasn't well regarded," he says.

More than 30 years later they are still together and have two children. After their marriage, they moved to Nagoya, where they lived for a year.

"In the end we came back, because it was a very different way of life and we couldn't adapt to it," says Naganawa, who still travels to Japan several times a year but always returns home to Alora.

The landscape inspired him to create new works of art which now form part of his collection: streets and other views of Alora, which he has taken to numerous art galleries he still works with in Japan.

"My style has been evolving and now I am trying new challenges, I want to do something different," explains Naganawa, but he says his life is firmly tied to Alora now. "I'm staying here forever," he says.
In many African countries, when a father dies and his widow has no money, the children are passed to other members of the extended family so the men can look after and protect them.

For Sarah - not her real name, but her story is true - that moment came when she was nine years old. It was also the moment she discovered being sent to this particular uncle was the start of an atrocious story and would mark the end of her childhood.

Sarah, who is 28 now, tells her story in pieces, as if she wanted to sew up the threads of some memories which "suddenly appear and can't be got rid of".

She is dressed in bright African colours and patterns, but the dark memories continue to haunt her. She fled from the Ivory Coast when she was 16 after numerous problems at home - "they made life very difficult for me," she says - and working as a kitchen assistant in different restaurants.

"One day a man said he had a job for me in Burkino Faso, and that he would pay my fare to get there."

Thinking that everything would be different, Sarah set off on a journey which opened the doors to something "much worse" than she was leaving behind. "When I arrived they shut me in a house with a lot of other girls like me," she says.

She breaks down at this point, and asks Carmen Rueda, her lawyer "and second mother in Spain" to continue on her behalf.

"They exploited her there, forcing her to have intercourse with clients on demand and in conditions of slavery. She had no money, no possibility of choosing," says Carmen. She doesn't go into details, but says the network not only threatened the girls, but also the families they had left behind. In Sarah's case, her mother.

Sarah was there for well over a year, until a client "who was very influential in the country" became fond of her and felt sorry for her and decided to help her get away.

"He started to organise my escape, and one day he told them he wanted me to go to an appointment outside the house. He had organised everything so I could get to Mali, then from there to Mauritania and finally to Morocco," says Sarah. It took weeks and she had to stay hidden at all times "because when I escaped I left a debt behind and I was scared they would come and find me".

Third time lucky

Once in Morocco, she took refuge in the house of a woman her former client had contacted to help her get to Spain. "She said it would be a good idea to cross the border into Melilla, hidden among the women who go to and fro with goods for sale," she explains. She managed it on her third attempt, on 31 December 2014. The year was coming to an end and so was her former life. "It was like a sign. In Spain I would be able to start again," says Sarah, but she hadn't realised that the woman who had helped her would want something in exchange. "I don't know how she found out where I was but she did, and told me she hadn't done it for nothing and I had to give her 5,000 euros," she says.

Recently arrived, alone and with no documents, she had already told her story to the CETI immigrant centre in Melilla and they had suggested that she apply for asylum in Spain.

"She was being threatened. She was told they were going to report her and return her to the Ivory Coast; and they found her mother, who had to leave the town where she was living," says Carmen, the head of the legal department at the CEAR refugee assistance centre, who has been handling Sarah's case since she arrived in Malaga from Melilla seven years ago.

The threat and the pressure of the debt obliged Sarah to "do certain jobs" but she didn't earn enough to make ends meet so she ran away once again. This time, though, she was pregnant by a compatriot she met in Malaga but never saw again. Her baby was born four months later, in France.

"There, I had absolutely nothing. They let me stay in hospital for a week because otherwise I would have been on the street with my baby. They said my baby would be taken away from me," sobs Sarah.

Finally a social worker at the CEAR in Malaga, who had kept in touch with her, persuaded her to come back.

That phone call marked a before and after in her life, to such an extent that today, nearly five years later, Sarah has realised that beyond the administrative protection and the assistance that came with it, there were other small things she was entitled to. And some were important: "I didn't think I had a right to be happy," she says. And now it is Carmen who bursts into tears, listening to her.

Carmen cries again when she recalls the intense work she had to do so to obtain official refugee status for Sarah and her son, who is nearly five now. But the bureaucracy left another weak point in this story without protection: Sarah's mother, still in hiding because of the debt her daughter left behind her in Burkina Faso.

"We started the process for a family extension, which is very complicated because the legislation normally only considers spouses and children, not parents," says the lawyer. "My mother doesn't know how to read or write, it's hard for her to work and she is in a very vulnerable situation," says Sarah.

However, she is feeling very happy at present because she has a stable job as a cook, she has finally fallen on her feet and because she has just been able to hug her mother again. And she is here to stay. "My life had been so difficult that I thought I would never see her again. Since she arrived, I have kept saying to her "is it really you, sitting there? I can't believe it"!

When we sat down for this interview, Sarah's mother was at her side, but then she asked her to leave. "She knows nothing about what happened to me. Sometimes she asks me, but I don't know how to tell her. I know she would cry so much if I did," she says. It is a protective gesture; at least her mother is saved from hearing that Sarah was one of those stories which occasionally hit the news headlines about refugees and enforced prostitution. "I had no choice, but I can choose for her. And do you know what? I'm 28 years old and I feel like a little girl again. It's as if everything has gone backwards and is OK now," she says.

She is about to register with a secondary school to complete her education and then go on to train as a social integration worker. She wants others like her to realise that they do have rights, and happiness is one of them.
HBO Max's exclusive Gossip Girl reboot became available for streaming on July 8, with new episodes dropping every Friday through August 12.
Thank you for reading!

Please log in, or sign up for a new account and purchase a subscription to continue reading.
International SOS, the worlds leading medical and security services company, is providing advice on health preparations for Hajj in Saudi Arabia, amidst Covid-19 pandemic.

This year, with Hajj expected to commence between July 17 and 22, the Ministry of Hajj announced that pilgrimage will be permitted to 60,000 people, for residents of all nationalities and citizens inside the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Performing the Hajj rituals for this year will be limited to those between the ages of 18-65, who are free of chronic diseases and have been vaccinated.

In a normal year, more than 3 million foreign and domestic pilgrims are expected to perform their religious duties in Mecca, Mina, Arafat & Muzdalifah, with many also travelling to Medina in the weeks before and after the pilgrimage. Last year, the kingdom closed its borders to contain the spread of Covid-19 and Hajj was restricted to 1,000 domestic pilgrims.

Dr Olivier Barles, Regional Medical Director at International SOS in Dubai, advises: In the context of Covid-19 and even for those that have been fully vaccinated, pilgrims should continue to adhere to personal precautionary measures in order to best protect themselves from the potential threat all the Covid-19 variants. Therefore, they are still advised to keep safe distance between each other, to wear face masks and gloves and maintain a high degree of personal hygiene by washing hands frequently. It is also important to follow the regulations outlined by the Ministry of Health in Saudi Arabia and to pay attention to other known diseases prevalent in the region, including Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV). Wellness measures to cope with environmental issues, such as the extreme heat should also be implemented. Then, always choose clean, well-cooked food and safe beverages, including bottled water and pasteurised milk. Also, take measures to stay hydrated and cool to avoid heat-related illnesses.

Mazen Jomaa, Regional Security Manager at International SOS in Dubai, said: Pilgrims undertaking Hajj this year, who are already residing in the kingdom, should ensure they have taken the necessary precautions, obtained the correct approvals and follow the government regulations closely. Further, any domestic movements to Mecca, Mina and Muzdalifa should be completed with a trusted pilgrimage organiser that has the appropriate vehicles in place.

International SOS top advice for Hajj during Covid-19:

Wear a face mask and gloves at all times and maintain a distance of at least 2 metres between yourself and others.

It is important to follow good hygiene measures including regularly washing your hands and disposing of used masks and gloves safely and immediately.

Ensure you comply fully with all government requirements.

Ensure any health issues are stabilised. If you need any medications, pack enough for the trip, with some extra in case of delays.

Save emergency contacts on your mobile phone and make sure it is charged (police, ambulance, embassy, local contacts).

Monitor the situation  remain abreast of the latest news and recommendations.

Exercise heightened caution with regards to religious and cultural sensitivities, especially on social media platforms and respect all local legal, religious and cultural conventions at all times

Expect tighter security at transport hubs as well as increased traffic and congestion.

If conducting the pilgrimage, comply with your hajj operators instructions, specifically during the stoning rituals. There are set times for different operators organised by Saudi Authorities to minimise the potential for overcrowding. While completing your pilgrimage, be mindful of your belongings when moving throughout the crowds.

Stay well hydrated to avoid heatstroke. Select safer food and beverages  Use bottled water. Wash fruits and vegetables well. Ensure any meat is thoroughly cooked, avoid non-pasteurised dairy items.

Pay attention to people who may look sick; again, keep your distance wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your face.

Avoid direct contact with animals, including camels. A potentially severe illness caused by another Coronavirus, the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) can be present in camels and their products. -- TradeArabia News Service
Sitecore, a global leader in digital experience management software, said that 100% of Bahrains IT decision-makers have had to fundamentally change their customer experiences in response to the pandemic.



The research, conducted by YouGov Mena, surveyed more than 650 IT decision-makers across 12 countries in the Gulf Cooperation Council, the Levant, and Egypt.



In response to changing customer demands, 86% of Bahrain IT decision-makers, said their brands created a deeper connection with their customers over the past year.



The pandemic has also accelerated organizations digital transformation roadmaps. Among respondents, 71% in Bahrain said their brands had advanced their marketing technology stack more in the last year than in the previous three years before 2020. Thanks to these new technological capabilities, 100% of Bahrain respondents said they experimented with a number of new marketing approaches during the pandemic.



With 100% of Bahrains brands changing their customer experience in response to the pandemic, regional brands understand that they need to prioritize digital experiences, especially for Millennials and Generation Z customers, said Mohammed Alkhotani, Area Vice President  Middle East and Africa, Sitecore.



Leading Middle East brands, such as Mashreq Bank, emphasize the need to put technology firmly at the centre of their business to consistently create personalized experiences.



Putting CX at the heart of banking



Through Mashreqs digital-first approach, customers can benefit from a banking experience that is convenient, tailored to their needs, and meets their evolving demands.



Mashreq embarked on an exciting digital transformation journey with a key objective of improving the experience of our customers by offering them superior services, whenever and wherever they need. A modern, intuitive and user-friendly website is imperative in digital transformation.



In collaboration with Sitecore, Mashreq Bank not just enhanced the overall experience on its website, but also implemented a Sitecore content management system that enables the bank to deliver content across all customer channels through an API, which makes it a powerful tool for its mobile and web developers.  TradeArabia News Service
Bahrain's Information & eGovernment Authority (iGA) has announced the launch of the new beta version of the National Portal bahrain.bh.

The revamped version of the national portal will help facilitate user access to information and e-services, enhanced overall capacity and speed.

The portals design, services, and features will be gradually developed over several phases until early next year, and that it closely follows United Nations (UN) eGovernment standards, said the statement from iGA.

Notable features include easier access to information and eServices; management of users profiles containing personal data as recorded by government; enhanced user experience over smartphones; and increased capacity to enhance user experience and navigation, it added.

CEO Mohammed Ali Al Qaed said: "The new and improved version of the portal bahrain.bh is among the initiatives put forward by the Supreme Council for Information and Communication Technology (SCICT) to the Coordinating Committee, which approved it. Its scope includes enhancements to the portals content to improve user experience, update its infrastructure, offer personalized services, and encourage eParticipation."

He said the Beta version implements feedback collected through the iGAs annual customer satisfaction report, a survey conducted between December 30 and February 15, 2021 and suggestions received by the iGA previously through different platforms.

Al Qaed called upon the public and private sectors in addition to the civil society organizations and all citizens and residents to visit bahrain.bh to experience the new Beta version and join the iGA on its journey to improve the national portal.

"All suggestions can be put on the feedback page on top of the portal and also via the National Suggestions and Complaints System, Tawasul, or by participating in the upcoming focus groups and discussions.

He assured the public that all collected feedback will be studied and those that are deemed feasible will be implemented.

Since the portals launch in 2007 under the patronage of Deputy Prime Minister and SCICT Chairman, HH Shaikh Mohammed bin Mubarak Al Khalifa, the iGA has dedicated significant resources and capabilities towards creating and developing bahrain.bh.

It made major progress in developing the Portal under the supervision of the Minister of Interior, Gen. Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, adding information for more than 1,000 government eServices and 500 other eServices, and connecting over 40 government entities digitally.

With a plan to double the current content, iGA will need to carry out the revamp gradually over phases to manage this massive amount of data, and to give it the time needed to create a comprehensive website and migrate eServices onto it to ensure their accessibility to the public, noted Al Qaed.

"With the completion of Phase One the journey continues with more improvements. The next phase will include an improvement in the unified eservice payment platform, the ability for users to customize their experience by creating a list of their favorite eServices, and gradual migration of eServices to the revamped system," he added.-TradeArabia News Service
UAE national airline Etihad Airways is celebrating today's Euro2020 final with a grand prize of four return flight tickets for 16 lucky fans every year for four years.

The offer is open exclusively to residents of the UAE/Saudi Arabia who are above 21 years of age and Germany/UK residents over 18 years old, said the Abu Dhabi carrier on its twitter account.

To enter the competition, viewers must tweet #EtihadFreeFlights any time a travel advert is broadcast between 7pm and 11pm BST tag one person they would like to take with them and make sure their Twitter profile is set to display their location.

Winners can choose any destination that Etihad Airways operates flights to. From the UK, winners can fly out from London Heathrow Airport or Manchester Airport to Abu Dhabi and also connect onwards to destinations such as the Seychelles, Maldives, Phuket, Singapore, Sydney and Melbourne. Any route which requires a stopover will count as two of the winners free flights.

Sixteen winners will be selected at random on July 15 and contacted via direct message on Twitter. There will be four winners from each of the UK, Germany, the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Theyll have 14 days to respond in order to claim their prize.

Winners will also have to send Etihad a scanned copy of their passport or proof of residence to receive their prize. Entry is limited to one per person, even if a person tweets multiple times, said the UAE carier in its tweet.

Each winner will receive an electronic voucher which entitles them to book up to 16 return flights from September 1, 2021 and August 31, 2025. A maximum of four flights per year are permitted. Winners will be notified by direct message on Twitter and will be given details of how to claim their prize, it added.-TradeArabia News Service
While the global travel recovery remains uneven, a rebound in ground travel and pick-up in domestic flight bookings are showing encouraging signs.

Mastercard released Recovery Insights: Ready for Takeoff?, a view into key travel trends in the air and on the ground, around the world.

After flights were largely grounded and travellers stayed home in 2020, the return to travel has become one of the most anticipatedand uncertainactivities of 2021.

The report, developed by the Mastercard Economics Institute, draws on aggregated and anonymized sales activity across the global Mastercard network to better understand the next phase for travel, its drivers and challenges. This includes the balance between leisure and business, local and long-distance, and saving and spending. The report also looks at the spending categories seeing an uptick and what they signal for travel recovery.

There are indicators of recovery across some markets in the Middle East & Africa, for example gas spending in Nigeria and Egypt are already above 2019 peaks. Although we still have some way to go amidst ongoing uncertainty, there is an appetite among consumers to move and discover. Alongside safe, systematic opening of markets and continued momentum in vaccine rollouts, countries will start to see more signs of gradual travel recovery, said David Mann, Chief Economist, Asia and MEA, Mastercard.

Key trends include:

 Global gasoline spending is up 13% from its previous peak in 2019. In Egypt and Nigeria, spend at gas stations are already higher than their 2019 peaks, while in the UAE and Kenya, they have equalised previous levels. Road tripsthe big trend of 2020 around the worldarent going anywhere.

 As people prepare to reemerge, pent-up savings help fuel sales across a variety of categories. Sales for beauty salons and luggage stores are up, likely reflecting plans to move around and increase in-person interactions. Spending at bike stores (+62%) also grew. Furthermore, sales at toupee and wigs stores have increased 75% in the past year compared to pre-pandemic, with increases in this category also seen among consumers in South Africa.

 Air travel remains down significantly globally, although the trajectory is upwards. In markets like the UAE, Egypt, Nigeria, and Kenya, international flight bookings are climbing, but are still at a fraction of where they were before the pandemic began. This also holds true for South Africa, although domestic flights (56.7% share) are recovering at a quicker pace, above its 40.9% share in 2019.

 Global business travel lags global leisure travel by approximately four months. In the Middle East & Africa though, there is a closer correlation to leisure and business travel growth.

 Border reopenings have fueled 10 interesting travel corridors. The limited border reopenings have proven to be challenging for travellers and the travel industry alike. But select open corridors are showing partial recovery. For example, flights out of the Middle East and Africa are gradually improving, with intra-regional travel to Egypt and the UAE most notable.

The past year has only reinforced how important travel isto our connection with friends, family and the broader world, to our business communities, and to our personal fulfillment, said Raj Seshadri, president of data and services, Mastercard. The economic implications of tourism are vast, with virtually no industry untouched when travellers stay home. Through Recovery Insights, weve helped airlines redesign travel routes, retailers rejig inventory, and cities understand shifts in neighborhood spending. Its about enabling smarter decisions for better outcomestoday and tomorrow."

Mastercard launched Recovery Insights to help businesses and governments better manage the economic risks presented by Covid-19. Through this initiative, Mastercard has provided data-driven insights, analytics and other services to businesses and governments to help them understand ever-changing consumer spending trends and how to address them.

For instance, early last year, a leading Asia-Pacific airline leveraged Mastercard Test & Learn to understand what was driving performance during the pandemic. It was discovered that trip duration greater than seven days grew by nearly two-thirds, and tickets bought months in advance grew by roughly half. Building on these insights, the airline was able to instantly adjust their strategy in real-time to optimise their sales and better serve travellers. -- TradeArabia News Service
Lucknow, Jul 11(UNI) On the occasion of the World Population Day ,Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday announced the state population policy 2021-30.

Under the new population policy, the government has set a target to reduce the birth rate.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said on this occasion that increasing population is a hindrance in development.

" We need to control the fertility rate. People of every caste, religion, community will have to pay attention to control the increasing population. I am very happy that this new policy has been announced on the occasion of World Population Day," CM said.

The Chief Minister said concerns were raised from time to time that the increasing population could be a hindrance in the development. It has been discussed many times over the last four decades but nothing happened.

"More efforts are needed for population control. The role of awareness in this matter is very important," he said, while adding that population policy should be a concern for every citizen as increasing population is the reason of poverty."



He said there should be a gap between two children also. If there is not a good gap between two children then their nutrition will also be affected. Poverty and growing population are closely related to each other.



CM Yogi Adityanath said population policy is not only concerned with population stabilization but also to bring the path of happiness and prosperity in the life of every citizen to his doorstep.



He said while making efforts for population stabilization, we also have to keep in mind that this does not affect the demographic balance of the country. In order to make the population policy effective, he also emphasized on coordination among departments along with spreading awareness among different sections.



In the new population policy, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has also expressed the intention of enacting a new law to make the various strategies being adopted to control the population more effective. The State Law Commission has prepared a draft of this law and has sought objections and suggestions from the public on it.



State Medical Education Minister Suresh Khanna said in 1975, the government had taken action regarding population control but after 1977 no government could even muster the courage to include it in its manifesto. Sometimes population control is linked to religious beliefs. Therefore, awareness is necessary to solve the problem.

He said in the proposed new law for population control, if more emphasis is placed on incentives rather than penal provisions, then it can prove to be more effective. He said he would soon meet the Chairman of the State Law Commission and give his suggestions to him.

State Medical and Health Minister Jai Pratap Singh said Uttar Pradesh will move towards population stabilization by the year 2052 if the new population policy of the state is implemented properly.

In the new policy, a target has been set to bring the birth rate to 2.1 per thousand population by the year 2026 and to 1.9 by the year 2030. Apart from better management of nutrition, education and health of adolescents in the age group of 11 to 19 years, comprehensive arrangements will also be made for the care of the elderly.



The new policy also includes a proposal to set up health clubs in schools for population stabilization. Along with this, according to the spirit of Digital Health Mission, there is a plan to conduct digital tracking of newborns, adolescents and elderly people in the state.

Those with more than two children will not be able to contest local body elections, he said.

In the draft of the UP Population (Control, Stabilization and Welfare) Bill-2021 prepared by the Commission, along with fixing the responsibility of the people, the responsibilities of the state government have also been fixed.

The Commission has uploaded the draft of the Population Control Bill on its website and has sought suggestions till July 19. Their suggestions are also being taken by sending the draft to several judges, after which the draft will be finalized and submitted to the state government .

It is said this new law can be implemented after the assembly elections to be held next year and before the urban bodies (municipal corporation, nagar palika parishad, nagar panchayat).

Important suggestions in the draft are: There are recommendations to give two additional increments, promotion, exemption in housing schemes, increase the contribution of the employee in PF and other such benefits to the government employees whose family will be limited and they undergo sterilization on their own.



Couples who are not in government jobs, they will get exemption in water, electricity, home and other taxes if they have limited family.

There is a plan to give preference in jobs along with free treatment, education and insurance for 20 years to the children of parents who voluntarily undergo sterilization on a child.

A couple with one child can get up to four increments in a government job. Such a couple residing below the poverty line will be given a lump sum of Rs 80,000 for a son and Rs 1 lakh for a daughter.

Besides ,if someone has two or more children in the second pregnancy, then they will be considered as one.

If the first, second or both the children are disabled, then he will not be deprived of the facilities on the third child.There will be exemption for adoption of third child.

On the untimely death of a child, the third child will be out of the purview of the law.

The government will have to create a State Population Fund to implement the law.

Delivery facility will have to be provided in every primary health center.

There will also be a chapter on population control in the school curriculum.

Failure of female and male sterilization will give exemption in unwanted pregnancy.

The third child born due to the failure of the sterilization operation will be out of the purview of the law.

If the failure of the sterilization operation is proved, Rs 50,000 will be given as compensation.

UNI MB SY 1518
'Stuff the Bus' for Students Saturday

By West Kentucky Star Staff

PADUCAH - Students will be heading back to class soon, and the United Way of Paducah-McCracken County is asking local residents to "Stuff the Bus" with the supplies they will need to succeed.Family Resource Coordinator for Hendron-Lone Oak and Lone Oak Elementary Schools Carrie Moore said the annual event is extremely important for many kids because it helps them get off to a good start as the school year begins."On Saturday, July 17 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. we will have an actual big yellow bus at both Paducah Walmart locations, as well as Sam's Club," Moore said. "We will be there with volunteers stuffing the bus. We will hand you a list of some things our students need. You can shop and come right out and put those items on the bus. Then we get all those things out to the students so they can start the school year out on the right foot."This is the 12th year that the United Way has hosted the event."It's literally one of my most favorite events. I get to see all the wonderful people who stuff the bus, the people who come back and sort the items, and then I get to see the kids use the items they get," Moore said.Moore says volunteers are still needed to work in the afternoon at the event. Anyone interested in signing up or donating can visit the link below."We have so many kids, and when you think about it those things add up. They mean so much to our kids," Moore said. "All the kids coming in on the first day with all these supplies. It's so amazing to see how wonderful this community is helping so many students year after year."On the Net:
Carlisle Theft Suspect Now Wanted in Two Counties

By West Kentucky Star Staff

ARLINGTON - The Carlisle County Sheriff's Department says a theft investigation from late last month now involves law enforcement from another county.On June 28, a man reportedly took a package that had been delivered to a business in Arlington. It was a Square D Gain Meter Socket that was about 4 feet tall and 32 inches wide. Surveillance video showed the suspect was driving a truck that was pulling a 16-foot car hauler. The suspect was described as a skinny white man in his 20s or 30s.The Carlisle Sheriff's office says Ballard County Sheriff's Deputies is investigating the theft of the trailer, which was allegedly taken the same day the package was stolen. Two other items that were also taken from the Arlington business have been recovered, but the large electrical component has not been found.The suspect is currently wanted in Ballard County and charges from Carlisle County will also be filed upon his arrest. The suspect's name has not yet been released.Previous Story:The Carlisle County Sheriff's Office is seeking the public's help to identify a suspect in a recent theft.The Sheriff's Office says the theft took place on June 28 when an unknown man stole a package delivered to a business in Arlington. The package contained a Square D Four Gain Meter Socket and was approximately four feet tall and 32 inches wide.The suspect is described as a skinny white male in his late 20s or early 30s. He left driving south on US 51 towards Hickman County and was driving what appeared to be a black Dodge single cab truck pulling a 16-foot car hauler. The truck appears to have temporary tags on it.Anyone with information should contact the Carlisle County Sheriff's Office at (270) 628-3377.
Man Missing After Boat Accident on Lake Barkley

By West Kentucky Star Staff

LAKE BARKLEY - Officials are searching for a missing boater on Lake Barkley.According to Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Services, they were notified that an unmanned boat was going in circles near Davenport Bay.Witnesses say a man fell overboard about 2 pm Saturday, and was then struck by the boat.As of Saturday evening, the 31-year-old Princeton man has not been found.Lyon County Search and Rescue has been assisting Fish and Wildlife in the search.
Name of Driver Injured By Falling Tree Released

By West Kentucky Star Staff

TRIGG COUNTY - The Trigg County Sheriff's Office has released the name of a woman that was severely injured Sunday morning after a tree fell on her vehicle on P Pool Road in Trigg County.Deputies told WKDZ the driver, 31-year-old Melissa Wyatt, was driving on P Pool Road shortly before noon when the tree hit her car, trapping her and her passenger inside.Trigg County rescue was able to free the pair after a local resident used his tractor to help remove the tree.Wyatt and her passenger, 48-year-old Adam Ingram, were taken taken to Trigg County Hospital for treatment.
Minor Work Permits Available Remotely in Illinois

By West Kentucky Star Staff

SPRINGFIELD - Governor Pritzker signed Senate Bill 696 into law last week, streamlining the process by which minors can seek a work permit in Illinois.Youths under 16 years of age, along with their parents or legal guardians, can meet with school issuing officers remotely to obtain a Child Labor Certificate.The option was previously made available as an emergency rule during the COVID-19 pandemic.Nearly 11,000 certificates have been issued to date. Regardless of whether the 14- or 15-year-old is working as a camp counselor, lifeguard or actor, a permit issued by the school is required.The remote process allows issuing officers to receive all required documents electronically, to meet with the minor and their parent or legal guardian by video or conference call to confirm identification and obtain consent.
OP-ED: Teaching Reading - Mississippi's Approach

By Jim Waters, Bluegrass Institute

LEXINGTON -Frustration with children failing to become proficient readers and the approaches taken by schools and teachers tasked with instructing them is nothing new.In The Bishops Boys, author Tom Crouch discusses how incensed Milton Wright  father of aviation pioneers, Wilbur and Orville  became in 1916 about techniques employed at the Dayton elementary school: My youngest grandson was turned over to me after a teacher had taught him to guess at words. It was a hard job to break him from guessing. (Emphases belong to the author.)The guessing techniques Wright criticized would later become a feature of current approaches toward reading instruction.Even Wikipedia gets it right, discussing in its entry entitled Whole language what Wright instinctively knew: The scientific consensus is that whole-language-based methods of reading instruction (e.g., teaching children to use context cues to guess the meaning of a printed word) are not as effective as are phonics-instruction-based approaches.Wrights frustration wasnt coming from a public-school hater.Rather, as Crouch writes, Milton once remarked that he  had been an enthusiastic lover of the teaching profession who had reveled in his success of helping backward children  to catch up with their class.Wrights concerns remain relevant today, with recent National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) tests confirming, Kentucky remains backward with its reading results.In 2019, 61% of white fourth-grade students and 86% of Black fourth graders failed to read proficiently.This doesnt bode well for the future academic success of these students, considering most instruction following third grade assumes students have learned to read and now can read to learn.Bluegrass Institute education analyst Richard Innes charges in his new policy brief, What Milton Wright knew about reading instruction, but lots of teachers apparently dont, that the situation is so severe in Kentucky that 200,000 public school students currently have major reading problems.Innes calls the latest reading proficiency rates stunningly disappointing despite nearly three decades of reform and chastises the Kentucky Department of Education for not ensuring every Bluegrass State teacher uses proven approaches based on the science of reading such as Mississippi already uses.Certainly, the principles of reading instruction Milton Wright strongly adhered to have been strongly and scientifically confirmed  and reconfirmed  in research conducted during the intervening century.Phonemic awareness, explicitly teaching sound-spelling correspondences, and starting kids out reading by using only texts they have been given all the necessary phonetical keys to decode are key points, Innes wrote.Dramatic improvement in students reading results in Mississippi, which used to lag far behind Kentucky, urgently confirms the need for students in the commonwealths classrooms to receive scientifically sound instruction based on phonics from engaged teachers instructing as sages on the stage rather than the whole language approach of guessing using a teaching guide-on-the-side approach still endorsed by too many education professors.Mississippis fortunes began to change when its lawmakers in 2013 determined reading instruction would follow scientifically confirmed methods rather unproven, fuzzy and feel-good schemes.In 2015, the Magnolia State started a program sending specially trained individuals to every elementary school to ensure all teachers knew what the science shows and how to teach reading accordingly.By 2019, Mississippi was the only state in America where more fourth-graders became proficient in reading on the 2019 NAEP reading proficiency rates  to the point that it generally outperforms Kentucky and, unlike the Bluegrass State, is on a trajectory to post more improvement in the future.Legislation which would have brought the same successful approaches used by Mississippi to Kentucky passed the state Senate during this years General Assembly.The futures of about 200,000 Kentucky children say its time for the House to do the same.At least thats what Wilbur Wright would say.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-10 22:59:33|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

KUNMING, July 10 (Xinhua) -- The herd of 14 wild Asian elephants roaming southwest China's Yunnan Province has moved 10.5 km in the southeastern direction, authorities said.

The elephants entered Longwu Town in Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture at 8:20 p.m. Friday and are safe, according to the headquarters in charge of monitoring their migration.

The male elephant that broke away from the herd was captured and sent back to its forest home in Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture on Wednesday. It is in a good condition.

On Saturday, authorities dispatched 346 emergency and police staff, deployed dozens of vehicles and 23 drones and evacuated 2,259 local residents. The authorities also fed two tonnes of food to the elephants.

The herd of 15 wandering wild Asian elephants traveled about 500 km north from its forest home in Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture, before reaching the provincial capital Kunming on June 2.

The male elephant strayed from the herd on June 6, and moved around in the cities of Kunming, Anning and Yuxi, with an activity area of 140 square km and traversing a distance of 190 km. The animals were mainly fed by locals or foraged in villages. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-10 23:45:13|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

BEIJING, July 10 (Xinhua) -- China's protection of giant pandas will not be weakened despite their no longer being endangered, an official said Saturday.

Giant pandas are still first-class key protected wild animals in China, and are seen as the flagship and umbrella species of China's endangered-species protection, according to the China's Forestry and Grassland Administration.

The national treasure has become a trending topic in China after an official of the Ministry of Ecology and Environment said at a press conference earlier this week that it has been downgraded from "endangered" to "vulnerable," as the population of giant pandas living in the wildness has reached 1,800.

The downgrade is a testimony of the achievements of our giant panda protection efforts and shows the recognition of the international community for China's efforts in this area, the Forestry and Grassland Administration said.

Over the years, China has taken a raft of measures to strengthen the protection of wild animals, especially giant pandas. So far, the country has established 67 nature reserves for giant pandas, effectively protecting 53.8 percent of giant panda habitats and 66.8 percent of the wild giant panda population.

The administration said that continued efforts will be made to strengthen the protection of giant pandas in accordance with domestic and international requirements. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-10 23:56:23|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

NEW DELHI, July 10 (Xinhua) -- The local government in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu Saturday extended the ongoing COVID-19 lockdown until July 19 with certain relaxations, officials said.

According to the new order, shops can remain open for an hour longer and need to shut only by 9:00 p.m. local time.

"Restaurants, tea shops, bakeries, roadside eateries and confectionery shops can stay open till 9:00 p.m. (local time) with 50 percent customers. These places will need to comply with COVID-19 protocols such as placing hand sanitizers outside and ensuring that people in queues follow social distancing. Air-conditioned outlets must have adequate ventilation with doors and windows open," a local government official told Xinhua via telephone.

The government said up to 50 people can attend to weddings and only 20 can attend funerals.

However, schools, colleges, bars, theatres, swimming pools and zoos will remain shut. Cultural and political events with public participation cannot be held.

The inter-state bus service has not been resumed.

"Though the state has not re-started inter-state buses, it has decided to resume bus services to neighboring Puducherry," the official said.

Tamil Nadu reported 2,914 fresh COVID-19 cases and 49 related deaths on Saturday. It is among the top five Indian states that have registered maximum daily cases. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-11 00:12:47|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

MADRID, July 10 (Xinhua) -- Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez on Saturday made wide-ranging changes to his cabinet as he looked to revitalize the government ahead of the second half of his mandate.

The most important change saw Deputy Prime Minister Carmen Calvo leave the cabinet. Second Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economic Affairs Nadia Calvino was promoted to take her place.

Other important departures from the cabinet are Arancha Gonzalez Laya, who lost her post as Minister of Foreign Affairs, along with Isabel Celaa (Education and Vocational Training), Juan Carlos Campo (Justice), Jose Manuel Rodriguez (Culture), Pedro Duque (Science and Innovation), and Jose Luis Alabos (Transport).

Sanchez appeared on TV to explain the changes. He named Jose Manuel Albares as the new Minister of Foreign Affairs; Pilar Alegria, Minister of Education and Vocational Training; Pilar Llop, Minister of Justice; Miquel Iceta, Minister of Culture; Diana Morant, Minister of Science and Innovation; and Raquel Sanchez, Minister of Transport.

"We have 30 months left in the mandate and the government is starting a new period. We have built a team to focus on fair economic recovery ... I want to highlight the incorporation of young men and women who have experience in the public sector," said the prime minister, adding that the changes lower the average age of his cabinet from "55 to 50 years old." Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-11 00:13:59|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

JOHANNESBURG, July 10 (Xinhua) -- South African President Cyril Ramaphosa on Saturday called for calm after some people looted shops and burnt trucks calling for the release of former President Jacob Zuma.

"President Ramaphosa says the impact of public violence against the road freight industry and damage to freeways that serve as economic arteries will be felt also by the people organizing and committing these crimes. The President says the reasons allegedly advanced for the violence in KwaZulu-Natal cannot be used to legitimize vandalism and public violence," said acting spokesperson in the Presidency Tyrone Seale.

People burnt trucks and tyres on the N3, N2 and M7 and other key roads around the incarceration of former President Jacob Zuma who was given 15-month sentence after defying the Constitutional Court's order which compelled him to appear and give evidence at the state capture commission in February.

The South African police have arrested more than 20 suspects for violent protest which resulted in at least 25 trucks being torched in KwaZulu-Natal.

On Friday the "Free Zuma" group blocked roads, burning cars and attacking motorists calling for Zuma's release. The police on Saturday said they have beefed up deployment to contain the protests.

"A large number of people have already been arrested for incidents of criminality witnessed in the province yesterday and cases have been registered to trace and arrest those that still have to be arrested. A number of incidents were witnessed today of people who are opportunistic and used today's protest to enrich themselves by looting shops and other businesses," said KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Jay Naicker.

He stated that they will arrest those doing illegal gathering, not observing curfew regulations and looting shops.

Naicker said they have deployed police officers across the province to deal with protests, adding that the long arm of the law will catch up with those committing crimes. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-11 03:20:20|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

A person receives a dose of COVID-19 vaccine at a vaccination site in Jiangxia District in Wuhan, central China's Hubei Province, June 9, 2021. (Xinhua/Xiao Yijiu)

Zakharova called Beaune's remarks "a hybrid of racism, imperial hegemonism and neo-Nazism."



MOSCOW, July 10 (Xinhua) -- The remarks by a French official of not recognizing Russian and Chinese COVID-19 vaccines were "a hybrid of racism, imperial hegemonism and neo-Nazism," a spokesperson of the Russian Foreign Ministry has said.

French Minister of State for European Affairs Clement Beaune has made the remarks to the European Union members earlier this week, which was quite inappropriate and went against laws, ethics and morality, Maria Zakharova said on her Telegram channel.

"It is particularly striking that Western countries with cold-bloodedness, cynicism and cruelty are fighting for profits during the period of mankind's struggle against the pandemic," she wrote.

According to the Chinese Foreign Ministry on Friday, China has provided more than 100 countries and international organizations with 500 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines and concentrates, accounting for one-sixth of the current global COVID-19 vaccine production.

China has also actively supported other developing countries in producing vaccines to expand the global vaccine capacity, the foreign ministry said. 
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-11 11:37:26|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

BEIJING, July 11 (Xinhua) -- General Secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee Xi Jinping, also Chinese president and chairman of the Central Military Commission, exchanged congratulatory messages on Sunday with Kim Jong Un, general secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea, also chairman of the State Affairs Commission and commander-in-chief of the armed forces of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) on the 60th anniversary of the signing of the China-DPRK Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation and Mutual Assistance. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-11 12:27:25|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

OTTAWA, July 10 (Xinhua) -- The Communist Party of China (CPC) has led the Chinese people to score unprecedented achievements and the country's development road is "impressive," a Canadian communist leader has said.

"We are very impressed with the developments in China. And we know that it's the Communist Party that charts the road ahead. It's an impressive road," said Elizabeth Rowley, leader of the Communist Party of Canada, in a recent interview with Xinhua via video link.

Over the past 40 years, the world has seen such a rapid development of productive forces in China. "In every respect the development has proceeded. These are unprecedented in history," said the Canadian communist.

"Life is getting better for people in China," she said. "Rapidity of development and very important gains are very important markers in terms of what the future holds also for the world and for China and the Chinese people."

"The influence of the Communist Party of China is growing as the country is growing as a result of its achievements and its trade policies, which are for mutual benefit," Rowley said.

Many people around the world are watching and hoping that the Chinese developments will help with world relations and developments, she said, adding, "what is happening in China, is not because of military intervention, but as a result of competition and the support that China has given to through fair trade agreements and so on around the world."

Recalling her visit to China in 2018, Rowley said "we were very impressed with what we saw," including the nation's battle against poverty, the struggle against corruption and the efforts for climate change.

The Canadian delegation saw big changes in China's rural areas. "These are all signs of a country that is moving forward at a very rapid pace to improve the living standards and living conditions and the working conditions of people," she said.

When they were in Beijing and Shenzhen, "the skies were very clear. It was really remarkable to see what can be done when governments put their minds to it," Rowley said.

She also praised the Chinese government's actions in fighting COVID-19 once it understood the pandemic and acted very quickly.

Noting that China has developed vaccines against the coronavirus, which are being made available to developing countries around the world, Rowley said, "This is the essence of humanity and humanism what we are seeing from China." Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-11 15:24:18|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

BEIJING, July 11 (Xinhua) -- A special symposium hosted by President Xi Jinping 10 months ago has remained an inspiring experience for Pan Jiuren, a deputy headmaster of a primary school in central China's Hunan Province.

Pan, a rural teacher for 28 years, raised several problems facing rural education, including the shortage of teachers, particularly well-trained ones, at the symposium held on Sept. 17, 2020, in the provincial capital Changsha.

"General Secretary [Xi] listened attentively when we raised the problems. Even now when I recall the meeting, it induces a feeling of warmth," Pan told Xinhua.

Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, summoned the meeting to solicit ideas from people at the grassroots for the 14th five-year plan (2021-2025) on the country's economic and social development, which was being drafted then.

From July to September in 2020, he hosted seven such symposiums, meeting ordinary citizens from various walks of life, including migrant workers, farmers, truck drivers and restaurant owners.

Ordinary people also contributed their wisdom to the drafting through more than 1 million comments online in August last year.

It has been one of the many examples of how the CPC Central Committee, with Xi at its core, tried to make the people's democracy sounder, more extensive and adequate.

"The very purpose of the CPC's leadership of the people in developing people's democracy is to guarantee and support their position as masters of the country," Xi said at a key gathering in 2014.

WHOLE-PROCESS DEMOCRACY

Liu Zhengdong, senior partner of the Shanghai-based MHP Law Firm, still has fresh memories from the day when Xi visited the Gubei civic center in the city's Changning District on Nov. 2, 2019.

"We were having a heated discussion about a draft law," Liu recalled.

The civic center is one of the community-level contact stations set up by the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPC). Draft laws are sent down here so that ordinary citizens can discuss and have their opinions heard by lawmakers.

Over 1,300 opinions were collected through these offices last year, contributing to 16 pieces of legislation, said Tong Weidong, a legislative official with the NPC Standing Committee.

"People's democracy is a type of whole-process democracy. All major legislative decisions are made through due procedure and after democratic deliberation. It is a scientific and democratic decision-making process," Xi said.

The compilation of the Civil Code is a vivid epitome of "open-door legislation" and democratic legislation.

During the compilation process, the NPC Standing Committee deliberated the draft 10 times, solicited 10 rounds of public opinion, and organized three sessions for NPC deputies to discuss the draft. At the NPC annual session in 2020, over 100 amendments were made in light of opinions from various parties.

Xi chaired three high-level Party meetings from 2016 to 2019 to hear the reports on the compilation of the code and gave important instructions.

The NPC, China's national legislature, has displayed a broad representation of the people. Among the nearly 3,000 deputies to the 13th NPC, 15.7 percent are workers and farmers, up 2.28 percentage points over that of the 12th NPC.

At the 2021 NPC annual session, the deputies put forward 473 motions and nearly 9,000 proposals and opinions.

PEOPLE'S CREATIVE VITALITY

On Feb. 1, 2019, when Xi walked into a "courtyard meeting hall" in a neighborhood of downtown Beijing, community workers and resident representatives were having a talk on renovating courtyards in hutongs, Beijing's traditional alleys.

Xi joined the discussion, hailing the courtyard meetings as a mechanism that enabled community members to discuss and decide their own affairs.

It is conducive to enhancing a sense of belongingness and ownership among the residents, as well as improving the precision and refinement of community governance and services, he said.

In order to better manage community affairs, provide services and help people decide their own affairs, sophisticated and willing residents were elected to participate in community governance.

Currently Beijing has more than 3,100 such courtyard meeting halls. Two downtown districts -- Dongcheng and Xicheng -- have seen thousands of elected residents running community affairs.

The "courtyard meeting hall" in Beijing has several similar models in other parts of the country, for instance, "a village chat booth" in east China's Zhejiang Province. These effective mechanisms have empowered ordinary people and served as a pillar of China's people's democracy.

The essence of the people's democracy is that people get to discuss their own affairs to reach the greatest common ground based on the wishes and needs of the entire society, Xi said.

Laurence J. Brahm, a senior international fellow at the Center for China and Globalization, said Chinese democracy is different from that in the West.

"It is a system of consensus-building. It is quiet, and in many ways, like Tai Chi," said Brahm. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-11 15:38:24|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

BEIJING, July 11 (Xinhua) -- China is firmly opposed to the United States adding 23 Chinese entities to its "entity list" of export controls, a spokesperson for the Ministry of Commerce (MOC) said Sunday.

The move, in disregard of facts, came on so-called grounds such as "human rights," as the United States generalized the concept of national security and abused export control measures, according to the MOC spokesperson.

"This is an unjustified suppression of Chinese enterprises and a serious damage to international economic and trade rules, which China firmly opposes," the spokesperson said.

Urging the United States to immediately stop the wrong practice, the spokesperson said China will take all necessary measures to safeguard Chinese companies' legitimate rights and interests. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-11 16:06:36|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

BEIJING, July 11 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese capital of Beijing is poised for the heaviest round of rainfall this year, pending Sunday evening.

The Beijing Meteorological Observatory on Sunday morning issued yellow warnings for both rainstorms and gale.

The accumulated rainfall is forecast to reach 60 mm to 100 mm on average between 5 p.m. Sunday and 8 a.m. Tuesday. The western and northern areas of the city will see heavier rainfalls.

Mountainous areas are at risk of secondary disasters such as floods and mountain torrents, while water logging is expected in low-lying urban areas.

The Beijing Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism issued a notice on Sunday morning, ordering all scenic spots in mountainous areas and rural bed and breakfasts (B&B) to be closed from Sunday noon.

The municipal water affairs bureau has mobilized 15,000 people and dispatched 13 inspection teams to all districts of the city to assess flood control preparations.

The municipal fire and rescue department has made comprehensive preparations for round-the-clock service, with a 670-member professional rescue team and 7,454 servicemen put on duty.

The rainstorms are also forecast to affect north China's Tianjin Municipality. Tianjin on Sunday issued an orange warning of meteorological risk for geological disasters.

Mountain scenic spots and rural catering facilities have been ordered to be closed and people in high-risk areas relocated.

China has a four-tier color-coded weather warning system, with red representing the most severe warning, followed by orange, yellow and blue. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-11 16:17:07|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

BEIJING, July 11 (Xinhua) -- Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi exchanged congratulations Sunday with DPRK Foreign Minister Ri Son Gwon on the 60th anniversary of the signing of the China-DPRK Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation and Mutual Assistance.

In his message, Wang pointed out that the treaty is the political and legal foundation for bilateral ties and is of great significance to promoting China-DPRK friendly cooperation and safeguarding regional peace and stability.

In recent years, Wang noted, under the strategic guidance of General Secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee Xi Jinping and General Secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea (WPK) Kim Jong Un, China-DPRK relations have entered a new historical period.

The two sides have strengthened strategic communication, deepened mutually beneficial cooperation and firmly supported each other in regional and international affairs, demonstrating the unbreakable China-DPRK friendship in the new era, Wang said.

Under the new circumstances, Wang said, the two sides should make joint efforts to uphold the important consensus reached by the top leaders of the two parties and countries so as to advance the steady development of China-DPRK friendly cooperative relations.

For his part, Ri said over the past 60 years since the treaty was signed, the DPRK and China have supported and cooperated with each other, actively pushed forward the cause of socialist construction in the two countries and made contributions to safeguarding world peace and security.

He said he firmly believes that under the guidance of the lofty will of the top leaders of the DPRK and China, the foreign ministries of the two countries will more actively carry out exchanges and cooperation and promote the continuous development of DPRK-China relations in accordance with the requirements of the new era and the wishes of the two peoples. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-11 16:50:44|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

A college graduate from Shanghai chose to return to her hometown in northwestern China's Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region after graduation.

Yingrong is an ethnic Mongolian in Tacheng City in Xinjiang, China. After graduation from Shanghai Normal University, she could have stayed in Shanghai. But she missed her hometown and her family so much that she finally decided to came back to her hometown.

As her parents grew older, Yingrong was entrusted with the family business.

"We should pay more attention to the ingredients. Even if the cost is higher, we must guarantee the taste and quality," said Yingrong. After taking over the family bakery business in 2019, Yingrong has been sticking to the principle of treating people with sincerity and doing business with good faith.

Produced by Xinhua Global Service
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-11 17:11:10|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta on Friday hailed the Chinese-backed Thwake dam as he inspected its construction progress in Makueni County, eastern Kenya.

The project is being built by China Gezhouba Group Corporation (CGGC) at the intersection of the rivers Thwake and Athi. It has been funded by the government through the Ministry of Water in cooperation with the Development Bank in Africa.

Kenyatta said that when completed the project will boost the local economy through a irrigation plan, mitigate drought and be an answer to the perennial flood problems in the lowlands.

Thwake dam, a strategic water supply project for the large semi-arid area of Makueni County and surrounding regions, comprises a multi-purpose dam for water supply, hydropower generation and irrigation development.

It will also provide regulation of flows on Athi River downstream of the dam for flood and drought mitigation.

The completion of the 80.5-meter high multi-purpose dam will enable the storage of 681 million cubic meters of water, of which 625 million cubic meters will be used for electricity production and downstream irrigation of agricultural land, 22 million cubic meters for upstream irrigation and 34 million for human use.

Construction of the first phase of the project is expected to be completed by the end of 2022 and over 1,160 residents already have benefited from employment opportunities.

Produced by Xinhua Global Service
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-11 18:30:39|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

ULAN BATOR, July 11 (Xinhua) -- Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, Mongolia and China have maintained active cooperation, setting a real example of how neighboring countries help each other and overcome difficulties together, Mongolian Foreign Minister Batmunkh Battsetseg has said.

"Strengthening continuously mutually-beneficial cooperation with China is one of the Mongolian foreign policy priorities," Battsetseg told Xinhua in a recent interview.

Describing China as Mongolia's eternal neighbor with a long history of traditional relations, she said it's pleasing to see that the comprehensive strategic partnership with China has been deepening in all areas.

Last year, the two countries exchanged high-level visits and held meetings of intergovernmental commissions, maintained trade and economic interactions, and effective cooperation in preventing and curbing the spread of the pandemic, Battsetseg noted.

"We are sincerely grateful to the Chinese government and people for donating vaccines and essential medical equipment to Mongolia during this difficult time, as well as for sharing experiences in successfully combating the pandemic," she said, adding that China's vaccine support is very important for Mongolia.

Mongolia launched a national vaccination campaign in late February, aiming to vaccinate at least 60 percent of its 3.3 million population.

So far, over 55 percent of its population have been fully vaccinated, according to the country's health ministry.

"We believe that intensive and wide-ranging immunization will increase economic activity and opportunities for further cooperation with foreign countries, including China," said Battsetseg.

In addition, within the framework of long-term and medium-term development policies, Mongolia has set specific goals and started implementing measures to reduce poverty, increase people's incomes, improve quality of life and support business activities, said Battsetseg.

China is one of the country's largest trade and investment partners, Battsetseg said, noting that economic cooperation between Mongolia and China plays an important role in achieving the above-mentioned long-term development policy goals.

China's willingness to share development experiences and benefits with other countries, import more goods and services from abroad and pursue a policy of common development is a good opportunity for neighboring countries such as Mongolia, she said.

Moreover, Mongolia has supported China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) from the onset and actively participated in it, Battsetseg said, expressing her willingness to exchange experiences and implement joint projects with China not only in the real-economy sectors, but also in financial and e-service within the BRI framework.

Commending China's achievements in poverty alleviation, she said that Mongolia is also interested in exchanging experiences and cooperating with China in artificial intelligence, robotics, innovation, environmentally friendly technologies and tourism. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-11 18:38:05|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

ISLAMABAD -- Several laborers are feared injured or killed in a coal mine explosion in Pakistan's southwest Balochistan province on Sunday, local media reported. (Pakistan-Mine-Explosion)

- - - -

LOS ANGELES -- Two firefighters were killed Saturday in the U.S. state of Arizona in an operation to battle with a wildfire which was ignited by lightning Friday night and has burned down 300 acres (about 1.21 square km) so far.

The firefighters were killed in a plane crash while conducting aerial reconnaissance over the fire near the Prescott National Forest, the Bureau of Land Management said in a statement. (US-Wildfire-Firefighter Death)

- - - -

MOGADISHU -- Somalia has vowed to sustain ongoing fight against al-Shabab militants despite increased attacks in the country by the group.

Osman Dubbe, Minister for Information, Culture and Tourism said the Saturday's attack in which a convoy of Banadir regional police commander Farhan Qaroleh was targeted, failed. (Somalia-Shabab-Fight)

- - - -

SOFIA -- A fire broke out in a nursing home near Varna on Sunday, killing at least one, NOVA TV reported.

Firefighters were currently on the scene. One was killed and eight were injured, NOVA reported, citing the fire department. (Sofia-Fire-Death) Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-11 18:44:20|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

JAKARTA, July 11 (Xinhua) -- Indonesian President Joko Widodo has expressed condolences and honored the deceased during the COVID-19 pandemic in the country.

"On behalf of myself and the government, as well as the state, I extend my deepest condolences to all the victims of the pandemic, that have preceded us," the president said on Sunday during an online prayer gathering.

He also sent prayers to those testing positive for the virus, wishing them speedy recoveries.

"May God protect the Indonesian people and make this country safe, advanced and prosperous," he said, calling on the public to pray and worship from home amid the unsafe conditions in the country.

Indonesia's Health Ministry said on Sunday that the COVID-19 cases in the archipelago rose by 36,197 within one day to 2,527,203, with the death toll adding by 1,007 to 66,464.

According to the ministry, 32,615 more people were discharged from hospitals, bringing the total number of recovered patients to 2,084,724.

Indonesia is currently working to inoculate the targeted 181.5 million people, about 70 percent of its total population, by March 2022.

Until Saturday, over 14.96 million citizens had received their second doses of COVID-19 vaccines. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-11 19:03:23|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

Protestors are dispersed by police during a protest against the incarceration of former president Jacob Zuma in Johannesburg, South Africa, July 11, 2021. The South African police said on Sunday that they have arrested 62 people in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng Province as people protested against the incarceration of former president Jacob Zuma. (Photo by Yeshiel/Xinhua)



JOHANNESBURG, July 11 (Xinhua) -- The South African police said on Sunday that they have arrested 62 people in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng Province as people protested against the incarceration of former president Jacob Zuma.

Zuma started serving his 15 months jail for contempt of court from last Wednesday. People in his hometown KwaZulu-Natal started looting shops, burning trucks and blocking roads calling for his release.

The protests spread to Gauteng, where the economic center Johannesburg and administrative capital city Pretoria located, on Saturday and Sunday.

In Johannesburg many people chanting slogans in support of Zuma marched in Johannesburg city centre calling for Zuma's release. Shops closed and there was little movement in town.

"62 people have been arrested as the police continue to respond to opportunistic criminality emanating from violent protests over the weekend in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng province," said Spokesperson for the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NatJOINTS) Col Brenda Muridili.

"The police are working closely with their respective local Metro police departments, have heightened visibility and remain on high alert in response to incidents of opportunistic criminality and violent protests in the two provinces over the weekend," she added.

She stated that they arrested people who were looting businesses and barricading roads in Johannesburg's Jeppe and Alexandra townships.

Muridili said in another instance about 800 people attacked police, resulting in the shooting of police officers who have now received medical attention in hospital.

"A warning is issued to those circulating inflammatory messages, inciting violence and lawlessness, that they refrain from doing so. The possibility of criminal charges being instituted against such persons cannot be ruled out, particularly in the event of injury or death that may come as a result of any operational response by the security forces to these incidents of violence and opportunistic criminality," she said.

Muridili said they are investigating the death of a 40-year-old man who was shot in Johannesburg's Bramley. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-11 19:08:33|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

Staff members unload China's Sinopharm vaccines in Colombo, Sri Lanka, July 11, 2021. Sri Lanka's Health Ministry on Sunday received 2 million doses of Sinopharm vaccines from China. (Photo by Ajith Perera/Xinhua)



COLOMBO, July 11 (Xinhua) -- Sri Lanka's Health Ministry on Sunday received 2 million doses of Sinopharm vaccines from China, leading to a total of 7.1 million Sinopharm doses arriving in the country since March.

The vaccines arrived onboard two Sri Lankan Airlines flights which arrived at the Bandaranaike International Airport early Sunday morning.

According to health officials, from these stocks, 100,000 doses each will be dispatched into Galle, Matara, Hambantota, Anuradhapura, Nuwara Eliya, Ratnapura, Badulla, and Matale Districts, while 200,000 doses each will be dispatched to Colombo and Kurunegala Districts.

Meanwhile, 300,000 and 500,000 doses will be dispatched to Kalutara and Gampaha Districts respectively.

According to official statistics from the Health Ministry, nearly 3 million people have received the Sinopharm vaccines in Sri Lanka to date, making it the leading vaccine to be administered among the general public.

Out of the nearly 3 million people jabbed, over 1 million have received their second injections as well, Health Ministry statistics showed.

Army Commander General Shavendra Silva said that following the arrival of 2 million doses of the Sinopharm vaccines on Sunday, a further stock of 2 million doses was expected in the coming weeks.

Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa last week put forward a comprehensive mechanism to vaccinate a majority of the Sri Lankan population against the COVID-19 virus before September.

The President said the number of vaccines that will be received in the month of July will be made available to the public, giving priority to the districts identified as high-risk areas for the spread of COVID-19.

Sri Lanka is presently facing a third wave of the COVID-19 virus with authorities warning of a spread of the Delta variant.

The country has to date recorded 273,031 patients since the first local patient was detected in March last year, while 3,467 deaths have been reported. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-11 19:17:12|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

TEHRAN, July 11 (Xinhua) -- The border between Iran and Afghanistan is fully secured and peaceful, a high-ranking commander of Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) said on Sunday in a visit to a border crossing.

"There is no problem with the security of Iran's borders, and at present all of Iran's eastern border in common with Afghanistan is in complete security and peace," Mohammad Pakpour, commander of the IRGC's Ground Forces, was quoted by official news agency IRNA as saying.

The commander said he was visiting Iran's Dowqarun town in the border with Afghanistan to check the readiness of units stationed in the area after Taliban insurgents attacked and took over on Thursday the Afghan customs office of Islam Qala on the other side of the border.

Pakpour warned that Iranian armed forces would "harshly" deal with "bandits and smugglers" who could try to take advantage of the situation to enter Iranian territory.

Earlier on Sunday, an Iranian police spokesman announced a number of Afghan border guards and customs officials who had entered Iran amid the Taliban offensive and takeover of the border crossings had been repatriated.

"An official request of the government of Afghanistan from the competent authorities of our country asking for the return of their personnel was approved, and these employees were returned to Afghanistan by flight," Mehdi Hajian said in an interview with state TV.

On Thursday, a number of Afghan border guards and customs officers took refuge in Iran's Dowqarun customs office as Taliban militants assaulted Islam Qala.

The Afghans, Hajian added, were accommodated by Iran for a few days "on the basis of Islamic standards, the principle of good neighborliness and in respect of international rules and treaties."

Also on Sunday, the spokesman for Iran's customs administration announced trade activities in Mahiroud border terminal, connecting Iran to Afghanistan's Abu Nasr Farahi, were back to normal.

"With the normalization of activities in the border terminal, special zone and Mahirood market, it is possible to send commercial cargoes, and there will be no ban on the issue of export or transit licenses," IRNA quoted Ruhollah Latifi as saying.

Taliban militants have been more active since the withdrawal of the U.S. troops at the beginning of May, resulting in the deteriorating security situation in Afghanistan. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-11 19:24:56|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

Soldiers put on barbed wire outside a community under the Enhanced Movement Control Order (EMCO) in the suburbs of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, July 10, 2021. Malaysia reported another 9,105 new COVID-19 infections, the health ministry said on Sunday, bringing the national total to 836,296. (Photo by Chong Voon Chung/Xinhua)



KUALA LUMPUR, July 11 (Xinhua) -- Malaysia reported another 9,105 new COVID-19 infections, the health ministry said on Sunday, bringing the national total to 836,296.

Health Ministry Director-General Noor Hisham Abdullah said in a press statement that 18 of the new cases are imported and 9,087 are local transmissions.

Another 91 more deaths have been reported, bringing the death toll to 6,158.

Some 5,194 patients have been released after recovery, bringing the total number of cured and discharged to 742,297, or 88.8 percent of all cases.

Of the remaining 87,841 active cases, 961 are being held in intensive care units and 455 of those are in need of assisted breathing.

In a separate televised interview, the official said a "fierce war" against COVID-19 is being fought in the Klang Valley area, encompassing the capital city of Kuala Lumpur and part of the adjacent Selangor state, which has seen a surge of new infections in recent weeks.

Noor Hisham attributed the surge to be in part to new variants: "The Beta variant has now spread to all states, but the dominant variant of concern now is Delta, and we fear the developments we have seen in the past two weeks is because of this strain," he said.

He also said the ramped-up measures being taken to vaccinate the population and the increase in health screening would see the number of new infections decrease over the coming two weeks. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-11 19:42:16|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

-- The hasty withdrawal is widely regarded as a defeat for the United States, both in Afghanistan and throughout the region.

-- The U.S. mission in Afghanistan asserted it was to annihilate terrorists, bring about peace and help Afghans establish a peaceful and prosperous society, but fighting has been continuing and Afghans are still suffering.

-- The most conservative estimates by local and international rights groups suggest that close to 47,600 civilians have been killed and more than double that number injured in Afghanistan during the 20 years of war.

by Abdul Haleem

BAGRAM, Afghanistan, July 11 (Xinhua) -- Still surrounded by concrete walls and razor wire, the Bagram Airfield, also known as Bagram Airbase, had been home to the U.S. troops in Afghanistan in the past 20 years.

The airbase was handed over to the Afghan forces early this month.

"Nothing important has left at the airbase," Gen. Mir Assadullah Kohistani, now commander of the airbase, told Xinhua. "The U.S. forces had destroyed all the facilities and military equipment that the Afghan forces could not use or their shifting to America was expensive."

Piles of trash heaped up at the airbase are to be sold to local dealers, said Gul Mohammad, a scrap dealer in Bagram.

But the real mess the U.S. troops have left behind in the country is triggering concern across the world.

Photo taken on July 2, 2021 shows the Bagram Airfield after all U.S. and NATO forces evacuated in Parwan province, eastern Afghanistan. (Photo by Sayed Mominzadah/Xinhua)

FAILURE ON EVERY FRONT

U.S. President Joe Biden in April ordered the complete withdrawal of the country's troops from the war-torn Afghanistan by Sept. 11 this year, the 20th anniversary of the terrorist attacks on New York and Washington that precipitated the so-called U.S. war on terror.

Claiming to be in pursuit of Osama bin Laden, the alleged mastermind of the 9/11 terror attacks, the U.S.-led military forces invaded Afghanistan and ousted the Taliban within weeks of the terror attacks.

With over 90 percent of the withdrawal being completed now, Biden said that the mission was to be concluded by Aug. 31, a few days ahead of the original deadline.

Photo taken on July 6, 2021 shows a damaged wall at the site of a car bomb blast in Kandahar, capital of Kandahar province, southern Afghanistan. (Photo by Sanaullah Seiam/Xinhua)

Taliban militants have been more active since the withdrawal of the U.S. troops at the beginning of May, resulting in the deteriorating security situation in Afghanistan.

According to a Taliban source, the group now controls 85 percent of Afghanistan's territory. A visiting Taliban delegation to Moscow said on Friday that their militias have controlled 250 out of 398 districts in the country, though the claims cannot be verified so far.

The hasty withdrawal is widely regarded as a defeat for the United States, both in Afghanistan and throughout the region.

The United States invaded Afghanistan under the pretext of fighting terrorism in late 2001 and dethroned the Taliban regime and its alleged supporter al-Qaida network, Atequllah Omarkhil, a retired army general as well as a military and political analyst, told Xinhua.

According to Omarkhil, only the Taliban and al-Qaida were operational in Afghanistan in 2001. Today more than 20 militant groups, including the Islamic State, are active.

People shovel earth onto the tomb of a victim of a car bomb in Kabul, capital of Afghanistan, May 9, 2021. (Photo by Rahmatullah Alizadah/Xinhua)

Twenty years later, the United States left Afghanistan with fighting and violence still ravaging the country, the retired army general said.

The legacy of the U.S.-led forces' 20-year presence in Afghanistan is nothing more than brutal fighting and insurgency, he said, adding that the "ongoing war and destruction are the outcome of the U.S.-led military invasion."





FORGOTTEN COMMITMENTS

The United States termed its mission in Afghanistan as a defensive maneuver against terrorists, and the mission was supposed to bring peace to Afghanistan and help the Afghans establish a stable society.

The Pentagon claimed recently that over 2,400 U.S. troops have been killed and 20,000 others wounded in Afghanistan over the past two decades.

Photo taken on July 3, 2021 shows scraps abandoned by U.S. forces after all U.S. forces evacuated in Parwan province, eastern Afghanistan. (Photo by Rahmatullah Alizadah/Xinhua)

The most conservative estimates by local and international rights groups suggest that close to 47,600 civilians have been killed and more than double that number injured in Afghanistan during the 20 years of war, according to figures from the Watson Institute of International and Public Affairs at Brown University.

The whole affair has been a brutal fiasco, serving no perceptible purpose and achieving nothing at all.

"After Vietnam, Afghanistan is the second country that the U.S. military is leaving after suffering military defeat," Khan Mohammad Daneshjo, an analyst, told Xinhua.

"The U.S. defeat and its troops' departure from Afghanistan would further increase the already fierce fighting in the conflict-plagued country," Daneshjo said.

The U.S. mission in Afghanistan asserted it was to annihilate terrorists, bring about peace and help Afghans establish a peaceful and prosperous society, but fighting has been continuing and Afghans are still suffering, said the analyst.

Photo taken on May 31, 2021 shows displaced children at a makeshift camp of Internally Displaced People (IDP) in Kabul, capital of Afghanistan. (Photo by Rahmatullah Alizadah/Xinhua)

The Bilateral Security Agreement inked between the United States and Afghanistan years ago was a commitment by Washington to defend Afghanistan "whenever needed," an obligation conveniently overlooked during the withdrawal, Daneshjo said, adding that the United States has left Afghanistan at war with itself, a war characterized by insurgency, fear and poverty.

The United States and the Taliban signed a peace deal in February last year, calling for a gradual withdrawal of the U.S. troops on condition that the Taliban cut ties with terrorist groups. With vicious fighting still a daily occurrence following the deal, negotiations between the Afghan government and the Taliban, including the latest round in Iran, have made no palpable progress.

Photo taken on July 2, 2021 shows the gate of Bagram Airfield after all U.S. and NATO forces evacuated in Parwan province, eastern Afghanistan. (Photo by Sayed Mominzadah/Xinhua)

"The security situation in the country has turned from bad to worse with the withdrawal of troops especially from Bagram airbase," Amin Agha, a Kabul resident, told Xinhua.

The United States, in disregard of its responsibilities and obligations, hastily withdrew from Afghanistan, leaving a mess and turmoil to the Afghan people and regional countries, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Wang Wenbin told a regular press conference on Friday.

"This further exposed the hypocritical face of the United States under the cover of 'defending democracy and human rights,'" he said.

(Video reporters: Shi Xiantao; Video editor: Luo Hui)
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-11 20:04:41|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

DAMASCUS, July 11 (Xinhua) -- Rocket fire targeted the largest U.S. base in eastern Syria on Sunday, the latest in a string of hits targeting the facility recently, according to the state news agency SANA.

The shelling targeted the U.S. base located in the al-Omar oil field in the eastern countryside of Deir al-Zour, sending smoke spiraling up in the sky, according to SANA.

The base has been targeted repeatedly by pro-Iran militias in the region.

On July 7, the same facility was targeted by weapon-laden drones.

Meanwhile, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said the attack on Sunday is believed to have been carried out by the pro-Iran militia in the western Euphrates River region in Deir al-Zour.

The UK-based watchdog group said there is no report on human losses yet.

A day earlier, an explosion targeted the Koniko gas factory where another U.S. base is located in the eastern countryside of Deir al-Zour with no reports on losses, according to the observatory. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-11 20:39:21|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

Aerial taken on June 6, 2021 shows rescuers participating in a flood-relief drill on the Wulie River in Shuangqiao District of Chengde, north China's Hebei Province. (Photo by Wang Liqun/Xinhua)

BEIJING, July 11 (Xinhua) -- China on Sunday activated a Level-IV emergency response for flood control as heavy rain is expected to lash parts of the country, according to the Ministry of Emergency Management.

The State Flood Control and Drought Relief Headquarters have dispatched three working teams to Shanxi, Hebei and Beijing to assist local authorities.

According to the country's meteorological department, downpours are expected in parts of north and northeast China, as well as some areas along the Yellow River and Huai River.

Parts of Beijing, Tianjin and Hebei will see torrential rain, according to the forecast.

Authorities estimated that above-warning-level floods might occur in 14 small and medium-sized rivers, including the tributaries of the Qujiang in Sichuan and Hanjiang in Shaanxi.

China has a four-tier flood control emergency response system, with Level I being the most severe. 
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-11 21:47:52|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

JAKARTA -- Indonesian President Joko Widodo has expressed condolences and honored the deceased during the COVID-19 pandemic in the country.

"On behalf of myself and the government, as well as the state, I extend my deepest condolences to all the victims of the pandemic, that have preceded us," the president said on Sunday during an online prayer gathering.

- - - -

ULAN BATOR -- Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, Mongolia and China have maintained active cooperation, setting a real example of how neighboring countries help each other and overcome difficulties together, Mongolian Foreign Minister Batmunkh Battsetseg has said.

"Strengthening continuously mutually-beneficial cooperation with China is one of the Mongolian foreign policy priorities," Battsetseg told Xinhua in a recent interview.

- - - -

NEW YORK -- China will continue to be a major contributor to global trade growth in the year ahead thanks to continued strength in China's domestic demand and import demand driven by robust export orders, said an expert with investment research firm MRB Partners.

"It is clear that China will continue to provide solid support for the global economic expansion for the foreseeable future, driven primarily by consumption," said Mehran Nakhjavani, partner of emerging markets with MRB Partners, in a recent research note.

- - - -

JOHANNESBURG -- South African President Cyril Ramaphosa on Saturday called for calm after some people looted shops and burnt trucks calling for the release of former President Jacob Zuma.

"President Ramaphosa says the impact of public violence against the road freight industry and damage to freeways that serve as economic arteries will be felt also by the people organizing and committing these crimes. The President says the reasons allegedly advanced for the violence in KwaZulu-Natal cannot be used to legitimize vandalism and public violence," said acting spokesperson in the Presidency Tyrone Seale. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-11 22:06:59|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

MOGADISHU, July 11 (Xinhua) -- Somali President Mohamed Farmajo on Sunday congratulated Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali for his ruling party's winning the June 21 parliamentary elections in a landslide.

President Farmajo said the victory by Ethiopia's ruling Prosperity Party which won 410 out of the 436 seats contested during the parliamentary election will enable Abiy to regain a strong mandate from the people of Ethiopia.

"Somalia will continue to work with his government to further strengthen our bilateral relations to benefit our two people and the wider region. I wish you great success, prime minister," Farmajo said in a Tweet post.

The National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) which made the announcement on Saturday had postponed twice the June 21 vote because of the COVID-19 pandemic and logistical problems.

It plans to hold a second round of national elections on Sept. 6 in the rest of the electoral constituencies, except in 38 electoral constituencies located in Ethiopia's war-torn northern Tigray regional state.

Ethiopia's new government is expected to be formed in October where Abiy, who came to power in 2018 after the former prime minister resigned due to widespread protests, is assured of a second five-year term.

Under Ethiopia's parliamentary government system, the prime minister who is the highest authority of the land is selected from the party that wins the most seats at the federal parliament level and will be sworn in after the parliamentary vote. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-11 22:35:39|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close





BEIJING, July 11 (Xinhua) -- The international community should consciously resist political manipulation on origin-tracing and carry out origin-tracing research in various countries and regions around the world, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said.

Wang Wenbin made the remarks in response to a query on attempts by some people in the United States to push the WHO to carry out the second-phase origin-tracing investigation in China.

Wang said origin-tracing is a scientific issue, and science and facts should be respected. The joint WHO-China study on COVID-19 origin-tracing published in March this year clearly pointed out that the origin-tracing should be based on a global perspective, and the work in the future will not be limited to a certain region and will be carried out in multiple countries and regions.

From the overall situation of the pandemic, he said COVID-19 has multiple origins and broke out in multiple places. The mayor of Belleville, New Jersey of the United States, said he was infected with COVID-19 in November 2019, and the test results showed he tested positive for antibodies related to the virus that causes COVID-19, which was more than two months earlier than the first confirmed case reported in the United States, and also earlier than the first case reported in China.

Wang said studies found that there was evidence of COVID-19 infection in five U.S. states as of December 2019. A joint study between the University of California, Los Angeles and the University of Washington has also shown that the number of patients with respiratory symptoms and diseases from late December 2019 to February 2020 has increased significantly, indicating that COVID-19 had already spread in U.S. communities before the country had clinical awareness and testing capabilities.

Besides, EVALI broke out on a large scale in Wisconsin in the United States in July 2019, and patients' lung CT showed a fuzzy white mass, which was very similar to the symptoms of COVID-19, he said.

Wang stressed that hyping up the so-called second-phase origin tracing in China is not the right way to find the origin of the virus. It does however feed the political manipulation of labeling the virus and politicizing origin-tracing, which will undermine global cooperation in this regard.

The international community should consciously resist all kinds of political manipulation on origin-tracing, and carry out origin-tracing research in various countries and regions to ensure that it can effectively prevent and respond to a pandemic that may reappear in the future, he said.





Produced by Xinhua Global Service
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-11 23:20:13|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

ADEN, Yemen, July 11 (Xinhua) -- The Yemeni national currency on Sunday slipped to an unprecedented low in the country's southern port city of Aden and other major cities controlled by the internationally-recognized government.

For the first time in the country's history, the collapse of the national currency slipped to a new low of 1,000 Yemeni riyals per one U.S. dollar in Aden and other provinces controlled by the government backed by Saudi Arabia, according to bankers.

"We are selling one U.S. dollar with 1,000-1,007 Yemeni riyals here in the city of Aden," a banker named Emad Mustafa told Xinhua.

The Yemeni riyal recorded a similar unprecedented decline against all other foreign currencies.

Mustafa indicated that a number of banks in the city of Aden suspended the process of buying and selling foreign currencies temporarily.

Spokesman for the Aden Money Exchange Association, Subhi Bagfar, told Xinhua that "the current decline of the national currency comes as a result of the insufficient availability of foreign currency and the insane increase in demand for it."

He said that "they are studying to halt all financial services as a protest to force the government to find urgent solutions for the currency crisis."

In the street markets in Aden, where the government is officially based, one U.S. dollar was traded for 790 riyals earlier this year, up from 215 riyals compared with the rate before the war's eruption in 2015.

The sharp decline in the Yemeni currency's value started to severely affect the people who are already coping with the deteriorated situation caused by the years-long war.

The United Nations World Food Program (WFP) in Yemen warned in December 2020 that the riyal had lost 250 percent of its value since the start of the war in 2015, which has led to an increase in food prices by 140 percent.

In 2017, the Yemeni government floated the national currency, a move that economic observers and analysts said was not well-studied a year after the relocation of the Central Bank to Aden.

The Yemeni economy is continuing to suffer after all exports were halted following a blockade on the country, which was part of a Saudi-led military intervention in March 2015. The blockade has also restricted imports largely.

All investments, including oil and gas projects, whose revenues used to contribute more than 70 percent of the state budget, were shut down.

Flow of foreign cash has stopped almost completely and corruption within the government institutions is among problems deepening economic misery. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-11 23:36:18|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

File photo taken on Aug. 19, 2013 shows Yuan Longping inspecting the trial plantation of hybrid rice at Guanyang County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. (Xinhua/Lu Boan)

CHANGSHA, July 11 (Xinhua) -- Song Chunfang still remembers his teacher Yuan Longping, known as the "father of hybrid rice," telling them to speed up the promotion of hybrid rice in Madagascar before their trip to the country in October 2020.

In Song's memories, the revered rice scientist, who cultivated the first high-yield hybrid rice strain, liked to talk about the basic conditions of planting hybrid rice in different countries whenever he opened a map of the world.

"Yuan was so savvy to every detail, such as the local climate and soil conditions," recalled Song, director of the industry division of Hunan Hybrid Rice Research Center.

Yuan Longping, renowned for developing the first hybrid rice strain capable of eliminating hunger for large numbers of people, died of organ failure at 91 on May 22, 2021.

The late agronomist helped China to work a great wonder -- feeding nearly one-fifth of the world's population with less than 9 percent of the world's total arable land, according to the Hunan Hybrid Rice Research Center.

In April 1979, Yuan presented his paper to an international academic conference on hybrid rice in Manila, sharing China's experience in hybrid rice research with the rest of the world, said the center.

Over four decades, research teams working on hybrid rice have been promoting the technology overseas. So far, Yuan's hybrid rice has been grown in more than 60 countries, with a total growing area of 8 million hectares outside China, according to the China National Hybrid Rice R&D Center where Yuan worked.

"We are not the only institute in China that assists foreign countries in planting hybrid rice, and Yuan would call other organizations to learn more about the status of the assistance they were providing," Song said.

Though the team's plan to visit Madagascar fell through due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the hybrid rice flourished in Madagascar last year.

Established in Madagascar in 2019, the African sub-center is the only overseas sub-center of China's national hybrid rice engineering technology research center, and it is functioning well. Chinese experts in the sub-center set up a service chain including the provision of seeds, relevant training and technical guidance. More than 100 skilled local trainees were given online courses to become hybrid rice experts who can better serve the needs of local farmers.

So far, the sub-center has evaluated and approved three hybrid rice varieties in Madagascar, with two other varieties suitable for growing in most regions of the country expected to gain approval this year.

The bright blueprint is not only unfolding in Madagascar, but also in other parts of Africa.

In Nigeria, China is developing the hybrid rice industrial chain and carrying out relevant technical training in cooperation with the local government.

Meanwhile, in Angola, the targeted screening of drought-tolerant and regenerative rice varieties is underway.

Huang Dahui, former vice head of Longping high-tech international training college, which is accredited by Hunan Hybrid Rice Research Center, has been to more than 40 countries in Asia, Africa and Latin America over the past two decades. At his busiest, he visited five countries in one year.

"Our teacher Yuan Longping had a dream that hybrid rice would be grown around the globe and help solve the world's food scarcity. It is our task to fulfill the dream," Huang said. 
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-11 23:59:04|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

NEW DELHI -- Over 90 percent of police personnel in the Indian capital have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19, while as nearly all personnel have got the first shot, a local news agency, Asian News International (ANI), reported Sunday.

The police personnel in the capital city region are at the forefront of combating the ongoing pandemic. (India-Police-Vaccination)

- - - -

PHNOM PENH -- Cambodia reported 26 landmine and explosive remnant of war (ERW) casualties in the first half of 2021, down 32 percent compared with 38 over the same period last year, said a report released on Sunday.

During the January-June period this year, eight people were killed and 18 others were either injured or limps amputated, said the report issued by the Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authorities (CMAA). (Cambodia-Landmines-Casualties)

- - - -

HONG KONG -- The Office of the Commissioner of the Chinese Foreign Ministry in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) on Sunday strongly disapproved and firmly opposed a statement by the so-called "Media Freedom Coalition," which accused judicial proceedings in Hong Kong, smeared the national security law in the HKSAR, and slandered the central government's policy towards Hong Kong.

"It is a gross interference in Hong Kong affairs and China's internal affairs, and is a blatant violation of the rule of law and judicial independence of the HKSAR," the spokesperson of the office said. (Hong Kong-Press Freedom)

- - - -

ISLAMABAD -- Several laborers were trapped after an explosion happened inside a coal mine in Pakistan's southwestern Balochistan province on Sunday, local reports said.

The laborers were working inside the mine in the Marwar area of the provincial capital of Quetta, when the explosion happened due to the accumulation of toxic gas inside the mine, the reports added. (Pakistan-Coal Mine-Explosion)

- - - -

DHAKA -- Bangladesh witnessed a double record on Sunday, registering 11,874 new COVID-19 cases and 230 related deaths in just 24 hours, according to figures from Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS).

With the newly reported fatalities, the death toll in the country has reached 16,419. (Bangladesh-COVID-19) Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-12 00:49:07|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

SHANGHAI, July 11 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese mainland company has signed agreements with Taiwan enterprises and a foundation on COVID-19 vaccine sales, according to an announcement the company released Sunday.

A subsidiary of Shanghai-based Fosun Pharmaceutical Group Co. Ltd. will sell 10 million doses of mRNA COVID-19 vaccines to Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd., and Yonglin Charity Foundation, according to the announcement.

In March 2020, Fosun inked an agreement with German company BioNTech for the research and development of mRNA vaccines and the exclusive commercial rights and interests on the Chinese mainland and in Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan.

Since Taiwan's epidemic outbreak in May, Fosun has made it clear that it is willing to provide the vaccines to Taiwan compatriots, but the Democratic Progressive Party authority did not approve negotiations for purchase until late June.

Zhu Fenglian, spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, has said cites, counties, non-governmental institutions and enterprises on the island which are willing to buy the vaccines can negotiate purchase in accordance with business rules. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-12 05:36:09|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

ALGIERS, July 11 (Xinhua) -- The Algerian government on Sunday decided to extend the lockdown for 21 days amid a hike in COVID-19 cases.

In a statement, the Prime Minister Office said the lockdown extension should be implemented in 14 provinces, including the capital Algiers, that are witnessing a remarkable increase in COVID-19 cases.

Earlier in the day, Health Minister Abderrahman Benbouzid told the state-run television ENTV that the recent increase of infections is largely due to the spread of the highly contagious Delta variant.

Benbouzid said the ministry is working to provide more resuscitation beds and oxygen for COVID-19 patients, adding hotels, ships, and field hospitals will be mobilized when necessary to cope with the recent rise in infection cases.

He also indicated that the vaccination against the virus will be carried out in homes, mosques, and schools to have more vaccinated.

The government also urged the citizens to wear face masks constantly and respect hygiene and social distancing rules to break the chain of infection.

The health ministry reported on Sunday 786 new COVID-19 cases, 12 fatalities and 519 recoveries, while admitting 39 patients to intensive care units. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-12 05:37:11|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

CAIRO, July 11 (Xinhua) -- In a grand opening ceremony held on July 3, Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi inaugurated the 3rd of July Naval Base on the country's northwest coast along the Mediterranean. It is considered the largest naval base in the most populous Arab country.

The new naval base, in addition to a string of military strongholds established in recent years, reveals a turn of the tide in the country's military strategy in recent years, military and political experts said.

Experts observed that the Egyptian military has strengthened its prowess by diversifying its weapon sources, establishing new military bases and naval fleets since Sisi took office in 2014.

"The Egyptian military strategy has changed during the era of President Sisi," Samir Farag, a retired major general who is the former director of the Egyptian Defense Ministry's Moral Affairs Department, told Xinhua.

"The army is focusing on forming a large military force to deter those who might threaten the Egyptian national security," Farag said.

"The establishment of military bases that cover various strategic directions are among the important strategies the Egyptian army has recently adopted," he added.

"The Egyptian military strategy is indeed defensive, but if national security is threatened, the strategy turns into an offensive one," the Egyptian military expert noted.

Farag also pointed out that the Egyptian military now holds weight in the Middle East thanks to the great leaps in armament, especially after Egypt obtained the French Rafale fighters, the Russian MIG-29 fighters, and the French Mistral-class amphibious assault ships.

"Egypt also developed its military production factories and started to make and develop new weapons, vehicles and technologies," he said.

Meanwhile, Tarek Fahmy, professor of political science at Cairo University, said the Egyptian military strategy is based on "preemptive deterrence" to defend the interests of the state.

"The doctrine is still defensive and not offensive, but it has become proactive, not reactive," he noted.

"I believe that the situation is now totally different from the past decades. The military strategy during Sisi's rule aims at the modernization of the army, and we have seen a notable and unprecedented change in the army's performance and armament," Fahmy told Xinhua.

Samir Ragheb, head of the Arab Foundation for Development and Strategic Studies, echoed Fahmy's view that the Egyptian military has remarkably developed under Sisi.

"The threats facing Egypt are different from those during the rule of previous presidents," Ragheb said, pointing out that the rise of extremist groups such as the Islamic State (IS) poses new threats to the national security of Egypt.

While the Egyptian military doctrine remains defensive on the whole, it can become offensive, especially when facing terrorist threats, the brigadier general said, referring to the military operation carried out by the Egyptian air forces against IS camps in Libya in February 2015. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-12 05:38:03|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

ADEN, Yemen -- The Yemeni national currency on Sunday slipped to an unprecedented low in the country's southern port city of Aden and other major cities controlled by the internationally recognized government.

For the first time in the country's history, the collapse of the national currency slipped to a new low of 1,000 Yemeni riyals per one U.S. dollar in Aden and other provinces controlled by the government-backed by Saudi Arabia, according to bankers.

The Yemeni riyal recorded a similar unprecedented decline against all other foreign currencies. (Yemen-Currency-Devaluation)

- - - -

RIYADH -- Saudi Arabia's King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Sultan of Oman Haitham bin Tarik held on Sunday a negotiation session in NEOM city in northwestern Saudi Arabia.

The session reviewed ties and cooperation in various sectors between the two countries, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The session was held following the sultan's arrival to the kingdom on Sunday following an invitation by Salman.

The two-day visit aims to strengthen relations and cooperation in various fields for the interest and steady progress of the peoples of the two countries, the agency highlighted. (Saudi Arabia-Oman-Visits)

- - - -

JERUSALEM -- Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett said on Sunday his country signed a deal with Pfizer to receive a new batch of COVID-19 vaccines in August.

Bennett said in a statement at the start of the weekly cabinet meeting that "last night we closed a deal to bring forward the next shipment of vaccines to August 1."

He said that together with existing vaccine stocks, the new batch will ensure "from this moment, a continuous inventory of vaccines in Israel."

Bennett said that in June, over 200,000 people were vaccinated, including many teenagers. (Israel-Pfizer-Vaccine)

- - - -

DAMASCUS -- Rocket fire targeted the largest U.S. base in eastern Syria on Sunday, the latest in a string of hits targeting the facility recently, according to the state news agency SANA.

The shelling targeted the U.S. base located in the al-Omar oil field in the eastern countryside of Deir al-Zour, sending smoke spiraling up in the sky, according to SANA.

The base has been targeted repeatedly by pro-Iran militias in the region. (Syria-US Base-Attack) Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-11 20:54:23|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

Rwandan soldiers wait to board a plane for Mozambique in Kigali, capital city of Rwanda, July 10, 2021. The Rwandan government on Friday started deploying a 1000-member joint force of army and police personnel to Mozambique to support efforts to restore state authority in the latter's restive region. The deployment of the contingent comprised of members of Rwanda Defence Force and the Rwanda National Police to Cabo Delgado, Mozambique's gas-rich province that is under threat of the Islamic State-related armed groups and insurgents, is at the request of the government of Mozambique, the Rwandan government said in a statement on Friday. (Photo by Cyril Ndegeya/Xinhua)


Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-11 21:49:24|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

NAIROBI, July 11 (Xinhua) -- Grace Wangui wakes up every morning to beat the traffic jam as she goes to buy supplies for her greengrocery store in Umoja residential estate.

The 30-year old mother of two purchases fresh vegetables from vendors at Wakulima market, Nairobi's largest wholesale market for fresh produce in the morning.

However, Wangui cannot access credit from the banks due to a lack of formal employment or collateral.

Instead, she relies on the numerous Chinese owned mobile lending applications in Kenya such as Okash, Opesa and Credit Hela, which she can access through her smartphone.

"I typically make an application for a 5,000 shillings (46 U.S. dollars) loan after I begin my journey to buy vegetables. Within five minutes I received a message that the money had been sent to my phone," Wangui told Xinhua on Sunday.

Wangui has been using the Okash app to finance her daily operations since early 2020.

"The app has enabled me to have constant cash flow and pay my suppliers on time," she added.

Kevin Mutiso, chairman, Digital Lender Association of Kenya (DLAK) said that on average the sector provides short-term loans of about 36 million dollars per month in the east African nation.

Mutiso said that the proliferation of smartphones in the market has boosted their business as consumers can now apply for loans using their mobile devices any time and anywhere.

He revealed that mobile apps have the technology to assess the credit worthiness of loan applicants within a few minutes and this has revolutionized the credit industry especially for the small entrepreneurs who had been locked out of the formal financial channels.

According to DLAK, there are currently six million digital loan customers in Kenya.

Catherine Aloo, operates a small fish business in the bustling Mathare informal settlement located on the east of the capital, Nairobi.

Aloo said that she uses the Credit Hela app to access quick cash to meet her daily needs.

"Most of my customers take my fish on credit and pay at the end of the month, this leaves me cash strapped. So I depend on mobile loans as I wait for payment from my clients," she added.

The fishmonger noted that without assets to use as security to access a loan at a bank, she relies on digital mobile lending platforms for credit.

Gideon Okeyo, is a street vendor who sells belts for a living in Nairobi's upmarket Gigiri area.

Okeyo said that his business model is viable due to his access to mobile digital platforms that give short-term loans within a few minutes.

"I take a loan of 30 dollars in the morning and with the proceeds, I purchase leather belts from a wholesale shop in town which I sell to middle-class clients by evening so that I can repay the loan on the same day," he said.

Okeyo has been using the Opesa mobile app and he hopes to increase his credit limit by repaying his microloans on time. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-11 23:30:49|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

LUSAKA, July 11 (Xinhua) -- Police in northern Zambia have intercepted a truck that was carrying eight prohibited immigrants, a spokesperson said on Sunday.

Police Spokesperson Esther Mwaata-Katongo said the truck was intercepted at a police checkpoint late Saturday in the matter suspected to be human trafficking.

She said that the Tanzania-registered truck was carrying hand bags, suite cases and laptops.

"The illegal immigrants were detected under the trailer in a hidden compartment and are believed to be Ethiopians," she said the statement.

The named suspects are detained in custody and the truck has been impounded, she added. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-12 02:19:33|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

KHARTOUM, July 11 (Xinhua) -- The Sudanese government decided on Sunday to send a ministerial delegation to the eastern Red Sea State to address the security issues in the state where several people were just killed in attacks.

The ministerial delegation, including interior, transport, and health ministers as well as leaders of different security bodies, was instructed to travel to the state during an emergency meeting chaired by Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok to discuss the security crisis there, according to a statement issued by the Council of Ministers.

Hamdok stressed the need to impose strict security measures on the ground and to arrest whoever proves to have been involved in the violence, said the statement.

He asked the delegation to immediately embark on talks with the state's political, security and community leaders, it added.

Meanwhile, Interior Minister Izz-Eddin Al-Sheikh said joint forces will immediately head to the state to impose security for the citizens.

The security committee of Red Sea State said on Sunday that armed men attacked joint forces in the southern part of the state while two persons launched a drive-by grenade attack on a club, leaving several people killed and injured. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-11 09:36:03|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

ISLAMABAD, July 11 (Xinhua) -- All regional stakeholders expected a "responsible withdrawal" of the United States forces from Afghanistan, chief of Pakistani military's media wing said on Saturday.

"The responsible withdrawal was supposed to be after a peaceful transition, but the withdrawal happened in a bit hasty manner," Director General of the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Major General Babar Iftikhar told a local news channel.

The U.S. army is in the process of leaving Afghanistan and the withdrawal is expected to be completed by Aug. 31, following which all regional stakeholders have to sit together and find a solution to the Afghan issue in consultation with the Afghan leadership, he added.

Answering a query about the future presence of the United States in the region, the official said regional powers are "very well capable of solving Afghan issue if we sit down together," and there is no need for the United States in this matter.

Talking about his country's role to solve the Afghan issue, Iftikhar said that Pakistan tried to help solve the Afghan issue sincerely and it did everything within its capacity to facilitate the peace process.

"Afghan peace process has many aspects where it should be understood that Pakistan was only a facilitator and not a guarantor in the process ... we needed to understand that it would be Afghans' own decision and would not be dictated by any foreign party," he added.

The official said Pakistan has no favorites among Afghan stakeholders, and the decisions are to be taken by the Afghans. "Afghans have the capacity and capability to decide their future course themselves."

Talking about the security measures taken by the Pakistani military to control the infiltration of militants from Afghanistan into Pakistan, the official said that Pak-Afghan border security and management has been beefed up and the 2,611-km border has been 90 percent fenced whereas the remaining areas are either at high altitude or in glaciated places.

"The spillover effect may come to Pakistan...We were very well aware of that and took many measures to cope with the situation," the ISPR chief said. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-11 13:28:55|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

ULAN BATOR, July 11 (Xinhua) -- COVID-19 infections in Mongolia increased by 1,735 over the past 24 hours to 137,788, the country's health ministry said Sunday.

The ministry said that 11 more fatalities and 3,756 new recoveries were reported, taking the national counts to 711 and 103,666, respectively.

The Asian country launched a nationwide COVID-19 vaccination campaign in late February, aiming to cover at least 60 percent of its population of 3.3 million.

More than 2,103,400 Mongolians have so far received their first dose, and over 1,796,200 have been fully vaccinated. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-11 15:19:39|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

TALUQAN, Afghanistan, July 11 (Xinhua) -- Taliban militants' attack on Taluqan city, capital of Afghanistan's northern Takhar province, has been repulsed, a provincial government official said Sunday.

The militants fled away after suffering casualties and leaving over two dozen bodies, government spokesman Hamid Mubariz said.

The armed insurgents launched multi-pronged offensives to Taluqan city early Sunday morning, but the security forces returned fire, forcing the insurgents to flee after suffering casualties and leaving 25 bodies behind, he said.

Meanwhile, army officer in the province Abdul Razaq told Xinhua "At least 18 Taliban rebels have been killed and the rebels failed to gain ground in Taluqan city."

Ten more militants and three soldiers have been injured in the fighting. The security forces have been chasing the militants, the officer added.

Taliban militants, who have already captured at least six districts in the troubled Takhar province and have been fighting to overrun the provincial capital Taluqan city, haven't commented on the situation.

The government forces have repulsed the Taliban attacks on the neighboring Kunduz provincial capital the Kunduz city, and Badakhshan's provincial capital Faizabad over the past couple of days. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-11 15:23:16|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

NEW DELHI, July 11 (Xinhua) -- India's foreign ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi Sunday said India was monitoring the situation in Afghanistan and has brought back staff from the Kandahar consulate for time being in wake of the intense firing there.

"India is closely monitoring the evolving security situation in Afghanistan. The safety and security of our personnel are paramount. The Consulate General of India in Kandahar has not been closed. However, due to the intense fighting near Kandahar city, India-based personnel have been brought back for the time being," Bagchi said in a statement.

"I want to emphasize that this is a purely temporary measure until the situation stabilizes. The consulate continues to operate through our local staff members."

The statement came in wake of media reports that around 50 diplomats and other staff members at the Kandahar consulate in Afghanistan have been evacuated by India, in view of the Taliban fighters rapidly seizing control of a number of key areas in the region.

According to reports, the personnel were flown out on an air force plane and the Kandahar consulate has been closed temporarily.

"Arrangements are being made to ensure continued delivery of visa and consular services through our Embassy in Kabul," the spokesperson said.

As the United States looked to complete the withdrawal of its forces from Afghanistan by August-end, ending nearly two-decade of its military presence in the war-ravaged Afghanistan, a surge in series of attacks has been witnessed in the last few weeks in the country. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-11 16:47:58|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

Photo shows a dwarf cow called Rani at a farm in Savar on the outskirts of Dhaka, Bangladesh, July 8, 2021. The 26-inch long, 26-kg weigh cow called Rani, or Queen, has been applied for the Guinness Book of Records, with its owner claiming it to be the world's smallest cow. (Xinhua)



DHAKA, July 11 (Xinhua) -- Hundreds of people recently have been rushing to Rani, a 20-inch tall dwarf cow at a farm in Savar on the outskirts of Bangladesh capital Dhaka.

The 23-month Rani, or Queen, was bought by Shikor Agro Industries Limited from another farm in Bangladesh's northwestern Naogaon district about a year ago.

The 26-inch long, 26-kg weigh cow has been applied for the Guinness Book of Records, with its owner claiming it to be the world's smallest cow.

The current world record holder, the smallest cow from Indian state Kerala, is nearly 24.1 inches tall, said Tanvir Hasan, manager of the company.

"Our veterinarians have confirmed that Rani has two teeth already and is now 23 months old. She will not grow anymore," he said.

Md Mamun is a cowherd at the dairy farm, who has been taking care of Rani for 11 months.

"Rani is the most distinct type of cow, but it interacts with other cows," he said.

"All other cows eat more food but Rani eats not much. Every day she eats 100 grams of food grains in the morning and 100 grams of food grains in the afternoon."

"Rani is bathed every morning and cleansed in the afternoon, as she would be annoyed if there is dirt," Mamun said, adding that Rani especially likes to be with people.

"I have a close relationship with her, my presence makes her always happy and I like to serve her very much," he added.

Kamrul Hasan, director of the Signature Group, said since Rani came to their farm they have been handling a lot of visitors.

"We are giving the opportunity to the visitors to see Rani in accordance with the health rules during the epidemic, every day from noon to four in the afternoon."

Some visitors even offered to buy the cow for sacrificing in the upcoming Muslim festival of animal sacrifice, Eid al-Adha, at as much as 1500,000 takas (about 17,000 U.S. dollars), the dairy farm officials said, adding that they have rejected.

To curb the virus transmission, Bangladesh imposed a strict one-week COVID-19 lockdown on July 1, which has subsequently been extended till July 14. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-11 17:59:13|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

UNITED NATIONS, July 11 (Xinhua) -- Pakistan's permanent representative to the United Nations, Munir Akram, has said that the founding of the Communist Party of China (CPC) in 1921 was a "seminal" event in the world history and Pakistan and China will continue to work "hand-in-hand" at the world body to advance the noble cause of peace and development.

In a recent video message to the UN community on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the CPC, Akram said he is "honored to convey our heartfelt felicitations to the Chinese people on the 100th anniversary of the Communist Party of China. The founding of the CPC in 1921 was a seminal event in world history."

"Over 100 years, the CPC has led the Chinese people from the depths of poverty and despair to the heights of achievement," the senior diplomat said.

"China has undergone astounding transformation and national consolidation," he said, hailing poverty alleviation, infrastructure construction, trade upgrading, industrialization and technological breakthroughs as "unprecedented" achievements in the annals of history.

Noting that Prime Minister Imran Khan has said that China's success "is something we hope to emulate in Pakistan," Akram said that Pakistan supports China's efforts to safeguard world peace, reinvigorate multilateralism, preserve international order and advance global development.

Pakistan's "time-tested friendship with China," and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, which is a major project of the Belt and Road Initiative, provide an enduring framework for the continued strengthening of bilateral ties, said the ambassador.

"And, our All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership remains a strong anchor for peace, progress and prosperity," he said, adding that "Pakistan will continue to work hand-in-hand with China at the United Nations to advance the noble cause of peace and development not only for our countries but for all developing countries." Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-11 19:02:31|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

FAIZABAD, Afghanistan, July 11 (Xinhua) -- Afghan government forces have recaptured Yaftal-e-Payan district in the northern Badakhshan province, forcing the insurgents to flee, deputy spokesman for Interior Ministry Ahmad Zia Zia said Sunday.

The government forces launched counter-offensive against Taliban fighters in Yaftal-e-Payan district on Saturday, forcing the insurgents to flee after suffering casualties, the official said without providing more details.

Taliban militants have reportedly captured 10 districts including Yaftal-e-Payan in Badakhshan province over the past couple of weeks.

In the meantime, fighting between government forces and the Taliban militants, for the control of Kuran-wo-Munjan district of Badakhshan, has been continuing for the past four days.

According to a local official, at least 30 militants have been killed or injured over the past 24 hours.

Confirming fighting in the restive Kuran-wo-Munjan district, the spokesman for Badakhshan provincial government Nik Mohammad Nazari told Xinhua that "17 insurgents including some foreign nationals" have been killed and some 20 others injured since Saturday.

Government forces have also recaptured Aliabad district in the northern Kunduz province, forcing the militants to flee, according to locals.

Since the start of pull-out of U.S.-led forces from Afghanistan on May 1, Taliban militants have reportedly captured more than 170 districts. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-11 19:50:01|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

TOKYO, July 11 (Xinhua) -- Japan will start accepting applications for vaccination passports from July 26 for people who have been fully inoculated against COVID-19 to travel internationally, the top government spokesman said Sunday.

Whether to use such certificates for domestic economic activities as business circles request is under consideration by the Japanese government, Chief Cabinet Secretary Katsunobu Kato said on an NHK TV program, adding that people should not be discriminated against or forced unfairly due to whether they have been vaccinated or not.

The vaccination certificates will be official records issued by municipalities. It will show information about an administered vaccine, the vaccination date and location, and personal information such as name and passport number.

Kato has said the certificates will be issued in paper form by the end of July, and the digital ones will be considered later.

The largest business lobby of Japan, the Japan Business Federation, known as Keidanren, has suggested using the certificates for raising event attendance caps and for restaurant discounts in Japan.

The vaccination certificates are also introduced in the European Union and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations for international travelers from their member states.

Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga's government is stepping up the vaccination rollout in Japan. The program started in February with health care workers and expanded to those aged 65 or older from April. Recently, inoculations for people under 65 have begun in some municipalities, and companies can apply vaccines for their employees.

However, some municipalities are forced to restrict accepting reservations due to a recent supply shortfall of vaccines, and new applications by companies have been suspended.

Suga has said that his goal is to complete inoculations for all eligible people in Japan who want to receive vaccines by November. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-11 20:54:01|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

MAZAR-I-SHARIF, Afghanistan, July 11 (Xinhua) -- Taliban militants attacked Afghanistan's border town Hairatan in the northern Balkh province on Sunday but retreated after leaving seven bodies behind, police chief of the border town Shafi Faiz said.

"The Taliban rebels attacked the security checkpoints in Qazlaq area of Hairatan town early this morning, but they fled away after leaving seven bodies behind," Faiz told Xinhua.

The key border town connecting Afghanistan with the neighboring Uzbekistan has been regarded as the main trade gateway between the two nations.

Taliban militants, which have taken control of the Shir Khan border crossing in northern Kunduz province which connects Afghanistan with Tajikistan, are yet to make comment on the development.

Fighting has intensified since the start of withdrawal of the U.S.-led forces from Afghanistan and the Taliban group has reportedly captured more than 170 districts over the past two months.

Government forces have been trying to regain control of the lost districts and have recaptured nearly 20 districts over the past couple of weeks and military offensive on Taliban has been continuing to consolidate state control across the war-battered country. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-11 15:51:17|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

A voter is seen in Sofia, Bulgaria, July 11, 2021. Bulgarians all over the world went to polls on Sunday to vote in the country's early parliamentary elections. More than 6.7 million voters are eligible to elect 240 lawmakers from 15 political parties and eight coalitions, according to official data. (Xinhua/Lin Hao)

SOFIA, July 11 (Xinhua) -- Bulgarians all over the world went to polls on Sunday to vote in the country's early parliamentary elections.

More than 6.7 million voters are eligible to elect 240 lawmakers from 15 political parties and eight coalitions, according to official data.

As many as 13,005 polling stations opened across the country at 7 a.m. local time (0500 GMT) and are due to close at 8 p.m. (1800 GMT), the Central Election Commission of Bulgaria said.

Meanwhile, 782 more ballot boxes are available in 68 countries for Bulgarians living abroad to cast their ballots from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. local time on Sunday, the Foreign Ministry said.

Polling stations in New Zealand opened first, followed by those in Australia. Election day abroad will end the latest in San Francisco, the United States, the ministry said.

According to the country's legislation, parties and coalitions need to gain at least 4 percent of the votes to enter the parliament. The votes received by those failed to enter the parliament will be redistributed proportionally to the qualified parties and coalitions.

Exit polls will be announced immediately after stations closed in Bulgaria, and official results are expected on Thursday.

The previous parliamentary elections in Bulgaria were held on April 4 this year. The then ruling party GERB together with its ally Union of Democratic Forces got only 75 seats and failed to form a government, while both of "There Is Such A People," the second largest party in the parliament with 51 seats, and Bulgarian Socialist Party, the third largest party in the parliament with 43 seats, refused the proposal by Bulgarian President Rumen Radev to form a government.

Therefore, in accordance to the country's constitution, Radev has signed a decree on the holding of new parliamentary elections, dissolved the National Assembly, and appointed a caretaker government. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-11 16:46:15|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

LONDON, July 10 (Xinhua) -- A spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in Britain on Saturday expressed outrage and firm opposition to a report published by a committee of the lower house of British parliament.

The report, which is "full of lies" about China's Xinjiang, represents a blatant interference in China's internal affairs, according to the spokesperson.

Responding to a question about the report "Never Again: The UK's Responsibility to Act on Atrocities in Xinjiang and Beyond" issued by the Foreign Affairs Committee of Britain's House of Commons, the spokesperson said it is "nothing but a pack of disinformation."

"It is an attempt out of ulterior political motives to deliberately slander China's policy on Xinjiang and wantonly interfere in China's internal affairs," said the spokesperson.

There is no so-called "internment camps" in Xinjiang, the spokesperson said, adding that the vocational education and training centers set up in Xinjiang in accordance with laws are schools.

This is part of the proactive and preventive de-radicalization and counter-terrorism measures aimed at tackling terrorism and religious extremism at the source, no different from Britain's Desistance and Disengagement Programme (DDP) or the de-radicalization centers in France, the spokesperson said.

There is no "forced labor" in Xinjiang, only voluntary employment and selecting jobs according to people's own volition, while lawful labor rights are protected, the spokesperson said.

The use of technological products and big data to improve social governance is a common practice of modern countries, the spokesperson said, noting that it does not target any specific ethnicity.

Thanks to the Chinese government's unremitting efforts, Xinjiang now enjoys social stability, ethnic harmony and rapid economic growth, while the political, economic, and social rights and freedom of religious belief of all ethnic groups in the region are fully guaranteed, the spokesperson said.

"It must be emphasized that Xinjiang affairs are China's internal affairs that no other country has the right to interfere in," said the spokesperson. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-11 18:48:41|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

A Moldovan citizen living in Romania casts the ballot at a polling station in Bucharest, Romania, July 11, 2021. Some 3 million voters of the Republic of Moldova are called on Sunday to cast their ballots in snap parliamentary elections, in which 20 political parties, two blocs and one independent candidate compete. (Photo by Cristian Cristel/Xinhua)

BUCHAREST, July 11 (Xinhua) -- Some 3 million voters of the Republic of Moldova are called on Sunday to cast their ballots in snap parliamentary elections, in which 20 political parties, two blocs and one independent candidate compete.

Although the number of parties participating in the current elections greatly exceeded that of the previous ones in early 2019, local public opinion generally believes that the competition is mainly between the Party of Action and Solidarity (PAS), founded and led by Maia Sandu before she won the presidential election late last year, and the Electoral Bloc of Communists and Socialists (EBCS).

The 101 seats in the unicameral parliament will be mainly shared by the two political groups while only one or two of the other contenders are likely to enter the parliament, according to local analysts.

In order to enter parliament, the parties must garner more than 5 percent of the total votes and the electoral blocs 7 percent, while the threshold for independent candidates is 2 percent.

With 3.28 million people eligible to vote, 2,000 polling stations across the country opened at 7:00 a.m. (0500 GMT) and will close by 9:00 p.m. (1900 GMT), according to the Central Election Commission. As many as 150 stations abroad are set to open between 7:00 a.m. and 9 p.m. local time.

The latest polls showed that the pro-Western PAS is credited with the most votes, followed the electoral bloc EBCS, which brings together the Party of Communists and the Party of Socialists, two parties favoring friendly ties with Russia.

The Sor Party and Renato Usatii Electoral bloc would be the other two contenders to pass the threshold of the parliament, according to the polls.

The Moldovan parliament is elected for a four-year term under normal circumstances. The previous parliament operated in 2019-2021 and was dissolved by President Maia Sandu on April 28, after two failed attempts to form a government in the country.

Local media said that Sandu has been pushing for an early parliamentary election soon after her election as president at the end of last year, as she believed that early elections could change the current parliamentary power balance that is unfavorable to her.

In the disbanded parliament, the socialists bloc EBCS was the largest party with 37 seats, while the PAS had 15 seats. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-11 21:02:28|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

ANKARA, July 11 (Xinhua) -- At least 12 people were killed and 26 others injured after a minibus carrying illegal migrants crashed on Sunday in eastern Turkey.

A vehicle, carrying migrants in Muradiye district of eastern Van province near the Turkish border with Iran, caught fire after the driver lost control of the bus, the local governorate said in a statement.

The organizer of the transfer and 11 migrants died in the accident, 26 injured migrants are taken under treatment at nearby hospitals.

The owner of the bus has been detained.

Turkey has been a transit point for migrants mostly from Iran, Afghanistan and Pakistan who aim to cross into Europe. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-07-11 16:50:03|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

LOS ANGELES, July 10 (Xinhua) -- Two firefighters were killed Saturday in the U.S. state of Arizona in an operation to battle with a wildfire which was ignited by lightning Friday night and has burned down 300 acres (about 1.21 square km) so far.

The firefighters were killed in a plane crash while conducting aerial reconnaissance over the fire near the Prescott National Forest, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) said in a statement.

"The accident occurred around noon today and involved an air attack aircraft performing aerial reconnaissance and command and control over the fire. Two crew members were on board and we are sad to report there were no survivors," interstate incident information system Inciweb said Saturday.

The tragedy came as wildfires raged through the western regions of the United States recently due to drought and high temperature.

In California, the Beckwourth Complex Fire, which occurred about 70 km north of Lake Tahoe, a famous vacation spot in the United States, showed no signs of slowing down after doubling in size between Friday and Saturday and jumping the state border into Nevada.

Temperatures in parts of California reached near-record highs with Death Valley hitting 130 degrees Fahrenheit (54.4 degrees Celsius) Friday, just four degrees shy of a world record set in 1913. Enditem
#Mininter alcanza cifra record al incinerar mas de 30 toneladas de droga decomisadas al narcotrafico. Ministro @PePeElice destaca trabajo coordinado de las instancias del Estado en la lucha contra el trafico ilicito de drogas.

???Mas informacion: https://t.co/3FaAE4m3mN pic.twitter.com/Wywe3mIuaN
Presidente @FSagasti: Hasta el momento hemos inmunizado a mas de 140 000 personas en este primer #Vacunaton que se realiza en Lima Metropolitana y Callao. La vacuna es el escudo mas seguro contra la COVID-19. Acudan a su centro de inmunizacion mas cercano.#JuntosPorElVacunaton pic.twitter.com/ma9NW6pOiK
Businesses have reopened in Los Angeles and elsewhere in the United States, with "We're hiring" signs everywhere. But if life has a pre-Covid feel, a new challenge has arisen for restaurants: workers are not willing to return at any cost.

"We are dealing with a staffing shortage that I have not experienced in my career," said Skyler Gamble, a manager at Acme Hospitality, which oversees several restaurants in Santa Barbara around two hours' drive north of Los Angeles.

"Our experience in the last six to nine months as business levels have rebounded, is that fewer and fewer candidates respond to job postings."

The hospitality industry was slammed by coronavirus and pandemic-related restrictions, shedding millions of jobs.

But any restaurateurs counting on a return to normal have experienced a rude awakening.

Classified ads abound on the internet -- waiters, cooks and bartenders are in high demand.

But in a major shift in power, employers wanting to land a qualified worker increasingly have to stand out from the crowd.

Craig Martin, who owns Cafe 50's on Santa Monica Boulevard in Los Angeles, has to replace a cook. Faced with a lack of applications, he is offering a $2,000 hiring bonus -- $500 per month over four months.

Like many who are trying to hire, Martin blames pandemic-related unemployment benefits for the apparent labor shortage.

Many former service industry employees are "not even thinking to look for jobs," he said.

- 'Not rushing back' -

The reality is more complex, said Enrique Lopezlira, director of the low-wage work program at the UC Berkeley Labor Center.

Employers complaining about the market should acknowledge that they are simply unable to find workers "at the wage and quality of job" they are willing to offer, he said.

Many hospitality workers do not receive paid sick leave or health care benefits, and are "still not willing to come back into the labor force because they still feel very much at risk of the virus," particularly with Covid variants spreading, he said.

Story continues

The issue of childcare, especially during the summer months, is also affecting women's return to the workplace.

For University of California Berkeley economist Sylvia Allegretto, there is "definitely not a worker shortage."

"But employers find it strange that workers are taking their best options as the economy opens up and not rushing back to the lowest paying jobs with low to no benefits," said Allegretto.

- 'Abused at work' -

Before the pandemic, Kenzie McMillan worked as a waitress at a Hollywood restaurant.

Overnight in March 2020, she lost her job with "no heads up, no warning," and without compensation.

When her former boss called in June last year asking her to return, she said no. Going back to work would have meant losing her unemployment benefits, and she feared passing the virus to a housemate who has an autoimmune disease.

"It's not worth it, again I wasn't getting paid enough," said the 27 year-old, who did not get medical insurance at the restaurant job, and was getting "tired" from the physical demands of the work.

For Allegretto, it is clear that employers are going to have to "up their game to compete for workers."

Both Acme Hospitality and Martin -- of Cafe 50's -- said they have increased their wages.

But it is "hard to forecast" whether the improved pay and benefits currently on offer in many establishments will remain once the economy fully recovers, which is not likely until late next year, said Lopezlira.

"The whole workforce has changed," said McMillan, who sees parallels with the #MeToo movement.

Women were exploited "for so long until they were like, 'oh, actually I don't have to do this and I can actually say no,'" she said.

McMillan found a new job in April, at a trendy Hollywood hotel, where she is paid $17.50 an hour and finally has medical insurance.

"We've realized that we don't actually have to be abused at work," she said.

iba/amz/jm
Trade Minister Dan is embarking on a two-week official trip with-stop offs across Asia and the US, countries that take around a quarter of Australia's exports of goods and services.

Mr Tehan said the purpose of the trip is to strengthen trading relationships and promote investment in Australia.

"I will be promoting Australia as a reliable producer of high-quality products as well as a safe destination for investment," the minister said in a statement on Sunday.

"There are opportunities to further engage with our trading partners on emerging issues, such as digital trade and standards."

In Singapore, Mr Tehan will hold talks with his counterpart Gan Kim Yong, while in Vietnam he will see Minister for Industry and Trade H.E. Nguyen Hong Dien and Minister for Planning and Investment H.E. Nguyen Chi Dung.

In South Korea. Mr Tehan will have discussions with Minister for Trade Yoo Myung-hee.

Mr Tehan will hold the third economic dialogue while in Japan, meeting Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Kajiyama Hiroshi, Minister for Foreign Affairs Motegi Toshimitsu and Minister of State for Economic and Fiscal Policy Nishimura Yasutoshi.

Finally, in the US he will have talks with Trade Representative Ambassador Katherine Tai.

"Australia's success as a trading nation is built on the strength of our relationships with our trading partners," Mr Tehan said.

"I will also champion support for a functioning global rules-based trading system that is vital to the economic prosperity of our region."

The tour comes at a time of heightened trade tensions between China and Australia.

On his return to Australia, Mr Tehan said he will be under going two weeks of quarantine.
He was the son of the late Joseph and Marion (Falcone) DiVietro. John graduated from West High School, class of 1965, and received his Bachelor's degree from Kent State University in Business Administration in 1970. He spent his career as a realtor and owned DiVietro Real Estate.

John was an outgoing and affable man who enjoyed conversations with people from all walks of life and all nationalities. In addition to Auburn, he lived several years in Florida and NYC. John's travels took him to Europe, Russia, Egypt, Israel and the Caribbean Islands; his favorite was Egypt. Through his travels he learned about different cultures and various arts and cuisines lending him a broad appreciation of what the world has to offer. As a young boy he was drawn to the performing arts and throughout a significant portion of his life he cultivated this interest.
I joined Westminster Presbyterian Church in 1981, 40 years ago. While this anniversary is of no significance to anyone but me, it has prompted some reflections on the changes in church life over the last four decades.

I joined Westminster in my mid-20s, having just moved to Auburn from Albany. I remember walking into the church for the first time to attend a funeral, and being immediately struck by the Tiffany rainbow window that reminded me of the beautiful Tiffany in my church in Albany. I returned the following Sunday and was warmly welcomed. I had found my home.

In 1981, mainline churches were fairly stable, although nothing like their heyday in prior years. The congregation was older, and they seemed thrilled to welcome a young professional woman. The membership at the time included a lot of white-collar workers, and programming was geared toward nuclear families (mom/dad/kids). I was attracted to the challenging sermons and lively, intelligent congregation. I was quickly invited to become a deacon, and grew to love my new church family.
Another big collaborative project the college is working on is a formal alumni mentoring program currently targeted to debut this fall. The program would involve current student learning from alumni, and that being developed by the college's alumni and career services offices and some alumni leaders.

Pollock said that while Wells has many alumni who like to support the institution, others wants to help in various ways.

"A lot of them will say, 'Can we come and speak as a guest lecturer in a class or can we take on an intern or can we mentor a student,' but when it comes right down to it, if you don't have a real framework or process for that, a lot of those opportunities can go kind of unfulfilled," he said.

The college hasn't just been planning these undertakings, Pollock said, but has also been working on "the really complex work of budgeting for (these plans) over four to five years out." He said each initiative has a financial plan associated with it

He also noted that Wells has been enacted for the last several months is detailed regional marketing, including not just areas the college normally reaches out to but to places such as Buffalo, Albany, some downstate marketing and have done even a little bit of marketing in northern Pennsylvania. The campaign has included a lot of cost-effective digital marketing.
The storm came a day after a deluge flooded some streets and subway stations in New York City.

Despite videos showing flooding in some stations Thursday, we actually weathered the storm quite well, interim New York City Transit president Sarah Feinberg said in an email.

Up to 6 inches (15 centimeters) of rain was possible in some areas Friday, enough to cause flash flooding.

Most of the winds stayed offshore in New England but the eastern tip of Maine expected gusts of 30 mph to 40 mph (48 kph to 64 kph), raising concerns about some localized power outages. Heavy rain  including a projected 5 inches (12 centimeters) along part of the Maine coast  was expected before the storm blew into the Bay of Fundy and Canada late Friday.

Scattered power outages were being reported along Elsas path Friday.

The system was already blamed for one death in Florida on Wednesday. And Elsa also previously caused a damaging tornado in Georgia.

On Wednesday, nine people were injured in coastal Camden County, Georgia, when a tornado struck a campground for active-duty service members and military retirees. Eight of those hurt had to be taken to hospitals, Kings Bay Naval Submarine Base spokesperson Chris Tucker said.
Social media influencer Addison Rae has seen her star rise ever since she showed up on TikTok, becoming one of the apps breakout stars thanks to her dance videos and other appearances. She currently has over 81 million followers on the app and was named by Forbes as the highest-earning personality on TikTok in 2020.

Along with money, Rae has obviously been looking for ways to leverage the brightly burning fame that comes with social media before it fades. On Twitter, she made it look like one of those ways was working as a live reporter for Saturdays UFC 264. While no official announcement was made, Rae shared photos of herself on the red carpet while holding a UFC-branded microphone, with the message I studied broadcast journalism in college for 3 whole months to prepare for this moment (Rae reportedly did attend LSU for a few months).

I studied broadcast journalism in college for 3 whole months to prepare for this moment pic.twitter.com/5Z95OTSVTA  Addison Rae (@whoisaddison) July 10, 2021

The 20-year-old also shared photos and videos of herself in official UFC gear on Instagram. However, as per A.J. Perez of Front Office Sports, this was a stunt:

This was all a stunt, a source with knowledge of the situation tells @FOS. @whoisaddison was never employed by UFC, either in a full-time capacity or as a one-off for #UFC264. pic.twitter.com/sq4rL8pNs1  A.J. Perez (@byajperez) July 10, 2021

Its still notable the reaction this got. While if this had been true, it might feel like a real success story for Rae, but the flippant announcement seems to have hit a raw nerve with many, especially journalism students and working journalists. Many of those who tweeted about it were frustrated with seeing another broadcasting gig taken by someone who might not have the education, experience, or ambition that they have, especially in a marketplace where journalism and broadcasting opportunities already seem scarce.

just imagining everyone who went to school for this and applied getting the call that addison rae got the job thats so sickening https://t.co/UZjRGifyjV  michael (@EEJC15) July 10, 2021

Ill be vulnerable here. A punch to the gut thinking about the $19,000 salary I accepted in 2019 to get my on-air start in a backwards newsroom and to put my degree to use. Its not about her new job title (for me at least), its about that caption #NOTalook https://t.co/w0xk1KpFtb  Kiera Grogan (@Kieracgrogan) July 10, 2021

Imagine spending four years in college plus unpaid internships plus reporter/producer/editor/photog jobs that pay next to nothing to even have the SHOT at a better job and all it takes for Addison Rae is TikTok and three months of college to be ahead of you. https://t.co/U01hx6tgGT  Steve Benko (@SteveBenko) July 10, 2021

To aspiring journalists devastated/frustrated over this  you will see many who land a sweet gig for various reasons  not always deserved. Look away & keep focused on what YOURE building  a career. Whats easy wont last  and what lasts isnt easy. Keep growingkeep going https://t.co/e1baSgxvmg  Laura Okmin (@LauraOkmin) July 10, 2021

Career advice for those considering getting a full-time journalism degree: A LOT of jobs in the industry are now being taken over by influencers/celebrities/YouTubers. It's a reality you need to deal with. https://t.co/Gtl32sQPaY  Hyunsu Yim (@hyunsuinseoul) July 10, 2021

Addison Rae potentially taking a broadcasting spot from a young kid who worked her entire life for that spot bc she woke up and decided to just be there is my problem here. https://t.co/CAYhB5EzrU  Grandpa Warpath (@jonesyL4L) July 10, 2021

While many might have assumed that UFC loved the attention that Rae brought with her, good or bad, that was apparently not the case. After the social media backlash, Rae tweeted that she was fired.

nvm yall got me fired https://t.co/kHFFvHuSaM  Addison Rae (@whoisaddison) July 10, 2021

Theres probably a discussion to be had here about whether or not Rae got especially dumped on here because shes a young female influencer while plenty of male athletes transition over to broadcasting roles without receiving similar backlash. But thats the kind of nuanced conversation thats best saved for another day. At any rate, this certainly got everyone talking.

[Addison Rae]
It seems, however, that remote learning will be much less common next year at NAU.

While NAU had learned we can do a lot of these things remotely over the past year, Mackey said, and we're definitely looking at ways to make that a part of our normal workplace environment. ...Were definitely also at a new point for relaunch and getting all of our 30,000-plus students back in action this academic year.

Because of that, he said, the plan is to bring NAU employees back in-person as well. Typically, faculty have returned to campus the week before classes start. This year, the goal is to have Aug. 16 as a marker for faculty to be back in person, with the time leading up to the date being used to stagger that return. Mackey said many NAU employees had already returned and that a little more than half of them were already back on the Flagstaff campus.

If a student should get sick, Pugliesi said, NAU is planning to use the same isolation and quarantine procedures from the previous year, using designated spaces in campus residence buildings. Pugliesi said these had never exceeded their capacity in the past year, so they should be more than adequate for the needs of the coming school year.
Reclamation recently realigned three miles of the San Acacia river reach south of Albuquerque, Faler said, which is likely the reason why were not seeing significant drying yet below Bosque del Apache.

The federal agency also removes vegetation to improve flows and prevent sediment plugs.

An extensive permitting process for those projects stems from environmental laws designed to protect endangered species habitat.

More sediment removal and watershed restoration projects could improve water delivery efficiency in and out of Elephant Butte, said Earl Conway, New Mexico Bass Nations conservation director who helps restore or introduce fish habitat in several state reservoirs.

A dam starts dying the day its built, as it fills in with sediments, Conway said. Elephant Butte will probably be dead in 75 years. That sounds like a long time, but its just a few generations of farmers, and then theyll be in a world of hurt for water.

The Elephant Butte dam was built from 1912 to 1916.

For nearly a decade, Conway has installed more fish habitat, including plant life, at the southern reservoir.
The Supreme Court has wrapped up its 2020 term  and what a term it was. The court handed down major cases involving religious liberty, the freedom of association, property rights, election law and the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare), among others.

Most of the cases didnt make headlines. My comments here focus on the high-profile cases because they are the ones most people are familiar with. In my judgment, this was a good, but not great, Supreme Court term. If I gave the court a letter grade, Id give it a B.

On the First Amendment (religious liberty, speech, freedom of association), the court gets decent marks. Although it initially permitted state and local governments to restrict religious liberty because of the COVID-19 pandemic, it quickly corrected course after Justice Amy Coney Barrett joined the court and stood up for the proposition that our fundamental rights do not disappear during an emergency. This is cause for celebration because, in the past, the court has often failed to do so.
This month offers an easy opportunity to get involved with a once-a-decade process. Arizonas Independent Redistricting Commission will meet here in Flagstaff, and elsewhere in northern Arizona, to hear from residents.

Redistricting is the process by which census data are used to divide each state into congressional and legislative districts. Arizonas nine congressional districts will be used to elect members of the US House of Representatives; our 30 legislative districts are used to elect state senators and representatives.

Our Independent Redistricting Commission (IRC) was established by majority vote on Proposition 106 in 2000. It amended the state constitution to set up a bipartisan commission to oversee the mapping of fair and competitive districts (original language), starting with a blank slate each decade. The goal is to eliminate abuses such as gerrymandering, encouraging both voters and candidates to participate in our democracy.
https://www.firstpost.com/sports/wimbledon-2021-world-no-1-ashleigh-barty-beats-karolina-pliskova-to-claim-womens-singles-title-9795441.html

The 25-year-old Australian  who wore a specially-designed dress in tribute to Cawley's iconic scallop one she sported in 1971  adds the Wimbledon crown to her 2019 French Open title.

Ashleigh Barty won her first Wimbledon title on the 50th anniversary of fellow indigenous Australian Evonne Goolagong Cawley's maiden crown, beating Karolina Pliskova 6-3, 6-7 (4/7), 6-3 in the final on Saturday.

The 25-year-old Australian  who wore a specially-designed dress in tribute to Cawley's iconic scallop one she sported in 1971  adds the Wimbledon crown to her 2019 French Open title.

"It took me a long time to verbalise, to dare to dream it and say it," said Barty, who was also fulfilling a childhood dream.

"I didn't sleep a lot last night, I was thinking of all the what-ifs. I hope I made Evonne proud."

It was the first women's Wimbledon final to go to three sets since 2012 when Serena Williams beat Poland's Agnieszka Radwanska.

Barty is also the first top seed to win the women's title since Williams in 2016.

Barty had looked like cruising to victory after soaring into a 4-0 lead over her opponent  the Australian's start so blistering that she won the first 14 points.

However, 29-year-old Pliskova steadied herself while Barty faltered when she served for the match at 6-5 in the second set.

The Czech broke and then swept the tiebreaker to take the final into a decider.

Barty got the break for 2-0 in the final set and despite one or two wobbles she got herself over the line sinking to her knees, her hands over her face in disbelief.

She wiped a couple of tears away before climbing up to the player's box, just like her compatriot Pat Cash did when he won the Wimbledon men's title in 1987.

Victory would taste sweeter too as only last month she retired from the French Open in the second round due to a left hip injury.

"This is incredible," said Barty, the third Australian woman to be crowned Wimbledon singles champion in the Open era (Cawley and Margaret Court (1970) the others).

"I have to start with Kaja (Karolina Pliskova).

"Congratulations on an incredible tournament to you and your team. I love testing myself against you and I'm sure we'll have many many matches."

'I never cry..now'

Barty is masterful at remaining poker-faced on court and she managed to restrain her emotions largely at the presentation ceremony.

However, once off court she sobbed as she hugged her boyfriend Gary Kissick.

For Pliskova, it was more heartbreak as the former world number one fell at the final hurdle in three sets in the 2016 US Open final.

At one point with Hollywood superstar Tom Cruise looking on it looked feasible, though, that she could pull off mission impossible in winning the title.

However, her previously superb weapon  her serve that had only been broken four times prior to the final  deserted her when she most needed it.

So did her emotions as Pliskova  the fourth Czech woman to appear in a Wimbledon singles final in the Open era  spoke after receiving the runner-up trophy.

Her tears, though, did not compare to those shed by her late compatriot Jana Novotna when she lost in the 1993 final and had to be consoled by the Duchess of Kent.

Perhaps of some consolation to Pliskova is Novotna picked herself up after that defeat and won the title in 1998.

"I never cry, never, and now," said Pliskova stepping back a bit.

"I want to say Ash [Barty] played an incredible tournament, I fought to make it difficult for her but she played very well so congrats to her.

"I want to thank all my team. All the success goes to them, without them I would not be here, and my family of course.

"No matter which trophy I have we have had an incredible two weeks here."
The challenging search area contains countless rock fields, car-sized boulders, scree fields, and snowfields. Searching the area requires technical experience and advanced backcountry knowledge. The size of the search area and the difficulty of the terrain makes searching extremely dangerous, rescuers said.

I am impressed with the outstanding commitment of all the volunteers on this search operation. Every search technique and technical capability was utilized. said Josh McQuillan, Carbon County Sheriff. We had support from local, state, regional and federal resources."

Based on the conditions, terrain, search effort, and the time she has been missing, her family, Red Lodge Search and Rescue, and the Carbon County Sheriffs office believe it is not likely she survived. Unfortunately, there are hundreds of thousands of places that Tate could have gotten into trouble on these rugged mountains when the storms came into the area on Friday, said Incident commander Tom Kuntz. After the extensive search efforts, we do not believe she survived
The soil that covers 93 million acres of sprawling Texas rangeland holds a remarkable story. Its a tale of opportunity and ruin. At its best, the soil beneath our feet is the source of life, food and economic security. At its worst, that same soil can crumble ranchers livelihoods and put at risk our local food systems and entire communities.

Much of the western United States is in the throes of a megadrought. The U.S. Drought Monitor reports that nearly 60 million people now live in parts of the West plagued by drought. Farmers and ranchers are making hard choices about which herds to cull or land to leave fallow. But in the midst of this megadrought, an expanding network of farmers and ranchers is quietly taking steps to catch and keep more water in the soil that nourishes our food.

First-generation farmers Jeremiah and Maggie Eubank manage 2,000 acres in Texas Hill Country. Theyre raising cattle, sheep, pigs, chickens and ducks on rugged land between San Antonio and Austin. Its beautiful, tough land that Maggie Eubank says has been beat up on for a century. Theyre working to change that. Theyre using above-ground livestock to take care of the microscopic livestock living underground, which grows more grass and keeps more water in the soil. The Eubanks are turning overworked dirt into healthy soil.
The situation is outrageous. Right now, Exxon Mobil is plotting how to get our senators to sell us out. Take a minute to remember  as weve all been struggling through unending heat, Exxon has been in Testers office, delaying the climate action that will transform the future we will die in into one in which we will thrive. Corporations are not people, and Exxon is not a constituent. I am. You are.

When I reflect on why Exxon thinks that Tester might choose them  climate killers  over you and me, I realize it must be because he has not made it clear whether he believes climate action is important to the infrastructure package being hashed out right now in D.C. He has championed a bipartisan version that lacks any substantive climate action. To be accountable to his constituents, rather than to Exxon, the senator must find a way to pass climate action this summer.

Perhaps the senator is having trouble deciding whose side hes on because of the ways in which our lives are different. I am only 23 years old. Unlike Tester, I cannot dream of anything but climate action, because without climate action, my future will be a nightmare. The good news? I am ready to work hard for this planet.
All proceeds from the store will go to paying overhead expenses and back to the Soup Cafe, with a long-term goal of creating safe housing for individuals and families, Matt Meier said.

"Right now theres limited resources for families who are coming out of addiction or are looking for a safe place to stay," he said. "If we can create an environment for people to be around other good people, thatll overall help the community."

Turning an old tire store into a retail outfit has been a challenge, Matt Meier said, but repainted walls and shelving have helped transform the space.

While they have a variety of products such as tools, blinds, couches and flooring, Matt Meier said they are selective with what donations are, and are not, accepted.

"We don't want to be a thrift store for people to take all of their junk to," he said. "People are going to be putting this stuff in their homes, so the people donating it shouldn't donate something that's going to harm someone or isn't going to be good for someone else."

Matt Meier said they hope to open the store sometime in August, but it could take until September to finish construction, painting and pricing.
In Oregon, the Bootleg Fire exploded to 224 square miles (580 square kilometers) as it raced through heavy timber in the Fremont-Winema National Forest, near the Klamath County town of Sprague River. The fire disrupted service on three transmission lines providing up to 5,500 megawatts of electricity to neighboring California.

The largest wildfire of the year in California was raging near the border with Nevada. The Beckwourth Complex Fire  a combination of two lightning-caused blazes burning north of Lake Tahoe  grew by a third Sunday to 134 square miles (348 kilometers). However, firefighters working in temperatures that topped 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) were able to gain some ground, doubling containment to 20%.

Late Saturday, flames jumped U.S. 395, which was closed near the small town of Doyle in California's Lassen County. The lanes reopened Sunday, and officials urged motorists to use caution and keep moving along the key north-south route where flames were still active.

Do not stop and take pictures, said the fire's Operations Section Chief Jake Cagle. You are going to impede our operations if you stop and look at what's going on.
New York's two U.S. senators are calling for the owner of Cascades Containerboard's Niagara Falls manufacturing plant to reach agreement on a first labor contract, more than two years after workers there voted to join a union.

Sens. Kirsten Gillibrand and Charles Schumer wrote a joint letter to Mario Plourde, president and CEO of Quebec-based Cascades, saying "the contractual negotiations must be done in good faith in the effort to forge a fair contract and working conditions."

"The men and women of the (International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers union) and Cascades Containerboard management, as well as customers, will only mutually benefit from a new labor agreement, and we urge both sides to come to a fair and equitable agreement as soon as possible," the senators wrote.

Officials with the machinists union, which represents over 100 workers at the Cascades plant on Packard Road, say they are frustrated with the lack of progress toward a first-time deal. Workers voted in favor of joining the machinists union in April 2019.

Ronald Warner, an official with Machinists District 65, said there has been "no progress in the negotiation deliberation in months."
Still, Garcia is among the candidates who doubt they would have sat in on the trial, as Howard did.

I would want to know the facts of the case, Garcia said. But representing the Sheriffs Office, I would not want to come off as influencing the witnesses or the jury.

Garcia did not want to say whether Howard should or should not have attended the trial, deferring to the sheriffs decades of law enforcement experience.

Two other candidates were more critical.

I wouldnt have done that, and I wont do that in the future, said Ted DiNoto, an Amherst police lieutenant, and a Republican, running on an independent line. I believe in our system, but I dont think there should be any perception of trying to influence anything for any reason. If he thinks that was to support his officer, that was the wrong way to go about it.

Said Democratic nominee Kimberly Beaty: We have to begin restoring trust between the police and the community. It was inappropriate for Sheriff Howard to appear in his uniform and huddle with the defense team in open court. His actions cast doubt as to whether there were adequate checks and balances, which is a disservice to his officers and the people they swear to protect.
Western New York has gone nearly two weeks without a single Covid-19 death, according to New York Department of Health data  the longest fatality-free stretch the region has seen since the start of the pandemic.

Statewide, three people died of Covid-19 on Friday, and 661 new cases were detected, according to a Saturday press release from Gov. Andrew M. Cuomos office. Just three months ago, Western New York alone logged more new cases and deaths on a daily basis. The region's most recent Covid-19 death was in Erie County on June 25, according to the state Department of Health.

Public health officials attribute the steep and sustained drop in new cases to both the rollout of the Covid-19 vaccine and the return of summer weather, which makes it easier for people to congregate outdoors. More than 70% of adult New Yorkers, and 67.5% of adult Western New Yorkers, have now received at least one dose of Covid-19 vaccine.
He simply did not care about the political impact. It wasnt about him, Lenihan recalled last week. It was that Marine mentality of Were here to solve problems. 

During that transit shutdown, when negotiations dragged on throughout a long night, someone began moaning and groaning at about 4 a.m.

This is nothing compared to getting shot at, Lenihan remembers him saying. This is politics. It will be over in a few days.

Former Rep. Tom Reynolds, a Republican, also recalls daily dealings with Gorski while minority leader of the Legislature. More than anything, Reynolds appreciates the joy of politics as practiced back then.

He was the product of an era when we fought as hard as anybody and then would go out and have a drink together, he said. He was a decisive and forceful leader with the ability to corral Democrats and Republicans to come together.

Gorski will never be remembered as dynamic; aloof seemed his perpetual label.

I cant change my personality, he told the Politics Column following that 1992 loss. And I not going to be a phony and belly up to the bar to drink draft beer and slap people on the back. Im just not like that.

Maybe you dont have to be a backslapper, and maybe it doesnt hurt to lose once in a while. None of that detracts from how Dennis Gorski is remembered the weekend after his funeral.

Catch the latest in Opinion Get opinion pieces, letters and editorials sent directly to your inbox weekly! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy.
While the Cannes Film Festival has served up punishing 80-plus degrees weather every day so far, that heat has yet to translate to the iconic festivals film market.

At the halfway point, Cannes 2021 has not seen the expected flurry of deals at the festivals concurrent Marche du Film. The only significant sales have come in the form of an eye-popping $75 million from STX for the global rights to Gerard Butlers forthcoming Greenland sequel, and a multimillion-dollar pact from Netflix for the low-fi horror CURS>R with Asa Butterfield.

More from Variety

Numerous industry players who spoke with Variety noted the sluggish sales pace on the ground, especially considering many available titles pre-screened for buyers in June at the Cannes virtual market.

Top brokers, financiers and agents in the south of France, however, insisted that the market is rebounding following the easing of pandemic restrictions and is fully active  with only six days left until Cannes-goers head home.

All the major U.S. buyers are here for all the competition entries, and theyre active, said Stuart Ford, CEO of the production and finance entity AGC Studio. There have been deals. Obviously, for the international buyers, we had the virtual market, but I get the impression theres plenty of follow-through going on here. Generally, I think that the wheels are turning, and this has been a really constructive exercise.

While optimistic, Ford did concede this was a slightly more sedately paced festival.

Sources at top agencies expected several high-profile deals to close before the end of next week. Theres no shortage of pedigree product for sale, a mix of finished films and preproduction packages. Directors including Alexander Payne, Todd Haynes, Todd Solondz and Andrea Arnold are selling their wares. Movies with marquee names such as Natalie Portman, Julianne Moore, Sean Penn, Dakota Johnson and Ewan McGregor are up for grabs. An interesting observation from Ford noted the ongoing struggle for indie productions to obtain pricey COVID-19 insurance, which can eat as much as 20% of already lean budgets. It directly impacts mid-budget films, which will not be able to raise pre-sale financing without bankable stars.

Story continues

On the international front, Asian companies have seen a limited physical presence at the Marche. While partly due to travel restrictions, buyers in territories including Japan are banning travel at the express advice from leadership or parent owners.

The larger fear in these markets, according to knowledgeable insiders, is that border closures and quarantine conditions will prevent travel for many months to come. That could adversely affect the regions fall film festivals in Busan and Tokyo, as well as Novembers American Film Market and Singapores ATF.

Those lucky enough to walk the Croisette think it lends a competitive advantage.

As a buyer, youre more special if youre here on the ground, said Rocket Science boss Thorsten Schumacher. You have an edge over your competitors. When it gets really serious, you have to be there. Schumacher has been championing the independent model in Cannes, but streamers will continue to be key players as the industry claws its way out of the pandemic.

Without studios and the SVODs, productions wont be able to nimbly adapt to ongoing coronavirus outbreaks and ever-changing protocols.

Many territories in Asia are suffering third or fourth waves of COVID, forcing film and TV shutdowns.

Australias unexpected new coronavirus wave has led to dramatic precautions. Still the region seems to be booming. Thailand, a major destination for mid-size runaway shoots, has also closed its borders. Some are continuing or are expecting to go ahead (like Apple and Paramounts Shantaram, for instance).

With the threat of production shortage and pipeline disruption for the indie players, the stakes may prove too high.

Patrick Frater, Manori Ravindran, and Christopher Vourlias contributed to this report.

Best of Variety

Sign up for Varietys Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Representative Image

Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], July 11 (ANI): Kolkata Police's Special Task Force on Sunday arrested three suspected Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB) terrorists.

As per the official sources, " Three suspected JMB terrorists held from Kolkata by STF. Arrested persons are Naziur Rehman, Shabbir, Rezaul. Some firearms were also seized."

V Solomon Nesakumar, joint Police Commissioner of Kolkata Police's STF addressed a press conference on the matter and said, "Today at 2:00 PM, 3 Bangladeshi nationals have been arrested by STF whose link is with JMB. A handwritten diary and some false documents have been found from them."

Meanwhile, two terror suspects were arrested by the Anti-Terror Squad (ATS) in Lucknow's Kakori on Sunday, informed police sources. A huge amount of explosive material was also seized from their possession.

They said that the ATS had received information that the arrested terror suspects were planning to carry out some major terror incidents in the state. (ANI)
Sophia Lopez Moreira and Luis Pettengill

Facebook

The bodies of three family members of the First Lady of Paraguay, Silvana Lopez Moreira, have been found in the rubble of the Champlain Towers South Condo that partially collapsed in Surfside, Florida, last month.

On Thursday, the remains of Sophia Lopez Moreira, husband Luis Pettengill and the couple's youngest son were discovered, National Chancellor Euclides Acevedo confirmed, according to Telefuturo.

"I regret and sadly have to report the confirmation of the discovery of the lifeless bodies of Sophia Lopez Moreira, Luis Pettengill and the youngest of their children," he said. "We are still pending the search for the other bodies of our compatriots."

"This is authorized information, official information both from our Consulate in Miami and from people close to the family," Acevedo added. "I am very sorry to have to give this type of information."

The couple's two other young children remain among the many missing, as well as Lady Luna Villalba, a worker accompanying the family.

RELATED: Fla. Condo Collapse Search Turns from Rescue to Recovery Mission: 'There's Zero Chance of Survival'

Sophia Lopez Moreira and Luis Pettengill

Facebook

Sophia Lopez Moreira and Luis Pettengill

Facebook

Despite hope that search and rescue teams would be able to pull additional survivors from the rubble, local officials recently announced that the Surfside scene has turned from a search and rescue mission into a recovery effort.

The announcement came during a press conference on Wednesday evening, 13 days after the 12-story complex collapsed around 2 a.m. local time on June 24. During the conference, Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava said they made the decision with "profound sadness" and called it a "difficult decision."

"We have all asked God for a miracle, so the decision to transition from rescue to recovery is an extremely difficult one," Levine Cava said. There would be a moment of silence in front of the building around 7 p.m. local time before the transition to recovery officially takes place at midnight, she added.

Story continues

Surfside Mayor Charles Burkett said the possibility of someone still being alive beneath the rubble is "near zero," but he had not lost hope "for a miracle."

RELATED VIDEO: Community Rallies Around Mom, Teen Daughter Pulled from Rubble in Fla. Condo Collapse: 'Miracles'

According to The New York Times, officials met with the families of the missing before making the announcement public on Wednesday.

"Just based on the facts, there's zero chance of survival," Assistant Chief Ray Jadallah of Miami-Dade Fire Rescue told the families in a private briefing, the outlet reported.

During a press conference days after the collapse, Jadallah said firefighters were listening for human sounds to find areas to concentrate on. But ultimately, the only survivors were retrieved from the rubble hours after the building fell.

As of Friday morning, the death toll from the condo collapse has risen to 64, CNN reported, citing Levine Cava's comments from a press conference the night prior. Meanwhile, 76 people are "potentially unaccounted for," the outlet added.

In total, 200 individuals have been accounted for and of the 40 dead who have been identified, 39 families have been notified, the Miami-Dade County mayor added.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 11)  The Department of Tourism urges the public to remain on guard, even as the Inter-Agency Task Force in charge of managing the COVID-19 pandemic has given children permission to go outdoors.

While the opening of outdoor areas to children and fully vaccinated seniors is a step to encourage local travel, this must not be taken as blanket authority for complacency and misrepresentations. We must continue to be vigilant and act responsibly as well," Tourism Secretary Berna Romulo-Puyat said on Sunday.

Puyat's statement came after the IATF said on Friday that children as young as five years old will be allowed to go out in areas under general community quarantine and modified GCQ, as long as the areas are not under "heightened restrictions."

The IATF also said that children must wear face masks at all times.

The task force earlier announced that fully-vaccinated seniors are allowed in areas under general community quarantine and modified GCQ to go out of their homes, provided they present their COVID-19 vaccination cards when asked and observe minimum health standards.

THE DOT said the easing of restrictions would provide the public to visit outdoor destinations, as well as stay active even amidst the pandemic.

"Staying active, while fully practicing health and safety protocols, is one of the best ways for both adults and children to be mentally and physically healthy, she said.

Metro Manila mayors will discuss concerns and issues concerning the IATF's decision in a meeting today.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 11) -- The country tallied 5,916 new COVID-19 infections, pushing the nationwide count to 1,473,025, the Department of Healths latest bulletin showed.

Of the total, 49,701 are active cases or currently ill patients. At least 89.3% have mild symptoms, 5.0% are asymptomatic, 1.5% are critical, 2.4% are in severe condition, and 1.70% are experiencing moderate symptoms.

Meanwhile, the death toll rose to 25,921 after 105 more patients succumbed to the disease. The recovery count also climbed to 1,397,403, with 6,127 new COVID-19 survivors.

The DOH said 10 duplicates were removed from the total case count, of which six were recoveries.

It added that 53 cases previously tagged as recoveries were reclassified as deaths after final validation.

All laboratories were operational on July 9, while three laboratories were not able to submit their data to the COVID-19 Document Repository System, the DOH said. Based on data in the last 14 days, the non-reporting laboratories contribute, on average, 0.7% of samples tested and 0.5% of positive cases.

The daily positivity rate, or percentage of people that tested positive for the coronavirus, stood at 11.4% based on 47,070 tests done on July 9. The World Health Organization has recommended that the positivity rate should be kept below 5%, as higher numbers may mean high transmission.

The OCTA Research group on Saturday reported that the COVID-19 fatality rate in Metro Manila has been declining since early this year. Data showed that Metro Manilas overall case fatality rate dropped to 1.6% in the first quarter from the 2.32% recorded in 2020.

Meanwhile, the Department of Foreign Affairs has received no new reports on COVID-19 cases among overseas Filipinos.

To date, there are 20,933 confirmed COVID-19 cases among Filipinos abroad. The death toll is at 1,245 while the recovery count is at 12,354.
(CNN)  They came with white flowers to honor a man accused of attempted murder.

His victim was a seemingly random police officer  and for some in Hong Kong, that not only justified the violence, it was cause for commemoration.

Over the past week, a steady trail of visitors have turned the July 1 crime scene into a memorial. Families have brought their young children to mourn the knifeman, who fatally turned his weapon on himself shortly after the attack. The student union of prestigious Hong Kong University passed a motion to say they "appreciated his sacrifice." And the man's employer, beverage company Vitasoy, saw its stock dip 14.6%, its biggest plunge since going public in 1994, after it offered condolences to the attacker's family in a leaked internal memo. Online, some have hailed him a hero.

To them, the attacker died fighting an unelected regime that has stifled dissent. In the year since Beijing imposed a draconian national security law on Hong Kong, a newspaper has been closed, public protest appears to have been banned, and nearly all of the city's leading pro-democracy figures, including activists and politicians, have either been jailed or forced into exile.

Authorities have responded to the memorials with fury. Carrie Lam, the city's leader who was elected by only a few hundred people, urged the public to avoid inciting more "immoral acts." Police guarded the stabbing site for several days, removing flowers from the makeshift memorial, and characterized the attack as "terrorism," feeding a narrative from authorities that civil society is now under threat from random acts of political violence.

The July 1 attack exposed that while protests and political opposition have been blunted, the anger that rocked Hong Kong in 2019 lingers in the anti-government camp  prompting fears of more violence.

A holiday subdued

The attack was particularly shocking for two reasons  both the choice of victim, and the choice of day.

For the first 20 years after Britain returned Hong Kong(https://www.cnn.com/specials/asia/hong-kong) to mainland China, July 1 was a day of mass peaceful pro-democracy marches. This year, those demonstrations were banned, ostensibly under coronavirus restrictions, and a huge police presence was deployed.

The victim was one of dozens of police officers stationed near a cordoned-off street corner, which had been the starting point for previous mass pro-democracy marches, when his attacker pulled an object from his bag and plunged it into him.

The police officer was rushed to hospital in critical condition.

Before the national security law, Hong Kong authorities gave licenses for July 1 marches, a symbol of Hong Kong's relatively high level of freedom compared to mainland China.

That changed after 2019. For months that year, pro-democracy protests paralyzed parts of Hong Kong, at times resulting in violent clashes between protesters and police. Many demonstrators saw the police response as heavy-handed, fueling public mistrust in officers who the democracy movement saw as agents of the government.

And as the movement veered into something more dangerous, Beijing's tolerance for demonstrations in Hong Kong ran out.

When the coronavirus pandemic put a pause on mass gatherings, Beijing swiftly used a back door in Hong Kong's mini-constitution to bypass the city's independent legal system and pass a controversial national security law, which criminalized acts of secession, subversion, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces.

With avenues for peaceful protest blocked, thousands have left the city, emigrating to Western democracies offering safe harbor, while hundreds have become political refugees. For those left in Hong Kong, there are few legal ways to be heard.

John Lee, Hong Kong's number two official and a former police officer, said in an emailed statement to CNN that the security law had restored "much-needed peace, calm and stability to society and the streets of Hong Kong."

Nobody had been "forced into exile" or "to leave," the chief secretary wrote. "The so-called political 'refugees' include those who championed violence and the overthrow of the HKSAR government but have avoided the consequences of their actions by running away," he said.

The July 1 attack showed that while dissent had been silenced, it hadn't disappeared, said Joseph Cheng, a prominent Hong Kong political commentator who now lives in New Zealand. "The anger is obviously there," he added.

Authorities have not revealed the attacker's motive. Police called him a lone-wolf domestic terrorist who was likely "radicalized by myriad fake information." According to local media RTHK, the man was 50, unmarried and lived with his parents.

Local media reported that a police psychologist's report on the attacker's mental state would be handed to the coroner, in preparation for a possible inquest. A psychology professor at a university in Hong Kong, who asked not to be named for fear of backlash, warned against blaming the attack on mental health issues alone, saying such a "simplistic explanation" wouldn't "adequately" unpack the situation.

One mourner, an education worker in her 20s, said she believed the attacker had "reached a point of despair" after the 2019 protests.

"I wanted to be a part in his commemoration to show that he was not alone," she said. "There is no space for political expression. We have no outlet at all. We cannot take to the streets, we cannot sing songs with political implications because it is illegal."

A 'twisted pursuit of freedom'

The July 1 stabbing also represents another tough reality: how the once-revered Hong Kong Police Force has become a public enemy for some.

Polling by the Hong Kong Public Opinion Research Institute found satisfaction with the police force slumped during the 2019 protests. In the latest poll in May, the police satisfaction rating had risen to 44 out of 100  well below the peak of 67 recorded almost a decade ago.

Hong Kong police declined to comment for this story, but one 10-year veteran of the force who asked not to be identified because he was not authorized to speak with the press, said he was shocked and saddened by the attack.

The officer said it was a "twisted pursuit of freedom" inspired by "fake news," including unsubstantiated allegations that police had killed several protesters.

"In my line of work, I need to monitor social media activity. The number of fake accounts that take up my main feed is overwhelming," he said. "No matter what your values are and no matter how noble they can be, there can be no tolerance for violence and extremist tactics."

The mourners, he said are "naive." "Showing empathy to the attacker is wrong," he said. "How can you teach the next generation that this behavior is acceptable?"

A former high-ranking police official, who spoke to CNN on the condition of anonymity out of fear of reprisals, said officers "need to be cautious."

"The man who killed himself is a killer. Why do you see him as a hero?" the police veteran of more than 30 years asked of those who laid flowers.

To the government and their supporters, the July 1 attacker is one of the "terrorists" who are beginning to emerge as the latest threat to Hong Kong's stability.

Fears for the future

Less than a week after the attack, the Hong Kong Police Force's National Security Division said it had uncovered a plot linked to a pro-independence group to bomb train stations, court buildings and underground tunnels.

It wasn't the first alleged terrorist threat they uncovered related to the democracy movement. During the 2019 protests, police seized the largest ever cache of high-powered explosives ever found in the city.

When a 29-year-old was sentenced earlier this year in relation to that haul, the judge said he "came close to declaring war" on society, local newspaper the South China Morning Post reported. Hong Kong is a city with little violent crime and few safeguards against terror attacks  there are no security checks in subways or malls, for instance.

In a polarized climate, some are skeptical of how real the threat of terrorism is. To many, the separation of powers between police and government is being becoming blurred.

Others believe there could be legitimate cause for concern that copycat attacks could inflame tensions that spiral into a larger threat.

A user on LIHKG, a popular, Reddit-like forum used by protesters in 2019, claimed to be planning a similar attack against a police officer. The 30-plus year police veteran said he worried about copycat attacks, especially if members of the public continued to offer what he called "prayers for a killer."

Diminishing legal ways to voice dissent meant it was possible that lone wolves could resort to more extreme actions, political expert Cheng said. "You are driving a very, very small group of radicals to extreme actions," he said, appealing to Lam to restore and rebuild people's trust in the police force.

"Any sensible government has to recognize this accumulation of anger, and has to make attempts to reduce the anger instead of just condemning the violent acts," he said.

Whether Hong Kongers would listen to their leader is another matter. A recent survey from the independent Hong Kong Public Opinion Research Institute found that 70% of respondents would give Lam a vote of no confidence, and only 16% were satisfied with the government's performance.

In the meantime, police officers, who do not make the law but have to enforce them, are on the frontline of public anger.

The psychology professor said the authorities in Hong Kong had become an "easy target on which people can project all their frustration and disappointment, political or otherwise."

"Hong Kong people still haven't had the chance to collectively process or resolve what they experienced (in 2019)," he said. "Covid-19 served as a substantial, and perhaps very effective, distraction, but ultimately true healing needs to take place."

This story was first published on CNN.com, "Some Hong Kongers are glorifying a man who knifed a cop, showing the city's problems are far from over."
The law is intended to get crisis patients into care as rapidly as possible, before their conditions can worsen and before they can put themselves or others in danger.

It was passed because of the experience of state Sen. Creigh Deeds, who had sought emergency care for his son. Gus Deeds was sent back home after a regional mental health employee said he could not find a bed for him; hours later, the young man attacked his father and killed himself.

Mandating placement for patients in this kind of extremis is well-intentioned. What wasnt anticipated was just how many patients would need such interventions, or how seriously these placements would overwhelm hospitals and staff.

A legislative group known as the Deeds Commission is working hard to find solutions, and find them quickly.

Speed is necessary because the General Assembly will meet in early August to determine what to do with the $4-plus billion that Virginia received from the American Rescue Plan.
Removing the statues is one step toward dismantling white supremacy in our community but there is so much more to be done, the flyer read. You may feel anger, grief, relief or even joy, all at the same time. For some community members, this time may be a reminder of trauma already endured.

Shortly after 9 a.m., the crew started work on the Jackson statue. The removal took a bit longer than the Lee statue, but the Jackson statue still left Court Square Park by 11 a.m.

The crowd, which had at least doubled in size since the removal of the Lee statue, loudly cheered and applauded the crew.

Get ready, someone shouted in anticipation.

Some members of the crowd chanted f*** white supremacy as the statue was strapped to the truck.

City councilors voiced their support for city staffs work in executing the removal process.

The police chief, the city manager, all of the other people who had to be involved really did a great job of planning it so that it could come off without a hitch, Councilor Lloyd Snook said in an interview.

Councilor Sena Magill tweeted her thanks late Saturday afternoon.
The blaze, which was only 8% contained, increased dramatically to 86 square miles (222 square kilometers) as firefighters sweltered in 100-degree temperatures.

It was one of several threatening homes across Western states that were expected to see triple-digit heat through the weekend as a high-pressure zone blankets the region.

Pushed by strong winds, a wildfire in southern Oregon doubled in size to 120 square miles (311 square kilometers) Saturday as it raced through heavy timber in the Fremont-Winema National Forest near the Klamath County town of Sprague River.

The National Weather Service warned the dangerous conditions could cause heat-related illnesses, while Californias power grid operator issued a statewide Flex Alert from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday to avoid disruptions and rolling blackouts.

The California Independent System Operator warned of potential power shortage, not only because of mounting heat, but because a wildfire in southern Oregon was threatening transmission lines that carry imported power to California.
ROANOKE  A conservative free-speech group is seeking a preliminary injunction that would prohibit Virginia Tech from enforcing policies that it says encroach on the rights of right-leaning students.

Speech First Inc. wants federal Judge Michael Urbanski to prevent the school from enforcing five anti-bias policies until he rules later on a lawsuit filed in April on behalf of three students.

Starting around 2016, colleges and universities began to implement rules and procedures that are portrayed as efforts to limit harassment and discrimination  but in fact were designed to chill free speech about political issues, the group maintains.

Virginia Tech is not unique, attorney Michael Connolly said during virtual arguments Friday in Roanokes federal court. There are others all over the country.

The students contend in their lawsuit that they hold views that are unpopular on campus, such as opposition to the Black Lives Matter movement, same-sex marriage, abortion and the recognition of transgendered people.

Knowing that they cannot ban such speech outright, Tech officials have drawn up an elaborate scheme of policies that will make conservative students afraid to say what they think to classmates and others, Connolly argued.
The University of Virginias Weldon Cooper Center  which VDOE uses to gauge school-age population, defined as between 5 and 19 years old  estimates there are nearly 1.6 million people statewide who fall in this category.

This means almost 3 in 4 children in this age group are not vaccinated, and only about 1 in 5 are fully protected against the virus.

In the 2020-21 school year, there were 1.2 million K-12 students enrolled full time in Virginia. Even if assuming all 305,355 of the fully vaccinated children under the age of 20 were part of that number, it would account for only a quarter of the enrollment count.

Infections among younger children are rare, but its not a 100% guarantee that they cant transmit the virus or be hospitalized  especially as the delta variant leaves unvaccinated people susceptible to getting sick.

As of Friday, Virginians under the age of 20 accounted for about 1 in 5 infections caused by a variant of concern. On Thursday night, a second child under the age of 10 died from COVID-19.
VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (AP)  Head south on Princess Anne Road, through the wide-open fields of Pungo. Pass the grazing horses and roadside stands selling fresh produce.

Tucked beside Creeds Elementary School, youll find a shingle-covered building that, prior to the pandemic, offered senior citizens a place to socialize, take dance classes, play bingo and more.

For 15 months, though, there was nothing. But now, the place that had become a community hub for the areas oldest residents is coming back to life. The sign outside the Senior Resource Center is no longer blank; in black lettering, it states, We are open again!

The center, in the far southern reaches of Virginia Beach, opened June 22 after the coronavirus shuttered it for more than a year.

Last Thursday afternoon, Rita Trammell was back teaching her weekly line dancing class.

Stomp and flick. Right, left, right, she called out over the music. Stomp and flick. Left, right, left.

Among the participants was 87-year-old Rosemary Stepnowski who lives alone in Virginia Beach and was filled with excitement when she learned of the reopening. Being able to gather in person again is a blessing, she said.
Plans are for work on the statue to begin around 7 a.m. and have it on a flatbed by 9 a.m. Those times are not set in stone, however.

To remove the base and finish the site, work crews will need to intermittently close single lanes of West Main Street between 13th Street Northwest and 14th Street Northwest beginning Sunday and continuing through Friday. The closures will be in one- to three-hour increments between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m.

Parking on the south side of West Main in the area will be closed, as will the southside sidewalk. Pedestrians will need to use the northside sidewalk, crossing at 14th Street and Jefferson Park Avenue.

Flaggers will direct drivers through the area during the closures, but traffic will continue to move in both directions.

As for where the Clark monument will go, The statue will be placed into storage as the university continues to work with a committee to determine a suitable location, the spokesman said.

The university sent out a request for proposal for monument removal on June 14. It closed the RFP on June 21 and approved a contract on July 6.
JLARC also warned that the VECs antiquated computer system, which helps people track their unemployment claims, may be at risk of shutting down as the agency transitions to a better system.

JLARC, the review and investigations arm of the General Assembly, has been looking into complaints about the VEC going back to this time last year. Because of the depth and breadth of the VECs deficiencies, the commission is deviating from its usual procedures. It is advising the VEC on remedies even before its final report is due, based on its emerging discoveries.

An interim report is planned for September and the full report is due in November, in time for lawmakers to digest its contents and formulate possible legislative solutions.

JLARC is recommending that the VEC work with the same private company that helped the Virginia Department of Health manage its heavy volume of calls during the past year of the pandemic. As of this writing, a contract with the company was being reviewed.

The VEC already had expanded its call centers, but  as lawmakers learned last week  it still is not keeping up with demand.
* Username

This is the name that will be displayed next to your photo for comments, blog posts, and more. Choose wisely!
In the fields beyond Alamosa, it was a rare morning. Cleave Simpson found his hay damp.

"It's frustrating when you got hay on the ground and there's rain on it," he said. "But when you live around here, you learn to appreciate it."

Once again this summer, rain has been hard to come by in this historic farming valley of southern Colorado. The average annual precipitation in the middle of the San Luis Valley hovers around seven inches  about as low as it gets in all of Colorado, according to the Colorado Climate Center.

And yet farming prevails. It is the lifeblood of Alamosa, the town that rose from a once-bustling railroad and today is often passed by travelers en route to more flashy destinations on the Western Slope. Unlike other rural communities that have swapped mining or energy for tourism, the ruling industry here is and always has been agriculture.

ABOUT THE SERIES In the arid West, water means life. Turn on your tap, and you're part of the Colorado circulatory system. The towns born along the banks of Colorado's most iconic waterways -- The Colorado, the Big Thompson, the Arkansas lead a list of 158 named rivers -- live the same way yet differently along the banks. The staff of Colorado Politics with the journalists of the Denver and Colorado Springs Gazettes are fanning out this summer to tell the story of a state as reflected in its water, its people, and its future, with the past as prologue. Come along all summer to learn more about the people and places that make us all a little bit more Coloradan.

"The hospital, the county and city offices and school district, all of those are important," said Alamosa Mayor Ty Coleman. "But farming and ranching, that's it. That's huge."

Its a legacy of resilience maintained by generations of families dating to the 1800s, when companies carved canals across this high desert to capture generous snowmelt from the mountains. Winters would be harsh and sudden freezes in the spring all too common, and summers would be hot and dry. But that runoff would provide. With grit and innovation, potato producers here would be nationally renowned.

Simpson represents his family's fourth generation to tend the fields.

And often, he wonders if he'll be the last. This is the modern plight of life along the Rio Grande River.

Simpsons worries led him to seek and win his district's Senate seat last year.

"The ag community here is feeling an abundance of pressure as electricity and fuel and seed and fertilizer and labor all continue to increase. What we get for our crops isn't keeping up," he said. "And then there's this pressure about our demand for water exceeding our supply."

That imbalance is almost as old as the state's first water right that was decreed in this valley in 1852, where tribes and conquistadors clashed before the U.S. staked its territory. Narrow gauge tracks led the way to a central hub that would be called Alamosa, so named for a Spanish word meaning cottonwood, for the trees lining that life-giving river.

But by the turn of the 20th century, the Rio Grande was considered over-appropriated. Demand outpaced supply.

"So we've always lived in this area where there was this level of stress," said Heather Dutton, manager of San Luis Valley Water Conservancy District and fifth-generation native.

The difference, she said, is this century's more dire circumstances.

Fundamental changes

A multi-agency report last year found average annual streamflows to be steadily declining since the 1930s, with drops worsening in the 2000s. Citing climate change, the report warned of that long trusted snowpack in the mountains becoming less dependable.

"Farmers and ranchers are likely to have significantly less surface water available," researchers wrote, "and groundwater recharge may decline."

Where Simpson's and Dutton's grandfathers and fathers didn't have the Rio Grande to count on, they had groundwater. They joined drilling and pumping that ramped up in the '30s. The shallow and "unconfined" aquifer and deeper "confined" aquifer, both remnants of an ancient lake, represented turning points for farming.

"But it was also a turning point for what my generation is now grappling with," Dutton said, "where now we have too many wells, we have too much pumping, and we're taking more out of the aquifer than we're putting back in."

The decades saw agreements for taking and giving back  for digging a hole, filling it with water and thus recharging the unconfined aquifer in hopes of making up for Mother Nature.

"By far, that's where most of the groundwater withdrawals occur in the valley," Simpson said. "The potatoes are grown and raised above that unconfined aquifer. Most of the intense irrigation is above that unconfined aquifer."

Simpson manages the Rio Grande Water Conservation District, which has tracked the aquifer's storage since 1976. From the mid-'80s to today, charts show a staggering drop: a change amounting to about 1.3 million acre-feet of water.

The severe drought of 2002 started the steep trend of decline. Since then, there have been year-to-year gains of storage  eight years totaling 746,791 acre-feet. But there have been more years of drops, 10 totaling more than 1.7 million acre-feet. Lows this year are on par with record lows following the 2012 drought, data show.

The hope of Simpson and Dutton is to locally regulate before higher powers enforce harsher demands. The state has called on the valley to bring water back up to pre-2000 levels, or else face possible consequences of widespread shutdowns in 2030.

Simpson looks at the charts and struggles to see the line rising that high. "The clock's ticking on us," he said.

Farmers are taxing themselves to pump, with that money going to other farmers to pump less. Simpson and Dutton have been encouraging creativity, such as less water-needy crops like hemp and quinoa.

But they fear more drastic measures.

"There is a need to physically take land out of production," Dutton said. "And it's not like it's just one person owns everything and we can just say, 'Hey, can you cut back your farm by 30%?' There are hundreds of families that farm and ranch here.

"And this is how they make their living, it's in their blood, they want to do it, they're proud of it. So trying to get people to cut back or stop farming altogether, it's a study in psychology and human behavior. It's really hard."

And there are broader ramifications to consider when farms close, Simpson said. The well-being of his hometown is at stake when that happens, he said  Alamosa's school, hospital and small businesses.

"The potential to fundamentally change this place, it's there," he said.

A river that binds

Alamosa is trying to change before it's forced to. Leaders are looking to the river.

"The river is the thing that unites us," Coleman said.

Last year's report on the Rio Grande described it as "a diverse river, starting in once-glaciated mountain valleys, spilling out onto a broad and ancient alluvial fan, and then following a rift in volcanic rock as it turns south into New Mexico."

Equally diverse are the people the river meets on the basin floor. About half of Alamosa's residents identify as Hispanic or Latino, many of them descendants of early settlers.

Upon his mayoral election in 2017, Coleman promised to proudly represent that diversity as a person of color. He was a newcomer in valley terms, a resident since 2010, who brought new enthusiasm to the poverty-stricken town. Coleman is known to end conversations by saying: "Don't let anybody steal your joy."

"The good thing about being an outsider, you can see things that people who haven't been on the outside can't see," Coleman said.

Where others were taking it for granted, he saw the river as beautiful, an unrealized attraction and economic tool. His time in office has coincided with a collaboration called Revitalize the Rio, aiming to improve the stretch through town.

The mission is led by growing nonprofit San Luis Valley Great Outdoors. It's personal for Patrick Ortiz. He represents the nonprofit and the young generation plagued by a crisis that has swept rural America, including Alamosa.

"The opioid crisis really took a big chunk," Ortiz said. "It was a big loss of untapped talent and energy and just people power. And I think that's what galvanized efforts like Revitalize the Rio."

The goal is to get people to fall in love with the river and the parks and trails Ortiz is helping to build along the banks. "To put people on a path that is restorative and not destructive," he said.

That well-being could be tied to the future well-being of the river.

Rio Grande Headwaters Restoration Project has been tasked with fixing outdated infrastructure and diversions, revegetating eroded banks and doing other work meant to improve flows. This is for the sake of fish, anglers, boaters and farmers, explained Emma Reesor, the project's executive director  for the sake of improving efficiency when water does come from mountains or sky.

The work can be "overwhelming," Reesor said. She's seen the river's record lows of the past decade; channels in and around Alamosa have been reduced to nothing at times. She's seen climate projections suggesting conditions will worsen.

"It's challenging, because in a lot of ways, we work where it is outside the control of," she said, stopping to take a breath. "We're trying to make the system work as hard as it can. Making every drop of water work as hard as it can."

Fighting waters

Coleman is hopeful, ever the optimist.

"Communities like Salida, where you have the river flowing through town and restaurants on the river?" he said. "Eventually, Alamosa will get to that point."

But growth is a contentious topic in town.

"Pretty much everything comes down to water," said Derek Heersink, whose family has farmed in the valley since 1897.

He is the next to carry on the tradition. But he also expanded his prospects; he and a buddy opened a brewery in 2017. The business wouldn't mind more people around. Others would mind.

"I'd love to see the standard of living for the folks here improve dramatically, but I don't know that I'd like to see more people or more industry," Simpson said. "I don't know how you find that balance."

The balance he refers to is about water. It is all the more uncertain in the face of a multi-million-dollar idea to harvest the aquifer.

Backed by major real estate moguls, Renewable Water Resources has proposed dealing for water rights and exporting millions of gallons from the faltering supply to booming populations on the Front Range.

The company website dangles a promise to "enrich the local economy, bring more jobs to the area, support essential nonprofits and community groups, and improve the health of the area's aquatic habits and wildlife."

The local senator has contributed to the resounding "no" around the valley. "We're not hugely prosperous, so it's easy for big-money interests to come in and flash money," Simpson said.

At least four times in 50 years, valley people have managed to ward off such developers  on some occasions combining funds to go to court. The message is clear, as one Alamosa city councilor recently put it: "Those are fighting waters."

But Heersink wonders if his people can keep winning.

"As long as more and more people keep going over (to the Front Range), and more and more money is going over there, it's gonna continue to be a thing," he said. "They're always gonna be eyeing our water. I have a real feeling that within my lifetime, we'll see at least some of the water end up over the hill."

The feeling strikes Simpson during quiet moments on the farm. These have always been peaceful moments, almost meditative, coming with the satisfaction that comes with work that feels somehow sacred, deeply ingrained.

Now the moments come with worry.

"I wish I felt like my son had this really definitive, wonderful future in front of him by doing this, as well as my grandson," Simpson said. "But you find yourself questioning: Is this really the right thing to do?"
St. Paul A.M.E Church Lay Organization in Ozark will host the 2021 Men and Women Conference on Saturday, Aug. 7 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Perry Recreation Center located at 223 Community Drive in Ozark. The theme is Breaking Down Barriers, and there will be three speakers: Sister Pertrenna Jackson, Liberty Christian Church of Dothan, Pastor Sam Jackson, III, Liberty Christian Church of Dothan, and Pastor Grandville Anderson, Pleasant Hill AME Church of Salem. The pre-registration fee is $20 and is due by Saturday, July 31. The onsite registration fee is $25. To register or get more information, contact Sandra Edwards, president of the St. Paul AME Church Lay, at 334-828-3149 or Tonita Williams at 813-966-9232.

Enterprise Womens Day Class of Community Bible Study will begin Aug. 16. The class will meet on Mondays from 10 a.m. until noon in the chapel of First Baptist Church located on 302 North Main Street. For those who cannot meet in person, a dedicated online Core Group will be offered. The class will spend 30 weeks studying 1 and 2 Peter and Revelation. Online registration is open now for the in-person class or the online Core Group at enterprise.cbsclass.org, or interested parties can contact the Class Coordinator by phone at 334-494-2039 or by email bandL@yahoo.com. Registration will be offered throughout the year. A Childrens Ministry is in progress, and children will be put on a waiting list.
Former President Donald Trumps administration approved the state's plan last year, and state officials have touted it as a way to boost insurance coverage. Democrat Joe Biden's administration has sought to bolster the ACA  President Barack Obama's signature health care law.

In a letter last month to Kemp, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services raised concerns about the proposal to have the private sector, not the government, engage in outreach to get state residents to sign up for insurance under the ACA. Georgia had not indicated any specific financial commitment by the private sector to engage in marketing, federal health officials said.

The letter, signed by Chiquita Brooks LaSure, head of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, noted that the Biden administration has increased funding to market the ACA and expanded subsidies and eligibility for tax credits to buy insurance through the program. It asked Georgia officials to factor those changes into updated actuarial and economic analyses to see whether their plan would meet federal requirements, including covering a comparable number of people and providing comprehensive benefits.

In his letter, Thomas said 11 insurance carriers, including five new ones, and eight enrollment vendors have committed to participating in Georgia Access. The state has already made substantial investments in its plan on top of investments by private groups. The letter asks for clarification on the Biden administration's request, including how it meets the terms and conditions of the Trump administration's approval. Those terms, Thomas said, do not allow federal officials to reopen the approval of the plan.

Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
When Marrs first saw photos of the Florida collapse, he said, the images were reminiscent of the destruction at the federal building after a truck filled with explosives was detonated outside. The blast killed 168 people.

In the aftermath, the shells of both buildings were still standing, or teetering, above mounds of broken concrete and twisted metal, with the interiors exposed.

The confirmed death toll from the tragedy in South Florida stood Saturday at 86, with another 43 people still missing. Authorities concluded that there was "no chance of life" in the remaining rubble, but the pressure has not waned for the crews to find victims so families can lay their loved ones to rest.

Recalling his own experience, Marrs was sure the Florida crews would be just as respectful in searching for the dead as they had been in looking for the living.

"They're certainly not going in there with bulldozers and moving that stuff out, you know, not caring about whether they run across a body or not  that's not something that's even considered," Marrs said.

The shift from a rescue mission to a recovery effort does not ease the urgency, Marrs said.
Vials for collecting coronavirus test samples in a mobile testing truck in HCMC, July 10, 2021. Photo by VnExpress/Huu Khoa.

Vietnam confirmed 632 new community transmissions of Covid-19 in 13 localities Sunday afternoon, including 600 in HCMC, raising the nation's tally to 25,564 in two and a half months.

Of the citys new cases, 450 are already in quarantine and isolated areas while the remaining 150 are being contact traced.

Nine new cases in the northern Bac Giang Province and six patients in Hanoi had already been quarantined following contact tracing.

Among three new cases in the northern Hung Yen Province, two had returned from HCMC, and one had close contact with a confirmed Covid-19 patient.

Three new patients in the southern province of Ba Ria-Vung Tau had already been isolated after having close contact with confirmed patients.

Ninh Thuan Province in the south central region registered two new cases, with one having close contact with Covid-19 patient and the other returning from Dong Nai Province, a hotspot bordering HCMC.

The two new cases in the central province of Ha Tinh had returned from HCMC while the two patients in the south central province Binh Thuan had been already isolated.

The northern city Hai Phong, Binh Dinh, Thanh Hoa in central Vietnam and Dak Nong, Lam Dong in the Central Highlands registered one case each, with all detected in quarantine zones.

Since April 27 when the new wave started in Vietnam, infections have been recorded in 58 of the nation's 63 cities and provinces, with HCMC accounting for most cases, 12,658.

So far on Sunday, Vietnam has recorded 1,238 new local Covid-19 cases, including 1,043 in HCMC.
A woman waits to buy food at a supermarket in HCMC, which has limited shoppers under the city's social distancing order, July 11, 2021. Photo by VnExpress/Quynh Tran.

Vietnam recorded 707 new local Covid-19 cases Sunday night, pushing the day's tally to an all-time high of 1,945 cases.

Sunday also saw the highest number of localities recording cases, 32.

Among the night's tally, Ho Chi Minh City, the epicenter of the ongoing fourth coronavirus wave, recorded 354 new cases, raising its tally of the day to 1,392, the highest number in a day since the disease broke out, followed by 1,300 on Saturday.

Of the citys new cases, 183 are already in quarantine and isolated areas and the remaining 171 are being contact traced.

Among 195 new cases in Binh Duong Province that borders HCMC, 110 had come into close contact with confirmed patients, 19 returned from HCMC and 66 are being contact traced.

The Mekong Delta's Dong Thap Province registered 50 new cases, with 36 being contained in quaratine zones and isolation areas and the remaining 14 still being contact traced.

Among 46 new patients in the delta's Long An Province, 23 had been already quaratined after having close contact with confirmed patients, 19 returned from HCMC and four are being contact traced.

32 new cases in the central Phu Yen Province had been already in quaratine zones.

The northern Bac Ninh Province recorded seven new cases, six detected in quaratine zones and one being contact traced.

Among six new cases in Da Nang City, five were in close contact with confirmed patients while the source of transmission of the remaining one remains unclear. These cases ended Da Nang's 10-day streak without community transmissions.

Four new cases in the northern Bac Giang Province, three in the Mekong Delta's Soc Trang Province and two in nearby Tra Vinh had already been quaratined.

The two new cases in the central Ninh Thuan Province returned from HCMC and been quaratined.

The two new patients in the central Quang Ngai Province, one in nearby Binh Dinh, one in the Central Highlands' Lam Dong and one in Hanoi had been put in quaratine facilities as well.

The new case in the Mekong Delta's Can Tho City is being contact traced.

Since the new wave of Covid-19 emerged in Vietnam on in late April, 26,271 local infections have been recorded in 58 of its 63 cities and provinces.
Andrew Saul was appointed by former President Donald Trump to a six-year term that was due to expire January 2025. However, congressional Democrats have been pressuring Biden to remove the holdover from the previous administration fearing that he would do lasting harm to the agency that provides economic security to around 64 million Americans.

The Social Security Administration (SSA) is an independent agency that manages benefits to seniors, the disabled and low-income Americans and normally the Commissioner doesn't change with a new administration. However, The Washington Post reported that a recent Supreme Court ruling and a memo by the Justice Department on Thursday affirming Bidens authority to remove the SSA Commissioner at will, gave the President the green light.

Foxes in the henhouse

Calls for President Biden to remove Andrew Saul and his Deputy David Black have been coming for months. Perhaps none louder than New Jersey Representative Bill Pascrell Jr, Chairman of the House Ways and Means Subcommittee on Oversight and a member of the Subcommittee on Social Security to protect Social Security and preserve this crown jewel. In a letter to President Biden it is unacceptable that the two officials most entrusted with protecting and sustaining this cherished program have instead used their offices to destabilize and actively harm it.

There is a long list of grievances against the Commissioner and his Deputy. They were accused of trying to boot disabled elderly Americans from the program by making it harder for them to meet eligibility requirements. Increasing the number of reviews of recipients cases and shift hearings from impartial judges to staff attorneys. As well as blocking non-English speakers from accessing the program.

Saul is also accused of harming the agencys workforce by among other things using union-busting tactics in his battle with labor unions that represent the agencys 60,000 employees. A White House statement said that he had failed to repair SSAs relationships with those labor unions. Additionally, he cancelled telework policy which as many as 25 percent of staff used and didn't cooperate with the unions in developing covid-19 workplace safety planning.

More recently, Saul and Black were blamed for millions of benefit recipients having to wait nearly a month to receive their $1,400 stimulus check after the IRS started sending them. The Internal Revenue Service was waiting for updated files from SSA to make the payments.

Friday Night Massacre

Saul said of his dismissal in an interview Friday afternoon It was a bolt of lightning no one expected. He compared it to the events that unfolded when former President Richard Nixon ordered his Attorney General to fire the Special Prosecutor investigating Watergate calling it a Friday Night Massacre.

He made clear his intention to stay on in his post I consider myself the term-protected commissioner of Social Security, Saul said. He has not said if he is considering legal action but plans to return to work on Monday, albeit remotely.

President Biden named as Andrew Sauls replacement Kilolo Kijakazi, the current deputy commissioner for retirement and disability policy. She will be the acting commissioner until a permanent nominee can be chosen to lead the Social Security Administration.
The UN Security Council is convening on Thursday to discuss the issue of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) as prompted by Egypt and Sudan. Below is everything you need to know about the situation.

Why is the UN Security Council meeting?

In a move that has been called disturbing and alarming by Egyptian and Sudanese officials, Ethiopia has begun the second filling of the GERD.

Ethiopias reiteration that it would complete the dam filling in the rainy season despite the lack of a binding agreement with Egypt and Sudan on the filling and operation of the dam prompted Egypt and Sudan to request the second UNSC meeting in two years. The UNSC decision to hold the second session, according to the foreign ministry, is a testament of the depth of the political relations between Egypt and the UNSC.

Egypts Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry arrived in New York on Sunday to gather support for a draft resolution that takes into account the interests of all parties involved; meeting with the five permanent member states of the UNSC (US, Britain, China, Russia, and France) on Tuesday to confirm Egypts stance on the issue.

The talks between the three parties had been mediated unsuccessfully in the past by the US and the World bank, followed by the African union with the World Bank and the US acting as observers.

Now the matter is being escalated to the UNSC in order to gather support from UNSC member states for Egypt and Sudans stance.

How far along is the dams construction?

The construction of the dam is stalling as Ethiopia struggles to pay the construction companies to finish the dam, according to an informed Egyptian official.

Ethiopias original plans for the dam envisioned a filling of the dam to 14 billion cubic meters of water; yet delays in the dam construction mean that the dam is unlikely to store more than nine billion cubic meters of water.

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed is trying to get the first two turbines of the dam to work as soon as possible to deliver electricity to the Ethiopian people in an attempt to rally support in light of the recent civil conflict in the country.

What is Egypt and Sudans stance on the issue?

Egypt and Sudan oppose the unilateral filling of the dam as a move that is likely to compromise their water rights and have requested the UNSC meeting to discuss reaching a binding agreement between the three parties to the chagrin of the Ethiopian government which denounced the interference of the UNSC.

What is the stance of Arab nations at the UNSC?

Tunisia, which is the only Arab member of the UNSC, expressed its full support for Egypt and Sudan in their attempts to secure a legally binding agreement on the dam.

Why has the situation escalated to the UNSC?

The UNSC meeting comes after one year of unproductive negotiations mediated by the African Union due to Ethiopias obstinance and their insistence that a legally binding agreement is unnecessary.

What is the importance of the UNSC meeting?

In a phone interview with El-Kahera Wal Nas TV channel, FM Shoukry highlighted the importance of the UNSC meeting after the failure of 10 years of negotiations.

We will place the responsibility on the UNSC and the international community because the GERD issue threatens international peace, security, and stability, and the UNSC has to rectify this and work to contain any possible escalation, Shoukry said.

What is the outcome that Egypt and Sudan are aiming for?

Shoukry called on the UNSC to take a stance in the situation in order to increase the chances of reaching an agreement that satisfies all parties involved.

Shoukry maintained that the matter is being discussed with members in intensive consultations to determine the framework of this outcome and what it aims for.

What is the solution proposed to the UNSC?

Diplomatic sources confirmed on Tuesday that Tunisia has submitted a draft resolution to the UNSC calling to cease the filling of the mega-dam.

The draft resolution, obtained by AFP, calls on Egypt, Ethiopia, and Sudan to resume negotiations at the joint invitation of the Chairperson of the African Union and the secretary-general of the United Nations to finalise, within a period of six months, the text of a binding agreement on the filling and operation of the GERD.

The resolution also maintains that the agreement should ensure Ethiopias ability to generate hydropower without inflicting significant harm on the water security of downstream states.

The draft also urged the three countries to refrain from making any statements or taking any actions that may jeopardise the negotiation process.

When is the Draft going to be put to a vote?

The draft is expected to be put to a vote at the UNSC in Thursdays meeting; yet it could be pushed back till next week to give Egypt and Sudan a chance to explain the situation and secure the votes of the UNSC to pass the draft resolution without amending it.

Where can the situation go from here?

President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi stated on Saturday evening that negotiations over the dam cannot go on forever, reaffirming Shoukrys statement that all options are on the table.

Short link:


Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi urged on Saturday the preparation of an integrated national strategy for the production of green hydrogen in light of the growing international interest in this promising source of energy for the near future.

Green hydrogen is the hydrogen fuel created by using renewable energy instead of fossil fuels to almost eliminate harmful emissions.

Meeting with Electricity Minister Mohamed Shaker, El-Sisi urged the preparation of an integrated strategy for hydrogen production in cooperation with different state sectors, a statement by the presidency read.

The strategy targets empowering Egypt to generate and use hydrogen, coping with the international progress in this field along with international experiences and adding green hydrogen energy to the integrated national system of energy.

The meeting, also attended by Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly, reviewed the developments of Egypts cooperation with experienced international bodies in the field of generating green hydrogen using renewable energy.

In January, Egypts Ministry of Electricity signed an agreement with Germanys Siemens to start studies for establishing a pilot project for producing green hydrogen in Egypt.

The ministry said it would update Egypts Energy Strategy 2035 to include green hydrogen.

Two months later, the ministry signed with the Belgian DEME Group a cooperation deal to conduct studies on the production of green hydrogen in the country.

The presidents remarks come two days after the government announced signing an MoU with the Italian Eni in producing green and blue hydrogen and evaluating the technical feasibility of its planned production projects in Egypt.

Shaker in June revealed Egypts plans to invest up to $4 billion in a project to generate green hydrogen through electrolysis, noting that the project is still subject to a feasibility study, Arab News reported.

El-Sisis meeting with Shaker and Madbouly reviewed the ministrys projects in the field of renewable energy and power linkage with neighbouring countries, the statement added.

It also addressed electricity projects in the New Administrative Capital, including the main control centre in the national electricity grid.

Shaker reviewed the development of a power linkage project with Saudi Arabia through extending electricity lines and establishing a number of electricity switching stations between the two sides.

This aims to exchange electric energy between the national electric grids of Egypt and Saudi Arabia to achieve mutual economic benefits.

The president also reviewed national electricity projects, especially those relying on wind and solar energy that are implemented in cooperation with private sector companies and in partnership with foreign experiences.

This comes within the framework of Egypts integrated and sustainable energy strategy, which aims to raise the countrys electricity generation capacity from renewable sources to 42 percent by 2035.

Egypt has taken big steps to increase the total energy produced from renewables, including the establishment of the worlds largest solar park of Benban in Upper Egypts Aswan.

Egypt has advanced from 26th place in 2020 to the 20th among the worlds top 40 markets in the Renewable Energy Country Attractiveness Index (RECAI) for 2021, which was released last month.

Short link:


The bodies of the four Egyptians, who were found dead in Cyprus early Sunday morning as the result of a huge forest fire, are expected to be repatriated on Saturday evening, Egypts Minister of Emigration Nabila Makram said.

Makram extended her sincere thanks and appreciation to the Ministry of Civil Aviation for facilitating the reception of the bodies and their accompanying persons and for finalising the relevant procedures, a statement said.

Makram also thanked the Egyptian Ministry of Justice, as well as to the Egyptian Embassy in Cyprus, for all the efforts made to follow up the situation and overcome any obstacles encountered in completing the necessary procedures.

The minister offered condolences to the victims' families, the statement noted.

The victims corpses were found close to Odou, a mountainous village in the Larnaca District of Cyprus, according to Reuters.

The blaze, which Cypriot officials described as the "worst and most destructive" in decades, broke out last Saturday morning.

The blaze has caused "loss of life" and destroyed property and forest lands, Cypriot President Nicos Anastasiades tweeted earlier last week.

Short link:


An Egyptian criminal court sentenced on Sunday a former university student to eight years in prison on charges of sexually assaulting and blackmailing three girls.

According to the ruling, between 2016 and 2020, Ahmed Bassam Zaki sexually assaulted three girls in his car, at his house and at the house of one of the victims.

The verdict can be appealed.

Zaki, a 21-year-old student, was arrested in July after the Public Prosecution received a complaint from a woman against him.

In the complaint, first received by the National Council of Women (NCW), the woman accused Zaki of blackmailing her in November 2016 in an attempt to force her to have sex with him.

Egypts prosecution opened an investigation after the accusations, also raised by other women and girls against Zaki, went viral on social media in July.

Zaki was already sentenced to three years in prison by a Cairo Criminal Court in December 2020 over sexually assaulting minors, blackmailing them, and using means of communication and social media to deliberately harass them.

Short link:


Egypts Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry stated on Saturday that the situation within the United Nation Security Council is "complicated due to political considerations, alignments and interlocking interests.

Shoukry was referring to the Security Councils unwillingness to handle the Nile dam issue because these issues are not of importance worthy of the council's handling.

On Thursday, the UN body held a session on the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), which was held at the request of Egypt and Sudan, in an attempt to settle the dispute over the near-complete dam that Ethiopia has been building since 2011 on the Blue Nile.

In a phone-in interview with ONtv satellite channel late on Saturday, Shoukry pointed out that bringing the GERD issue to the Security Council was important in order to "hold it responsible as it is the major entity in the United Nations system concerned with maintaining peace and security."

Given that Thursdays session on the GERD was the second following an earlier one held last year, Shoukry said such thing is unprecedented and should be considered an achievement for Egyptian diplomacy.

That the Council for two consecutive years holds a public session to deal with this [GERD] matter in itself is an achievement, Shoukry said on Saturday.

In earlier statements, Shoukry explained that the session came about because of efforts made by Egypt to convince member states of the seriousness of the situation and the importance of the council taking responsibility for the issue.

Regarding that failure of the Security Council member states  except for the French permanent representative  to mention Ethiopias unilateral filling of the GERD in their statements during the session, Shoukry stressed that Egypt would raise the issue with member states and register its "unease" with the omissions.

We will express to the members of the Security Council our dissatisfaction with the refusal to condemn Ethiopias second filling of the GERD, Shoukry stated.

Only three days before convening the councils session, Ethiopia had already commenced its second-year filling of the GERD, which both downstream countries condemned, with Cairo describing it as a "blatant and dangerous" violation of international laws as well as the Declaration of Principles signed in 2015.

On the Ethiopian statement delivered by its Minister of Water, Irrigation, and Energy Seleshi Bekele, Shoukry said the Ethiopian argument during the session was weakcompared to the Egyptian and Sudanese, calling on them to alter their course.

"We encourage our brothers in Ethiopia to change their course, and we encourage the international community, including the Security Council, to send messages that reinforce that," the top Egyptian diplomat said.

Following Thursdays session, Shoukry said Egypt would defend the rights of its citizens by all available means, stressing that the negotiations must take place within a specific time frame.

A week ago, Tunisia, the only Arab member of the 10 elected and non-permanent members of the UNSC, submitted an Egyptian-Sudanese GERD-focused draft resolution to the UN body which is due to be voted on during the coming days.

The draft resolution, which Ahram Online obtained a copy of, calls on "Egypt, Ethiopia, and Sudan to resume negotiations at the joint invitation of the Chairperson of the African Union (AU) and the Secretary-General of the United Nations to finalise, within a period of six months, the text of a binding agreement on the filling and operation of the GERD."

The resolution stresses that the agreement should "ensure Ethiopia's ability to generate hydropower from the GERD while preventing the inflicting of significant harm on the water security of downstream states."

It also urges the "three countries to refrain from making any statements, or taking any action that may jeopardise the negotiation process, and urges Ethiopia to refrain from continuing to unilaterally fill the GERD reservoir."

Throughout the decade-long GERD negotiations, Ethiopia has been evading the legally binding deal that Egypt and Sudan are seeking on the filling and operation of the dam, and only seeks guidelines that can be modified any time at its discretion, and has opposed any international mediation proposed by the two downstream countries to facilitate negotiations and bring the views closer.

Egypt, whose 100 million-plus population is expected to increase by 75 million by 2050, is considered one of the most water-scarce countries in the world as it receives around 60 billion cubic metres (bcm) annually  mainly from the River Nile  though its needs is 114 bcm.

The country, which relies on the world-longest River Nile for more than 95 per cent of its renewable water resources, fears the unilateral filling and operation of the massive dam will significantly diminish its water supply, which at 560 m3 per person annually is already well below the international threshold for water scarcity.

Sudan has said that the unilateral filling of GERD would threaten the lives of millions of its people living downstream the dam, jeopardize the operational safety of its dams, and consequently risk Sudan's national security.

Short link:


Minister of Emigration and Egyptian Expatriates Affairs Nabila Makram expressed thanks to Dubai government for their fruitful cooperation in helping Egyptians stranded in the UAE to return home.

In a phone call with Sada El-Balad TV channel late Saturday, she said 38 travel agencies took part in the airlift operated by Cairo on 8 July to facilitate the return of Egyptians.

Several Egyptians were left stranded in transit in the UAE when Saudi Arabia stopped all inbound travel to its territories, as a precautionary measure to confront the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

In a statement on Saturday, Makram said that 1,995 stranded Egyptians in the UAE had so far registered themselves on the ministrys online form to return home.

Makram was closely following up on the status of the stranded Egyptians in the UAE, especially after announcing on 8 July the launch of an airlift to bring them back home, the statement noted.

Coordination is under way with Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Khaled El-Anani and Minister of Civil Aviation Mohamed Manar to return the Egyptians stranded there, Makram said.

She added stranded Egyptians who travelled via UAE airlines should register their trip details, especially the number of their tickets and the name of the airliner on the ministry's link.

Short link:


Egypts Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry headed to Brussels on Sunday morning to deliver a message from President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi to the European Councils President, Charles Michel.

The European Council, formed by the heads of state or government of the 27 EU member states, defines the EUs overall political direction and priorities.

Ahmed Hafez, official spokesperson of Egypts foreign ministry, said in a statement that Shoukry is set to meet with the foreign ministers of the EUs states during his visit.

The Egyptian top diplomat is also scheduled to have bilateral meetings with a number of senior officials at the European Commission to discuss bilateral relations and regional issues of mutual interest, Hafez said.

Short link:


Egyptian Parliament Speaker Hanafy Gebaly stated on Sunday that Egypt has never stood against its brothers right to development, however, it rejects any infringement of its Nile water rights.

Gebaly was referring to the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), which Addis Ababa hopes will make it Africas largest power exporter and sees it as crucial to its development efforts.

Throughout the decade-long GERD negotiations, Ethiopia has been evading the legally binding deal that Egypt and Sudan have been seeking on the filling and operation of the dam, preferring guidelines that can be modified any time at its discretion, and has opposed any international mediation proposed by the two downstream countries to facilitate negotiations and bring the views closer.

Egypt, which relies on the worlds longest River Nile for more than 95 percent of its renewable water resources, on the other hand, fears that the unilateral filling and operation of the massive hydropower project will significantly diminish its water supply, which at 560 m3 per person annually is already well below the international threshold for water scarcity.

Unlike Ethiopia, whose annual floods are around 900 billion cubic meters (bcm) and has around 9 major rivers, Egypt is considered one of the most water-scarce countries in the world, as it receives around 60 bcm annually  mainly from the River Nile  though its needs are around 114 bcm.

In a general session of the parliament on Sunday, Gebaly pointed out that Ethiopias behaviour is characterised by unjustified intransigence that the Egyptian state rejects, because of its negative impact on Egypt's water security.

The Egyptian parliament speaker stressed that reaching a fair agreement on the issue of the GERD prevents the region from sliding into conflict.

On the other hand, Gebaly hailed the speech of Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry before the security council, which was held at the request of Egypt and Sudan on Thursday in an attempt to settle the dispute over the near-complete GERD.

He added that Shoukrys speech expressed the Egyptian stance towards the fateful issue, and that we are following up with the international community to reach a binding agreement to fill and operate the GERD in coordination with the African Parliament, calling on it to carry out its African diplomatic responsibilities.

Gebaly moreover affirmed that the Egyptian state has spared no effort to defend and preserve its water rights as the Nile is the lifeline of its existence, saluting President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi for rightly and honourably defending the states capabilities.

We declare that we all stand behind the political leadership and support the protection of the historical rights of the people. The waters of the Nile are the lifeline of Egypt, Gebali said, stressing that we are confident that the challenge we are facing will be vigorously overcome and a new victory will be achieved.

A 1929 agreement, which was signed between Egypt and Britain, representing Uganda, Kenya, Tanganyika (now Tanzania) and Sudan, allocates 55.5 bcm of the Niles waters to Egypt and 18.5 bcm to Sudan.

Earlier in 1902, the Anglo-Ethiopian treaty was signed between the United Kingdom  representing Egypt and Sudan  and Ethiopia  represented by Emperor Menelik II of Abyssinia  has prohibited the Ethiopian construction of any waterworks across the Blue Nile that would affect the rivers natural flow.

The same treaty granted sovereignty of the then Sudanese Benishangul region, where Addis Ababa has been building the controversial dam since 2011, to Ethiopia.

Short link:


Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry voiced Egypts aspiration that the Israeli government refrain from any measures that may raise tensions with the Palestinians in a meeting on Sunday with his Israeli counterpart Yair Lapid.

Naftali Bennett was sworn in as the new Israeli prime minister last month, leading a new government, only a month after Israel and Palestinian factions in Gaza agreed to an Egyptian-brokered ceasefire that ended 11 days of Israeli aggression on the enclave.

Egypt has since exerted political and diplomatic efforts to consolidate the ceasefire and highlight the need for urgently resuming the peace talks between the Israeli and Palestinian sides.

During their meeting in Brussels, Shoukry told Lapid that he hopes the Israeli government does not take any measures that would undermine the chances of creating a climate for peace and stability, a statement by the Egyptian foreign ministry read.

The top Egyptian diplomat affirmed the need to move urgently towards breaking the current stalemate between the Palestinians and Israel, so that a fair and comprehensive peace process between the two sides can be launched.

Shoukry said this negotiating process should be launched on the basis of international references and relevant UN Security Council resolutions and in a way that ensures the establishment of a Palestinian state on the June 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital.

The Egyptian FM said this effort is considered one of the main components for strengthening the pillars of security and stability in the region.

Cairo will not hesitate to support all international efforts to reach this goal in coordination with all relevant actors in this regard, Shoukry said.

The Egyptian FM underscored Egypts efforts in implementing the reconstruction process in Gaza and providing aid and developmental support to all the Palestinian lands in cooperation with the Palestinian Authority.

Shoukry headed to Brussels on Sunday morning to deliver a message from President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi to the European Councils President, Charles Michel.

The top Egyptian diplomat is also scheduled to have bilateral meetings with a number of senior officials at the European Commission to discuss bilateral relations and regional issues of mutual interest.

Shoukry has already met with Slovenian Foreign Minister Anze Logar and his Maltese counterpart, Evarist Bartolo during his visit.

Shoukry and Bartolo discussed regional issues of mutual concern, including the Libyan crisis and the efforts to counter terrorism and illegal emigration.

Short link:


Egypt will receive 2 million doses of the Pfizer vaccine by the end of the week, as well as Johnson & Johnson vaccine doses, health ministry spokesman Khaled Megahed said late on Sunday.

These doses will be allocated for travel purposes only.

The country will also receive 250,000 AstraZeneca vaccine doses this week, Megahed said.

In two weeks, Egypt will also receive raw materials required to locally produce 7.6 million doses of the Chinese Sinovac, the spokesman said.

Megahed noted that Egypt already has a quantity of raw materials required to produce 10 million Sinovac doses.

Egypt has witnessed a significant decline in coronavirus infection cases over the past month.

The country has imported millions of vaccine doses as part of its vaccination campaign that started early this year and has locally produced 1 million Sinovac doses.

So far, the country has reported 282,985 coronavirus cases and 16,383 deaths.

Short link:


Sporadic violence has erupted in South Africa with dozens arrested after looting in KwaZulu-Natal, where ex-president Jacob Zuma is in jail, and in the economic capital Johannesburg.

Police said in a statement Sunday they had arrested 37 people in the Eastern province of KwaZulu-Natal and 25 in Johannesburg over the previous two days.

In KwaZulu-Natal, protests broke out a day after Zuma was imprisoned on Thursday.

The N3 linking Durban and Johannesburg was blocked for many hours, including a stretch south of Estcourt prison, whre Zuma is being held, and 23 trucks were set alight at Mooi River.

While some of the protests appear to have been triggered by Zuma's 15-month detention for contempt of court, they are tied in with a sense of economic desperation as the country faces tightened restrictions under to a third wave of the Covid-19 pandemic.

President Cyril Ramaphosa called for calm on Saturday, urging people to "express themselves within the law" and avoid destruction that could further cripple the economy.

In Kwazulu-Natal, the police "had their hands full yesterday and throughout the night", spokesman Jay Naicker told AFP on Sunday.

"Criminals and opportunistic individuals" took advantage of the tense climate to "enrich themselves", he added. Several stores were looted, including in the Durbaqn suburb Mariann Hill.

In Johannesburg, hundreds defied restrictions in two disenfranchised suburbs, but their protests ended in violence, looting and 25 arrests, police said.

In Jeppe, police dispersed a crowd of 300 who had set up barricades on a main road before looting businesses.

The same happened in Alexandra, one of the poorest townships that neighbours the high-end city of Sandton, where nearly 800 rioters clashed with the police overnight. One officer was shot and hospitalised.

The police said they "remain on high alert" in the two provinces.

South Africa's top court on June 29 jailed Zuma for refusing to appear before a probe into the corruption that entangled his nine years in power.

But the 79-year-old former anti-apartheid fighter remains popular, especially in his native KwaZulu-Natal where he is seen to embody traditional values.

Short link:


Israel said on Sunday it will begin offering a booster shot of Pfizer Inc's (PFE.N) vaccine to adults with weak immune systems but it was still weighing whether a third round of shots should be given to the general public.

The rapid spread of the Delta variant has sent vaccination rates in Israel back up as new infections have risen over the past month from single digits to around 450 a day, and the country has moved to fast-track its next Pfizer shipment.

Health Minister Nitzan Horowitz said that effective immediately, adults with impaired immune systems who had received two doses of the Pfizer vaccine could get a booster shot, with a decision pending on wider distribution.

Pfizer and partner BioNTech SE , the main suppliers in a swift Israeli vaccination rollout that began in December, said on Thursday they will ask US and European regulators within weeks to authorize booster shots.

The two companies cited an increased risk of infection after six months in seeking permission for a third shot.

Drawing criticism from some scientists and officials, the companies did not share the data showing that risk, but said it would soon be made public.

"We are examining this issue and we still do not have a final answer," Horowitz, speaking on Kan public radio, said about a booster for the general population in Israel.

"In any case we are administering as of now a third shot to people suffering from immunodeficiency ,These are for instance people who have undergone organ transplants or suffer from a medical condition which causes a drop in immunity."

About half of the 46 patients presently hospitalised in Israel in severe condition are vaccinated, according to health ministry data. Israel's coronavirus pandemic response coordinator, Nachman Ash, said on Wednesday the overwhelming majority of them are from risk groups, over the age of 60 and have prior health problems.

Horowitz said that separately, the health ministry would plug a Pfizer supply gap for ongoing two-dose inoculations of the general adult population by using Moderna Inc (MRNA.O) vaccines already in stock.

Prime Minister Naftali Bennett said in broadcast remarks to his cabinet on Sunday that he has agreed with Pfizer to bring forward the next delivery of doses to Aug 1. The shipment had been widely expected to arrive in September.

There was no immediate response from Pfizer to a request for comment.

Israel hopes earlier deliveries will enable more youngsters to be vaccinated before the start of the school year in September.

Under health ministry regulations, Israeli youths can receive Pfizer shots but not yet those produced by Moderna.

Israel has almost exclusively administered Pfizer shots to around 60% of its 9.3 million population. But a batch of 700,000 doses due to expire at the end of July was sent to South Korea, as a recent slowdown in the pace of vaccinations would likely have seen the doses go to waste.

Under the swap deal, Seoul will return the same number of shots, already on order from Pfizer, in September and October.

"We have Moderna vaccines and adults who want to vaccinate can do so from this morning, or maybe tomorrow, with the Moderna vaccines," Horowitz said.

Short link:


Syrian President Bashar Assad issued a decree Sunday giving hundreds of thousands of civil servants and military members a 50% salary increase amid a harsh economic and financial crisis and price increases for vital products.

Assad's decision came a day after the state doubled the price of bread, the country's main staple, and increased by 180% the price of diesel fuel.

The Syrian economy has been hard hit by a decade of war, Western sanctions, widespread corruption and most recently a severe economic and financial crisis in neighboring Lebanon. The last salary increase was announced in November 2019.

The decree released by Assad's office put the minimum monthly income at 71,515 Syrian pounds ($22). It also granted military and civilian pension holders an increase of 40% in the retirement pension.

The US dollar is trading at about 3,200 pounds on the black market while the official rate is 2,500 pounds.

Nearly 80% of Syrians live in poverty, and 60% are food insecure ,the worst food security situation ever seen in Syria, according to the United Nations.

Short link:


The upcoming meeting between President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi and Lebanese Prime Minister Designate Saad Hariri constitutes a major political chapter in the context of Hariris Arab and international consultations.

According to Al-Sharq Al-Awsat newspaper, the Egyptian leadership does not recommend that Hariri abstain from forming a government.

The Egyptian position coincides with Russia's, who also voiced its support for Hariri forming the next Lebanese government when the PM met with the Russian envoy to the Middle East, Mikhail Bogdanov.

Egypt and Russia are not unique in this position, with a number of countries in the region calling for the PM to form a government.

Al-Sharq Al-Awsat quoted a former Lebanese prime minister, who preferred to not be named, that Hariri has not made the decision to abstain from forming a government, and if this decision is an option, it will be preceded by political developments.

The former prime minister added that Lebanese President Michel Aoun is counting on Hariri to not form a government, as he did with former prime minister-designate Mustafa Adib, who refused to include Aouns political heir, Representative Gibran Bassil.

He also said that a meeting of former prime ministers discussed the idea of naming an alternative to Hariri, but it was rejected, because they refused to let Aoun  who has been known to obstruct the formation of a Lebanese government  have his way, as the Lebanese Parliament had previously rewarded him by electing him as president after he disrupted the presidential elections for two years with the support of his ally, Hezbollah.

Short link:


Oman's sultan arrived in Saudi Arabia on Sunday, starting the first visit by an Omani ruler to the kingdom in years against the backdrop of intensified efforts to end the war in Yemen and the sultanate's worsening economic woes.

With trumpets blaring, cannons firing and fighter jets streaking overhead, Sultan Haitham bin Tariq Al Said landed in Neom, a futuristic desert city planned along the kingdom's Red Sea coast.

Saudi Arabia's crown prince, Mohammed bin Salman, greeted Sultan Haitham on the tarmac and guided him down a long lavender carpet for meetings with King Salman at the palace.

The choice of the kingdom as Sultan Haitham's first foreign destination since taking power last year signals Oman's respect for the influence of Saudi Arabia, the spiritual anchor of the Sunni Muslim world and the region's largest economy with vast oil reserves.

It also reflects the states' mutual self-interest, as Saudi Arabia seeks to cool relations with Iran and chart a path out of its campaign in Yemen. Oman in recent weeks has accelerated its long-standing diplomatic efforts to end the conflict, which pits a Saudi-led military coalition against Iran-backed Houthi rebels.

The sultan met Saudi Arabia's King Salman to discuss ways to boost ties, the official Saudi Press Agency reported. Closer relations with Saudi Arabia could become critical as Oman, long prized for its neutrality in the turbulent region, struggles to balance its books and turns to wealthier Gulf neighbors for support.

The two-day visit, in all its royal pomp and pageantry, is rare for an Omani leader. Sultan Haitham ascended the throne after the death of the long-ruling Sultan Qaboos bin Said, whose foreign trips and public appearances grew scarce as he aged.

Oman requested technical assistance from the International Monetary Fund, the institution reported last week, to help the government manage its debt, which has ballooned to nearly 83% of the country's gross domestic product.

*This story was edited by Ahram Online.
Iran denounced Sunday what it labelled "baseless accusations" made by Slovenia's Premier Janez Jansa at a meeting of an opposition group reviled by Tehran, and summoned its ambassador.

The foreign ministry charged that Jansa's participation at a meeting Saturday of the exiled People's Mujahedin (MEK) was "unacceptable and undiplomatic".

It said it had summoned Slovenia's ambassador to Tehran, Kristina Radej, to express its "strong protest" to the country that has since July 1 held the European Union's rotating six-month presidency.

The MEK's political wing, the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI), on Saturday held a meeting at its base in Albania that included by video conference lawmakers, officials or former ministers from the United States, Britain and France.

Jansa told the meeting in an online message that the "Iranian people deserve democracy, freedom and human rights, and should be firmly supported by the international community".

He also demanded that the "Iranian regime must be held accountable for human rights violations".

The Slovenian prime minister said he backed calls for justice for "the families of the 30,000 political prisoners who perished" during what she termed the "horrible 1988 massacre".

He urged the United Nations to "shed light" on the mass executions of detainees at the end of the 1980-88 Iran-Iraq war, when MEK fighters launched an offensive against the Islamic Republic from Iraqi soil.

"This is especially important in light of the fact that the regime's next president will be Ebrahim Raisi, who is accused by Amnesty International of crimes against humanity for his role in the massacre," he said.

Raisi, the head of the Iranian judiciary, won June elections and takes office in August.

Asked in 2018 and again last year about the executions, Raisi, who was Tehran's deputy prosecutor general at the time of the events, denied playing a role.

But he lauded an order he said was handed down by the Islamic republic's founder Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini to proceed with the purge.

According to the MEK, 30,000 detainees, mostly affiliated with the Islamic-Marxist movement, died.

British academic Michael Axworthy, in his book "Revolutionary Iran", estimates that "the reality is probably nearer 4,000 to 5,000" people killed.

Short link:


Related Palestinian labour minister quits amid anti-govt protests The Palestinian Authority labour minister who declared he would resign amid protests over the death of an activist in custody will ultimately remain in office, he said Sunday.

Nasri Abu Jaish, who is also the representative of the left-wing People's Party in the government, said late June he would quit the Fatah-led PA due to "its lack of respect for laws and public freedoms".

Abu Jaish had announced his pending resignation following the violent arrest and death in custody of activist Nizar Banat.

Banat, a 43-year-old known for social media videos denouncing alleged corruption within the PA, died on June 24 shortly after security forces stormed his house, beat him and dragged him away.

But on Sunday, Abu Jaish said in a statement that prime minister Mohammad Shtayyeh had twice refused to accept his resignation, leading him to "continue in the Palestinian government as a minister of labour".

The PA announced the opening of an investigation into Banat's death, but demonstrators continued protesting weeks after.

"We will remain standing in the street until justice is achieved," protester Maher Akhras said Sunday, accusing the PA of having "killed Nizar Banat and assaulted demonstrators."

Banat had registered as a candidate in Palestinian parliamentary elections that were set for May, until Abbas postponed them indefinitely.

"We have the right to elections, to elect our representatives and to elect a president," protester Omar Assaf said.

"We need to rebuild the entire political Palestinian system".

*This story was edited by Ahram Online.

Short link:


In their camp hidden in the forested hills of Kayah state near the Thai border, Myanmar anti-junta volunteers practice firing their homemade weapons, do physical training, and play guitar in between skirmishes with the military.

Myanmar has been in turmoil since the military ousted Aung San Suu Kyi's elected government in February and launched a bloody crackdown on pro-democracy protests.

In some areas civilians have formed "defence forces" to combat the State Administration Council, as the junta dubs itself, often using hunting rifles or weapons manufactured at makeshift factories.

"I've been away from my family more than three months," one member of the defence force at the camp told AFP on condition of anonymity.

"I will return home after this revolution."

During that time the group of roughly 60 has fought around twenty skirmishes with the Myanmar military, or Tatmadaw, he said.

Communication is patchy in the country's eastern states, and AFP was unable to verify the number of clashes.

Since the coup, fighting between Myanmar's military and rebel groups in the east of the country has displaced an estimated 100,000 people, the UN said last month.

Locals in Kayah state have accused the military of using artillery shells that have landed in villages.

That has only hardened resolve to take up arms.

"We will never forget and forgive till the end of the world" reads a tattoo across the neck of one volunteer.

The wooden rifle of another has "Spring Revolution" carved into the butt and barrel in Burmese script.

In a mixture of combat camouflage and T-shirts, the volunteers go on patrol, navigating single track paths through the jagged hills.

They practice firing their motley assemblage of weapons at a makeshift firing range.

During downtime, one plays guitar on a bench while another resting inside a tent checks his weapon.

More than 890 people have been killed by the junta's security forces since February 1, according to a local monitoring group.

As well as the rise of local self-defence forces, analysts believe hundreds of anti-coup protesters from Myanmar's towns and cities have trekked into insurgent-held areas to receive military training.

The civilian fighters are often outnumbered and outgunned in clashes with Myanmar's military , one of Southeast Asia's most battle-hardened and brutal.

But the volunteers are determined to fight on.

"If we all fight, we will win," one told AFP.

"I believe we can win."

Short link:


India has evacuated about 50 diplomats and security personnel from its consulate in Kandahar, the former Taliban bastion in southern Afghanistan, after days of intense fighting, officials and a security source said Sunday.

The insurgents claimed this week that they now control 85 percent of Afghanistan, much of it seized since early May when US-led foreign forces began their final withdrawal from the country.

The Taliban also clashed with government forces this week on the edge of Kandahar city, the capital of Kandahar province, where the hardline Islamist movement was born.

"The Consulate General of India has not been closed. However, due to the intense fighting near Kandahar city, India based personnel have been brought back for the time being," India's Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement.

"This is purely a temporary measure until the situation stabilises. The consulate continues to operate through our local staff members."

A security source said about 50 Indian personnel, including some six diplomats, have been evacuated from the consulate.

It was still unclear whether they were brought to Kabul or evacuated to New Delhi.

Last week Russia announced it had closed its consulate in the northern Afghan city of Mazar-i-Sharif.

Earlier this month China also evacuated 210 nationals from the country.

The Taliban's rapid gains have seen their fighters capture key border crossings and even attack a provincial capital.

The US withdrawal is now more than 90 percent complete, the Pentagon announced this month, and President Joe Biden said Thursday the US military mission would end on August 31.

Short link:


The Iranian government has expressed anger over the appearance of senior European and US politicians at a rally in support of an opposition group that has long sought to overthrow Iran's theocratic rulers and which was once considered a terror organization by the West.

Iran's official IRNA news agency reported that the country's foreign ministry on Sunday summoned Slovenia's envoy in Tehran over a video message by the EU nations' prime minister at the event hosted by the National Council of Resistance of Iran.

The NRCI is the political wing of the Mujahedeen-e-Khalq, which is considered a terror organization by Iran and was once designated as such by the United States until it was delisted in 2012. The EU removed the group from its terrorism list in 2009.

Hundreds of people rallied Saturday in front of Berlin's iconic Brandenburg Gate, while speakers including former US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, Democratic strategist Donna Brazile and numerous serving US senators from across the aisle lauded the NRCI and its aims.

Pompeo, who defended the Trump administration's hard-line stance against Iran over its nuclear program, claimed in his video address that the Iranian government was ``at its most precarious state'' since the 1979 Islamic Revolution and called for sustained pressure on Tehran.

The former top US diplomat also compared Iran's newly elected president, Ebrahim Raisi, to a ``mass murderer'' for his role in the execution of thousands of Iranian political prisoners in 1988.

``The United States should take the lead to hold him accountable for the crimes against humanity that he committed,`` said Pompeo, adding that the U.S. government should tell allies in Europe and Asia if they deal with Raisi, ``the United States will hold them accountable as well.''

Pompeo praised the NRCI, whose funding is unclear and which has in the past paid foreign politicians to appear at its rallies, urging the group to ``keep up the fight.``

``May your mission be blessed and protected, may the Iranian people be blessed,'' said the Republican, who has refused to rule out running in the 2024 U.S. presidential election.

Pompeo's support for the group was echoed by Brazile, who praised the ``remarkable courage and leadership'' of the NRCI's president, Maryam Rajavi.

Also speaking during the event were Democratic Sens. Bob Menendez and Cory Booker, and Republican Sens. Roy Blunt and Ted Cruz, the former UK House of Commons Speaker John Bercow, former Italian Foreign Minister Franco Frattini, former Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper and others.

Iran slammed Western politicians taking part in the event, with Foreign Ministry spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh accusing them of ``(selling) themselves cheap for a Europe-hosted circus arranged by a once Saddam-backed terrorist cult with Iranian blood on its hands.''

The ministry also condemned the speech by Slovenian Prime Minister Janez Jansa, calling it ``unacceptable, against diplomatic norms and spirit'' of bilateral relations, the IRNA news agency reported.

Jansa, whose country holds the rotating European Council presidency, had said he backed calls for an independent investigation into Raisi's role in the 1988 executions.

``The Iranian regime must be held accountable for human rights violations and the international community must be more firm on this,'' he said.

Short link:


Russia's daily tally of confirmed coronavirus infections has exceeded 25,000 for the third day in a row.

Authorities reported 25,033 new cases Sunday.

Russia has been facing a sharp rise of contagions in recent weeks, with daily new infections increasing from around 9,000 in early June to over 25,000 on Friday. For the first time in the pandemic, the daily death toll exceeded 700 on Tuesday. It's remained at that level ever since, with 749 new deaths registered on Sunday.

Officials blame the surge on the spread of the delta variant. They're seeking to boost vaccine uptake, which has remained lower than in many Western countries. As of Wednesday, about 27 million Russians, or just 18.5% of the 146-million population, have received at least one shot of a vaccine, and 18.5 million, or 12.6%, have been fully vaccinated.

Short link:


Related Florida condo tower death toll now at 86

The death toll in last month's collapse of a Florida apartment building has now risen to 90, officials said Sunday, with another 31 people still unaccounted for after the tragedy.

Champlain Towers South, a 12-story building built in 1981 in Surfside, a town north of Miami Beach, came tumbling down on June 24, as dozens of residents slept inside.

"The number of confirmed deaths is now 90. Seventy-one victims have been identified," Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava told a daily briefing, adding that 217 people are accounted for and 31 people remain "potentially unaccounted for."

More than 6,000 tons of concrete and other debris has been removed from the site, she said.

The recovery and removal operation was proceeding around the clock, and emergency personnel were at the point of accessing cars in the underground parking garage, said Miami-Dade fire chief Alan Cominsky.

Cominsky refused to be drawn on a possible end point for the recovery work.

"It's still a methodical process... they're hand-digging. It's a slow process," he said.

Israeli rescuers taking part in the operation in Surfside, which has a significant Jewish population, were expected to head home on Sunday, Levine Cava, saluting their efforts.

Multiple investigations were under way to determine the cause of the collapse. The remains of the building were brought down in a controlled explosion to allow for the recovery operation to continue.

A 2018 report released by city officials revealed fears of "major structural damage" in the complex, from the concrete slab under the pool deck to columns and beams in the parking garage.

Surfside Mayor Charles Burkett said Sunday that early test results showed the building's "concrete strength is very good, at or beyond the levels at which it should be."

Short link:


Egypts Ministry of Finance has received 600 applications from export companies that are willing to benefit from the cash repayment for exporters initiative in its third stage which was launched more than a week ago, Finance Minister Mohamed Maait announced on Sunday.

Export companies can submit their applications until 29 July, according to the minister.

On 30 June, the finance ministry launched the third stage of the exporters support programme that allows the companies to obtain their arrears from the Development Fund (EDF) as instant cash repayments.

Maait noted that the arrears of this stage are expected to be disbursed by end of September through end of October with an acceleration discount of 15 percent.

In September 2020, the government launched the first stage of the initiative that targeted instant cash repayment of export companies arrears before the end of 2020, while it came into effect in November.

A sum of EGP 16.4 billion were disbursed to 2,000 export companies that registered in the programmes two previous stages, according to the finance ministry.

Since the launch of all initiatives that target the cash repayments of the exporters arrears in October 2019, the beneficiaries received EGP 28 billion  the biggest support extended to Egypts export sector ever.



Nevine Mansour, an advisor to the deputy finance minister for financial policies, said that 2,500 export companies benefited from the other five initiatives, with a total of EGP 5.6 billion disbursed for exports in FY 2019/2020 and EGP 2.4 billion disbursed from July to November 2020.

The cabinet has approved five initiatives since October 2019 to settle exporters arrears through June 2019.

The initiatives included repaying small investors a maximum of EGP 5 million, the repayment of 30 percent of all arrears to exporters, holding a set-off between exporters arrears and the payable tax and customs obligations on them, the repayment of the total arrear sums over four to five years while expanding their investments in return, and the land allocation initiative.

Short link:


Mahamat-Saleh Haroun, whose drama Lingui'' has been a standout of the first week of the Cannes Film Festival, has a unique relationship as a filmmaker to his native country of Chad.

Haroun is one of the African nation's only film directors and easily its most prominent. That role _ national cinematic spokesman _ has given him a heavy responsibility.

If I don't bring images from Chad, my country will be forgotten,'' Haroun said in an interview. I have to make films to give other images of my country, rather than the cliche images of war, et cetera. It becomes more than a passion. It becomes a duty.''

Haroun, who has lived in France since leaving Chad in 1982, has set all but one of his eight features there. Lingui,'' which is in competition for the top Palme d'Or prize at Cannes, is his first film with a female protagonist.

Amina (played by Achouackh Abakar Souleymane) is a single mother and practicing Muslim whose 15-year-old daughter, Maria (Rihane Khalil Alio) is pregnant. On the outskirts of Chad's capital of N'Djamena, the unwanted pregnancy is a grave concern. It means certain ostracism for Maria _ the same stigma that her mother knows herself.

Abortions are only legal in Chad if the woman has suffered sexual violence or her life is in immediate danger. The high hurdles to abortion mean access is all but impossible and often done dangerously at home.

When I'm in Chad, says Haroun, I have a lot of people telling me: `You have to make a film about this subject. You are the filmmaker. You have to become our spokesman and make this film, this subject. We can't, because we are afraid of the government. You can.'''

I belong to the community,'' he added. I am the one who can tell stories that they deny.''

The title of Lingui'' is Chadian word that translates as common thread or sacred bond. Vividly filmed with vibrant local color and nonprofessional actors, it movingly captures a clandestine sisterhood in a male-controlled society. Haroun considers it a tribute to the nation's women.

For a year, Haroun was Chad's minister of culture before resigning in 2018 after disagreements with the government. In September, he will hold screenings of Lingui'' around the country, he says.

The film has been enthusiastically received by critics in Cannes, something Haroun says is heartening but not totally surprising to him.

I'm a cooker, you know, so I know when something is well done,'' he says, grinning.

Only one film from Africa has ever won Cannes' top honor, the Palme d'Or: Algerian director Mohammed Lakhdar-Hamina's Chronicle of the Years of Fire'' in 1975.

Haroun has previously taken a prize in Cannes with his civil war-set A Screaming Man, which won the jury prize in 2010. At the last Cannes, in 2019, Mati Diop's Senegalese drama Atlantics won the grand prize. This year, there are two films from Africa in competition; the other is Moroccan director Nabil Ayouch's Casablanca Beats.''

We are coming and coming and coming,'' says Haroun, smiling. We knock on the door. We try.''

For more arts and culture news and updates, follow Ahram Online Arts and Culture on Twitter at @AhramOnlineArts and on Facebook at Ahram Online: Arts & Culture

Short link:


Used properly, "rapid antigen" COVID-19 tests that give fast results are generally reliable, a new study suggests.

The tests have "good" sensitivity, or the ability to correctly identify patients who are infected with the coronavirus, and "excellent" specificity, or the ability to correctly identify people who are not infected, UK researchers reported in The Lancet Microbe.

Unlike gold-standard PCR tests, which involve complex lab equipment and highly trained staff, rapid antigen tests can be processed on the spot.

The researchers evaluated six commercially available tests. Compared to PCR, their accuracy at diagnosing infection varied from 65% to 89% and rose above 90% in patients with high viral loads.

The researchers warn that correct use of the tests is essential, which may happen less often with members of the public than when administered by trained healthcare workers.

Although PCR-based testing is more accurate, they conclude, the rapid tests' "versatility in terms of cost and portability," and their usefulness in disrupting transmission from infected asymptomatic individuals who would otherwise go undetected "could outweigh the risk of missing positive cases."

Short link:


A new draft law aiming to facilitate the dismissal of civil servants and government employees with links to the Muslim Brotherhood and other terrorist-designated groups was overwhelmingly approved by Egypt's House of Representatives in a plenary meeting on Monday.

Ibrahim El-Heneidi, the chair of the House's Legislative and Constitutional Affairs Committee, said the draft law, submitted by MP Ali Badr, seeks to amend the Law on Non-Disciplinary Dismissal of Civil Servants (10/1973) to safeguard national security and internal stability against the infiltration of terrorist and extremist elements into government offices and administrative units.

Badr's draft law states in Article 1 that employees working at the state's administrative system, including ministries, government authorities, public organizations, local council units, and public enterprise companies will be subject to the law.

Article 2 states that the dismissal of employees specified by the above article will be mainly allowed in two cases: if they violate their job's duties in a way that might cause gross harm to the state's public utilities or economic interests; and if serious proof shows they are a danger to the country's national security and safety. The article states that putting certain employees on the list of terrorist-designated entities would be serious proof paving the way for their dismissal.

State employees would be also automatically dismissed if they lost trust and esteem, and if they have become unable to do their job properly.

Article two also states that dismissed employees would be suspended from doing their job for no more than six months - or until the final dismissal decision is approved  and that they will be entitled to receive just half of their salary during the suspension period.

Article 2 also gives the president of the republic, or whoever is deputised by him, the authority to dismiss Muslim Brotherhood and terrorist elements.

"The president's dismissal decision would be issued upon a report submitted by the concerned cabinet minister and after listening to the dismissed worker's defence, and a dismissed employee will not be prevented from obtaining a pension or financial compensation," Article 2 states.

Parliament speaker Hanafi Gibali said the law gives employees the right to appeal the dismissal decision before administrative courts.

Gibali also argued that the law does not violate the constitution as Article 14 states that state employees and civil servants can be dismissed in certain cases to be specified by the law.

"The new law also goes in line with Article 14, as it will not strip dismissed employees of their pensions and financial compensation," said Gibali.

Gibali indicated that the draft law, once provisionally approved by the House, will be referred to the State Council to be revised in constitutional and legislative terms.

MP Ali Badr, secretary-general of the House's Legislative and Constitutional Affairs Committee and a deputy from the Upper Egypt governorate of Beni Suef, said the law is important to help the government in its war against terrorism.

MP Mahmoud Badr said the law is necessary to protect the country from a handful of Muslim Brotherhood and terrorist employees who are a big threat to national security.

Leftist MP Atef Meghawry said, "Like we passed a law to protect the army and policemen from terrorist attacks, we also decided to pass this law to purge government offices and administrative units from terrorist elements."

MP Amal Salama, the parliamentary spokesperson of the Egyptian Freedom Party, said Muslim Brotherhood elements were able to infiltrate many government offices like the ministries of transport and endowments as well as the Maspero (state television and radio) building.

"The law comes to confront these elements and safeguard national security against their danger," Salama said.

Wafdist MP Dina Abu Ismail said the law comes on the occasion of the eighth anniversary of the 30 June revolution, which helped Egypt get rid of the rule of religious fascism led by Muslim Brotherhood.

"The law is very important to make it legal to rid government offices and administrative units of the remnants of the terrorist Muslim Brotherhood group," said Abu Ismail.

However, another Wafdist MP, Amira Abu Shoka, warned that the law could be arbitrarily used to dismiss state employees without serious justifications.

"State authorities should be very careful while implementing this law in order not to strip state employees of their constitutional and legal rights," said Abu Shoka.

Maha Abdel-Nasser, the parliamentary spokesperson of the Egyptian Socialist Democratic Party (ESDP), was the only MP who rejected the law, arguing that the law could be used against employees who voice objection to their bosses or to government policies.

"Worse, the law does not provide enough guarantees that bosses in government offices will not use this law to get rid of employees who voice rejection to their policies," said Abdel-Nasser, indicating that "the ESDP was at the forefront of political forces which revolted against the rule of Muslim Brotherhood in 2013, but in spite of this it cannot approve this law."

Ihab El-Tamawy, deputy chairman of the House's Legislative and Constitutional Affairs Committee, said the law goes in line with Article 237 of the constitution, which stipulates that the state must "combat all forms of terrorism and track its sources of funding."

El-Tamaway also revealed that the law was approved by the National Defence Council, the Higher Justice Council, the Administrative Prosecution Authority, the State Cases Authority, and the Higher Police Council.

Search Keywords:

Short link:


The US-based NGO Population Council has stressed the need to provide family planning and reproductive health services to Egyptian factory workers as well as the importance of fostering the role of the private sector in providing such services to Egyptian youth.

Nahla Abdel-Tawab, the director of the Population Council's Egypt office, stressed the importance of providing family planning and reproductive health services to workers in industrial facilities.

She noted that such services, which would reach a large segment of young people at the beginning of their married lives, should involve providing advice and promoting the use of family planning methods, as well as encourage the concept of the small family, she noted.

Hossam Abbas, head of the Population and Family Planning Sector at the Ministry of Health, stressed the importance of coordinating efforts between all concerned parties to help workers meet their needs for reproductive health services, family planning and disease prevention.

The Population Council invited the ministrys population and family planning sector to present the results of the project Strengthening the Role of the Private Sector in Providing Reproductive Health Services to Youth in Egypt, that is implemented by the Population Council, in cooperation with the Port Fouad Association for Family and Child Care.

This project is implemented with the support of the United States Agency for International Development to meet the reproductive health and family planning needs of young factory workers in the investment zone in Port Said.

The project aims to support the national family planning program in Egypt, as overpopulation is considered a top concern for the Egyptian state.

According to the Central Agency for Public Mobilization and Statistics (CAPMAS) in 2018, the number of factory workers is around 2.6 million, most of whom are of childbearing age. The percentage of women in some sectors, such as the ready-made garment industry, is more than 50 percent.

Short link:


Egypt never against its brothers right to development, but rejects infringement of its Nile water rights: Parliament speaker



Ahmed Morsy, Sunday 11 Jul 2021



The Egyptian parliament speaker stressed that 'reaching a fair agreement on the issue of the GERD prevents the region from sliding into conflict'



Egyptian Parliament Speaker Hanafy Gebaly stated on Sunday that Egypt has never stood against its brothers right to development, however, it rejects any infringement of its Nile water rights.



Gebaly was referring to the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), which Addis Ababa hopes will make it Africas largest power exporter and sees it as crucial to its development efforts.



Throughout the decade-long GERD negotiations, Ethiopia has been evading the legally binding deal that Egypt and Sudan have been seeking on the filling and operation of the dam, preferring guidelines that can be modified any time at its discretion, and has opposed any international mediation proposed by the two downstream countries to facilitate negotiations and bring the views closer.



Egypt, which relies on the worlds longest River Nile for more than 95 percent of its renewable water resources, on the other hand, fears that the unilateral filling and operation of the massive hydropowerproject will significantly diminish its water supply, which at 560 m3 per person annually is already well below the international threshold for water scarcity.



Unlike Ethiopia, whose annual floods are around 900 billion cubic meters (bcm) and has around 9 major rivers, Egypt is considered one of the most water-scarce countries in the world, as it receives around 60 bcm annually  mainly from the River Nile  though its needs are around 114 bcm.



In a general session of the parliament on Sunday, Gebaly pointed out that Ethiopias behaviour is characterised by unjustified intransigence that the Egyptian state rejects, because of its negative impact on Egypt's water security.



The Egyptian parliament speaker stressed that reaching a fair agreement on the issue of the GERD prevents the region from sliding into conflict.



On the other hand, Gebaly hailed the speech of Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry before the security council, which was held at the request of Egypt and Sudan on Thursday in an attempt to settle the dispute over the near-complete GERD.



He added that Shoukrys speech expressed the Egyptian stance towards the fateful issue, and that we are following up with the international community to reach a binding agreement to fill and operate the GERD in coordination with the African Parliament, calling on it to carry out its African diplomatic responsibilities.



Gebaly moreover affirmed that the Egyptian state has spared no effort to defend and preserve its water rights as the Nile is the lifeline of its existence, saluting President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi for rightly and honourably defending the states capabilities.



We declare that we all stand behind the political leadership and support the protection of the historical rights of the people. The waters of the Nile are the lifeline of Egypt, Gebali said, stressing that we are confident that the challenge we are facing will be vigorously overcome and a new victory will be achieved.



A 1929 agreement, which was signed between Egypt and Britain, representing Uganda, Kenya, Tanganyika (now Tanzania) and Sudan, allocates 55.5 bcm of the Niles waters to Egypt and 18.5 bcm to Sudan.



Earlier in 1902, the Anglo-Ethiopian treaty was signed between the United Kingdom  representing Egypt and Sudan  and Ethiopia  represented by Emperor Menelik II of Abyssinia  has prohibited the Ethiopian construction of any waterworks across the Blue Nile that would affect the rivers natural flow.



The same treaty granted sovereignty of the then Sudanese Benishangul region, where Addis Ababa has been building the controversial dam since 2011, to Ethiopia.



https://english.ahram.org.eg/News/416989.aspx
By Miya Tanaka, KYODO NEWS - Jul 11, 2021 - 13:41 | All, World, Feature

Multilateralism came into play as the finance chiefs of the Group of 20 major economies joined hands on Saturday to back once-in-a-century international tax rule changes, but the move did not signal any better relations between the two key members of the forum -- the United States and China.

Some U.S. experts on China expect no breakthrough anytime soon in the strained ties between the world's two largest economies, while other analysts warn that Japan, a U.S. security ally with close trade ties with China, should accelerate efforts to hedge against potential economic risks stemming from what some view as a new "Cold War."

A series of G-20 ministerial meetings have been taking place in Italy in the run-up to a summit meeting scheduled for late October, where U.S. President Joe Biden may have a chance to hold his first face-to-face meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping since taking office in January.

But Zack Cooper, an expert on U.S.-China relations at the American Enterprise Institute, was skeptical that momentum is building up toward bilateral engagement.

While the two countries may have some interactions later this year, including a possible Biden-Xi meeting, the senior fellow at the Washington think tank said he would not expect "much substantive cooperation" to come out of such talks.

"I think the tension will continue," he said, adding, "The problem is our underlying interests and values are very different. And I don't think a bit of dialogue is going to solve that."

Biden's administration has been building on the previous Donald Trump administration's tough China policies with more emphasis on human rights issues. As it rallies allies to counter Beijing, which it views as acting more repressively at home and aggressively abroad, it has called for democracies to outpace autocracies in the race to compete.

One reason for Washington's push for a G-20 agreement on plans to tax multinationals during two days of talks that ended Saturday in Italy may have been to help address its disputes with European allies over imposing levies on U.S. big tech firms, Cooper said.

"So even if there is agreement on tax, I sort of see that as an effort by the Biden team to try and unite a bit more closely with democratic allies and partners to avoid divisions that might create problems with the Chinese down the road," Cooper said.

Since Biden assumed the presidency, top diplomats of the two countries have so far met once face-to-face in March in Alaska, laying bare their deep disagreements on human rights issues, Taiwan and what international order they view as desirable.

As the Beijing Winter Olympics approaches in February, China could face even more pressure over its poor human rights record, with calls already emerging inside the United States to resort to some form of boycott as a punishment over China's alleged abuses against the Muslim Uyghur minority in the western Xinjiang region.

But it would likely be difficult for the Chinese leadership to take any actions that could be perceived as backing down, as next year will also be crucial for Xi in further consolidating his power through a twice-a-decade Communist Party congress in the fall.

In a speech on July 1 to mark the 100th anniversary of the party's founding, Xi was defiant, saying that the Chinese people will "never permit any foreign forces to bully, oppress or enslave us" and emphasizing that China's "complete reunification" with Taiwan is a "historic mission and an unshakable commitment" of the party.

With Xi believed to be aiming to be re-elected as leader of the Communist Party at the congress for an unusual third term, Cooper said the party will likely be hoping next year will go "very smoothly" and will "react quite angrily to criticism of China and Xi in particular."

On the economic front, China may be hoping to see the removal of punitive U.S. tariffs imposed on hundreds of billions of dollars' worth of Chinese products amid an escalating trade war under the Trump era.

But a major reduction in tariffs may require a substantial commitment from China to address U.S. concerns on intellectual property theft and extensive use of industrial subsidies, among other issues, which again may be a high bar for Beijing.

Takeshi Makita at the Japan Research Institute said the United States and China have entered a phase of "competition for global hegemony," although the possibilities of imminent military clashes and a broad decoupling of the two economies seem low.

The research director, however, said Japan should still be prepared for the potential consequences of a heightened showdown between Washington and Beijing, making sure that its economy can grow while avoiding being caught in the crosshairs.

"If the United States and China see a sharp escalation of their confrontation and Japan has to (follow the United States to) take a more confrontational approach as a member of the democratic countries, China will certainly take retaliatory actions that will lead to a decline in exports, a downturn in Japanese businesses in China and a decrease in Chinese tourists," Makita warned.

The adverse economic impact from a deterioration of Japan-China ties would be difficult to ignore, Makita said, citing data showing that Japanese exports of goods and services to mainland China and Hong Kong represented about 4 percent of the country's gross domestic product in 2019.

The percentage was the highest among the Group of Seven industrialized countries. For the United States, the same figure stood at about 1 percent of its GDP in 2019.

Makita said Japan should step up efforts to create products and services that are vital to China and difficult for other countries to supply, noting that Japan is strong in sectors such as parts, industrial machinery and material.

"Even though Japan's semiconductor industry is faltering, our country has a leading share in related material such as vinyl chloride...Creating a situation in which China cannot make general-purpose products without Japanese parts and material will be the best defense," he said.

He also said Japan should find ways to benefit from a void that would likely be created in the U.S. market as Washington seeks to reduce its reliance on Chinese goods in the longer term, and try to lure more visitors from the United States and Europe in an otherwise China-dependent inbound tourism market.

The Japanese government needs to expedite its efforts to brace for the new "Cold War," Makita suggested.

"There have been some moves (to draw up a strategy) but they have started out very late," he said, saying persistent reluctance inside Japanese business circles to prepare for such risks may have been one of the reasons for the delay.

"Japan has also lacked awareness of the risks over the Taiwan contingency," he added, referring to China's threat to use force if necessary to bring about eventual reunification with what it views as a renegade island province.

Related coverage:

G-20 backs "historic" agreement to curb tax dodging by multinationals
Jerusalem:

Israel's military targeted a Hamas observation post on Saturday after an explosive device detonated near the border between the Gaza Strip and Israel, the military said.

The explosion occurred in the northern Gaza Strip near Israel's border fence, the army said in a statement, with no casualties reported.



"In response, IDF (Israel Defence Forces) tanks targeted a military observation post belonging to the Hamas terror organisation," the army said on Twitter.

According to Palestinian sources, the retaliatory fire slightly injured one person.

Two explosive devices were detonated Thursday along the border, provoking Israeli attacks on Hamas positions.

No group has claimed responsibility for the blasts, but Israel held Hamas responsible as the de facto power in the Palestinian enclave.

Israel, Hamas and its allies are observing a ceasefire since the 2014 war, the third in the enclave in six years.

Also Read: UN seeks USD 540 million for Palestinian aid, mostly for Gaza

The truce is regularly shaken, particularly by fire from the enclave into Israel, which systematically retaliates by targeting Hamas positions, even if the attacks are carried out by other groups.

On February 17, four Israeli soldiers were wounded by an improvised explosive device on the border, sparking intense military retaliation.

Israel warplanes attacked 18 "terror targets belonging to Hamas" in Gaza in response to the blast, which severely wounded two of the soldiers, and a subsequent Palestinian rocket attack on southern Israel.

For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
New Delhi:

Three doctors of All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Delhi were killed in a tragic accident on the Yamuna Expressway in the wee hours of Sunday morning. Along with the three killed, four others were critically injured and taken to the nearby hospital.

The accident took place near Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, and the case was registered under the Surir Kotwali police station area. As per reports, the doctors speeding Innova collided with a container near the milestone 88, killing the three doctors on the spot, while injuring the other four.

The incident is said to have taken place at around 2 am in the wee hours. The three doctors killed were identified as Dr. Yashpal, Dr. Harshad, and Dr. Hembala.

Authorities rushed to the spot as soon as the news of the incident reached them, and with the help of locals and policemen, rescued all the passengers in the Innova.

#UPDATE Three doctors from AIIMS Delhi killed, three injured in an accident on Yamuna Expressway near Mathura pic.twitter.com/szlBvhH1Jz  ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) March 18, 2018

The injured doctors were identified as Dr. Kadriene, Dr. Mahesh, and Dr. Abhinav, who were admitted to the Mathura local hospital. The driver of the car has been shifted to AIIMS, while the dead bodies of the three doctors have been sent for post-mortem.

As per reports, all of the doctors were travelling to celebrate the birthday of Dr. Harshad when the incident occurred.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
Dakar:

Six people were killed and 14 others injured when a Senegalese military helicopter crashed, according to a government statement giving an updated toll from the incident in the south of the country.

The helicopter, which went down in a mangrove forest in the coastal area of Missirah late on Wednesday, was carrying 20 people, including four crew, army spokesman Colonel Abdou Ndiaye told AFP earlier.

According to a statement released by the government, rescue workers said six people died at the scene.

"The other 14 passengers were wounded, three seriously," it said, adding that the injured were being transferred to a regional hospital in Kaolack.

Authorities have launched an enquiry into the incident to determine the cause of the crash, the statement said.

For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
New Delhi:

Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) on Saturday advised people to take proper precautions while sharing their personal information including Aadhaar to any service provider or vendor.

The UIDAI in a series of tweets confirmed that the personal details of the citizens are safe and secure. The statutory authority asked the people to not get confused with some news on social media platforms.

The clarification comes after social media was flooded with rumours that Aadhaar PDF has been made available on the internet. The rumour had created panic among the people who believed someone could breach their details by searching Mera Aadhaar, Meri Pehchan on Google.

Here are the things which UIDAI mentioned about Aadhaars security on Twitter.

''People should not get carried away or confused with any news appearing on any social media platform on Aadhaar PDF being available on Google search'', as per the UIDAI statement.

UIDAI has advised people not to get carried away or confused with some news appearing in social and other media on Aadhaar pdf being available on Google search on Mera Aadhaar, Meri Pehchan. 1/8  Aadhaar (@UIDAI) March 17, 2018

''Such news are planned to spread misinformation on India's robust identity system  Aadhaar. They are intentional and irresponsible acts of some unscrupulous elements'', UIADI mentioned on Twitter.

UIDAI said that such news are intended to spread misinformation on India's robust identity system - Aadhaar and are intentional and irresponsible acts of some unscrupulous elements. 2/8  Aadhaar (@UIDAI) March 17, 2018

These rumours are far from the reality as none of the Aadhar cards shown are taken from UIDAI database, as per the statement.

These are far from the reality and have got nothing to do with the security of Aadhaar and its database. As none of the Aadhaar cards shown are taken from UIDAI database.

3/8  Aadhaar (@UIDAI) March 17, 2018

People should take precautions when they put their details on internet in any digital activity.

People share their personal information including Aadhaar on internet to some or other service provider or vendor to get the services and when they put their details on internet they should take due precautions as required in any digital activities.

4/8  Aadhaar (@UIDAI) March 17, 2018

Publishing or posting the Aadhaar cards will have no bearing on UIDAI or the security of Aadhaar.

Publications or posting of Aadhaar cards by some unscrupulous people have absolutely no bearing on UIDAI and not the least on Aadhaar security. Aadhaar as an identity document by its very nature needs to be shared openly with others as and when required and asked for. 5/8  Aadhaar (@UIDAI) March 17, 2018

Even if any person knows someones Aadhaar, he/she cant impersonate the person. Aadhar alone is not sufficient, as it requires biometrics to authenticate the persons identity.

Aadhaar just like any other id, therefore, is never to be treated as a confidential document. By simply knowing someones Aadhaar, no one can impersonate & harm him because Aadhaar alone is not sufficient, it requires biometrics to authenticate ones Identity. 6/8  Aadhaar (@UIDAI) March 17, 2018

Even though Aadhaar has to be shared with others, it should be protected so as to ensure privacy of the person, said a UIDAI statement.

Although Aadhaar has to be shared with others, it being personal information like mobile number, bank account number, PAN card, passport, family details, etc, should be ordinarily protected to ensure privacy of the person.

7/8  Aadhaar (@UIDAI) March 17, 2018

One can sue a person for civil damages if he/she unauthorisedly publishes someones Aadhaar card, bank account or mobile number.

If anybody unauthorisedly publishes someones personal information such as Aadhaar card, mobile number, bank account, photograph, etc., he can be sued for civil damages by the person whose privacy right is infringed. 7.5/8  Aadhaar (@UIDAI) March 17, 2018

''Aadhaar is safe and secure and there has been no breach from the biometric database during the last eight years of its existence'', the UIDAI statement read.

However, in no way such publication threatens or impacts security of Aadhaar and its database. Aadhaar remains safe and secure and there has not been a single breach from its biometric database during that last eight years of its existence. 8/8  Aadhaar (@UIDAI) March 17, 2018

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
New Delhi:

Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao will likely fly to Kolkata on Monday to meet the West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and discuss the possibility of a third-party front.

The third-party front will be a non-Congress, non-BJP political arena.

A top official from the Chief Ministers office said, It is not yet confirmed but the Chief Minister is likely to go to Kolkata on Monday, a day after the Telugu New Year, to meet Mamata Banerjee. The CM is keen on forming a national front of political parties. He will emphasise that he is proposing an alternative to the Congress and BJP so that there is a change in quality of governance at the Centre.

The move comes after the Telangana CM, on March 3, declared his idea of joining the national politics and being in talks with like-minded parties, including the Left, to being about qualitative changes in the governance, while directly blaming that neither the Congress nor the BJP could properly govern the country.

Also Read| K Chandrashekar Rao can play pivotal role in 2019 Lok Sabha polls: Owaisi

He said, In the last 70 years, the political system, whether ruled by Congress or BJP, has failed.miserably to bring a qualitative change in the lives of the people.We are talking of tackling corruption and ensuring social justice. Every day, there are reports of Dalits being killed. The BJP is in power in some of the states where they (Dalits) are getting killed.

The Trinamool Congress chief was the first among to call KCR and extend her support to him. Banerjee openly supported her side towards KCR and his idea of third-party front.

Among the others who supported the Telangana Rashtra Samiti (TSR) chief were Ajit Jogi, former Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren, and AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
New Delhi:

The Congress party has decided to forge a Grand Alliance with like-minded parties to defeat the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

On the opening day of the partys 84th plenary session, Congress adopted a political resolution that recommends pragmatic approach on alliances with compatible parties to take on the BJP.

The Congress has been making all-out efforts to unite the Opposition parties against the BJP in the next elections.

While delivering his maiden plenary session speech, Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Saturday accused BJP of spreading hatred and said that only Congresss hand symbol can take the country forward with love and brotherhood.

The nation is fatigued with Modi government and looking for a way out, only Congress can show the way ahead, the Rahul said.

Some leaders at the conclave said no one can stop Rahul Gandhi from becoming the prime minister in 2019 and a beginning of a new era has been made.

Also Read | Hand of love will bring change, take the country forward, says Rahul Gandhi

During the first day of the plenary session, Rahul Gandhis mother and predecessor Sonia Gandhi launched a scathing attack on PM Modi and said his government was drunk on power.

In the last four years, this arrogant and power-drunk government has left no stone unturned to destroy the Congress. They have used every trick in the trade, but Congress has neither succumbed before this arrogance of power nor will it succumb in future, Gandhi said.

Terming PM Modis promises of inclusive development as all drama, Gandhi said, The promises of Sab Ka Saath, Sab Ka Vikas and Na Khaoonga, Na Khaane Doonga were only dramebaazi (theatrics) and a trick to grab votes.

Also Read | Sonia Gandhi attacks PM, says 'autocratic' Modi government drunk on power

In another resolution, the party said if voted to power it would come out with a loan-waiver scheme for small and marginal farmers similar to that announced by the UPA government in 2009.

Adopting a resolution on Agriculture, Employment and Poverty Alleviation at the plenary session, the party hit out at the Modi government for its flawed and anti-farmer policies that caused an agrarian crisis in the country.

The Grand Old Party also advised the Election Commission to scrap the electronic voting machines (EVM) and get the old style of paper ballots in future.

The party said that it is necessary to stop the misuse of EVMs to manipulate the fate of the popular verdict.

In a resolution made in the plenary session, the party said BJPs move of simultaneous elections is misplaced and is incompatible with the Constitution.

Current Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been pressing upon the idea of One Country One Election contending that it will save money and time.

The two-day plenary session that seeks to show the party the path forward and give vision and direction to it, was attended by top party leaders, including former PM Manmohan Singh, Opposition leader in Lok Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge, former Delhi CM Sheila Dikshit, and Ghulam Nabi Azad.

(With agency inputs)

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
Beijing:

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang, the no. 2 leader of the ruling Communist Party, was on Sunday re-elected for a second five-year tenure by Chinas rubber-stamp parliament, a day after Xi Jinping was re-appointed as the president with no limits on the number of terms he can serve.

Li, 62, who was nominated on behalf of Xi, was re- appointed with 2,964 votes in favour and two against during the annual session of the National Peoples Congress at Beijings Great Hall of the People.

Li maintained a low profile under the Chinese president mainly looking after the countrys economy as Xi consolidated power and surrounded himself with powerful aides.

Li completed the first five-year tenure along with Xi who is now regarded as the core leader of the party placed along with party founder Mao Zedong.

Xi, 64, was on Saturday re-elected unanimously by 2970 deputies of the NPC, days after it ratified constitutional amendment to remove the decades old two-term limit for the president and vice president posts.

He was also re-elected as the Chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC) which is the overall high command of the two million strong Chinese military, the worlds largest.

Xis loyalist and close confidant Wang Qishan has been elected as vice president, who like Xi is set for a lifelong tenure.

Other officials who got elected included was Yang Xiaodu director of the national supervisory commission, a newly formed anti-corruption body with statuary powers.

Also Read: Mauritius President Ameenah Gurib-Fakim resigns over credit card scandal

Xu Qiliang and Zhang Youxia were elected as vice chairmen of the Central Military Commission (CMC) headed by Xi.

The NPC which has approved a complete overhaul of the Chinese government is also expected to nominate a host of new officials including a new foreign minister and governor of the central bank, the Peoples Bank of China.

The NPC deputies also elected president of the Supreme Peoples Court, procurator-general of the Supreme Peoples Procuratorate, and members of the 13th NPC Standing Committee.

For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
New Delhi:

Pakistan has decided to pull out of the World Trade Organisation meeting which is to be held in New Delhi next week. The move comes as protest post the alleged harassment of its diplomats in India.

The Pakistan Commerce Minister Pervez Malik was invited by Indian delegation to participate in the informal WTO ministerial meeting which is scheduled to be held in New Delhi on March 19 and March 20.

Islamabad had initially accepted the invitation and agreed to be a part of the WTO meeting, but foreign ministry sources said that the situation changed after repeated harassment of families of diplomats and it was decided to skip the meeting.

A source said, We cannot send our commerce minister to India in the current situation and India has been informed about it.

Speaking on the ceasefire violations, the source said that India should stop the alleged violations on the Line of Control (LoC) and also put an end to the atrocities in Kashmir.

The Pakistan governments decision to stay away from the WTO meeting coincides with that of recalling Pakistans High Commissioner to India Sohail Mehmood. Mehmood was recalled to Islamabad after alleged harassment of diplomats in India.

Mehmood arrived in Pakistan a day after the Foreign Office spokesman said that he was being summoned only for consultation due to non-stop harassment of the families of diplomats.

Also Read: India accuses Pakistan of blocking government websites since May 2017

Official sources of the ministry said that Mehmood will brief the top officials about the situation in India. Sources said, A decision to how address the situation will be made after the consultations.

However, the officials said that the decision to send back Mehmood for an indefinite period is yet not confirmed as talks were on the table for declaring New Delhi as a non-family station. Meanwhile, the officials sidelined allegations that Indian diplomats were facing problems and harassment in Pakistan.

Sources were quoted saying, Our high commissioner will not return to India anytime soon. In other words, Pakistan recalled its envoy to New Delhi as a protest till the situation improves.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
New Delhi:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday called upon farmers and scientists to work together and said that Unnati Melas can play a key role in paving way for New India.

"Krishi Unnati Mela" is aimed at creating awareness about the latest technological developments in the agriculture and allied sectors among farmers," the prime minister said in his address at the annual 'Krishi Unnati Mela' at Indian Agricultural Research Institute in Delhi.

"The theme of the fair is doubling farmer's income by 2022," Modi said.

Also terming farmers and scientists as sentinels of New India, Modi said, "Through the medium of this event I have got the opportunity to simultaneously interact with the 2 most important parts of new India, that is the farmers who provide food and the scientists who come up with the latest technology."

"In this budget, we announced GOBAR-Dhan Yojana which stands for Galvanizing Organic Bio-Agro Resources, it will help in managing bio-waste being produced in villages, in a big way," he added.

#WATCH: PM Modi addresses the annual 'Krishi Unnati Mela' at Indian Agricultural Research Institute in Delhi. https://t.co/J7xPZqWt4H  ANI (@ANI) March 17, 2018

Also Read: Darbhanga beheading is case of land dispute, no connection with Narendra Modi chowk, says Sushil Modi

Modi is also set to unveil a portal on organic farming and will lay the foundation stone of 25 Krishi Vigyan Kendras.He will confer the 'Krishi Karman' and 'Deen Dayal Upadhya Krishi Vigyan Protsahan' awards on the occasion.

Theme pavilions on doubling farmers income, live demonstrations on micro-irrigation, wastewater utilisation, animal husbandry and fisheries are among the major attractions of the fair.

Also Read: Delhi's Patiala House Court adjourns National Herald case to 21 April

Pavilions on seeds, fertilisers, and pesticides will also be set up at the fair.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
New Delhi:

UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi on Saturday launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and said the autocratic BJP-led government at Centre is drunk on power.

Modi government is intoxicated with power and it has unleashed hatred. Congress will not bow down, and it will never bow down. Modi Government is autocratic and it's bothering media, Sonia said while addressing the 84th Congress party plenary session in Delhi.

Referring to Modis Sabka Sath, Sabka Vikas and "Na Khaunga Na Khane Dunga" slogans, Sonia Gandhi said that PMs promises were nothing but all drama.

"Congress is fighting the tyrannical Modi Govt. People have begun to realise that the promises made by the BJP in 2014 were hollow," she said.

Gandhi also asked Congress workers to stay united as the party was going through testing times.

All of us should unite and work together. This is not the time to look at our personal issues. Party's win will be victory for all of us. Congress is not just a political party, but is a vision, the Congress leader said.

Read More | Congress Plenary Session Highlights: We use love to show way to country, opposition uses anger, says Rahul Gandhi

Gandhi, who headed the Congress for over 19 years, also expressed hope that the party, which is losing election after election will rise after Karnataka Assembly elections.

"Fourty years ago, in Chikmagalur, with Indira Gandhi's victory, the Congress party emerged as a stronger party. With the Karnataka Assembly Election, I believe the party will similarly rise again," Gandhi added.

The 84th Indian National Congress Plenary Session began on Saturday at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium in New Delhi, with the main focus on the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

Prominent Congress leaders, including former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Opposition leader in Lok Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge, former Delhi CM Sheila Dikshit and Randeep Surjewala attended the session.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
New Delhi:

Raj Thackeray, leader of Right-wing Marathi regional political party Maharashtra Navnirman Sena, on Sunday said that all the opposition parties should come together if they want a Modi-free India.

Thackeray, while addressing a gathering of party workers at a rally at Shivaji Park in central Mumbai, said that the opposition parties should come together and work together for a Modi-free India, or a BJP-free India.

He said, India got its first Independence in 1947, second in 1977 (after the post-Emergency elections), and 2019 can bring a third Independence if India becomes 'Modi-mukt'.

All the opposition parties should come together if you want a Modi-free India: Raj Thackeray pic.twitter.com/MyUezwdfDU  ANI (@ANI) March 19, 2018

Thackeray also spoke about the late Bollywood actress Sridevi and how she was given state honours.

He directly blamed the Maharashtra government for wrapping the dead body of late Sridevi in a tri-colour and according her with full state honours just because she was given a Padma Shri.

He said, Nirav Modi was the talk of the town, then issue of Sridevi came in. This was brought to change the issue. When a person like Sridevi dies, you wrap her in Tri-colour & you say you did that because she was a Padma Shri. It was all fault of the Maharashtra government.

Nirav Modi was the talk of the town, then issue of Sridevi came in. This was brought to change the issue. When a person like Sridevi dies, you wrap her in Tri-color & you say you did that because she was a Padma Shri. It was all fault of the Maharashtra government: Raj Thackeray pic.twitter.com/b8z8U17559  ANI (@ANI) March 19, 2018

He also pointed out about Sridevis death and the so-called mystery about it. It was said that Sridevi died by drowning in the bath-tub as she consumed too much of liquor, Thackrey said.

It was said that Sridevi died by drowning in the bath-tub as she consumed too much of liquor: Raj Thackeray pic.twitter.com/2GljFvrMPj  ANI (@ANI) March 19, 2018

Sridevi was a great actor, but what had she done for the country so that her body should have been wrapped in the tricolour? Media may have covered her funeral extensively at government's behest to divert people's attention from the Nirav Modi-Punjab National Bank scam. he added.

Also Read: Over 45,000 farmers demanding loan waiver, fair price reach Mumbai; CM Fadnavis calls for party meeting to discuss situation

He spoke about the Ram Mandir issue too, saying, The Babri Masjid demolition case is in the Supreme Court and it will be deliberately discussed in the coming days to instigate communal riots. Ram Mandir should be built, but it should not be used as an election plank to divide the society and win votes.

He alleged the Indian media and blamed that it is under tremendous pressure from the government, saying, The government is trying to control media, judiciary and institutions like CBI.

Incidentally, Thackeray had met Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) president Sharad Pawar on Saturday ahead of this rally. However, he described the meeting as a courtesy call.

Recently, Thackeray gave his support to the 45,000 farmers who marched to Mumbai to press their demands over the implementation of the Swaminathan Committee, complete loan waiver and transfer of the Adivasi lands to farmers at the Vidhan Sabha.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
Buenos Aires:

International Monetary Fund chief Christine Lagarde cautioned the United States against putting up barriers to trade in an interview published on Sunday.

Trade wars leave no winners, she said in the interview with Argentine daily La Nacion, responding to a question about President Donald Trumps decision to slap tariffs on imported steel and aluminum.

She said poor countries and poor people in rich countries have benefited from the surge in global trade over the past decade, but acknowledged that some regions and industries have suffered.

The effect generated by innovation and trade should be taken into account to remedy that harm, but trying to reduce trade or erect additional barriers wont generate any winners, she said.

Lagarde is in Buenos Aires for a meeting Monday and Tuesday of G-20 finance ministers and central bank presidents.

She said the global economy is in good shape, with 3.9 per cent growth projected this year as well as higher levels of investor confidence.

That doesnt mean there arent some clouds on the horizon that we should pay attention to, she said.

Trumps sudden decision earlier this month to impose a 25 per cent tariff on steel and 10 percent on aluminum has revived fears of a trade war.

He has since extended temporary exemptions to Mexico and Canada, pending renegotiation of the North American Free Trade Agreement.

But the European Union has threatened retaliatory tariffs on US goods unless it is exempted. South Korea also is seeking an exemption and China has warned it wont stand idly by if its interests are harmed.

Lagarde noted the rise of China as an investor in Latin America, saying it was only natural that the worlds second largest economy would seek partnerships in the region.

Any country like the United States or Europe might have thought in the past of this region as part of its territory, and (they) are now surprised because it no longer is, she said.

For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
New Delhi:

Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Sunday likened the ruling Bhartiya Janta Party (BJP) and its parent organisation Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) with the "Kauravas" of the Sanskrit epic Mahabharata.

During his 53-minute speech at the partys plenary session in Delhi on Sunday, Rahul Gandhi said the BJP is the voice of one organisation while the Congress is the voice of the nation.

Rahul also admitted to the mistakes of UPA government and assured to break the communication barriers between Congress workers and senior leaders.

Here are the top quotes of Rahul Gandhis speech at the 84th Congress Plenary Session:

# Like the Kauravas, BJP & RSS are designed to fight for power. Like the Pandavas, the Congress is designed to fight for the truth. While the BJP is the voice of an organization, the Congress is the voice of the nation.

# We were the fastest growing economy in the world. But today millions of youth face unemployment. The corrupt and the powerful completely control the conversation in our country.

# The name Modi symbolises the collusion between Indias biggest businessmen and the Prime Minister. Modi gives Modi 30,000 crores of your Money and in turn, Modi gives Modi money for marketing Modi and fighting elections.

Also Read | BJP hits back at Rahul Gandhi, terms his speech as rhetoric of a loser

# Modi personally changed Rafale deal & bought 36 aircraft for the same price that we the Congress negotiated for 126.

# We paid 570 Cr per plane & Modi paid 1670 Cr for the same plane. He paid 1100 Cr more per plane. Forget fighter planes you cant trust such a man to buy vegetables!!! Modi is not fighting corruption Modi is corruption.

# The soil of this nation is drenched in the blood of Congressmen and Congresswomen who have died for it.

# Gandhi spent 15 years in jail and died for the nation. But India must never forget that while our leader slept on the floor in jail Savarkar wrote a letter to the British begging for mercy and clemency.

# To every youngster in India, we are your instrument. The Congress Party belong to you. We want to open our doors to your talent your bravery and your energy. This country is struggling and it needs you.

# I will break the communication barriers between our grassroots workers and leaders.

# There are two visions before the world today- American and Chinese. My aim is to present an Indian vision to the world.

# Let us put all our differences aside and work together to ensure victory for the party.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
New Delhi:

On the backfoot over tendering an apology to former Punjab minister and Akali leader Bikram Singh Majithia, the AAP on Sunday sought to pacify its party MLAs from the northern state to avert a split in the state unit.

Party supremo Arvind Kejriwals apology letter to Majithia for accusing him of being involved in drugs trade, had taken everyone by surprise, especially the AAPs Punjab unit.

The partys Punjab president Bhagwant Mann and its co-president Aman Arora had recently resigned from their posts in protest against Kejriwals apology.

Of the 20 AAP MLAs from Punjab, 10 lawmakers along with state unit leaders met Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia at his residence here today where Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal was also present.

The chief minister is said to have given an explanation behind his apology to Majithia.

Majithia had slapped a defamation case against Kejriwal and other AAP leaders for accusing the former of drug trade during the 2017 Punjab Assembly polls campaign.

According to party sources, the Punjab AAP MLAs present in the meeting are believed to have been convinced with Kejriwals explanation.

However, only half of the dissenting party MLAs were present in the meeting, with the remaining legislators still miffed with the party leadership.

Anyhow, it rules out any split in the party in Punjab, as of now. Forming a separate group or splitting the party would require the consent of two-third of the 20 AAP MLAs, the sources said.

Among the prominent absentees were Leader of Opposition in the Punjab Assembly, Sukhpal Singh Khaira and Bhagwant Mann, AAP MP from Sangrur.

There have been different demands by the AAP MLAs and party leaders from Punjab after Kejriwals apology letter went public, ranging from giving them more autonomy to forming a different group in protest.

Aman Arora, AAP MLA from Suna, who had attended the meeting said there was some miscommunication. The reason he (Kejriwal) had apologised is because he has several cases against him in many parts of the country. And some of them are in the fast track courts, he told reporters after the more than two hour-long meeting.

Arora said the AAP MLAs present in the meeting were convinced with the explanation given by Kejriwal as the legal battle was draining him and the party in terms of resources.

This, he said, was also consuming the party supremos time which could be used for focusing on governance in Delhi.

For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
Rabindra Maharjan from Bhainsepati has a government document which states that he constructed a hospital in Chandrapur municipality-8 in Rautahat. The document, which is on the letterhead of the Buddhist Philosophy Promotion and Monastery Development Committee under the Ministry of Culture, states that the hospital was completed on September 24, 2016, at an investment of little over Rs 433 million.

But, according to the municipality, no hospital has been constructed in the area in the past eight years.

If such a major project had been carried out in my ward, I would have known about it, wouldnt I, questions Govinda Prasad Dulal, the ward chairman. Those documents must be fake because the only health facility we have here are two small health posts.

After the information leaked, the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) of Nepal Police launched a covert investigation and arrested Maharjan, one of the owners of Valley Construction, on March 17. The CIB since then is on the lookout for the companys other partners Bhairaja Shrestha, Ramita Maharjan, Gyanesh Maharjan and Geet Kumari Niraula.

According to a CIB investigator, Rabindra had been using the document while applying for various government tenders. The investigators say he had also made a fake document in which he claimed that his company had constructed a building for the Local Development Training Academy.

This is just a representative case surfaced over recent years. Investigation officials with the police and the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority say cases related to fake documents are on the rise and it is jeopardising the countrys image at the international level.

Fake document factories

The documents with Rabindra Maharjan had a signature from the academys executive director Bishnu Sapkota. We also received a letter which stated the building, which cost Rs 186.18 million, was handed over to the academy on December 20, says an investigator who added that they found a laptop on March 17 which had numerous fake documents.

The laptop, according to the investigator, had a signed and stamped digital copy of a letterhead from the Department of Roads and an unsigned To whom it may concern letter from the Buddhist Philosophy Promotion and Monastery Development Committee.

The Buddhist Philosophy Promotion and Monastery Development Committee members whose signs are on the letter say it was fabricated.

Durga Kumari Gurung, whose signature is in one of these documents, says that Valley Construction has not made a single building during her time at the office. Gurung resigned from her position on December 15, 2020.

I worked in administration and my main role was looking after human resources. I didnt recommend anything, my signatures have been forged, says Gurung, who had called on the police to take swift action against Rabindra and others involved in forging the documents.

The CIB says that Rabindra, showing fake documents, had applied for projects to construct buildings for Bheri Hospital, Godavari Municipality and a view tower in Jhapa. He had also used the fake documents and filed an application to construct the PMs, governors and chief ministers residence.

After that, the CIB asked the District Government Attorney Office to file a forgery case against Rabindra. The court released Rabindra on a bail of Rs 50,000.

Police had stopped Nepalis from flying abroad after they found to be carry fake PCR reports earlier this year.

Nepal Polices Crime Investigation Office in Kathmandu arrested Madhu Silwal, Arun Khadka and Kamal Babu Puri on June 28 after finding them driving a car that had not paid customs tax. The arrest was unprecedented as this office of Nepal Police rarely arrested people for such crimes.

During the investigation, the office then came across Rewati Raman Poudel from Morang and it made things interesting. After arresting Poudel, the police raided his apartment in Shantinagar where they found 191 stamps of various government offices. Out of those stamps was one from the police office in Bajalu of Kathmandu.

The investigation office chief SSP Chandra Kuber Khapung says Poduel was initially asserted on the charges of making fake vehicle registration book. But when they raided his apartment, they realised that it was a factory of fake documents.

He had fake education certificates along with fake driving licences. It was quite shocking, says Khapung.

Police found multiple fake stamps from Poudels flat.

During the investigation, Poudel told the police he had been doing this for the past decade and had made over 6,000 fake documents so far. He claimed that he had even forged documents for police officers.

When we asked him to prepare of a list of fake documents, we realised that it was better to make a list of the documents he didnt prepare, says Khapung. Hes even forged signatures of government officials who were in office during that time.

Police say Poudel had given an exam to be a non-gazetted government official. But he failed, after which he started issuing fake documents to people who were desperate. Police have been trying to find out for whom he made the documents, but they are yet to find concrete details of the people Poudel has helped over the past decade.

When Poudel was arrested, he was wearing an ID card that stated he was a health worker. But according to the police, Poudel has never worked in the health sector as he admitted to making fake ID cards for people to help them move around during the nationwide lockdown.

Police, after investigation, has found out that Poudel made a lot of fake documents for Tribhuvan University. All he asked people was the year they wanted on the educational documents, says Khupung, who adds police have also confiscated a hologram from him.

He has been handed over to Metropolitan Police Range, Kathmandu as further investigation is underway.

Fake citizenship, land registration certificates and driving licence

According to SSP Ashok Singh, forgery has been tied to most of their recent cases including the racism case against activist Jwala Sangraula. When police raided Shangraulas house, they found documents that they sent to the local government for verification. Upon verifying, they found that the documents were fake.

The documents they had were issued by the Village Development Committee (VDC) in 2017. But, all VDCs had been replaced by rural municipalities by 2016.

After that, we were suspicious and wrote to their local rural municipality, who told us that the documents were fake, says Chand.

Sangraulas husband Himal Upadhyaya had even forged his relationship certificate.

Everyone seems to want to take a shortcut to everything. That is why these forgery cases are on the rise, says Singh.

According to a former director of the CIB, Hemanta Malla, cases regarding fake citizenship, land ownership certificates and driving licences are on the rise.

The ward chair of Rajpur Rural Municipality -7 of Dang, Bhim Bahadur Khadka, and three others were arrested on July 4 after they found to have made a fake citizenship certificate. Along with Khadka, Bhim Bahadur Kami and his daughter Sushila BK were also arrested. But on July 5, all three were released on general date. The fake citizenship has been scrapped.

In March, the Saptari District Court issued a verdict in a forgery case against Gangadhar Yadav, Kamal Dev Yadav, Gulab Devi Yadav, Mamata Devi Yadav and Vivekananda. They had been charged with forging land ownership certificates.

In December 2020, police in Jhapa had arrested a government official and three others after finding that they had misused government software and issued a fake citizenship.

People have also been forging documents to acquire allocated budget to the local government. According to the spokesperson of Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA), Narayan Prasad Risal, Bijay Kant Jha, the secretary of then Amalekhgunj VDC, was arrested on June 13 after he was found to have handed out money for a local project without forming a user group.

We found that he paid people Rs 134,000 extra for the construction of culverts, canals and drainage, says Risal. He has also not submitted bills worth up to Rs 157,000 which he claims was used for the construction of toilets and a training centre for women. Were booking him on corruption charges.

There have also been cases in which people have sold land without the owner of the land knowing that their land has been sold. Last year, the Metropolitan Police Range in Kathmandu arrested nine people on this charge. Those arrested had sold 0.15 acre (20 anna) land in Thankot belonging to Mina Khadka to a third person by making Khadkas fake citizenship and ownership certificates.

Mina Khadka is currently in Belgium. Laxmi Ghartis photo was used in the citizenship certificate to sell the land belonging to Khadka, says the ranges spokesperson, Ramesh Kumar Basnet.

There are also multiple cases of fake driving licences being bought by people throughout the country as officials working at the transport office have been found to be helping those in the trade.

Ashish Giri from Bhaktapur was caught selling fake driving licence by the police on November 29, 2020. Police claim that he must have colluded with officials from the license office. But they have not found any evidence yet as the police say Giri charged between Rs 30,000 to Rs 125,000 for a licence. Giri, according to the police, had sold 38 fake licences.

Fake educational documents galore

Cases related to fake educational documents are on the rise since 2003, says the CIAA.

The CIAA has increased its investigation regarding fake educational documents from 2003 onwards. Since then, this category tops the list of cases investigated by the CIAA every year.

According to data provided by the CIAA, a total of 429 such cases were registered at the authority between 2003 and 2008. The trend has continued as the past four years, there have been 277 fraud cases regarding educational documents registered at the authority with 85 cases being registered in 2020 alone.

This year due to lockdown, the number of cases have come down, says Risal.

He says a case only moves forward after the CIAA visits the said school or college. Weve even been to India to investigate.

Risal says many non-gazetted government officers and police were found to have forged fake educational certificates to land jobs. An official at the CIAA says even Nepal Army personnel were found to have forged their educational documents.

But, they arent under our jurisdiction so we can do nothing, he says.

A high-ranking army official agrees that this is a phenomenon in the Nepal Army as former generals educational documents were shady.

Cases on the rise since 1964

The rise in the number of such cases is directly proportional to employment opportunities, according to data. After the Land Reform Act was passed in 1964, the government needed non-gazetted officers.

People who had completed their SLC (the 10th-grade exams) were eligble to apply, says former home secretary Khem Raj Regmi. People even went as high as up to the position of chief district officers on that basis.

Those who had not passed their tenth standard then started to go to India and get certificates that proved they had completed their secondary education. This increased significantly after the Panchyat-era (pre-1990) administration implemented a new educational programme.

Even people who wanted to become teachers started to show fake certificates to get jobs, says Regmi, who is also associated with Transparency International, an international anti-corruption group.

He says that as more government positions opened, more people started to forge educational documents to land these jobs.

These documents have been used to land jobs in major government positions and even in the police and army, he says.

Weve seen a lot of fake documents even when wed set a requirement that anyone whod passed the eighth standard could apply, says former AIG Rajendra Singh Bhandari. As eight-standard certificates were handed out by the school itself, it was too easy for people to do this. According to our estimation, 90 percent of the educational documents of police staffers are fake.

When it comes to government officials, the CIB investigation says that many of them made fake documents from places like Gorakhpur and Banaras in India.

Now as people have started to look at certificates made in India, this trend has stopped as they are making them in Nepal itself. Weve been told that even these certificates are scrutinised now that a lot of fake certificates have made the rounds in the country, says Khapung.

Regmi says seniors and colleagues of police officers know if they have a fake educational documents but refrain from saying anything for the fear of being called a snitch.

Only time they open their mouths is when the person is up for promotion before them or when they are jealous of their colleagues success. They file a complaint at the CIAA, after which action is taken against the perpetrators, says Regmi.

Neglected crime

Despite the knowledge that these things happen, authorities have been turning a blind eye to it even though it is tarnishing the reputation of country. The courts in the country have also not looked like interested to take action against the culprits. In most cases, people are easily released on bail.

Had this affected someone personally, things would have been different. Because it hampers the country and organisations, the society hardly talks about this or takes it seriously, says Bhandari. The society thinks as these documents are used to get away from the country, it should be allowed to happen.

However, experts say this should be treated as a major crime as it affects the entire country. Bhandari says that it is due to this reason why many countries ask for a no-objectin letter from Nepali students. Without this, a student cannot file in their visa application.

How will people from the west believe in someone from Nepal when one of its parliamentarians is accused of selling passports, questions Bhandari. Its due to these reasons why our passport is so weak.

Educationist Bidya Nath Koirala says the integrity of Nepals educational institutions is being questioned due to this.

A signature of a professor is respected a lot around the world. Its never doubted. But, these fake documents not only affect the professors, it also affects the entire educational institution, says Koirala.

He says that Nepali educational institutions might be blacklisted in the same manner its aircraft have been in Europe due to these forged educational documents.

Its hard to regain a level of trust thats lost, says Koirala.

Singh, on the other hand, says that it is about time Nepali government changed the way it kept the documents as he called for more safety protocol to keep the documents safe and away from the hands of fraud.

Like the internet had safety threads, we also need to keep unique indentities to these governmental documents. They also need to be changed and amended regularly so that these frauds cant forge them anymore. We have to be a step ahead of them, says Singh.
Kathmandu, July 11

The number of internet users in Nepal has increased by around 5.8 million in a span of one year recently, informs the countrys telecommunications regulator.

As of May 2020, the number of internet users in Nepal was 21.5 million, which increased to 27.3 million in May 2021, the Nepal Telecommunications Authority says.

It means 90.56 per cent of the countrys population has an access to the internet. However, the data should not be taken as an accurate figure as many people could have subscribed to more than one internet service and they can be counted as many people as their subscriptions.

The growing need for work from home and online classes amid the coronavirus infection fears have led to the excessive rise in the number of subscriptions across the country, according to internet service providers.

Even if you dont have anything to do, you have been restricted to home and you need social media and other sites to kill your time, Binaya Bohora, a former president of the Internet Service Providers Association of Nepal, says, It has already been difficult for you to stay home without the internet.

There are around 40 ISPs in the country, and almost all of them have reported an exciting increase in the number of their customers.
Editors note: This column is part of InvestorPlace.coms Best Stocks for 2021 contest. Bob Ciuras pick for the contest is Lockheed Martin (NYSE:LMT) stock.

A Lockheed Martin (LMT) Space Systems sign in Sunnyvale, California.

Source: Ken Wolter / Shutterstock.com

The second quarter of 2021 was defined by the continuing economic recovery from the coronavirus pandemic. Lockheed Martin (NYSE:LMT) has benefited alongside the wider market, with a year-to-date total return of 8.7%.

While returns have trailed the S&P 500 year-to-date return of 15.9%, Lockheed Martin is a blue chip stock that shouldnt be viewed in the same category as some of the growth stocks that have led the market so far in 2021.

InvestorPlace - Stock Market News, Stock Advice & Trading Tips

Lockheed Martin continues to be a reliable dividend stock with durable competitive advantages and long-term growth potential. Shares remain attractive for the remainder of 2021.

Quarterly Earnings Review

Lockheed Martin reported first-quarter results on April 20. Net sales increased 4% to $16.26 billion, while diluted GAAP earnings per share increased 8% year-over-year to $6.56. All four business segments again increased net sales.

The Aeronautics segment increased net sales slightly due to higher F-16 production, while revenue grew 5% in Missiles and Fire Control, 10% in Rotary and Mission Systems, and 3% in Space. On the bottom line, share repurchases and lower interest expense helped boost earnings-per-share growth for the period.

Lockheed has seen accelerating momentum in recent weeks, and as a result the company raised guidance for the remainder of 2021. The company now expecting revenue in a range of $67.3 billion to $68.7 billion, and diluted earnings per share of $26.40 to $26.70.

Future Growth Catalysts

Lockheed Martin has a long growth runway ahead. It ended the first quarter with a backlog of $147 billion, driven by increases in Missiles & Fire Control and Space. Such a large project backlog bodes well for the companys long-term growth.

Story continues

Recently, Lockheed Martin has picked up multiple incremental wins that will further boost its growth. For example, in the past few weeks alone Lockheed Martin won deals including a $472 million contract from Naval Air Systems Command, and a $736 million Navy modification contract. On June 30th, Lockheed Martin announced another major contract with Naval Air Systems Command, this time in the amount of $1.8 billion.

Perhaps the most important growth catalyst continues to be the $4.6 billion planned acquisition of Aerojet Rocketdyne (NYSE:AJRD). The acquisition will boost Lockheeds propulsion systems services. Overall, we expect 8% annual earnings-per-share growth for Lockheed over the next five years.

Valuation & Expected Returns

Despite the stocks solid returns to begin 2021, shares of Lockheed Martin remain attractively valued. Based on the companys revised full-year forecast, EPS is likely to come in around $26.55 at the midpoint of guidance. This means LMT stock is valued at a price-to-earnings ratio of 14.4, which is too low for a global industry leader with long-term growth.

Our fair value estimate of a P/E ratio of 16 means expansion of the P/E multiple could increase returns by 2.1% per year. When combined with the 8% anticipated EPS growth rate and 2.7% dividend yield, total return potential comes to nearly 13% per year over the next half-decade. Therefore, we still rate Lockheed Martin stock as a buy, even with a decent increase in share price to begin 2021.

Final Thoughts

Lockheed Martin isnt the most exciting business to invest in, and LMT stock performance has lagged the broader market to begin 2021. But for long-term investors, Lockheed Martin is an excellent dividend growth stock. The company is a global leader in the aerospace and defense industry, with significant competitive advantages to fuel its long-term growth.

The stock remains attractively priced, with a solid 2.7% dividend yield. And Lockheed Martin will continue to raise its dividend each year at a high rate due to its strong business. We continue to rank Lockheed Martin as a buy.

On the date of publication, Bob Ciura was long LMT stock. He did not have (either directly or indirectly) any positions in the other securities mentioned in this article. The opinions expressed in this article are those of the writer, subject to the InvestorPlace.com Publishing Guidelines.

Ben Reynolds founded Sure Dividend in 2014. Today, Ben continues to run Sure Dividend to help individual investors build high quality income portfolios. Ben graduated Summa Cum Laude from University of Houston with a finance degree. His work through Sure Dividend has appeared on Forbes, Fidelity, Motley Fool, The Street, Yahoo! Finance and more.

More From InvestorPlace

The post Best Stocks for 2021: Lockheed Martin Is Cleared And Ready For Takeoff appeared first on InvestorPlace.
SHANGHAI, July 11 (Reuters) - Wuhan Raycus Fiber Laser Technologies Co said on Sunday that its inclusion on an U.S. economic blacklist will not have a substantial impact on the company.

Inclusion in the U.S. entity list will not have a substantial impact on the company's research and production, nor any impact on its products and services, the company said in a statement posted on the website of the Shenzhen Stock Exchange. (Reporting by Andrew Galbraith; Editing by Jacqueline Wong)
We look at the auction block as a springboard for future conversations as to where weve been, and the struggles of slavery, but also the rising and the incredible accomplishments of the African American community, Poore said. As it was during a lot of Civil Rights protests, its the young people that are making the move. So how do we make this a relevant story to those young people going forward to the future?

City Councilman and Vice Mayor Chuck Frye Jr., the lone Black council member, said he agrees with the decision to keep the graffiti on the block.

Frye led the effort to have it removed from its former location. He said the graffiti symbolizes what he expressed all alongthat people were offended by its presence.

Support Local Journalism Your subscription makes our reporting possible. {{featured_button_text}}

To me, its a two-part story, Frye said. The block itself tells a story and then when the block started getting vandalized its telling a different story about people expressing themselves and their pain. Im not saying it was right, but to me, it shows proof that folks were offended by that. If not, they wouldve left it alone. Im not agreeing with vandalism, but its not like it was a precious diamond that people were trying to protect.

Caroline Ford, a development assistant at FAM, said the block has been quite the conversation piece for guests.
About 60 percent of Virginians have gotten at least one dose of the vaccine, according to the state health department. The rate is lower in the Rappahannock Area Health District, which covers Fredericksburg and the counties of Caroline, King George, Spotsylvania and Stafford. About 46 percent of the districts entire population has gotten one shot.

Dr. Danny Avula directs health departments in Richmond and Henrico County and was picked earlier this year to lead the states vaccine rollout. As demands from that appointment have waned, hes put on scrubs once more and has gone back to working with patients when he can, Avula said during the webinar.

He regularly asks people about the vaccine and why they havent gotten inoculated. One woman told him she was glad to get her child vaccinated, but because of her faith, she didnt feel the need to do so. She said she trusted God that if she got COVID-19, then so be it, he told the group.

Avula said health care providers need to listen to their patients to realize that people are coming from vastly backgrounds and life experiences and that the issue is particularly divisive among the religious community.

Support Local Journalism Your subscription makes our reporting possible. {{featured_button_text}}
As an artist and teacher, 26-year-old Sarah Phillips wants tono, make that she has tolearn about other cultures, from the way people express themselves through art to the languages they speak.

For me, art, education and language are all about finding means for self-contextualization in a world of vastly different communication styles and infinite narrative, said Phillips, who grew up in King George County. The methods may vary, but the ultimate goal is the samebridging complex divides.

Phillips also is fortunate in that she learns languages quickly, said her mother, Susan Phillips, a kindergarten teacher at King George Elementary School. That skill is coming in handy this summer as Sarah Phillips embarks on exploring yet another language and culture.

She received a scholarship from the U.S. State Department to learn Azerbaijani, a Turkic language spoken in southwestern Asia, primarily in Azerbaijan and northwestern Iran. If it wasnt for the pandemic, she would have gone to Turkey to study, but is doing the sessions online instead.

Phillips hopes the course is the beginning of opening doors to working in community peace-building and arts globally, but of course, specifically in Azerbaijan in the Caucasus.
I now teach one or two students at a time, here in my backyard, he said. Most of my students are retired officers of some type, one a retired police captain, another a U.S. Army vet, still another a retired air marshal.

He keeps teaching and writing because he likes to pass along what hes learned, and because hes been lonely since his wife died of cancer a few years ago. He also enjoys the company.

His students call him Po, an honorific for an older person in the Philippines, and he doesnt just see them as students.

I treat them as friends, and look forward to them coming to learn, he said.

Hes taught some students for a long timeone woman has been with him since 2000.

Marinas said he had a group of air marshals come to learn to use extendable batons, and a police captain who wanted to learn disarming techniquesall skills in his martial arts wheelhouse.

We have fun, as I will challenge them at times, telling them that if they stick four knives in a row, Ill treat them to coffee, he said laughing. Then they come back at me and ask if two hits will get them half a cup.
The U.S. Air Force didnt beat Kelleys malnourished husky in 2014. Kelley did (and was tried and received a deferred sentence of probation).

The U.S. Air Force didnt develop a grudge against First Baptist Church and its congregants, which Kelley attended before apparently becoming a militant atheist. Kelley did.

All the U.S. Air Force did was mess up some administrative paperwork (well, computer work, I guess) which, had it been properly filed, might have conceivably made it slightly more difficult for Kelley to obtain a firearm.

Probably not. But maybe, just a little.

Kelley was clearly a violent and dangerous man who had no respect whatsoever for any law that forbade him to do whatever he decided he wanted to do.

Its absurd to think that a man who made the decision to kill 25 people, and followed through on that decision, would have quailed from stealing the gun he did it with, or from buying one informally without a background check (which is supposedly illegal, but the Second Amendment says otherwise).

The reason Judge Rodriguez found the Air Force 60 percent responsible is that he wanted to give the victims some of your money and, well, the Air Force has a lot of your money.
OUR FEAR for our childrens safety is visceral, and it is universal. Nothing unites people across all cultural, economic, social and geographic lines like the love for their children and their desire to protect them against every danger, real or imagined.

So recent polls showing that one in four American parents dont plan to get their children vaccinated against the coronavirus, whether with the newly approved shots for those at least 12 years of age or with the ones expected in September for little ones as young as 5, is not surprising.

When my son stopped moving for two hours in my wifes womb after she fell on the stairs; when he got behind the wheel for the first time; when he drove off to college with a final wave goodbye, I felt something worse than fear. I felt helplesshelpless to save him from harm.

The mandatory vaccines Julian got at various ages before entering kindergartenfrom Hepatitis B (the only one given at birth), polio, and pneumonia to diphtheria, tetanus, and influenzacame with reassurances from pediatricians that theyd been administered safely for decades to millions of youngsters.
Colorado Springs, CO (80903)

Today

Becoming partly cloudy with isolated thunderstorms developing this afternoon. High 84F. Winds SE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 30%..

Tonight

Some clouds this evening will give way to mainly clear skies overnight. Low near 60F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph.
FILE - In this June 10, 2021, file photo, Ben Frazier, the founder of the Northside Coalition of Jacksonville chants "Allow teachers to teach the truth" at the end of his public comments opposing the state of Florida's plans to ban the teaching of critical race theory in public schools during the Department of Education meeting in Jacksonville, Fla. Local school boards around the country are increasingly becoming cauldrons of anger and political division, boiling with disputes over such issues as COVID-19 mask rules, the treatment of transgender students and how to teach the history of racism and slavery in America.
City Editor

Tom Roeder is the Gazette's City Editor. In Colorado Springs since 2003, Tom has covered the military at home and overseas and has cover statehouses in Denver and Olympia, Wash. His main job, though, is being dad to two great kids.
We have the honor of seeing some of the sports world's biggest stars on Tuesday in Denver. Fans will watch a lineup of Major League Baseball's
Faith-and-values

alert featured

'People are relearning to be church': Pandemic ushers in new era of engagement

There's a Christian hymn from the 1970s called "We Are The Church" that lays out in its first verse what exactly is meant by church. "The church is not a building, the church is not a steeple; the church is not a resting place; the church is a people," the tune goes.

As much as any time in recent history, the COVID-19 pandemic era put that notion to the test as congregants were no longer able to gather to worship in the same place they always had.

Lisa Grouette / LISA GROUETTE, Globe Gazette Rear balcony of sanctuary of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Mason City.

Now, as things continue to open back up and people are physically together again sharing their faith, spiritual leaders in North Iowa and elsewhere are wondering what can be built on, what has to change and what has been lost over the past 17 months.

"If there was anything positive we learned in 2020 its that people are looking for connection more than gathering and when the church provides that, it doesnt matter where it happens or when it happens," said Our Saviour's and St. Paul Lutheran Church pastor, the Rev. Matthew Muters.

Muters said that there's been a long trend of church changing and being decentralized in the United States and that COVID-19 didn't create the phenomenon, it simply accentuated it and hastened it.

"People are finding ways to practice their spirituality other than sitting in a pew on Sunday morning and the church structures are wondering: How do we connect rather than focus on gathering?" Muters said.

With the two congregations he serves in Mason City, Muters said he's starting to see a more stabilized number come back, though not yet at pre-COVID levels. However, he doesn't attribute that to lingering safety concerns or burnout from parishioners. There's a more practical reason.

"Its your typical summer stuff. Weve got a lot of summer birds in both of our congregations," he said. If Muters saw burnout at all, he said it was with colleagues who were taking on a number of brand new responsibilities they weren't immediately equipped to handle.

Lisa Grouette / LISA GROUETTE, Globe Gazette The sanctuary of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Charles City.

Tom Heathershaw, the priest at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Charles City, said that he came on immediately having added responsibilities as he started in July 2020 amid the ongoing pandemic.

At that time, Heathershaw said that the church had three masses over the weekend and they averaged 200 people. "Were averaging about 500 now for all three. Before it was closer to 600 or 700," he said.

As for what accounts for the difference between the recovery numbers being lower than the pre-COVID numbers, Heathershaw said he wasn't sure what was at play.

"I dont know if it's a habit. Summer is off, too. The mask mandate ended right as summer started so its hard to see what that normal is. And there's probably still some fear out there as well," Heathershaw said.

WATCH NOW: CG Public Health director reflects on COVID-19 in North Iowa and what comes next "Anybody who has been in this is going to be changed. Its safe to say I wont have another experience like this in my career."

In a June 29 story by the Associated Press' David Sharp, an AP-NORC poll finds: "About three-quarters of Americans who attended religious services in person at least monthly before the pandemic say they are likely to do so again in the next few weeks." The story then goes on to point out though that there are also 7% of people who said that they definitely won't be attending.

Lisa Grouette / LISA GROUETTE, Globe Gazette The Marian altar is seen outside the sanctuary of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Charles City.

The Rev. Gloria E. White-Hammond, lecturer at the Harvard Divinity School and co-pastor of a church in Boston, is found in the AP story saying that the places of worship that don't see much of a marked dip in attendance will be the ones who best adapted to the pandemic.

"Those that kept a connection with congregants and relied less on the physical passing of the plate for donations stand a better chance of emerging unscathed," the AP story reported White-Hammond as saying.

To Trinity and beyond: Trinity Lutheran Church celebrates 150 years 150 years. Within that span of time, a person could see about three to five generations of their family and history.

Carol Kress, who serves as the pastor for First United Methodist Church in Mason City, shared a similar sentiment.

"If we maintain a focus on Sunday morning and what happens in church, we are too narrow," Kress said. She also started her work in town during the pandemic and said that there was a point in summer 2020 where she was providing services with a group of six people in a sanctuary that can seat about 500.

Lisa Grouette / LISA GROUETTE, Globe Gazette Pastor Carol Kress stands at the front stairs of First United Methodist Church in Mason City.

Since that point, Kress said that the virtual community for First United Methodist has grown to the point where it's keeping pace with in-person worship even as more and more people return to the building on South Georgia Avenue.

"We have people in Sweden watching us. People in Chicago. People who feel they are a part of our church community and we have worked hard to build those relationships. And here in town too we have people who just feel more comfortable. I believe Christ meets us where we are," she said.

Kress agreed with Muters that so much of where places of worship now stand is part of a longer trend.

"Prior to this, we saw a need for the church to change and adapt and meet the real needs of people. I dont think that the church had ready answers for that... How does the message resonate with people today?"

In terms of financial stability, Kress said that the church has been helped by government loans and a faith that the ministries of church will be supported.

According to Muters, funding for churches maintaining is part of a longer trend as well.

"(We're) having these conversations about stewardships especially when people want the church to be there for them. Weve had to have those conversations and say: If youre wanting the church to be there for you, youve got to be there to be the church. Its more than keeping the lights on."

When COVID was at its worst, Muters said that it was easier for people in church communities to maybe forget or ignore others because they were so isolated. At this time, though, he said they're reengaging with those communities.

"People are relearning to be church."

$1 for 3 months to support local journalism
Fields collected Ross' original works. The prolific artist didn't sell his work, but some were donated to PBS stations, according to a New York Times profile. They rarely come on the commercial market.

These pieces are so valuable, and hopefully are passed down through the family, Craig said.

Ross inscribed a message on the back of one of the paintings Chris owns. It reads No one could ever be more proud of a namesake than I am of you. I wish for you a future filled with success and happiness. God bless my friend  Bob Ross 1993.

Support Local Journalism Your membership makes our reporting possible. {{featured_button_text}}

Their collection includes four paintings, a set of carved figures, and two painted platters.

We know everything is original artwork. We hope to get them authenticated, Chris said.

That authentication has to be done in person, at Bob Ross, Inc., in Virginia. So this summer, the family plans to take a road trip. It's important to them to keep the paintings safe and have the art on record.

To our family, these paintings are priceless. Bob Ross art cant even be bought, so these are even more special to us, said Fields.
Recalling his own experience, Marrs was sure the Florida crews would be just as respectful in searching for the dead as they had been in looking for the living.

Theyre certainly not going in there with bulldozers and moving that stuff out, you know, not caring about whether they run across a body or not  thats not something thats even considered, Marrs said.

The shift from a rescue mission to a recovery effort does not ease the urgency, Marrs said.

Theyre just doing it in a way that is more cautious and safer because there is no longer a race against time, he said. Crews are likely being encouraged to take fewer risks.

Pfeifer agreed: It's a difficult task. First responders know this is something very important to the families. They want to do the job even though it's a difficult job.

Sometimes no identifiable remains are found. About 40% of the more than 2,600 people killed at the World Trade Center on 9/11 still have not been physically identified, Pfeifer said.
Both Mitchell and Worth counties also signed on to the suit in 2018, encouraged by the Iowa State Association of Counties.

Hancock's Norman noted there is no specific dollar amount or even percentage for any county attached to the proposed settlement. He said Iowa will probably see less than 1 percent of the division of funds and that counsel for participating Iowa counties will work closely with Iowa Attorney General Tom Miller and his team for the determination of any future allocations.

There is nothing written in stone that Hancock County will receive X percentage of X amount, Norman said. There is not much going on yet. This is a proposed settlement plan that may or may not go forward. Im sure well be able to get some dollars sometime. We may have more things to bring before the board of supervisors over the next few years.

Meanwhile, a plan from Purdue Pharma to reorganize into a new entity that helps combat the nations opioid epidemic got a big boost this week as 15 states -- including Iowa -- suing the company now support the new business model.
It is well documented and even accepted by the GOP faithful that Trump, via an analysis by 27 psychiatrists and mental health experts, is a narcissist. As such, Republicans with a modicum of intelligence should know that narcissistic people advance their own popularity and power over everything else, including their party and our country. Trumpism has evolved into a cult and it appears the party is satisfied with that characterization.

Support Local Journalism Your membership makes our reporting possible. {{featured_button_text}}

While I was raised in a predominantly white community, I was fortunate to have parents who embraced immigration (98.3% of Americans are descendent of immigrants) and valued racial diversity. They would be appalled to read Leonard Pitts Jr.s Miami Herald article about the change of GOP: Trump supporters fear a black and brown America (May 25, 2018).

Thomas Patterson, a Harvard political scientist, argues in his book ("Is The Republican Party Destroying Itself?") the GOP has drifted from conservative to reactionary politics, relies on right-wing media, supports tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans and exudes an increasing disdain for democratic institutions.
Danville Community College recently welcomed James Emerson as its new nursing program director.

Emerson joins DCC from Guilford Technical Community College where he served as a full-time nursing faculty member. He previously served as academic director at Centra College of Nursing.

I was raised in Danville and graduated from Hargrave Military Academy in 1986, Emerson said. Upon graduating, I entered the U.S. Coast Guard and served for eight years on both the coast and Hawaii as a Gunner Mate and Emergency Medical Technician.

He attended DCC as a student for all prerequisites for the nursing program at Danville Regional Medical Center School of Nursing and graduated in 2005.

Emerson continued his education at the University Of Virginia School Of Nursing in 2011, obtaining a Master of Science degree in nursing. He went on to earn his Doctor of Nursing Practice from Chamberlain College of Nursing in 2016. Now, Emerson is ready to return to his hometown to begin a new chapter in his career.
A problem that affects millions

Cat allergies affect 10% to 20% of adults. More than 90% of them react to Fel d 1. About 5% of adults are allergic to dogs, but many substances are involved in those allergies. That makes modifying dogs a more complicated project. Researchers say allergies to furry animals are increasing.

Fel d 1 is produced in salivary, skin and anal glands of cats and is found in their tears. Cats spread it when they clean themselves. It winds up all over the house when they shed fur or dander. All cats make it, including hairless cats, although amounts vary by cat or even by day.

Bruce Kornreich, director of the Cornell Feline Health Center, said there is evidence that uncastrated male cats make more of it than females or neutered males. There is no such thing as a hypoallergenic cat.

And, there is no way to totally escape Fel d 1. It rides on peoples clothes to work and school. Its everywhere, James Wedner, an allergist at Washington University in St. Louis, said. He once saw five allergy sufferers who worked in a brand new office building. None had cats. He tested the building for mold, cockroaches and mice and found nothing. Then he found incredibly high levels of Fel d 1. Other workers were bringing it in, he said.
None of this can be fun for Biden, but he actually has something to celebrate. Almost lost in the infighting was a remarkable fact: Party infighting aside, the president appears increasingly likely to push through domestic spending increases of at least $1 trillion, something that would have been unthinkable only a few years ago. Even moderate Democrats seem to have accepted the premise that the federal governments success in combating COVID-19 and jump-starting the economy has made big government more popular than it has been since World War II.

Manchin, a fiscal hawk within his party, had this to say last week: Theres a lot of need out there, whether it be child tax credits, whether it be helping kids have a start in life, whether it be fixing a lot of the human infrastructure that has fallen by the wayside. ... Im all for that. To what degree? Well see what were able to pay for. He said he could support $1 trillion or $1.5 trillion or $2 trillion, as long as it isnt paid for through borrowing.

For comparison, when President Obama passed an economic stimulus bill in 2009 to soften the effects of the Great Recession, he told his aides to keep the price tag below $1 trillion because moderate Democrats recoiled at the number.
That was my first mural after school, Daniel said. His older sister, Emily Jarrell, put him in touch with Hunt and Daniel asked what walls were available.

I really wanted to paint one in Draper, the son of Dr. Terry and Cheryl Daniel of Eden said. Draper is sort of ignored at times.

Last September before moving to Mexico, Daniel did another mural at the U Hill Wall Mural Festival in Durham where he lived for a year. That one is called To My Ancestors, based on a poem by native American Vivette Jeffries-Logan, who lives there. She gave Daniel permission to use the poem about her ancestors from the Occaneechi band of the Saponi nation.

In late summer, Daniel will return home to do one about the history of Leaksville on Washington Street. He hopes to have it finished before Riverfest in mid-September.

As a child, Daniel attended an Eden art school operated by Bonnie Luckie.

We were doing sunflower paintings and she thought the one I did was pretty good, Daniel recalled. She saw that I enjoyed making art and offered to give me private weekly art lessons.

When he was about 11, the Luckies moved so Daniel began lessons with Kathy Brown in Stoneville, continuing those until he graduated from high school.
When Tommie Nelson was just 15, he changed his life  and his name  by joining the Navy to serve in World War II.

He was aboard the USS Missouri and witnessed the signing of Japans surrender, on Sept. 2, 1945, which formally brought an end to the war.

At 94, his service has not been forgotten: He has been honored by the Quilts of Valor Foundation, in a moving ceremony that, his daughter said, prompted him to talk about his war experiences.

He was born Tommie Watson Nelson in a mill town that is now Eden, N.C. When he was 15, he went into the military, changing the spelling of Tommie to Tommy and dropping the middle name  and said he was 18.

He was so small at the time that his uniform, which he has kept, fit his great-granddaughter Mariah Penn when she tried it on at age 10.

JaRonn Nelson said that her father had told her that everything was just so patriotic, and everyone wanted to do for their country that joining at that age seemed the right thing to do.

It was a totally different world from what it is now, she said.
Though medical marijuana can be beneficial for a variety of conditions including anxiety, depression, appetite stimulation, pain, headaches and other conditions, Olinger said, she would not recommend relying only on cannabis.

I would caution against [patients] getting rid of all of their medications and beginning solely using medical cannabis, said Olinger, who is not licensed to prescribe the drug.

As for whether any of her patients could benefit from medical marijuana, many of my patients are older and I am skeptical about whether they will be open to using medical cannabis, she said.

Dr. Gary Miller, a cardiologist who serves on City Council as the citys vice mayor, said a few of his patients could benefit from using medical marijuana, especially those with terminal heart disease.

We do have terminal heart patients who need relief from pain, Miller said.

He said he sees the potential of possibly prescribing it for three or four of his patients a year, or possibly up to one a month. Though he is not licensed to prescribe medical marijuana, he said he may look into obtaining licensure.
For information, call 336-342-8110, Ext. 2410.

Pandemic assistance

Rockingham County applied for and received a CDBG COVID-19 grant to assist Rockingham County residents with rent and/or utilities. The United Way of Rockingham County will be accepting and processing the applications. There will be $1,000 per household cap on awards. Anyone who has documentation supporting a loss of income during the pandemic is allowed to apply.

Applications will be taken by the United Way of Rockingham County at several locations in the county for those who have transportation concerns. A set schedule of specific days, times and locations will be provided via the United Way of Rockingham Countys website (uwrockingham.org), along with a printable version of the application, program policies and duplication of benefits policy. Look under the Links tab to the CDBG COVID-19 page for information regarding the application process and policies.
Coates has written critically on U.S. race relations for years and is closely associated with the argument for reparations for slavery.

Howard's president, Wayne Frederick, doesn't characterize either hiring as overtly political, but merely a natural extension of the university's motivating ethos.

Howard University has been on that caravan for social justice for about 154 years, Frederick said in an interview. Howard has a rich legacy. ... My responsibility is to contemporize that and to bring faculty to the university who are in the contemporary space, speaking to present-day issues.

Columbia University journalism professor Jelani Cobb, a Howard alumnus, described the moves as a pivotal jump in the university's national stature. Howard, he said, had gone from traditionally punching above its weight class to moving up a whole division.

All this is just a few years removed from a period of internal tension and financial scandal. In 2018, six employees were fired amid revelations of more than $350,000 in misappropriated grant funding, and students staged a nine-day occupation of the administration building over demands that included better housing and an end to tuition increases.
Retire North Carolina is a program designated by legislation that was originally designed for smaller communities to reach out to retirees looking to relocate to N.C. Cities that are approved for the program must meet a strict criteria, such as being tax friendly, having a hospital in the area, recreation, quality of life, arts and cultural and they must be within a certain distance from a major metropolitan area.

This program has benefitted us greatly, Yarbrough said. We are sending information to retirees throughout the United States on almost a daily basis. And we are seeing the fruits of our efforts.

Smart Asset methodology in determining the best places to retire looked at state and local tax rates, income and sales.

The company calculated rates based on a retiree earning $35,000 annually, then subtracted income taxes paid from the gross income to determine disposable income.

Sales taxes paid were calculated based on the disposable income being spent on taxable goods.

Then they determined the number of doctors offices, recreation and retirement centers per 1,000 residents in each location and, finally, the number of seniors in each city as a percentage of the total population. The areas with the highest average ranking were determined to be the best places to retire.

Send press releases to rock@greensboro.com.
News

alert

N.C. native Tabitha Brown's charm, humor and vegan cooking earn fans and money on social media

Tabitha Brown, provided Actress and social media star Tabitha Brown now lives in Los Angeles, but she grew up in Rockingham County. Her charm, humor and vegan cooking earn fans and money on social media. Courtesy of Tasha Thomas Tabitha Brown grew up in Rockingham County and attended Burton Grove Elementary, Holmes Middle School and Morehead High School. photos Courtesy of Tasha Thomas Tabitha Browns family says she was always posing for photographs while growing up in Rockingham County. Courtesy of Tasha Thomas Tabitha Brown poses with a doll. Courtesy of Tasha Thomas Tabitha Browns family says she was a big fan of the character Rudy on The Cosby Show. Courtesy of Tasha Thomas A young Tabitha Brown poses for a photograph. Courtesy of Tasha Thomas A young Tabitha Brown uses a bicycle to pose for a picture. Courtesy of Tabitha Brown Actress and social media star Tabitha Brown now lives in Los Angeles, but she grew up in Rockingham County. Going vegan changed her life. I was starting to feel so much better, Brown said. I just told my husband, You know what, this could be my life. I went completely vegan and haven't looked back."

Shes been called Americas mom and her roots run long and deep in Rockingham County.

Actress and social media star Tabitha Brown said she still considers Stoneville and Eden home, despite living in Los Angeles and commuting to Chicago these days.

Browns videos featuring vegan recipes, humor and positive affirmation have garnered her millions of followers across several social media platforms  and gained her the moniker Americas mom.

Family was a big thing for me, still is, said Brown, who plays interior designer Octavia on the Showtime show The Chi.

My dad was one of 12, so it was a big family. I had a lot of cousins growing up, the 42-year-old said during a Zoom interview.

Browns social media following exploded during the pandemic and TikTok ranked her No. 2 on its list of top 10 creators for 2020.

In March, she received the inaugural NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Social Media Personality.

Although her innovative recipes encourage others to make delicious meals, audiences finish her videos with a new recipe for the soul, too, the NAACP said in announcing her award.

Theres, to me, no greater acknowledgement, Brown said. I didnt have to do a fancy movie. I didnt have to write a song. I simply showed up as me.

My hope is that it helps other people to walk in their free self, as well, she said. Your authentic self works.

Viral video

Her Facebook video raving about a Whole Foods sandwich in late 2017 boosted her online presence, shifting her closer to the stardom shes sought since a child.

My life is changing right before my eyes, Brown exclaims in the video, after taking a bite of the TTLA (tempeh bacon, tomato, lettuce, avocado) sandwich.

It really was, though Brown, who was auditioning for parts and driving for Uber, didnt know it at the time.

The video went viral and demand for the sandwich shot up. Whole Foods tapped Brown to become its plant-based brand ambassador.

She went on to promote other products and recently launched her Sunshine All Purpose Seasoning blend in a partnership with McCormick.

She has a show called All Love on Ellen Digital Network, a media platform collaboration between Warner Brothers and Ellen DeGeneres.

Biography Daily estimates her annual income at around $4 million.

Devoted fans

Her fans  who refer to her as Auntie Tab  are loyal, as evidenced by the recent backlash against talk show host Wendy Williams.

Williams chastised Brown for retiring her husband, Chance, encouraging him to leave his job as an LA police officer to pursue his own dreams. He runs Team Chance Basketball, a program that aims to teach kids life skills through basketball. Williams recounted her own experience with her ex, saying that he lost the money and then blamed her for the failure and for him quitting his job.

I predict that this marriage is going to be on real rocky ground in a moment, Williams said on her show.

Browns swift video response on social media was classically Southern.

Wendy Williams, God bless you, God bless you, Brown said,  the pain you must be in and Im so sorry.

Brown goes on to recount the struggles and broke times she and Chance experienced over their 23 years together. She notes they had an agreement 15 years ago that he could pursue his dreams in five years  when she projected her career would pay off. (She admits that she was off by a few years.)

She offered prayers, and asks her followers to do likewise, that true love will find Williams. Brown ended the video, as she usually does, by encouraging her viewers to have the most amazing day. And her signature closing words: But even if you cant have a good one, dontcha dare go messing up nobody elses, hear?

The response was lauded by many in the media, including Shanelle Genai, who wrote about Browns response in the digital magazine The Root: Shes a national treasure who must be protected at all costs. Shes been one of the brightest lights to have shone throughout this entire pandemic and I honestly dont know where Id be if I never heard her say hello there again.

Browns path to success resembles that of the stop-and-go traffic for which LA freeways are famous.

She took acting classes, did stand-up comedy and landed small acting parts. But she also worked a variety of non-entertainment jobs: a five-year stint at Macys, a year caring for dementia patients during the night shift at an assisted living facility, and working 9-to-5 at a cosmetics manufacturing facility.

Country girl

Growing up in Stoneville, she fondly recalls spending time at her maternal grandparents house in Draper.

My great-grandfather, John, he spent a lot of time with me when I was very little, Brown said. He would take me on the farms and he had  a bunch of quail and we would get the quail eggs and he would take me to strawberry patches and to go feed goats and cows, she said.

I was a tomboy  climbed a lot of trees, played with the boys, (played) football, got lost in the woods, fishing and all that stuff, Brown said. It was a great childhood.

Her older sister, Tasha Thomas, recalls a typical sibling relationship.

She was annoying, Thomas said, chuckling. She used to bother me all the time. Shell be acting or shell be dancing or shell say, sister watch this and watch that.

And Im like, will you just get out of my room!

But if Thomas was feeling bad, Brown would always try to comfort her.

She was always trying to make people laugh.

Browns family said she loved The Cosby Show.

She wanted to be like Rudy, said Browns father, Eddie Thomas, referring to a character on the hit television show.

He recalled Brown taking his clothes to wear when she was in high school. She didnt want to look like everyone else, so she wore my clothes, he said.

Brown sang in the youth choir at Mount Hermon Baptist Church in Ruffin and was active in sports and drama at Morehead High School, according to her stepmom, Diane Thomas. Brown returned to the school in 2016 as the commencement speaker for graduation.

She was popular (in high school), said Diane Thomas, who taught at the school. A nice, good role model for other students.

Plan B

After graduation in 1997, Brown attended Miami International University of Art & Design.

That was the original Plan B, as my mom told me, but I was determined my plan A was going to work, Brown said.

Her father agrees.

My Daddy will be 70 in September and never has owned a new car! My dream has always been to buy him a brand new truck! OOHHH GOD I THANK YOU pic.twitter.com/2GGjf4eKyR  Tabitha Brown (@IamTabithaBrown) May 29, 2021

She called me one night, on a Thursday night, and said Daddy. Im out here in Miami, and all Im doing is wasting your money. This is not what I want to do, Eddie Thomas said.

She wanted me to come and get her and I went out and got her, he said.

Focused on Plan A, Brown decided to move to California.

Im young, Im 19, have no idea what Im doing, I just had this dream, and moved to California, she said.

She moved to Laguna Niguel, where her mom knew someone who would rent Brown a room. She worked two jobs.

Browns childhood sweetheart and future husband, Chance, boiled down her situation.

He came out and he was like, This is insane. This doesnt make sense. Youre not doing any acting, youre nowhere near Hollywood, Brown said.

New responsibilities

Chance convinced her to move back to North Carolina for one year  where it was cheaper to live  and save money and then move to Los Angeles to pursue her acting career.

So we moved back to Greensboro in 99, and that one year plan turned into five years of baby, marriage, house and cars and jobs  and a forgotten dream, Brown said.

These new responsibilities, by now she was married to Chance and raising their daughter, Choyce, convinced her that she had missed out on her opportunity to live in LA and pursue her acting career.

And a couple years into it, something shook my bed one morning and woke me up, Brown said. It felt like I had had an earthquake in Greensboro, and I heard a voice  it sounded like thunder. And the voice said to me, this is not the life I planned for you.

And it scared me,  nothing like that ever happened to me, said Brown, who thought she might be losing her mind.

So I got on my knees and I started praying.  Now God, if this is you speaking to me, I need you to show me the sign today.

Later, when Brown and her husband were driving to Four Seasons Town Centre, she heard an announcement on the radio about a contest to become a co-host on The Busta Brown Show, a variety show on WTWB-Channel 20.

And at that moment, I knew that was a sign I had prayed for, Brown said. I went crazy in the car. I told my husband, Thats my sign, thats it!

She entered and won the contest.

Thats what got me dreaming again, Brown said. I learned to produce television and do my own segments of hosting and interviewing celebrities.

We even did sketches,  funny stuff kind of like In Living Color or Saturday Night Live, Brown said.

She started acting in local and regional plays and independent films.

LA move

A year later, she told her husband that they needed to move to LA. I had heard the voice of the Lord, I got to go, she said.

In 2004, with $8,000 in savings, the couple moved to LA.

But a couple of months later, Browns mom, Patricia Johnson, was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, a progressive neurodegenerative disease more commonly known as ALS, or Lou Gehrigs disease, that affects nerve cells in the brain and the spinal cord.

So my world stopped, Brown said. You only get one momma.

For three years she traveled back and forth between LA and North Carolina, helping take care of her mom.

After her moms death in 2007 at age 51, Brown again refocused on her career, picking up roles in TV shows and movies, such as Thug Life and Laughing to the Bank.

She and Chance also had a son, Queston, or Quest for short.

I always tell people  because my husbands name is Chance  (that I) took a Chance, made a Choyce and now Im on a Quest, she said.

Brown also includes in her immediate family TyLeah Hampton, whom she calls her bonus daughter. Hampton is Chances daughter from a previous relationship.

Getting sick

Brown was sidelined again by an unexplained sickness in 2016. She suffered headaches for more than a year and a half.

I had begun to fall when I would walk and get these bad dizzy spells and I had chronic fatigue and chronic pain throughout my body, Brown said.

Doctors couldnt pinpoint what was going on, other than to say it seemed to be an autoimmune disease.

With the sickness, I was in a really dark place for about a year, Brown said. Depression had set in, the anxiety was through the roof, panic attacks were happening. I was on medication to try to balance all that out.

I honestly had thought God forgot about me, said Brown, whose mother was a pastor.

That changed, she said, when Choyce came home from school and told her about watching the Netflix documentary What the Health  which promotes veganism to avoid or cure illness.

Its not every day that your teenager comes home and tells you to watch a documentary, Brown said. I was like, Girl, lets pop some popcorn and watch it.

Seeing the documentary four years ago was like a lightbulb moment for me, she said.

She took the suggested 30-day challenge to go vegan.

I was starting to feel so much better, Brown said. I just told my husband, You know what, this could be my life.

I went completely vegan and havent looked back, she said.

A new freedom

It was during this period that a new Tabitha emerged, she said.

Old Tab was not free, Brown said. I was very much so programmed into thinking I had to conform.

For years I was told to cover up my accent because  you know, it sounds ignorant. ... I always wore my hair one way, I would wear it straight. I was always on a diet, honey, trying to be a size two or four and look the part, Brown said.

When I got sick, I realized that I didnt want to live my life for anybody else no more.  To be alive is such a gift, and to be alive and be who you were created to be every day, theres freedom.

Brown said she also made a promise to God that she would quit trying to live her life her way, but live it Gods way.

Im going to be free, she said. And if people love me, theyre going to have to love me for me. And if they dont love me,  well God bless them  it aint my problem and it aint my business.

Seeing her mothers fortitude during her illness also inspired Brown.

To see her never complain, to go ... through this whole transition, with a smile on her face  knowing she was going to die  and being at peace with that.

It changed me, Brown said. It opened my heart and it softened it for other people.

If I go through something, it is selfish of me to keep it to myself, she said. Because I can share my experience that may help somebody else.
WINSTON-SALEM  A Rural Hall woman died on Saturday after receiving critical injuries in a Friday afternoon collision at the intersection of Reynolda Road and Coliseum Drive, authorities said.

Kaila Capri Guest, 39, of Bitting Hall Circle, was taken to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries after the wreck, Winston-Salem police said. On Sunday, police said that Guest had died.

Patricia Stevenson Miller, 70, of Butterfield Drive in Winston-Salem, the driver of the other vehicle, suffered a minor arm injury, police said. Miller also was taken to a local hospital for treatment.

The crash happened at 3:24 p.m. when Guest was driving her 2004 Honda Civic west on Coliseum Drive and Miller was driving her 1997 Ford Club Wagon van north on Reynolda Road, police said.

At the time, the traffic lights for the northbound lanes of travel were flashing yellow, and the traffic lights for the westbound traffic were flashing red, police said.

Police didnt indicate in their news release about the crash why the traffic lights were flashing yellow and red.

Guests vehicle failed to stop for the flashing red light in its direction of travel, entered the intersection and collided with Millers vehicle, police said.
Sadikin said that the plan for this vaccine, apart from (being) the first and second injections for the Indonesian people, we will specifically use it for the third booster injection for Indonesian health workers."

Many health care workers were previously vaccinated with the Chinese produced Sinovac vaccine.



JOHANNESBURG  New infections in South Africa have risen to record levels in recent days.

Its part of a rapid rise across the continent. And experts say the surge here hasnt yet peaked.

South Africa has reimposed several restrictions to fight the new wave. They include shutting restaurants and bars and limiting alcohol sales.

Its vaccination drive is also finding its feet after several stumbles. But experts say its too late to reduce the deadly impact of the current spike.

South Africa is instead rushing to vaccinate enough of its 60 million people to blunt the impact of the next surge.



TOKYO  The mayors of two Tokyo islands have asked the metropolitan government to take the planned Olympic torch relay off public roads amid a surge in coronavirus cases.
Firefighters struggled to contain an exploding Northern California wildfire under blazing temperatures as another heat wave blanketed the West, prompting an excessive heat warning for inland and desert areas.

Death Valley in southeastern California's Mojave Desert reached 128 degrees Fahrenheit (53 Celsius) on Saturday, according to the National Weather Service's reading at Furnace Creek. The shockingly high temperature was actually lower than the previous day, when the location reached 130 F (54 C).

The 130-degree reading would be the hottest high recorded there since July 1913, when Furnace Creek desert hit 134 F (57 C), considered the highest measured temperature on Earth.

The National Weather Service warned the dangerous conditions could cause heat-related illnesses.

About 300 miles (483 kilometers) northwest of the sizzling desert, the largest wildfire of the year in California was raging along the border with Nevada. The Beckwourth Complex Fire  a combination of two lightning-caused fires burning 45 miles (72 kilometers) north of Lake Tahoe  showed no sign of slowing its rush northeast from the Sierra Nevada forest region after doubling in size between Friday and Saturday.
A former Catholic ministry leader at Western Carolina University in the North Carolina mountains sexually abused a student for years in the 1980s, according to a lawsuit the former student filed on Tuesday against his alleged abuser and the Charlotte Catholic Diocese.

On Friday, the diocese issued a statement that it has zero tolerance for child sexual abuse, and we continue to encourage anyone who has been the victim of abuse to seek help and report to authorities.

Al Behm is named in the lawsuit as the man who allegedly sexually abused the student at WCU in Cullowhee. The student said he had known Behm since he was a boy in Connecticut.

Behm was an ordained Catholic brother of the Ohio-based Glenmary Home Missioners religious order, according to the lawsuit filed Tuesday in Mecklenburg County Superior Court.

From about 1980 to 1984, the diocese and Behms religious order assigned him to Western Carolina University as the first full-time Catholic campus minister, according to the lawsuit.
This bill is narrowly tailored to offer medical marijuana to those with legitimate medical needs, Nickel said.

As a primary reason for legalization, the bill says modern medical research has found that cannabis and cannabinoid compounds are effective at alleviating pain, nausea and other symptoms associated with several debilitating medical conditions.

Rabon, a cancer survivor, has said SB711 would not serve as a gateway to recreation marijuana use.

Support Local Journalism Your subscription makes our reporting possible. {{featured_button_text}}

Recreational marijuana use is not something we want in our state, Lee said, but added that the prohibition should not keep North Carolina from doing the right thing for people with chronic and debilitating conditions.

Lowe said bill sponsors reviewed legislation in piecing together SB711.

We realized that, for some states, it has worked out well, while for others it was just a recreational product, Lowe said. Thats not the goal with this particular bill on our state.

Some advocates for permitting medical marijuana still criticize SB711 for being too restrictive on who can use it, and for not putting enough emphasis on the mental health aspect of debilitating health conditions.
When youre a medical marijuana advocate and know that a lot of the people you need to convince are from an older generation, and that they may live in rural areas with little internet access, how do you reach them?

You film an old school, PSA-style TV ad based on the anti-drug campaigns they grew up watching, says Chris Suttle.

Were taking the weapons that have been used against us in the War On Drugs and turning them against our oppressors, he said.

He plans for the PSA to feature cancer patients, former opioid addicts, veterans suffering from PTSD and others who say they would benefit from medical marijuana if North Carolina legalized it. A bipartisan proposal, SB 711, is currently making its way through the state legislature and recently passed its first committee hearing, The News & Observer reported.

Suttle has done a lot of preaching to the choir while volunteering with NC NORML, the pro-legalization group. But ever since legislative leaders at the Republican-majority General Assembly allowed a medical marijuana bill to begin moving forward in June, he has spent more time trying to convert opponents.
RALEIGH  It was 50 years ago this month that North Carolina became the final state needed to ratify the 26th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, lowering the national voting age to 18.

The amendments adoption was made possible in large part to young activists highlighting the injustice of 18-year-olds being drafted to fight for our country while being denied the right to vote.

Since the amendments ratification, the cohort of young voters has shifted from baby boomers, to Generation X, to millennials and now to Gen Z. While each generation has faced the unique challenges of its era, the constant has been that young voters infuse our democracy with energy and idealism, a much-needed antidote to the complacency and cynicism that frequently pervade politics.

Theres a persistent myth that young people are apathetic toward politics and voting. Thats far from true, as shown by a post-2020 election survey from CIRCLE at Tufts University. The study found that more than three-quarters of young people believe they have the power and responsibility to change the country.
RALEIGH  North Carolinians disagree about a great deal. But heres a proposition virtually all of us endorse: The future of our state is closely tied to the amount and quality of education our people receive.

I could say the future of North Carolinas economy depends on better education  and Id be right! You only have to listen to what employers say about the importance of skilled employees who exhibit creativity, collaboration and a strong work ethic. You only have to listen to what employees say about the value of what they learned, or should have learned, in school. And you only have to scan the dozens of studies that link average test scores or educational attainment to GDP and income growth.

To focus on economic considerations alone wouldnt fully capture what I mean, though. Education encompasses more than vocational training. It introduces learners to great swaths of human experience and accomplishment. It broadens perspective. It provides historical context. It builds character. It forms citizens. It fires the imagination.

It isnt just the future of North Carolinas economy that is at stake here, then. Better education will strengthen our relationships, our communities, our culture and our democracy.

Easier said than done, of course.
When were stopped for running a red light, or for an expired registration, or for an unsafe load, or when were broken down on the side of the interstate, perhaps we will soon meet Lovely Rita instead of an armed police officer.

Remove armed police from schools.

Cozily named school resource officers (SROs), these gun-carrying police have no place around children. SROs signal that life must be lived with an armed guard. I dont want American children to consume that lesson with their school lunches.

Evidence about the officers efficacy in the acid test of shootings at schools is not convincing, while recent surveys show that students  particularly those who are racial minorities  as well as teachers and parents have very mixed feelings about whether SROs improve school safety.

Instead, put public money into providing more teachers, more counselors and school nurses, and more building managers.

Hive off many, or even most, of the current load of 911 calls reporting that he or shes acting funny away from the police.
Governing boards hold a fiduciary duty to the institution or system they serve. Their role is to support and protect the institutional mission, make sure the institution is effectively executing the mission and ensure the institution can continue to execute its mission. Boards often focus on fundraising, external relations, accountability and oversight.

When functioning well, boards make decisions driven by the institutions best interests  not their own or those of their friends, allies or associates.

Although that is the expectation, it is not always the practice in decisions ranging from budget allocation to policy setting and presidential hires. The controversial and highly politicized hiring of Lt. Gen. Robert Caslen as University of South Carolina president in 2019 highlighted these concerns and how political connections and motivations can cause board practices to go off course. Caslen has since resigned, after admitting to plagiarism.

Theres not much diversity on public universities boards. Currently, according to an industry survey, most of their members are older white men from the business sector.

Yet, as higher education becomes increasingly concerned with diversity, we have observed that the issue of board diversity seems to be left off the table.
Kellsie and Jaxcen McCarty pose for a picture at the Neighbor Bowl in this 2014 file photo.
It moved really fast, he said.

Wright said the investigation was ongoing but that the cause was not suspicious.

Authorities said eight residences had been evacuated and as of Sunday morning the residents were allowed to return home. They said the southbound lane of Interstate 15, which had been closed Saturday night, reopened 8 a.m. Sunday. Sevenmile Road from Craig to state Highway 287 remained close to enable use by emergency vehicles.

Wright said several law enforcement agencies were called in to assist the sheriff. They included the Montana Highway Patrol, state Fish and Game, and the Bureau of Land Management.

Spliethof said it was mostly grass and timber that burned. No structures were damaged and no injuries were reported.

The DNRC said Saturday it is working with the Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest, Lewis and Clark County, Lewis and Clark County Sheriffs Office, the Montana Highway Patrol, the Montana Department of Transportation and multiple volunteer fire departments through county mutual aid.
BOZEMAN  Sometimes, when the young voices beneath her feet are sad or yet again engaging in disruptive meta-mischief, Marsha Small will pause behind the baby carriage she uses to locate them and lose herself amid her sobering surroundings.

Seven years after Small launched a ground-breaking search for children's remains at the Chemawa Indian School just north of Salem, Oregon  the significance and poignancy of which the nation is only just now beginning to grasp  their voices still haunt her.

The 62-year-old Northern Cheyenne woman, known as Ota'taveenova'e (Blue Tipi Woman) by the Tsististas people, describes becoming misty-eyed or dagger-eyed or both as she scans the grave markers. Her emotions are tempered slightly by 25 old-growth Douglas firs that soften the hum of traffic on nearby Interstate 5 and have provided her comfort since Small realized their shallow, serpentine roots are cradling the children."

Small's mind flashes on images of the indignities that indigenous youth endured. Tens of thousands were sent to 367 U.S. boarding schools like Chemawa beginning in the late 1800s as part of a Kill the Indian, Save the Man assimilation ethos now viewed as cultural genocide. Their hair was shorn, their language barred, their heritage disavowed.

In the first seven decades at Chemawa, founded in 1880 and today the nation's oldest continuously operating Indian boarding school, diseases such as influenza, cholera, trachoma and tuberculosis flourished in crowded dormitories, fostered by malnourishment and lack of proper treatment. Emotional, physical and sexual abuse were prevalent as well.

Since 2014, Small has documented 222 sets of remains at Chemawa, and she's no less incredulous now than when she first rolled her ground-penetrating radar (GPR) machine, which looks like a baby stroller or lawn mower, across the cemetery grounds.

You know whats so strange about this? Small, a Montana State University doctoral candidate with salt-and-pepper hair, finally asks rhetorically during an interview in Bozeman.

Why is there a cemetery? Its a school! What the heck? You got money to steal and kidnap a kid but dont have money to send them home if theyre ready to die?

My anger just bubbles.

Small, who grew up on Montana's Northern Cheyenne Reservation, channels her fury and tears through her search for the babies, first for her MSU masters degree and now in pursuit of a Ph.D. She aims to identify all of them, learn how they died, and have their families bring them home  or, depending on the cultural protocols of the 72 tribes at Chemawa, let them rest but mark the graves so families can find closure.

Until now, Smalls efforts as a voice for the children have been largely done in obscurity, her funding so scarce she's mired in debt. But the recent discovery in Canada of hundreds of unmarked indigenous graves at boarding schools, along with U.S. Interior Secretary Deb Haaland's (Laguna Pueblo) creation of the Federal Indian Boarding School Initiative last month, could be a game-changer.

Though no surprise to Small and other indigenous leaders, Canada's revelations are nevertheless another trauma for cultures grappling with four centuries of genocide and more recently with staggering numbers of missing and murdered women. Some experts, noting government estimates that 86% of indigenous children were in boarding schools by 1926, say as many as 40,000 children's remains might be unaccounted for nationwide.

The renewed anguish is so traumatizing that a 24-hour crisis line for boarding school survivors and family has been established in Canada.

How much more gut-punching can you do? Small asks.

Now that the trauma is illuminated, though, Small said healing can begin if the U.S. follows Canada's lead with a sincere pursuit of truth and transparency.

'20 years of hell'

I absolutely have hope the truth-telling will commence now, said Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa author and artist Denise Lajimodiere, a North Dakota State University assistant professor and former National Native American Boarding School Healing Coalition board member.

Marsha Smalls work is just starting the truth-telling.

For Small, the Chemawa project  as well as her work at two other sites in the region  hits close to heart and home.

Her parents attended reservation boarding schools. An aunt and three uncles wore Chemawa's military garb. Same for a grandfather and great uncle at Carlisle Indian School in Pennsylvania.

Every Native has a relative who was at a boarding school, Small said, adding with a smile: Except for the two kids who hid in the bushes.

Small never hid as a reservation child because nobody was paying much attention. She spent her early years at Muddy Creek, but when she was 10 or 11 her parents bought a house in Ashland just before they divorced and departed, leaving her to often fend for herself.

The next two decades, in which she lost her mother and brother, were a swirling "vortex" she has largely banished from her consciousness. To pay the bills, she pumped gas, welded and tended bar. Along the way, she bore a child, Amber, raising her solo in Montana and Oregon, occasionally handing the duties to her mother.

In 2002, 26 years after graduating from high school, she regrouped long enough to earn an associates degree from Lame Deers Chief Dull Knife College.

I lived by myself, crazy, off the street, she recalled. I couldnt breathe. I crawled to the edge many times to get to sanity but could never get there.

It was like 20 years of hell.

One day in 2007, when Small was living in Busby and still simply "existing," Amber returned from Oregon and ordered her mother to pack. The next day, they were headed to Eugene where Amber and her husband, Brian Jackson, now own a honey farm on the McKenzie River.

She said, 'Figure out what you want to do with your life'," Small said. "She saved me, really."

Soon after, Small bought a bus ticket and headed south, just to get away. In Ashland, while wandering the town, she followed the sound of drumming to a powwow at Southern Oregon University, to her a clear message.

An unabashed lover of flora, she enrolled in SOU's environmental studies program.

I didnt know what to do and was really lost, and then, Boom!, she said. It was like the drums called me in there. Thats what you call kismet, right?

After graduation in 2010, Small worked for a watershed group to identify invasive and rare plants in northern California. In the process, she dabbled in geographic information system (GIS) mapping in hopes of using it to better assist The People. Later, at a conference in the Flathead, she was told she could do just that with a masters degree from Montana State in Native American Studies.

Small was still asking the universe how to best create meaningful change when she sought master's thesis advice from friend Robert Kentta, treasurer for the Confederated Tribes of the Siletz on the Oregon Coast.

He said, Hey, why dont you go to Chemawa and do one of those GPR things, get one of those machines, and go see how many kids are in there, Small recalled. He created the spark. After that, it was really the ancestors who pushed me to do this.

Smalls work hasnt been limited to locating childrens graves.

She helped restore bison to southeast Montana tribes for the National Wildlife Federation and was instrumental in the creation of Indigenous Peoples day at MSU in 2016. She assisted the Blackfeet on a resource management plan. Small has taught Native American Studies at MSU since 2015 and was a distinguished visiting NAS professor in the anthropology department at Willamette University, a few miles from Chemawa. In 2017, she assisted in surveying the graveyard at Nevada City.

But its the boarding-school cemeteries that tap her soul. As she methodically covers the Chemawa grounds, she introduces herself to the children in Cheyenne. For protection, she does a smoke or smudge routine each time she enters the cemetery.

Oh man, when I first got in cemeteries it was just overwhelming, said Small, whose masters thesis was titled A Voice for the Children of Chemawa Cemetery." I could feel an emptiness. It was horrible. The sound of silence was so loud, so incredibly loud. As I got to work in the cemeteries  I know it sounds so meta  I started having flashes of what actually happened during sickness. It was scary at first.

MSU doesn't have GPR equipment so she partners with Ohio Valley Archaeology, a private firm. Her machine sends thousands of radar pulses per second into the subsurface. When she encounters a significant anomaly shell flag the spot.

When Small began at Chemawa, most of the cemetery markers had been leveled, vandalized or moved a half-century earlier. She suspects there are many more than the 222 remains she's documented, most below the one meter her GPR reaches; all but 12 graves she's located pre-date the 1960s, as conditions and missions have changed dramatically under the Bureau of Indian Education.

Many markers are dated 1918, likely connected to the Spanish flu pandemic.

Similar rematriation efforts  the reclaiming of ancestral remains  have been underway for four years at Carlisle, which Small visited last month for the first time in search of 13 Northern Cheyenne children. The U.S. Army is fully funding the project.

First success story

At Chemawa, the work is more tedious. Records are off-limits due to privacy laws. Small notes her first success story required three years of matching before-and-after photos of five children, and yet their markers aren't aligned with their graves and so "it's still a guessing game."

Unfortunately many or most of the school cemeteries were demolished at some point, and many of the school enrollment and sanitary records are buried deep in the governments archival bowels, former Chemawa historian SuAnn Reddick recently told Oregon Public Broadcasting. Finding names and tribes of the children will be a huge challenge.

Yet with the issue now elevated, Small imagines more support, including crucial access to archives. Finishing her doctorate, she hopes, will help with funding.

In Montana, she would like to survey Fort Shaw and St. Labre, two of 17 schools listed by the Boarding School Healing Coalition.

As projects like hers proliferate, Small is adamant: They must include Natives every step of the way.

Without that, were doing the same colonial system weve always done, which is to go extract information, get out the parts they want and take it, she said. It cant work that way. Theres no healing in that. As a nation we need to heal and were not going to be able to do that until the Natives are healed.

Lajimodiere, who interviewed boarding-school survivors for a book  including her father, who nearly died at Chemawa and bore scars on his back from beatings  describes Small's work as vital in light of Canada's discoveries.

"It's certainly traumatized all my boarding-school survivors," Lajimodiere said. "And for those of us who listen to the stories, we're in secondary trauma. We have a long way to go to help people with trauma, so it's very important that we find these babies and bring them home, if that's what the families want."

Thus Small's dedication to pushing her baby carriage under the firs at Chemawa, where she tries to reconcile the irreconcilable: Cemeteries and schools. Soul-impacting, she calls her searching.

If theyre not torturing me that day, I can get stuff done, she said wistfully of the children. If theyre mischievous, I cant get anything done. It sounds so meta, but I cant explain what goes on in those cemeteries unless youre actually there.

How long until she retires to her plants? At least 20 years, she says, or until babies are routinely going home. Until then, she won't rest.

The voices of the children are calling.

Love 1 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 2 Angry 1
JAKARTA, Indonesia (AP)  Just two months ago, Indonesia was coming to a gasping Indias aid with thousands of tanks of oxygen.

Today, the Southeast Asia country is running out of oxygen as it endures a devastating wave of coronavirus cases and the government is seeking emergency supplies from other countries, including Singapore and China.

A shipment of more than 1,000 oxygen cylinders, concentrators, ventilators and other health devices arrived from Singapore on Friday, followed by another 1,000 ventilators from Australia, said Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, the government minister in charge of Indonesias pandemic response.

Beside those donations, Indonesia plans to buy 36,000 tons of oxygen and 10,000 concentrators  devices that generate oxygen  from neighboring Singapore, Pandjaitan said.

He said he is in touch with China and other potential oxygen sources. The U.S. and the United Arab Emirates also have offered help.

We recognize the difficult situation Indonesia currently finds itself in with a surge of COVID cases, White House press secretary Jen Psaki said. In addition to sending vaccines, the U.S. is working to increase assistance for Indonesias broader COVID-19 response efforts, she said, without elaborating.
Its no secret that Montana has suffered long-term human health and environmental damages from a variety of industries including mining, smelting, manufacturing and processing.

We have the largest Superfund site in the nation  the Upper Clark Fork Complex  which is nothing to brag about. From killing hundreds of Montanans with asbestosis in Libbys W.R. Grace operations to wiping out 100 miles of the headwaters of the Columbia River, the evidence is incontrovertible that we have been and continue to be far too lax in holding corporations responsible for their pollution.

Unfortunately, our new Republican governor and administration are again short-changing pollution cleanup operations  and the outcome will ensure we get to live with and pay for these bad decisions for generations to come.

The poster child for the problem is Butte and Anaconda, where consent decrees were negotiated behind closed doors on how much it was going to cost to clean up the vast environmental destruction left by a century of mining and smelting.
As a lifelong conservative I would appreciate it if he would refrain from claiming to speak for conservatives. I trust there are other conservatives like myself who did not support Rosendale precisely because he is not a conservative. He aligns himself with the element in the Republican Party that rather than being conservative is instead alarmingly radical and makes it difficult to bring a needed conservative perspective to our government.

As there apparently was no fact-checking of Rosendales piece, I will point out that he was full of beans, and probably knows it  and certainly should know it if he is going to address it publicly  in his characterization of how and when Evanston, Illinois came to cancel its Fourth of July Parade. Rather than it being done recently as he states, implying that it happened in relation to Juneteenth becoming a national holiday, the decision by the Evanston committee to cancel the city-sponsored Fourth of July celebration activities  including the parade  was made several months in advance because the complicated logistics of the large celebration took a lot of advance planning and complicated permits, including the fireworks permit. Rather than being a recent decision, it was made way back in March! And from the get-go the reason given for the decision was the uncertainty at the time about what the COVID-19 situation would be nearly 4 months into the future. It was the exact same decision the committee had made in 2020, and for the same reason.
CHICAGO  Police in Chicago have identified a 34-year-old man fatally shot by law enforcement officers after he reportedly pointed a gun at them as they tried to arrest him.

The Chicago Police Department released Klevontaye White's name late Friday. Officials initially said the man who was killed was 33.

White died at a Chicago hospital, hours after Friday's shooting in the city's West Garfield Park neighborhood as members of a fugitive task force were trying to serve an arrest warrant for aggravated criminal sexual assault with a firearm.

Police Superintendent David Brown told reporters that the man wouldn't get out of the vehicle he was in and pointed a gun at the officers. Three Chicago police officers and a U.S. marshal opened fire.

Authorities haven't said whether White fired any shots, but no officers were wounded.

Police body-camera video of the shooting will be released within 60 days.

Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0
LEWISTOWN  And then there was one.

Of the four inmates who escaped Wednesday night from the Fulton County Jail, three were back in custody Friday morning.

According to the county's top law-enforcement official, the men's method of escape has been eliminated.

"I've told everybody there was a deficiency in the jail that was exploited," Fulton County Sheriff Jeff Standard said. "It's since been corrected. There's no way they will get out this way again."

During an interview Friday morning with the Journal Star, Standard would not be more specific.

The only escapee still on the run as of mid-morning Friday was Zachary Hart. The 36-year-old is 6-foot-6 and 170 pounds, with brown hair and green eyes, according to the Fulton County Emergency Services Disaster Agency.

Among other crimes, Hart has been accused of home invasion and fleeing from a police officer. He is from Canton but was extradited recently from Kentucky, Standard said. His department has had numerous encounters with Hart.

Standard said he believes Hart no longer is in the area.

Following a manhunt that extended north at least 25 miles from the jail, the other three escapees were captured Thursday.

The third escapee to be located was 26-year-old Cody Villalobos. According to Standard, Villalobos was apprehended while hitchhiking between Trivoli and Hanna City in western Peoria County.

Peoria County Sheriff Brian Asbell confirmed Villalobos was taken into custody about 10 p.m. Thursday along Illinois Route 116 near Eden Road. Villalobos is from the Canton-Farmington area, Standard said.

Earlier, escapees Eugene Roets and Jesse Davis were captured in disparate locations.

The first escapee to be apprehended, Roets was found in the Peoria area. Standard said he wasn't sure if the address was in the city of Peoria or in Peoria County.

Authorities received a tip regarding the whereabouts of Roets, 23, who had been residing in the Lewistown area, according to Standard.

The sheriff said officers from the Peoria Police Department, the Peoria County Sheriff's Office and the U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force were involved in Roets' arrest.

Peoria police spokeswoman Amy Dotson confirmed her department's involvement. But for additional comment, she deferred to Fulton County authorities.

The capture of 35-year-old Davis  who had been spending time recently in Cuba and Canton, according to Standard  was more complex.

Early Thursday, Davis stole a van in Farmington, Standard said. Earlier, Davis was seen running through residential yards and hopping fences in the city along the Fulton-Peoria county border.

The county line is near where Davis crashed the van, according to Standard. A tip led searchers to Blue Spruce Road, northeast of Norris and between Canton and Farmington, where they found Davis walking.

"He was taking a lot of resources (to find)," Standard said. "Where he was walking, there aren't any residences, really. The guys were not too far from there when that tip came in."

Searches took place on foot and by fixed-wing aircraft, helicopter and drone. Numerous local, county and state law-enforcement agencies participated.

None of the captured men resisted arrest, according to Standard.

"They knew it was up, and they knew we were after them and coming in force," he said.

The four escapees were discovered missing during deputies' regular tour of the jail, Standard said. Cells are checked every 30 minutes. About 50 people usually are lodged in the jail at any given time.

At the time of his escape, Roets was awaiting transfer to the Illinois Department of Corrections, to begin serving a seven-year prison sentence. He was accused of at least eight crimes, including aggravated battery and possession of methamphetamine and stolen property.

Davis was accused of obstructing justice and of meth possession, among other charges. Villalobos was accused of various drug crimes.

Roets was transported Thursday night to Stateville Correctional Center in Crest Hill, according to the sheriff's office. Davis and Villalobos were returned to the county jail.

All three men face escape charges, as will Hart if and when he's captured. The charge carries a state-prison sentence of three to seven years.

Villalobos made his initial court appearance Friday regarding the new charges, according to the Fulton County Circuit Clerk's Office. Davis was scheduled to appear but refused to leave his cell.

Bond for each man was set at $1 million.

The next court appearances for Davis and Villalobos were scheduled for Wednesday. It wasn't clear when Roets will appear in court.

During an interview Friday morning with WBYS radio in Canton, Standard cited the age of the jail building  about 35 years  in discussing the circumstances of the escape.

"It's unfortunate this happened. We've rectified the issue on our end," Standard told the Journal Star. "We just want to reassure the county that we are a secure facility, and we are going to take care of our business and get (Hart) back as quickly as we can."

Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0
LEWISTOWN  The last of four people who escaped from the Fulton County Jail in western Illinois last week has been captured, authorities said Sunday.

The Fulton County sheriff's office says Zachary Hart was caught near Canton. Hart, 36, was being held on charges including home invasion, possession of a firearm by a felon and fleeing police. He escaped from jail in western Illinois with Jesse Davis, 35, Cody Villalobos, 26, and Eugene Roets, 23. They were captured Thursday.

Authorities hadn't detailed how the men escaped. Davis was captured in the Farmington area, which is in Fulton County, while Villalobos and Roets were captured in adjacent Peoria County, officials said.

Support Local Journalism Your membership makes our reporting possible. {{featured_button_text}}

Fulton County deputies learned of the escape Wednesday night after one inmate went missing from a cell block in the jail in Lewistown, about 210 miles southwest of Chicago, authorities said. It was later determined that three others also were missing.

Davis was jailed on charges including methamphetamine possession and possession of a weapon by a felon, while Villalobos faced charges including methamphetamine possession and resisting/obstructing police. Roets faced several charges, including methamphetamine possession and possession of a firearm by a felon.

Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0
CHICAGO  A 34-year-old man sought by police in the fatal shooting of a couple at a Puerto Rican culture celebration in Chicago has been arrested in California.

Anthony Lorenzi is charged with first-degree murder and is awaiting extradition to Illinois, Chicago police said Saturday.

Lorenzi was arrested Friday by U.S. marshals in the parking lot of an apartment complex in San Diego.

Chicago police Superintendent David Brown said Saturday that investigators learned that Lorenzi fled to San Diego the morning after Gyovanny Arzuaga, 24, and Yasmin Perez, 23, were shot June 19 following a parade in Chicago's Humboldt Park neighborhood.

The couple, who had two children, were attacked after what police called a minor traffic crash.

Video of the shooting showed Perez being dragged by several people from a dark SUV with a Puerto Rican flag sticking out of a window. Arzuaga, who was seen on the ground nearly covering her, was then shot in the head by a gunman in a white tank top.

Perez died three days later.

Lorenzi is charged in Arzuaga's death. Perez may have been shot accidentally in the neck by Arzuaga, police have said.

Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0
ROCKTON  The air and water around the June 14 Chemtool industrial fire are safe, according to tests conducted by state and local officials.

Illinois Environmental Protection Agency officials and members of the Illinois National Guard took samples of ash, runoff, well water and river water from around the site of the fire as well as in the immediate area.

All but one sample  a "wipe" sample from a location close to the Chemtool property  tested below the residential exposure limit, according to a news release issued Friday.

Illinois EPA also collected samples from various locations in the community water supply following the fire. Each of the wells used as a water source for Rockton residents were sampled, along with the finished water storage tank located adjacent to the fire. No negative impacts to the community water supply were identified, the news release said.

Gov. J.B. Pritzker said he activated the Illinois National Guard and other state agencies when he learned about the Chemtool fire.

"As we have in the days following the emergency, my administration will continue to work closely with local stakeholders as the community recovers," Pritzker said in the release.

The Chemtool fire emitted a black smoke plume that could be seen for miles around the industrial fire. Explosions sent debris, ash and metallic materials raining down on properties around the plant.

Although tests so far indicate air and water are safe, the Illinois EPA is supporting a lawsuit filed by Illinois General Kwame Raoul and Winnebago County State's Attorney J. Hanley.

"Illinois EPA remains committed to community residents and local leaders as we look to the remediation phase of this devastating fire," Illinois EPA Director John Kim said in the release. "Illinois EPA is also working closely with Attorney General Raoul's Office to ensure the full impact of this fire is documented and the company implements an approved plan to remove any hazardous material from the site."

The release also says that efforts by Rockton Fire Protection District officials working with the State Fire Marshal to contain contamination from the use of a firefighting foam by a contractor hired by Chemtool appears to have been effective.

"Continued use of the foam could have led to contamination occurring in soil and groundwater, a health risk for local residents," the release said. "A breach of foam from firefighting equipment was observed on the Rock River on June 17. U.S. EPA's on-scene coordinator has stated that booms placed around the foam were successful in containing the breach, and additional samples were taken from the area with no contaminants detected."

The Illinois Department of Public Health has brought in experts from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry to help the health department monitor and identify potential health effects as a result of the fire.

The Winnebago County Health Department is urging residents to complete a Chemtool health survey available online or by calling a hotline at 815-972-7300.

Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0
JACKSONVILLE  Illinois is now the first state in the nation to require Asian American history be taught in public schools.

Gov. J.B. Pritzker on Friday signed into law the Teaching Equitable Asian American History Act, which will require the addition of Asian American and Pacific Islander history lessons.

About 6% of the state's population is Asian, according to U.S. Census Bureau population estimates. The highest concentrations are in DuPage County (12.6%) and Champaign County (11.1%).

In west-central Illinois, the Asian population is under a half percent in Scott, Pike, Greene, Brown and Schuyler counties, but higher in Cass County (0.7%), Morgan County (0.8%) and Sangamon County (2.1%).

The percentages have been growing steadily during the past few years in most parts of the state, according to Census Bureau estimates.

Pritzker said the legislation builds on efforts to ensure the content taught in Illinois classrooms reflects the diversity of the state. Supporters hope it also will counter a recent rise in acts of violence and bigotry against the Asian American community by teaching students about the culture and its contributions.

"We are reaffirming our commitment to creating more inclusive school environments. We're making Illinois the first state in the nation to require that Asian American history will be taught in public schools, including a unit about the Asian American experience," Pritzker said. "We are setting a new standard for what it means to truly reckon with our history. It's a new standard that helps us understand one another, and, ultimately, to move ourselves closer to the nation of our ideals."

Beginning with the 2022-23 school year, all public elementary schools and high schools will be required to include a unit of instruction studying the events of Asian American history, including the history of Asian Americans in Illinois and the Midwest.

In Pritzker's first year in office, he signed a bill requiring Illinois schools to include the positive contributions of LGBTQ+ individuals in history lessons. This year, the administration also expanded Black history education requirements.

Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0
MONMOUTH  Lewis Gould says he was a "typical male historian writing about men" before he developed a new course to teach in the early 1980s at the University of Texas.

That course, called "First Ladies of the 20th Century"  not counting Nancy Reagan, who was in the White House at the time  set Gould on a pioneering path of studying the history and legacies of the wives of American presidents.

"I had to treat these women as independent and autonomous persons doing their own things," said Gould, who has lived in Monmouth since 2012. "That was a dramatic shift for me."

Nearly decades after developing the course, Gould was named the inaugural recipient this year of an award that recognizes distinguished contributions to research and education about America's first ladies.

Not only is Gould the first recipient of the award from the First Ladies Association for Research and Education, the award is named after him.

FLARE's founding president and first lady scholar, Myra Gutin, said Gould has had "inspiring" influence on the field.

"Dr. Gould's pioneering work opened the door to the development of a new discipline, the study of the first lady," Gutin said. "He encouraged and inspired a generation of scholars and others interested in the presidential spouse to research and then share what they had learned with the American public. He has been our guiding light."

The topic of Gould's historical research  he never analyzed first ladies or presidents while in office  resonated with the public and the media even before he began publishing his work.

"Suddenly, unexpectedly, I was getting lots of interview requests," Gould said.

Lady Bird Johnson, the subject of two books by Gould, visited that first class on first ladies at the University of Texas, causing a bit of a media storm in the classroom.

Two years after that, Gould was the keynote speaker at the first national first ladies conference, convened by Betty Ford, where he received a standing ovation and participated in a discussion with Ford, Rosalynn Carter and Diane Sawyer.

During the 1992 Democratic National Convention, Gould said he reached "talking head" status, being interviewed for eight hours straight on what Hillary Clinton's influence might be.

In all, Gould has written more than a dozen books, including "The Presidency of Theodore Roosevelt," "The Modern American Presidency," "American First Ladies: Their Lives and Their Legacies" and "Lady Bird Johnson and the Environment."

The latter book was the first attempt to demonstrate a first lady's substantive impact on American society, rather than simply serving as a biography. In 1998, Gould became the editor for the Modern First Ladies series, published by the University Press of Kansas, which is now complete.

His research also extended to the wives of governors.

Now, Gould said, there are many scholars in the first ladies field doing good work.

Among those in that first class studying first ladies at the University Texas in 1982 was Stacy Cordery, a former Monmouth College professor who now teaches at Iowa State University and is the bibliographer for the National First Ladies Library in Canton, Ohio.

"Lewis L. Gould created the field of first ladies studies," said Cordery. "Who knew that first ladies had lived such exciting lives and had achieved so much? Turns out, Dr. Gould knew, and he knew because of his own research as a political historian."

In his retirement, Gould moved to Monmouth, where he remarried and has been a retired visiting distinguished professor of history at Monmouth College.

Monmouth College's Hewes Library holds 19 items written by Gould. Part of his collection was donated to the College several years ago and is housed in the archives located in the library.

The award was presented to Gould during a special virtual ceremony last month. FLARE was launched June 21, in partnership with the American University School of Public Affairs.

Gould said he was duly honored to receive the award.

Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0
FLAGSTAFF, Ariz.  The largest of the Navajo Nation casinos is preparing to reopen for the first time since the coronavirus pandemic began.

The Twin Arrows Resort Casino east of Flagstaff has been closed since March 2020. Officials have planned a job fair Saturday ahead of the Monday reopening. The casino will have limited hours and a 50% occupancy level for now.

Tribal President Jonathan Nez recently signed legislation that allows visitors to travel on the reservation, paving the way for the casino to reopen. Casino patrons will be required to wear masks and have their temperatures checked. The tribe on Saturday reported 13 additional cases.



MORE ON THE PANDEMIC:

 New virus surge is sending younger patients to Spain's hospitals

 Indonesia short on oxygen, seeks help as virus cases soar

 Malta poised to become first EU member to require visitors to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination

 Mexico enters 3rd wave of coronavirus, infections up 29%



Follow more of APs pandemic coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/coronavirus-pandemic and https://apnews.com/hub/coronavirus-vaccine



HERES WHAT ELSE IS HAPPENING:

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.  Florida health officials reported an increase in COVID-19 cases and a higher positive test rate over the past week.

The number of virus cases in Florida rose by about 8,000 compared with the week before, for a total of 23,747 new cases, the state Department of Health reported Friday.

New cases of the coronavirus have been on the rise in Florida over the past month. The rate of positive tests was 7.8% last week after trending at about 4% positivity in recent weeks.

There were 172 deaths in Florida from COVID-19 last week, the health department reported.

The state has recorded at least 2.4 million coronavirus cases and 38,901 deaths since the pandemic began.

Officials also said about 11 million Floridians have been fully or partially vaccinated, or 58% of those 12 and older.



ALBANY, N.Y.  New York is seeing an uptick in COVID-19 cases as vaccination rates slowly rise, according to the states latest data released Saturday.

About 525 people each day tested positive for COVID-19 in New York for the seven days through Friday. Thats up from 369 people for the prior week  a 42% increase.

Its unclear why more people in New York are testing positive at a time when fewer people are getting tested.

The state Department of Health says a higher percentage of cases are linked to more contagious variants. It is urging more people to get vaccinated.

New York City is driving much of the increase, though cases are also rising in parts of Long Island.

Hospitals reported 342 COVID-19 patients as of Friday, similar to 340 patients from last Friday.

About 55% of 20 million New Yorkers are fully vaccinated. Thats up from nearly 48% as of June 6.

Vaccination rates are lowest in parts of western and central New York: about one-third of residents in Allegany County are fully vaccinated. Rates are also lower in parts of New York City: 43% of Bronx residents and 45.5% of Brooklyn residents are fully vaccinated.



NASHVILLE, Tenn.  Health officials in Tennessee have linked a small coronavirus cluster to a meeting of the Southern Baptist Convention last month.

It was Nashvilles first large-scale conference after lifting restrictions on gatherings.

The Tennessean reports that Metro Public Health Department epidemiologist Leslie Waller said eight to 10 infections have been detected among attendees, but the cluster is almost certainly larger. Waller said its difficult to know how many other cases there might be because most of the more than 18,000 attendees live out of state.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued an alert asking health officials in other states to contact Nashville health officials if they discover more infections that trace back to the annual meeting of the nations largest Protestant denomination.

Jonathan Howe, a spokesman for the Southern Baptist Convention Executive Committee, said the organization has not alerted attendees about the cluster and is working with city and state health officials to identify its next steps.



MOSCOW  Coronavirus deaths in Russia have hit another daily record, with authorities reporting 752 more fatalities amid a continuing surge in infections.

Russias coronavirus task force on Saturday reported 25,082 new coronavirus cases. The daily tally of confirmed infections has soared from around 9,000 in early June to over 23,000 in early July.

Officials have attributed a steady rise in infections and an increase in mortality to the spread of the delta variant.

Despite the surge, the Kremlin has said there are no plans to impose another lockdown. Russia had one nationwide lockdown in the spring of 2020 that lasted six weeks, and the government has resisted another one to avoid damaging the economy.

The coronavirus task force has reported over 5.7 million confirmed coronavirus cases and a total of 142,253 deaths in the pandemic. However, reports by Russias state statistical service Rosstat that tally coronavirus-linked deaths retroactively reveal much higher numbers.



BRUSSELS  The European Union says it now has enough doses to meet its goal of vaccinating 70% of the regions adult population by the end of this month.

With infections resurging in many European countries, the next challenge will be ensuring that the doses find takers, as demand wanes in some areas. According to the European Centre for Disease Control, 44% of the adult EU population is fully vaccinated, and 64% have received at least one dose.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said Saturday that by Sunday 500 million doses will have been delivered to all regions of the 27-nation EU. She urged member countries to do everything to increase vaccinations.

So far EU countries have administered 386 million doses for the overall population of 447 million, according to the ECDC.



PARIS  Music is pulsing from Paris nightclubs for the first time in 16 months as other European countries shut night life down again because of rising coronavirus cases.

The reopening of Paris dance clubs Friday night was the final step in Frances process of lifting pandemic restrictions. The move was meant to mark victory over the virus, since night clubs were among the few venues that had remained closed since March 2020.

But the delta variant is spreading faster than vaccinations in France, and infections are rising again after weeks of decline. President Emmanuel Macron is expected to speak to the nation Monday about the situation, and the government could opt for new restrictions.

At the popular La Bellevilloise club, many people were eager to return to the dance floor. Parisian Laurent Queige called it a liberation, an immense happiness to rediscover the clubbing, the party, friends.

La Bellevilloise owner Renaud Barillet said this weekend could serve as a useful test to see how the public, the organizers, all that reacts and manages to adopt new habits.



TOKYO  Tokyo has reported 950 new coronavirus cases, the highest daily number in two months, as infections steadily spread less than two weeks before the city hosts the Summer Olympics.

Saturdays tally compared with 822 confirmed cases reported Friday. Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga has declared a state of emergency in Tokyo starting Monday to keep the infections from becoming explosive during the Olympics, which open on July 23.

His government initially planned to take less-stringent measures, but came under pressure to issue the emergency order as the more contagious delta strain spread in the Tokyo region.

Experts warned that caseloads could surge to thousands within weeks as people travel on summer vacations and the Olympics draws foreign and domestic visitors to Tokyo.

Despite the recent acceleration of Japans vaccination program, only 16.8% of the population is fully vaccinated. Japan has reported about 812,000 cases and nearly 15,000 deaths in the pandemic.



HELSINKI  A passenger arriving in Finland may soon be fined hundreds of euros for refusing to take a coronavirus test.

A new amendment to the Finnish infectious diseases act with regard to border security imposes a fine to a tourist who enters Finland and opposes a required COVID-19 test. The law takes effect July 12 and is valid until Oct. 15.

It already was possible for the police to fine those refusing of COVID-19 tests, but authorities say the amendment will remarkably clarify the situation in judicial terms.

Konsta Arvelin, an inspector at the National Police Board, told the Finnish newspaper Helsingin Sanomat on Saturday that the change creates a completely new criminal offense in Finland, titled violation of the COVID-19 test."

Finland has a population of 5.5 million and one of the lowest coronavirus figures in Europe. The Nordic country has maintained tight border control during the pandemic.



BEIJING  A Chinese vice foreign minister claims the possibility that the COVID-19 virus leaked from a lab in China has been ruled out, and called on Washington to release more information about how the virus originated as well as how it spread in the U.S.

Le Yucheng on Saturday cited a World Health Organization report saying the pandemic most likely began through the passing of the virus from animals to humans, not from Chinese laboratory. The vice foreign minister reiterated that the origin of the virus remains unknown.

Le said that, "If the U.S. actually respects the truth and transparency, it should accept an international investigation to find the source of the U.S. epidemic, the cause of the U.S.s ineffective fight against the epidemic, and problems at U.S. biological laboratories.

While similar to earlier official statements, Les comments come from a more senior official than in the past, indicating Beijing may be firming up its political stance in the dispute over the virus origins.

Chinas outspoken Foreign Ministry spokesman, Zhao Lijian, has thrown suspicion on the U.S. military biological laboratory at Fort Detrick, Maryland, calling for an investigation into the possibility the virus originated there. No evidence has been produced to support that claim or that the virus emerged from any U.S. military-run biological lab.



BUCHAREST  Moldova is set to receive half a million doses of Johnson & Johnson vaccines from the United States to help the small nation combat the coronavirus pandemic.

The first 150,000 doses of J&J are set to arrive in Moldova  a country of 3.5 million, Europes poorest sandwiched between Romania and Ukraine  on July 12, U.S. Embassy officials in Moldova said in a statement.

Incumbent Moldovan President Maia Sandu thanked the U.S. for the vaccines and said that they will help save lives, preserve the health of our citizens and reduce the force of the pandemic.

The announcement came days ahead of an early parliamentary election in Moldova that pits pro-Western reformists against a Russia-friendly bloc of Socialists and Communists, with recent polls giving a lead to the former.

Only 305,000 people in Moldova have so far been fully inoculated against COVID-19, around just 11% of the population. Moldova has reported more than 257,000 infections and 6,207 deaths.



COLOMBO, Sri Lanka  Sri Lanka has launched a massive vaccination program aimed at inoculating tens of thousands of people in the countrys tourism industry.

It's the latest attempt to contain the spread of the virus and to revive the lucrative tourism industry.

The vaccine drive took place in the countrys southern coast which is famous among tourists for its white sandy beaches. On Saturday, more than 1000 hotel workers, tourist guides and safari drivers were inoculated, said the tourism ministry.

The Ministry said it plans to inoculate 500,000 people who are directly employed in the tourism sector.

COVID-19 has dealt a severe blow to the tourism, which is a vital economic sector for Sri Lanka. Workers and businesses linked to tourism are currently facing crippling employment losses.

Sri Lanka has so far recorded 269,946 confirmed cases and 3,391 deaths.



MADRID  Managers at the Hospital del Mar in Barcelona are facing a sharp surge in infections by, once again, rearranging staff shifts and moving patients around in their sprawling facilities.

The increase in Spain comes amid the advance of the delta variant that spreads far more easily. And its being driven mostly by younger, unvaccinated patients who require less ICU care but are turning in droves to health centers and emergency wards. If they reach the point of needing hospitalization, they typically spend longer in regular wards until they recover.

At this facility, the number of COVID-19 patients has gone from eight to 35 in just two weeks. That is far from the hundreds that the hospital nursed at the height of previous virus surges. But it comes as a warning of what could await unless drastic measures are taken against the spread of the virus, according to Juan Pablo Horcajada, who coordinates all the COVID-19 activity there.



VALLETTA, Malta  Malta is now requiring proof of vaccination for visitors to the Mediterranean island nation in hopes of stemming the latest rise in coronavirus infections.

Starting Wednesday, visitors must present a COVID-19 vaccination certificate that is recognized by Maltese health authorities, meaning certificates issued by Malta, the European Union or the United Kingdom.

The EUs green passport certifies people who are vaccinated, receive a negative PCR test result or have recovered from COVID-19. But Malta has decided to recognize only those who are fully vaccinated.

Malta will be the first EU country taking this step, said Health Minister Chris Fearne.

Children aged 5-12 can present a negative PCR test, while those under age 5 are exempt.

Malta, which has a population of just over half a million, had 46 active cases on July 1 but the number rose to 252 on Friday. The government says 90% of new cases are among unvaccinated people. Currently 79% of Maltese adults are fully vaccinated.



SEOUL, South Korea  South Korea has set a new high in daily coronavirus cases for the third straight day as officials prepare to enforce the strongest social distancing restrictions in the greater capital area.

The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency said Saturday that more than 1,000 of the 1,378 new cases were from capital Seoul and nearby Gyeonggi Province and Incheon, a region where officials from Monday will clamp down on private social gatherings of three or more people from 6 p.m. Nightclubs and churches will close, visitors will be banned at nursing homes and hospitals and weddings and funerals will be limited to family-only gatherings.

Dozens of new cases were each reported in major cities and regions across the country, including Busan, Daejeon, Ulsan, South Chungcheong Provine and South Gyeongsang Province.

After adding 9,700 cases in July alone, the countrys caseload is now at 166,722, including 2,038 deaths.

Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
But Jessen was unable to stop using during that time, she said, which led to another overdose. She described the second overdose as unintentional.

Support Local Journalism Your subscription makes our reporting possible. {{featured_button_text}}

She said she struggled for years with mental illness, depression, anxiety, legal issues, a lack of motivation, self-harm and addiction  issues that many face in the region. Eventually, after her third driving-under-the-influence charge, she finally got help. Through the court system, she was offered assistance in a residential treatment program at Frontier Health back in 2006.

The program helped, and she managed to stay clean and sober for a few years, but she eventually relapsed. She went back to treatment, again at Frontier Health, in 2012, and she has remained in recovery ever since.

She celebrated nine years of recovery last Thursday.

Through a process of figuring out what worked and what didnt, I was able to find a long-term way to manage my mental health and abstain from drugs, Jessen said. I became part of a supportive recovery community, and my goal became to eventually work in the field and be able to give back what was so freely given to me.
ABINGDON, Va.  The Republican Partys ticket for statewide offices in Virginia said Saturday that this is the year for change in Richmond  following years of Democratic Party control in the commonwealth.

Rich Anderson, chairman of the Republican Party of Virginia, told a large gathering of GOP supporters at Lois H. Humphreys Park in Abingdon that gubernatorial candidate Glenn Youngkin will pull the state out of the ditch, where he said Democratic Party leaders have put it in recent years. The Democratic Party moved into the governors mansion in 2014 and has remained there ever since.

Youngkin, a longtime businessman and politician newcomer, joined Winsome Sears, Republican nominee for lieutenant governor, and Jason Miyares, the partys nominee for attorney general, at a rally Saturday. They were introduced by Anderson and Del. Terry Kilgore of Gate City.

Virginia is a very different place, said Youngkin, describing the differences between 2021 and before the Democratic Party won the governorship. Virginia really is different than it was eight years ago.
SOFIA, Bulgaria (AP)  Voter apathy dominated Bulgaria's early election on Sunday, raising the prospect of yet another fractured parliament that will struggle to form a viable governing coalition.

The Central Election Commission said voter turnout was nearly 30% by 5 p.m., almost 10% less than in previous elections.

Some 6.7 million people were eligible to cast ballots for 240 lawmakers in the parliament. At the end of the voting day, before any official results were announced, no party appeared ready to claim the victory.

Political analysts, however, were unanimous that there are no options for former Prime Minister Boyko Borissov to return to office for a fourth term, regardless of whether his GERB party finishes first in the election, because most political groups have rejected the idea of cooperating with the ex-ruling party.

Bulgaria, which belongs to both the European Union and NATO, has been repeatedly criticized for not tackling corruption and for deficiencies in the rule of law and media freedom.

The anti-corruption campaign of Borissovs opponents was boosted by the sanctions the U.S. Treasury imposed last month against several Bulgarian public officials and business leaders for corruption.
By way of explanation, Tourism Department Director of Communications Amanda Murphy had this to say:

Tennessee on Me was created to stimulate tourism growth in the markets with the greatest need. Tax shortfalls for hotels alone were still down over $7 million in March 2021, fully attributed to the cities of Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville and Chattanooga. In comparison, outdoor destinations continued to see active and increased tourism, she wrote, apparently referring to the Tri-Cities.

Of course, this explanation doesnt clear up why no tourism official in Northeast Tennessee was informed about the program.

That said, its certainly exciting to see that tourism numbers are up in the Tri-Cities. However, thats no reason to stop funding tourism to the area. Certainly, larger urban markets have not been excluded in the past due to short-term successes.

Wed argue that now is the time to capitalize on our areas gains, not push travelers to other parts of the state.

In fact, this program creates an uncomfortable zero-sum scenario for the states tourism markets. Cossey explains: I dont want somebody who was going to come here decide to go to Nashville or Chattanooga instead because the state offered them an incentive to go there instead of come here.
The middle-of-the-night assassination of Haitian President Jovenel Moise at his home near Port-au-Prince early Wednesday is a shocking and brutal act that will be felt far beyond the island nation.

In Miami, with its deep connections to Haiti, this bloodshed comes as cataclysmic news. It will no doubt create even greater fears that the country, already hurting for so long, will now descend into chaos.

Its not yet completely clear what happened. Initial reports indicated the attackers spoke Spanish and that some claimed to be with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, though sources told the Miami Herald those DEA claims were false. Interim premier Claude Joseph quickly condemned the attack, which also seriously injured Moises wife, Martine, as odious, inhumane and barbaric.

It follows months of unrest and violence in Haiti, a poor nation of about 11 million. Since January 2020, Moise, 53, had been ruling by decree, after the country failed to hold elections. Opposition leaders have been demanding that he step down amid a constitutional crisis and allegations that he used armed gangs to stay in power.

The assault occurred just one day after Moise named a new prime minister to take charge of the government and prepare the country for elections in two months, including for president.
HICKORY  Catawba Valley Community College is offering two new college transfer programs for teachers.

Associate in Arts in Teacher Preparation and Associate in Science in Teacher Preparation are specialized transfer degrees for students interested in pursuing teacher licensure in elementary, middle, high school and special education.

Within these degree programs, CVCC students will have learning opportunities for the achievement of competence within the general education coursework such as reading, writing, oral communication, fundamental mathematical and natural science, social and behavioral sciences and the humanities.

Both the Associate in Arts in Teacher Preparation and Associate in Science in Teacher Preparation degrees will be granted for a planned program of study consisting of a minimum of 60 semester hours of credit (SHC) of college transfer courses.

Within these degree programs, CVCC will include opportunities for the achievement of competence in reading, writing, oral communication, fundamental mathematical skills and basic computer use.
After the Soviet withdrawal, the United States turned its attention away from Afghanistan. The reunification of Germany, and more broadly the end of the Cold War, along with other events such as Iraqs invasion and occupation of Kuwait, became the foreign policy issues of the day.

U.S. funds channeled to Afghanistan dropped from hundreds of millions of dollars at the height of the war in the 1980s to nothing by 1992. According to journalist Steve Coll, CIA officers who met with George H.W. Bush said he seemed barely aware of the situation in Afghanistan following the Soviet withdrawal. This was dramatized in the 2006 film about U.S. involvement in Afghanistan in the 80s, Charlie Wilsons War, in which, near the end of the film, after Soviet forces have withdrawn from Afghanistan, a White House official says that he overheard the president saying, Afghanistan? Is that still going on?

There was, in fact, quite a bit, still going on in Afghanistan. Soviet withdrawal and U.S. disengagement created a power vacuum in which warring factions battled to establish supremacy, resulting in the chaotic conditions that precipitated the Talibans rise to power in 1996. Once in control, the Taliban instituted an extremely repressive version of Islamic rule, and Afghanistan became a safe haven for terrorists such as Osama bin Laden to operate freely.
New Delhi, Jul 11 (PTI) State-owned SJVN Ltd on Sunday said it has signed a pact with the Investment Board of Nepal (IBN) to develop the 679-megawatt (MW) Lower Arun Hydro Electric Project in the country.

A memorandum of understanding (MoU) has been signed between SJVNL and the Investment Board of Nepal (IBN) for the development of the 679-MW Lower Arun HEP in Kathmandu, Nepal, a company statement said.

The MoU was signed by SJVNL Chairman and Managing Director Nand Lal Sharma and IBN Chief Executive Officer Sushil Bhatta.

The pact was signed in the presence of Nepal Deputy Prime Minister Bishnu Prasad Paudel and Ambassador of India to Nepal Vinay Mohan Kwatra.

On this occasion, SJVN Arun-3 Power Development Company (SAPDC) CEO Arun Dhiman and SAPDC Chief Financial Officer Jitender Yadav were also present along with other senior officials from Government of Nepal and SJVNL.

Nand Lal Sharma said SJVNL has bagged 679-MW Lower Arun HEP through international competitive bidding (ICB), which involved big players.

The Lower Arun Hydro Electric Project is located in Sankhuwasabha and Bhojpur districts of Nepal.

The project will not have any reservoir or dam and will be a tail race development of 900 MW Arun-3 HEP.

The project will have four Francis turbines. On completion, the project will generate 2,970 million units of electricity per annum.

The project is scheduled to be completed in four years after commencement of construction activities.

The project has been allocated to SJVN for 25 years on a build-own-operate-transfer (BOOT) basis.

Sharma expressed deepest gratitude to the Government of Nepal for keeping their faith in the abilities and capabilities of SJVN by selecting it as developer for Lower Arun HEP.

He also thanked Union Ministry of Power for supporting SJVN in all its endeavours in India and abroad.

He further informed that SJVN started its journey in Nepal in 2008 by signing of the pact for implementation of 900 MW Arun-3 Project.

Story continues

The project construction activities commenced with laying of the foundation stone jointly by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Nepalese K P Sharma Oli in 2018, with the active help and support of IBN and Government of Nepal.

Sharma further told that 900 MW Arun 3 Hydro Electric Project has achieved significant progress in the past three years despite the COVID-19 pandemic, as construction activities of the project are on full swing.

To mitigate any delays due to the pandemic, SJVN has already implemented an acceleration plan and is committed to commission this project ahead of schedule.

He also emphasised that such progress could not have been achieved without the continuous support of IBN and the Government of Nepal.

The requisite approvals were granted in a shortest possible time despite the challenges faced due pandemic.

Nand Lal Sharma stressed that the hydro power has to be developed with the Integrated River Basin Development approach for economic viability and to give boost to infrastructural development.

This approach will result in optimisation of resources and faster project completion at lower cost.

He also requested the Government of Nepal for providing further opportunity to SJVN in partnering with the government for harnessing hydro power in Nepal.

SJVNL's current installed capacity stands at 2,016.51 MW and aims to be a 5,000-MW company by 2023, a 12,000-MW firm by 2030 and a 25,000-MW entity by 2040.

SJVNL has a presence in various sectors of energy generation including hydro, wind, solar and thermal. It also has a presence in energy transmission. PTI KKS HRS hrs
Dhaka, Jul 11 (PTI) Bangladesh on Sunday summoned the British Acting High Commissioner (AHC) here to convey disappointment over an 'insinuating and misleading' comment on the countrys ex-prime minister and main opposition BNP chief Khaleda Zia's current status in a human rights report.

The foreign ministry also issued a statement saying acting British envoy Javed Patel was conveyed the government's views and disappointment with certain issues mentioned in the Bangladesh chapter of the Human Rights and Democracy Report 2020.

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) released the report on Thursday.

'The acting (British) high commissioner was called mainly to clarify Begum Zia's current statusit (the report) said she was under 'house arrest' contrary to the fact that she has been conditionally freed from jail,' a foreign ministry official said.

Zia, 76, was serving a 17-year jail term in two graft charges from February 8, 2018 while the government allowed her temporary release on humanitarian grounds at the onset of COVID-19 pandemic after her brother and sister met Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

But the government simultaneously set conditions requiring her to stay at her home, debarred her from leaving the country and taking part in political activities being a convict with charges of moral turpitude.

The Acting High Commissioner (AHC) was told that it was grossly misleading to use the words house arrest in reference to the current situation of Begum Khaleda Zia, Chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), the statement said.

It said the envoy was told that Bangladesh government 'released' her in March 2020 suspending her prison term under a provision of Bangladesh's criminal procedure code, in response to an application of her brother Shamim Eskandar.

Zia was initially freed for six months but the timeline was subsequently extended twice in September 2020 and March 2021.

Story continues

The AHC was told that it would be advisable to consult the authorities concerned of the government in case of any confusion over such legal issues, said the statement.

The foreign ministry said it was also suggested that any official document of the UK government should also refrain from using 'any form of insinuating and misleading' statements about Bangladesh government or the ruling Awami League party.

It said the envoy took note of the Dhaka's views and assured of conveying those to his country's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and added the UK valued its diversified partnership with Bangladesh.

A foreign office spokesman said West Europe and the EU wing's director general Faiyaz Murshid Kazi interacted with the envoy as he was called to the ministry.

Zia tested coronavirus positive on April 11 and was admitted to private Evercare Hospital on April 27 while breathing problems required her to be shifted to the CCU of the facility on May 3 but returned home last month after treatment.

She landed in jail on February 8, 2017 after a court originally handed her down a five-year prison term on charges of embezzling foreign donations.

The donations were meant for an orphanage, named after Zia's husband and BNPs founder slain president Ziaur Rahman, during her 2001-2006 premiership.

Zia's elder son and acting BNP chief Tarique Rahman is in London to evade justice in several criminal and graft charges.

Zia served three times as the premier of Bangladesh since 1991. Her BNP suffered defeat in the December 30 in 2018 elections bagging only six seats in 300-seat parliament. PTI AR MRJ MRJ
Representative image

Beijing [China], July 11 (ANI): The leaders of North Korea and China have exchanged messages pledging to strengthen cooperation on the 60th anniversary of the signing of their Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation and Mutual Assistance.

Chinese President Xi Jinping congratulated North Korean ruler Kim Jong Un on the anniversary of the China-DPRK (Democratic People's Republic of Korea) Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation and Mutual Assistance.

Xi on Sunday said that the treaty serves as an important political and legal foundation for the two countries to consolidate friendship and promote friendly cooperation, Global Times reported quoting Xinhua News Agency.

The Chinese president also said that he's willing to strengthen strategic communication with Kim, grasp the direction of China-DPRK relations, and take bilateral friendly cooperation to a new stage that will benefit both countries.

Meanwhile, Kim, in return, said that facing the complicated and changing international situation, the two sides' trust and friendship have deepened and bilateral ties reached a new level.

He also said it is a firm stance of the Workers' Party of Korea and DPRK government to keep enhancing and improving friendship and cooperation with China. (ANI)
Under the seventh phase of easing of coronavirus-induced lockdown restrictions in the National Capital, the Delhi government has allowed auditoriums and assembly halls in educational institutions to open with 50 percent capacity from Monday.

However, students won't be allowed to physically attend schools, stated a Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA).

The order issued by DDMA on Saturday said that "only teachers and professors will be allowed inside educational institutions for online lectures and other administrative work."

All schools, colleges, educational and coaching institutions will remain closed and online or distance learning will be permitted, said the order.

Check what's allowed and what's not:

Other prohibited activities and services include cinema halls, multiplexes, spas, theatres, entertainment parks, political, social, cultural festivals and such other gatherings. These were banned with the imposition of lockdown in Delhi on 19 April due to surging COVID infections.

Public transport, including Delhi Metro, will continue to operate with 50 percent seating capacity. DTC and cluster buses will also run with 50 percent seating capacity, the order stated.

There will be strict adherence to standard operating procedure and other guidelines of the government, and compliance of COVID-appropriate behaviour, the DDMA had said.

Activities that are prohibited and restricted will remain so till 5 am on 26 July, said the order.

On Saturday, Delhi reported 76 new cases - the 11th consecutive day that the city has reported less than 100 new cases.

The positivity rate in the city currently stands at 0.09 per cent and there are 792 active cases.

With inputs from PTI

Also See: Delhi's stadiums, sports complexes to reopen without spectators from tomorrow; cinema halls, schools to remain shut

Arvind Kejriwal promises 300 free units of electricity, no power cuts in Uttarakhand if voted to power

Arvind Kejriwal promises free electricity for all in Punjab if AAP wins 2022 Assembly polls

Read more on India by Firstpost.
Ismail Khan, Former Mujahideen leader (Credits: Tolo News)

Kabul [Afghanistan], July 11 (ANI): Pakistan's Ambassador to Kabul, Mansoor Ahmad Khan, on Saturday warned that deployment of militias against Taliban could make things worse in Afghanistan.

As per Geo News, on Friday, veteran warlord Ismail Khan -- whose forces helped topple the Taliban in 2001 -- vowed to back government forces fighting against the group.

Ismail Khan, former Mujahideen leader and senior member of Jamaat-e-Islami party urged party members to rise up in arms as Taliban continued to make advances in parts of the country and closed in on his Herat stronghold in the west.

The Taliban have launched a blistering offensive across Afghanistan since early May, capturing a vast swath of the country as US forces leave the country after 20 years.

With the group claiming to control 85 per cent of the country, several warlords have started mobilising fighters to defend their territory and back government forces against the Taliban, reported Geo News.

But Pakistan's envoy, Mansoor Ahmad Khan, warned that this could make things worse.

Khan said more international cooperation was needed in support of President Ashraf Ghani's government, which he said was a "legitimate government at the moment in Afghanistan".

"Therefore all the countries, the international community, have to extend all possible support to Afghanistan in dealing with the security challenges," Khan said.

He also expressed concern that a worsening situation in Afghanistan could trigger a fresh wave of refugees crossing into Pakistan, reported Geo News.

Tolo News also reported that the Taliban has captured at least eight more districts in Herat province including Islam Qala and Torghundi border towns.

Abdul Latif, a resident from Herat province expressed that "The Taliban will see worse treatment from the public. If they insisted on fighting, we will take weapons, if they offer the hand of friendship, we will show similar gesture".

There is a fear of full-blown civil war as the Taliban stepped forward and took control of several districts in the country, while Afghan forces are retaliating and launching a counter-offensive against the Taliban.

This comes amid the withdrawal of foreign forces from the war-torn country. (ANI)
Counter unearthed the ring.

I could see the shiny gold, Counter said. It looked like it was dropped yesterday.

Counters first lead on the owner of the ring was the name Holy Cross High School and the number 76 engraved on the ring. His second lead was the initials JRD inscribed on the ring.

I saw the initials JRD and thought, Im going to go home and dig up a little history, do a little work on it, Counter said. Thats the part of metal detecting I love, the history part of it. You find things, you dont know exactly what they are or where they came from and you wonder who dropped it and things like that.

Counters mind was made up. He was going to try to find the person who had lost this ring.

He first dug into finding the location of Holy Cross High School and found a school of that name in River Grove that had closed in 2004 and became a part of Guerin College Preparatory High School, which itself closed in 2020.
To get around the state-action problem, Trumps lawyers alleged that Democratic lawmakers coerced Twitter to ban Trump, specifically by threatening to revoke the famous Section 230. That is the law giving legal immunity to providers of computer services, including social media platforms, for any action voluntarily taken in good faith to restrict access to or availability of material that the provider or user considers to be obscene, lewd, lascivious, filthy, excessively violent, harassing or otherwise objectionable.

The same law also says that the platforms wont be treated as publishers of posts made by third parties. That means that if someone libels you on Twitter, you can sue the person who posted the defamatory and false material, but you cant sue Twitter.

There is no question that Section 230 has been advantageous to the platforms. If it were revoked by Congress, the platforms would have to find a way to remove potentially libelous material or else face lawsuits from people who have been defamed on their services. And although some eventual reform of Section 230 seems likely, the way that revision is undertaken will affect the platforms, which therefore care a lot about the laws future.
TUSCOLA  A driver and two passengers in a semi truck escaped with minor injuries Saturday afternoon when the vehicle veered across the northbound lanes of Interstate 57 in Douglas County and rolled over.

Illinois State Police reports said the truck had been southbound at 2:30 p.m. when the driver lost control, plowed through the median and the truck rolled over, blocking the northbound lanes for about two hours.

Support Local Journalism Your membership makes our reporting possible. {{featured_button_text}}

The 45-year-old male driver from Ohio, along with two male passengers, a 52-year-old man from Tennessee and a 25-year-old man from North Carolina, were all treated at a hospital for what the police described as non-serious injuries.

The driver was later ticketed for failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident.

Contact Tony Reid at (217) 421-7977. Follow him on Twitter: @TonyJReid

Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0
As the COVID-19 pandemic recedes across much of the U.S., the difference between the lasting and temporary changes that it wrought are starting to emerge. Hype and wishful thinking have contributed to predictions that are likely to prove wrong; just because a change was striking or desirable doesnt mean it will stick.

One way to think about the changes is to analyze the balance of power between competing interests  employers and employees, buyers and sellers, doctors and patients, among many others. Another is to ask which changes were already underway before the pandemic and see whether those are likely to accelerate or stall.

The pre-pandemic world operated as it did for specific reasons  and those reasons will reassert themselves as life continues to normalize.

Take remote work. It may be a great arrangement for many workers, giving them more control over their time and allowing them to avoid commuting. It may be great for many employers, letting them save on costly real estate while maintaining a productive workforce.

But I am skeptical that it is the way of the future. One reason why: Workers compete with each other, and those looking to get ahead will put in more face time at the office, knowing that deeper professional relationships can lead to better opportunities and advancement. This will create pressure for other workers to do the same. This was true before the pandemic, and will be true after it is a memory. In part because of this, even if employers continue to offer more generous work-from-anywhere policies, they will probably find before too long that most employees are in the office most days.

The same competitive dynamic could keep business travel at close to pre-pandemic levels. Maybe fewer people will fly from New York to Los Angeles for a meeting. But for many occupations, getting on a plane and traveling to meet a supplier, a customer or a potential colleague is a way to communicate the importance of that interaction.

Other aspects of pandemic life accelerated pre-existing trends. In some instances, I dont think well see a reversal, despite forces that will be pushing for a return to the way things were.

Telemedicine is an example. For years, it has become steadily easier to receive routine medical care through innovations like medical clinics inside retail stores staffed by nurses authorized to write prescriptions.

The pandemic hit the gas pedal on ease. I had a sinus infection last fall. Within one hour, I had booked an appointment, completed a video conference with a provider on my phone, and picked up my prescription at a local pharmacy.

Going to work when sick is another habit the pandemic is likely to break. I know Ill think twice before going into the office with a mild fever or taking a flight with a cough. Despite having routinely gone to work under the weather, the pandemic has made me more aware of the risks of spreading disease. Ive also taught myself how to be productive from home.

To figure out what will stick and what wont, look at the deeper forces that led things to be the way they were prior to the virus. Will those forces remain? Strengthen? Weaken? They shaped life before, and will shape life after  but with a pandemic twist we can now start to understand.

Michael R. Strain is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist.

Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0
This story has been updated:

HELENA Mont. (AP)  Wildlife officials said they shot and killed a Montana grizzly bear Friday that had pulled a California woman from her tent and killed her earlier this week in the middle of a small Montana town.

The bear was shot by federal wildlife workers wearing night vision goggles shortly after midnight, when it approached a trap set near a chicken coop about 2 miles (3 kilometers) from Ovando, where Leah Davis Lokan, 65, of Chico, California, was killed early Tuesday morning, said Greg Lemon with Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks.

The bear had raided the chicken coop overnight Wednesday, and officials set a baited trap nearby hoping to lure the animal back.

Based on the size of the bear, the color of the bear and the nature of the chicken coop raids, were confident weve got the offending bear, Lemon said.

On Thursday night, an Ovando woman came home and found her door ripped off and noticed large claw marks, Powell County Sheriff Gavin Roselles posted on Facebook. A short time later, the male grizzly bear was killed in the area.
Giffords cobra was reported through a call to 911 after being spotted outside a home on Sandringham Drive, about a half-mile from Giffords home, on Monday, June 28. On Tuesday, Raleigh police and animal control searched Giffords home and removed something in a large plastic bucket.

The escaped snake was captured by Raleigh animal control officers on the evening of Wednesday, June 30.

Giffords social media presence has revealed that he keeps a large collection of deadly reptiles, including monocled cobras, rattlesnakes, Gaboon vipers and the green mamba that bit him in March, requiring antivenom from a South Carolina zoo.

Snakes seized

Felts said that all of Giffords snakes have been seized, and that he is cooperating with authorities.

Hes been working with them since Day 1, Felts said. He has been compliant with everything they have requested.

There are no indications or allegations that any additional snakes have escaped, said Felts.

After the zebra cobra escaped, Felts said Gifford made all efforts to find the snake and subsequent efforts were made to ensure that all snakes he possessed were enclosed properly.
KNOXVILLE  An off-duty police officer was knocked unconscious with one punch at a wedding reception in Tennessee last month after witnesses said he made racist comments, according to police records.

Knoxville Police responded to a report of a simple assault involving 22-year-old Tanner Holt, an off-duty officer in the department, around 8:55 p.m. on June 26, police said in an incident report. Holt had reportedly said he didnt know they let Black people in the reception hall before he was punched.

Holt is white. The man he was speaking to is Black.

In subsequent conversation, witnesses told police that Holt repeatedly stated he was part of the Black community. The man Holt was talking to asked him to drop the race subject, the report states.

(He) stated that he had asked Holt several times to stop talking to him about race, but Holt refused, officers said in the report. (He) stated that he couldnt take it anymore, and punched Holt in the face one time. Holt then fell to the ground.

When police arrived, the fire department and emergency services were already on scene. Holt was subsequently taken to the hospital.

No criminal charges have been filed.
Unprecedented, at the time, that a nation would declare that sovereignty was not something that rulers could grant to the citizens, it was not theirs to bestow. Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness were rights that all humans owned, they were inalienable, and it was the role of government to protect these rights. If a government was unable to fulfill this sacred obligation, as the Declaration of Independence offers, it was the right of the people to institute new government.

But the pursuit of these utopian goals has been difficult and the history complicated. Would it be accurate to say that no progress has been made since Douglass 1852 address? No! Has the nation surpassed the more perfect union threshold? Absolutely not!

But like all great powers in human history, Americas existential threat is derived from within. Offering that in the 18th and 19th centuries slavery was a global phenomenon mitigates the radical nature of the American enterprise.

This was the point of Douglass 1852 address; and it embodied the project of Martin Luther King Jr. As King stated in his last speech on April 3, 1968:
RALEIGH

North Carolinians disagree about a great deal. But heres a proposition virtually all of us endorse: The future of our state is closely tied to the amount and quality of education our people receive.

I could say the future of North Carolinas economy depends on better education  and Id be right! You only have to listen to what employers say about the importance of skilled employees who exhibit creativity, collaboration and a strong work ethic. You only have to listen to what employees say about the value of what they learned, or should have learned, in school. And you only have to scan the dozens of studies that link average test scores or educational attainment to GDP and income growth.

To focus on economic considerations alone wouldnt fully capture what I mean, though. Education encompasses more than vocational training. It introduces learners to great swaths of human experience and accomplishment. It broadens perspective. It provides historical context. It builds character. It forms citizens. It fires the imagination.

It isnt just the future of North Carolinas economy that is at stake here, then. Better education will strengthen our relationships, our communities, our culture and our democracy.
As serious as the rejection of fair elections is, it seems but part of a more philosophical rejection of democracy itself.

Last year, Republican officials in Mississippi and Missouri overturned voter-supported ballot initiatives to establish medical marijuana programs. In 2018, after voter-supported Medicaid expansion and increased funding for education was passed in Idaho, the Republican legislature passed laws that make future ballot initiatives more difficult to pass. More than 125 bills were introduced into 31 state legislatures to amend or change the referendum or ballot initiative process in 2021, according to data compiled by Ballotpedia for NBC News. Republican legislators are certain that they know better than their constituents.

Some Republicans seem to be on the verge of just admitting that they no longer believe in democracy, like Rep. Mike Lee, who in 2020 tweeted: Democracy isnt the objective; liberty, peace, and prosperity are. We want the human condition to flourish. Rank democracy can thwart that.

Of course, not all Republicans have bought into this anti-democracy movement. Some want to win elections the old-fashioned way: by getting more votes. They still believe that voters should select their legislators rather than the other way around.
NSP and LPD reviews

Nebraska State Patrol Col. John Bolduc said:

The Nebraska State Patrol also conducted an internal review, which examined all aspects of this dynamic situation. Based on those reviews of this case, it is clear that all law enforcement officers involved acted with courage and professionalism when presented with the suspects dangerous actions toward both law enforcement and the public. Every incident offers the opportunity to incorporate lessons learned into future training. NSP has been able to use lessons from this case to improve in the areas of peer support, interagency communication, and for the NSP Special Investigations Team, which has conducted multiple officer-involved shooting investigations for other agencies since its creation earlier this year.

Acting Lincoln Police Chief Brian Jackson said:

The incident was examined in any number of ways beyond the grand jury to include an outside law enforcement investigation, an internal investigation, as well as an officer-involved shooting review of the incident to identify possible improvements of our policies and practices.

This was a dynamic incident, and any such incident carries with it unique and specific actions that often determine the outcome. Each of the law enforcement officers who engaged the subjects that day were faced with a direct, lethal threat, to themselves or other officers present at the scene.

While the results were tragic, the officers response under duress was professional and demonstrated great courage and restraint. Every critical incident provides an opportunity to examine our policies and practices and this event was no different.

Jackson said as a result of reviews, LPD:

* Reviewed and improved its management of items taken for evidentiary purposes, such as how long certain items are held.

* Reviewed its body-worn/in-car camera procedures and created the ability to upload critical video from the scene.

* Analyzed its peer support and resiliency procedures for officers involved in critical incidents to improve the department's ability to support employees following traumatic situations.

* Analyzed ways to improve interagency communication and cooperation.
A new program offers to cover adoption fees for Nebraska veterans looking for a furry friend.

The Nebraska Department of Veterans' Affairs Vets Get Pets program is offering to cover up to $350 in pet adoption fees for Nebraska veterans, according to a news release.

Veterans must be registered in the Nebraska Veterans' Registry to qualify and adopt from an organization registered with the Nebraska Rescue Council. The Vets Get Pets program will distribute the funds directly to the adoption agency once the adoption is finalized, the release said.

A specialty Vets Get Pets license plate was launched in January that drivers can purchase through the Nebraska DMV. All proceeds from sales of the plates will go directly to funding the adoption fee program, the release said. The license plate program was introduced in the Nebraska Legislature by Sen. Anna Wishart.

As of June 30, 376 license plates have been purchased, which cost $5 for the alphanumeric version and $30 for the custom message version.
Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts announced the state would be sending 25 troopers to the Texas border in late June.

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine is also sending state troopers. So, if some of these would-be refugees steal a car and speed down a highway in Texas, Ricketts and DeWine have it covered.

Before long, the patchwork down on the border is going to look like a U.N. peacekeeping force. When do the Belgians arrive?

Besides, I thought that securing the border was what the more than 19,000 U.S. Border Patrol agents were paid to do.

In 30 years of writing about immigration, I've interviewed many of these agents firsthand. I've heard them ask for the construction of better roads along the border, the latest tunnel detection equipment, better electronic surveillance systems and more sophisticated technology.

Not once have I heard any of them ask for backup from state troopers or the National Guard. That's not what they want. That's what arrogant but know-nothing politicians tell them they need.

Nevertheless, like other likely 2024 Republican presidential hopefuls, Noem seems to be betting that a hardline stance in favor of border security will help catapult her to the top tier of GOP contenders.
Much of that can be tied to long-term contracts major meatpacking companies require livestock producers to sign that fix prices  a trend many farmers who criticize the status quo say leaves their returns at levels so low they cant be profitable.

Offering farmers and ranchers additional legal recourse by lowering the bar  which court rulings previously held producers to prove harm to the entire industry, rather than just individuals, the Associated Press notes  gives them another arrow in the quiver to fight practices they perceive as unfair or harmful.

As a southwest Missouri farmer told the AP: We need more competition. Capitalism works well with competition. But when you start consolidating everything and taking away the competition, then the capitalism doesnt work good for the smaller guys.

Another potential benefit comes from the proposed expansion of local and regional markets. Again, offering more options in an arena dominated by the major meatpackers should produce the win-win by raising prices for producers while pressuring the industry giants to stay competitive.

Just as concentration and consolidation of land ownership have squeezed the family farmer at home, so, too, have the same effects spilled over to the market.

Rather than the taxpayer-funded impact payments of the Trump administration  a short-term Band-Aid that did little to address long-standing structural inequalities and shortcomings  Bidens push offers real potential for the family farmers in Nebraska and elsewhere.

Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0
The officer who killed the alleged shooter was just starting his shift, filling up an undercover unmarked vehicle at the Mobil station in Franksville when the killer pulled into the station, Racine County Sheriff Christopher Schmaling said; an exchange of gunfire followed and the shooter was killed.

The officer was shot but is reported to be conscious and alert, recovering at Ascension All Saints Hospital. The 22-year-old man who was killed at the Pilot station in Caledonia was just filling up his car when he was "executed," according to Schmaling.
Although other larger internet providers had approached Paris and Kenosha County since the grants became available, Holloway said their scramble to meet the July 27 deadline was a concern.

I worry that some of these proposals are not going to be fully thought out, that theres going to be mistakes made, Holloway said.

The board and e-vergent leaders also made preliminary negotiations on a shared revenue system to help reimburse the town for the $2.5 million over time.

Town Board Supervisor Ken Monson said he wanted to continue working with e-vergent, and voiced his frustration over past efforts to partner with other internet providers that ultimately fell through.

I want to stay the course, Monson said, e-vergent has stuck with us throughout this process. Im not going to sit here and bad mouth companies like Spectrum, but they had their chance.

Fellow Supervisor Ron Buttke also spoke positively about working with e-vergent.

Theyve got great customer service, I think weve gone a long way with them. I think that theyve stepped up when weve asked them.

Long, drawn-out ordeal
Ellen McBrayer, executive vice president of Jones-Wynn Funeral Homes and Crematory outside Atlanta, and a spokesperson for the National Funeral Directors Association, said she hopes that more will apply for funeral aid, but grief may be preventing some people from doing so.

When people see that and theyve suffered a loss, emotionally, it would have to be hard to take another step, she said. Families have just been devastated.

Sheila Reid-Johnson, who operates Reids New Golden Gate Funeral Home in Milwaukee and Racine and owns another funeral home in Chicago, said some clients are aware of the aid program but arrive with misperceptions. Some incorrectly think that FEMA will pay their bill upfront rather than later reimburse costs or  they incorrectly assume that multiple family members can recoup costs for the same funeral, she said.

Reid-Johnson tries to clear up confusion  help that Staten-Jordan said she hopes funeral homes will continue to offer grieving families as they navigate FEMAs bureaucracy.

We were blessed that we had the means to lay my father to rest and to give him a wonderful homegoing experience  for myself, for my children, for my brother and the rest of our family, she said. For those that (depend on this money for a funeral), my prayers and my thoughts are with them, and I hope that they keep the faith.

The nonprofit news outlet Wisconsin Watch provided this article to The Associated Press through a collaboration with Institute for Nonprofit News. Noelle Alviz-Gransee of Wisconsin Watch and Kristin Byrne of WTMJ-TV contributed to this report.
Of the 970 jobs reported between 2018 and the end of last year, 364 have since been terminated. A WEDC spokesman said all reported jobs will go through the verification process to determine if they meet eligibility requirements in the contract.

Under the new agreement, Foxconn will be eligible for up to $29 million in job and capital investment credits if WEDC verifies that the company had 601 cumulative full-time employees in 2020. The state has until the end of the year to certify if the company had met its job creation target.

Foxconn and the state agreed to an amended contract in April that drastically reduced both the companys jobs and capital investment requirement, as well as the states subsidy commitment to the project. The contract was ultimately renegotiated after the state told Foxconn it would not receive any state dollars under the previous agreement, as the project being constructed didnt match what was agreed on.
Republicans dont care about truth, they just care about attacking the governor at any cost, said state Sen. Kelda Roys, D-Madison. He did what they forced him to do. Theyre still attacking him for it.

Troubled base

Now that hes signed the second Republican-authored budget of his tenure into law, some fear Evers hasnt done enough for his own base, and risks keeping those voters on the sidelines in 2022.

The vulnerability in the budget for him politically is just to make sure he has his base on board, Burden said. Democrats are going to be very unhappy with this budget. It doesnt do much to increase funding for education. The Medicaid expansion theyve been asking for for 10 years is on hold yet again.

Kraig said the budget deserved to be vetoed in full, but that at the very least, Evers should have axed the income tax cuts, which he said were regressive and benefit the wealthy, as well as the portion of the budget that addresses health care, because it doesnt include the liberal priority of expanding Medicaid, the states partially federally funded health care plan for low-income people.
The denial of crimes still shocks me to my core." he added. "It is a repudiation of the lived experiences of the victims as well as the facts repeatedly established by international tribunals.

Agius and other regional and international officials addressed, through video messages, the survivors and others gathered in Srebrenica.

Twenty six years after they were brutally murdered, 16 men, two teenage boys and a woman were laid to rest at a memorial cemetery at the entrance to Srebrenica, joining more than 6,600 other massacre victims already reburied there.

Suhra Salihovic attended the collective funeral to bury her niece, Zilha Delic, who was 24 when she and her husband were killed in July 1995 while trying to flee Srebrenica on foot after the U.N.-protected enclave was overrun by Bosnian Serb forces.

Her mother died last year. She did not live long enough to see her get a proper burial, Salihovic said.

It is impossible to explain how much pain we carry ... my two sons and husband and almost all of my other (male) relatives were also killed in the massacre, she added.
1. Yes. They are not doing their duty as lawmakers; they should face consequences.

2. Yes. The Democrats may have a point, but they should be required to return to work.

3. No. With no filibuster option available, Democrats would be unable to stop a bad bill.

4. No. Most Texas voters oppose the GOPs voting measures, so they had to be stalled.

5. Unsure. Abbott wants to take a stand, but jailing lawmakers may be too harsh.

Vote

View Results
Nevertheless, after a few days of contemplation, Jordan and his business partners apologized and opted to rebrand their rum.

Cultures are complex

The reality is that adjudicating between cultural appreciation and appropriation is never simple, and that is because cultures are vast, complex, historically determined and ever-changing.

In the cases of both Kardashian and Jordan, I would argue that had either of them sought to establish true cultural appreciation for the cultures from which they were drawing, the accusations and inappropriate use of cultural symbols could have been avoided. This could have been achieved through long immersion and deep learning over the years about the history and current manifestations of the cultures.

Americans are increasingly living within fantastically diverse multicultural worlds. Sharing in each others cultures is not only good; when done right, it is important and helps build community.
The third book in the series features the special forces agent. The author tells the story of an advanced weapon that could cripple civilization as it is currently known. As world leaders gather for the signing of a new European security treaty, Rake enters a desperate race against time to prevent a catastrophe beyond imagining.

Support Local Journalism Your subscription makes our reporting possible. {{featured_button_text}}

Former British Cabinet Minister Sir Oliver Letwin, author of Apocalypse How, said of Hawksleys thriller, This is not just a page-turner; it is also a wake-up call.

Hawksley talked about the recent spate of ransomware attacks.

Thats just the tip of the iceberg, he said, alluding to events that could disrupt the interconnectedness of society.

The former correspondent began the series in 2019 with Man on Ice. Rake watches as a fleet of Russian military helicopters head straight for his home on Little Diomede Island, population 80. In his next installment of the story, Hawksley follows surgeon Carrie Walker, Rakes former fiancee, as she resumes contact with an uncle, set in the novel, Man on Fire published in 2020.
It feels normal, Kernick said. Thats not to say that there arent some people who are very cautious, because there are. But the majority of the people are saying that weve had enough of this and were just going to live our lives and have some fun and enjoy life. I really believe that its going to be a big year for us.

The main event, the show and shine on July 17, typically attracts at least 500 vehicles to Downtown Kearney: The Bricks. Registration begins at 8 a.m. but Kernick encourages participants to register at the Cruise Nite website.

Weve made it very convenient to register online  and they can even pay online, he said. Weve tried to make it as easy as possible. It really helps our registration team so on Saturday morning its not like trying to drink out of a fire hose. Thats really what its like on Saturday morning.

Another highlight of Cruise Nite is the concert with Omaha musician Billy McGuigan and his group, the Downliners. The band will play classic rock from the 1950s, 60s and 70s during an 8 p.m. concert Thursday at the Merryman Performing Arts Center. Tickets for the concert, one of the few Cruise Nite events that requires admission, start at $28.

In planning for the 34th annual Cruise Nite, Kernick took stock of the event.
KEARNEY  Diversity. Equality. Inclusion. Empathy.

Those are some of the words associate sociology professor Sandra Loughrin uses to describe the womens, gender and ethnic studies program at the University of Nebraska at Kearney.

As both an instructor and the programs director, Loughrin wants students to examine the world from a different perspective, one that challenges preconceived notions and creates a better understanding of society as a whole.

Students are ready, she said. They want to have these conversations. Its just amazing how much they really want to understand the human experience from all perspectives.

Loughrin, who was appointed to the director position in March, is the first female minority to lead the womens, gender and ethnic studies program. Its a distinction she doesnt take lightly.

When I took this position, I felt like I could be somebody who students, particularly minority students, can look at and say, Well, thats somebody who has obtained this in their life, Loughrin said.
Taqueria Monarca will be owned by Andres Aguirre, his brother Jose Aguirre and Jose Guzman, all of Marshfield, Wis., Andres Aguirre told me last week. He said his brother will move to the area to be the new restaurants general manager.

We saw a very good opportunity there, Aguirre said, adding that the restaurant will feature very authentic Mexican food. Several Mexican restaurants in central Wisconsin are owned by some of his relatives, he said.

On Wednesday, the Onalaska Common Councils Administrative and Judiciary Committee recommended approval of a beer and liquor license and an outdoor venue license for the restaurant. The council is expected to vote on the licenses at its meeting on Tuesday.

Crazy Daves Auto Repair opened Tuesday in its new location, the former TCs Auto Center at 1532 Rose St. in La Crosse.

Support Local Journalism Your membership makes our reporting possible. {{featured_button_text}}

Crazy Daves owner Dave Willette said he bought the new location when its owner retired. He first opened his business in 2016 at 3207 South Ave. and said he had to leave that building because it will be razed to make way for a traffic circle.
Wisconsin employers of National Guard and Reserve service members had a chance to see some of what their employees experience during a special Bosslift last month that visited Fort McCoy.

The Wisconsin Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve flew representatives from several Wisconsin employers of reserve-component service members from Appleton, Eau Claire, Madison, Milwaukee and Wausau into Fort McCoy on five UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters assigned to the Wisconsin Army National Guard.

Bosslifts allow employers to see service members fulfilling their missions at military facilities to help them better understand the commitments their employees have made to the military and the nation. Reserve and National Guard service members and military spouses may nominate their employers for both ESGR awards and Bosslifts.

The Wisconsin Military Academy, a Fort McCoy tenant organization, hosted the June 9 event. The 32nd Infantry Brigade provided and staffed weapons and vehicle displays for the employers.

As part of the visit, employers also visited the Fort McCoy Commemorative Area and History Center.
McIntosh Memorial Library of Viroqua will be hosting a program titled, Refugee Status Awareness in Nairobi, Kenya. The program will be held Friday, July 16, at 10:30 a.m. via Zoom. A link to the program can be found on the Viroqua Library Facebook page or website. The guest speaker will be Viroqua native Nicole Brudos-Irungu.

Brudos-Irungu is a 2002 graduate of Viroqua High School. She has lived and worked in Nairobi, Kenya, since 2009. She is the RSC Deputy Director at Church World Service  Resettlement Support Center which is a program that assists the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program. Nicole has a Masters degree in Nonprofit Leadership and Management from the Arizona State University and a Bachelors degree in Family Social Science from the University of Minnesota. She is married to Dominic Irungu and has two sons Aiden, 5, and Liam, 3 years.

The program is being offered as part of the yearlong Creating Community Beyond Biases: Library Resources program. The program is a self-directed reading and activity Humanities program intended for all ages.

Through Dec. 31, the library is acknowledging a Heritage, History or Awareness of-the-Month by hosting interactive virtual programs and providing accredited reading lists for diversity, inclusion, and direct-action resources.

For more information, visit www.mcintoshmemoriallibrary.org, call 637-7151, or like the Viroqua Library Facebook page.

Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0
Support Local Journalism Your membership makes our reporting possible. {{featured_button_text}}

He and Miller, who spoke almost daily, thought his asthma was getting worse. But in late March, after he passed out and found himself shaking on the ground, he went to Gundersen Health System in La Crosse.

Gundersen doctors did tests detecting Wilburns grave lung damage and heart strain, and transferred him to UW Hospital. He was put on a heart-lung machine called ECMO, for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, as surgeons debated doing a rare procedure to remove his clots.

But they determined the clots were too extensive  old and new, in both lungs and in small and large arteries. He had a condition called chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension, they said.By the time we met Daniel, a whole bunch of his lung was not having good blood flow through it, said Dr. Malcolm DeCamp, UW Healths chair of cardiothoracic surgery. This must have been going on for weeks or months or even a couple years.

A transplant was the only option, DeCamp said. The day after Wilburn was placed on the waiting list, he was connected with a donor, an unusually speedy match. The following day, on Easter, he received a heart and two lungs from the deceased donor.
Balgord totally mischaracterizes wolf recovery into Wisconsin. There was no quietly (undertaken) ... study to bring in wolves. No wolves have been reintroduced into Wisconsin or in Michigans Lower Peninsula. He is incorrect in his assertion that breeding pairs were planted at several locations, except that a pair with their pups were translocated from northern Langlade County to the middle of the nearby Menominee Indian reservation.

At no time has wolf depredation payment reached half million in one year. Payments in 2017 were $102,600 and in 2019 were $189,749, but much below the peak of payments of $336,129 in 2011. With more flexible management provided through delisting, payments are likely to continue to decline.

There is no indication wolves are likely to carry off small children. Yes it is possible as is the possibility of being struck by lightning or hit by a meteorite, but all are very unlikely to occur.

The current wolf population does not exceed 1,000 adult wolves as stated by Balgord. The most recent estimate was 1,195 wolves in winter 2020. This estimate would have included about 35% pups, 20% yearlings and 45% adults or about 540 adults.
We finished haying this year July 4. That may not sound like news to most people, but as a farmer and rancher in Raynesford, Montana, producers in our area usually dont even start preparing to get into the fields until after Independence Day.

With extreme drought hammering the whole region, we actually began haying as soon as I returned to my ranch from the National Farmers Organization national board meeting in Iowa on June 25. I stepped off the plane and drove home, then started cutting two hours after walking through the farmhouse door.

My wife, Wendy, had already made test cuts in a neighbors fields that we have been haying the past few years on a share system. After driving around neighboring fields, she telephoned them and told them to just graze it. While we cut most of our fields, we left patches that were in horrible condition. Overall, we got about a third of what we need. The problem is, the state of Montana is in bad shape. The entire West, and North Dakota and South Dakota, are rated from abnormally dry to experiencing extreme drought conditions.

This got me thinking about how our climate seems to be changing, and not for the better. Most of U.S. agricultural land is either under drought conditions, or as in the Gulf Coast  extremely wet or flooding. There dont seem to be many places that are rated normal this year.
My daughter, Tammi, died of leukemia at just 9 years old. Since then, Ive spent countless hours as an American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) volunteer doing everything in my power to help reduce the suffering and death caused by this disease.

Therefore, I am disappointed that the final budget sent to the governor did not include BadgerCare expansion. I was particularly disappointed and outraged when Gov. Tony Evers called a special session to discuss the benefits of expanding BadgerCare and our state legislators gaveled without any opportunity for discussion or debate on the issue.

BadgerCare expansion is one of the most critical steps our lawmakers can take to fight cancer. When we held our lobby day in early May, we were hoping that our experiences would matter to them; we were looking forward to a civil and educated conversation around the difference having access to affordable and comprehensive care would make for tens of thousands of hard-working Wisconsinites.
I served as an airman in the U.S. Air Force in Louisiana and Okinawa for 3 years. After that service, I was a legislative assistant to the state Assembly chairman of the veterans committee and was appointed by Gov. Pat Lucey to the Wisconsin State Board of Veterans' Affairs.

So I have more than a passing interest in veterans issues and actions. As a veteran, I would like to share my views on a well-known area veteran, Derrick Van Orden.

While on active duty Van Orden deliberately embarrassed young female officers and then sought to gain income from their embarrassment by including the incident in a book he published.

He took part in an insurrection that sought to and did interfere with counting of the electoral college ballots. He was less than honorable when he denied participation in that insurrection.

He used inference and innuendo as political weapons ignoring the fact he harmed innocent young women.

For these reasons I believe Van Orden is a disgrace to the uniform of the United States and I urge him to step down from his candidacy before he further disgraces the uniform.

Thomas Krajewski

Onalaska

Love 29 Funny 1 Wow 3 Sad 2 Angry 3
Questions remain about how the three Lancaster County school districts that will receive a piece of the $100 million Level Up supplement in the 2021-22 state budget will use the money.

School officials with Columbia Borough, Ephrata Area and Lancaster school districts told LNP | LancasterOnline that discussions are still taking place as to how they will allocate the combined $2.9 million in supplemental funds coming their way.

Columbia Borough will receive $360,371, Ephrata Area will get $360,173, and Lancaster will see $2.1 million in funding this year from the $100 million Level Up supplement, which was distributed to the 100 poorest school districts in the state.

Thats in addition to increases in basic education funding included in the $40.8 billion Pennsylvania budget, signed June 30 by Gov. Tom Wolf. Lancaster County public schools will see a 3.9% boost in basic education funding from last year. Factoring in the Level Up supplement, that countywide increase rises to 5.5%.

Additional funds make a difference for every school district, Columbia Borough Superintendent Ashley Rizzo said in an email, but for Columbia Borough School District the addition of an estimated $1 million may be the financial springboard to provide resources, supports, and opportunities that just were not possible before.

Columbia will receive a combined $1 million basic education funding increase with the Level Up supplement added in.

As for how the small, urban school district plans to spend the money, Rizzo said there will need to be in-depth conversations about that.

The focus of these conversations will examine how to use these funds to create substantial, systemic, long-term impact for students for years to come, she said, adding that the money represents about 14% of the school districts 2021-22 budget.

Ephrata Area, similar to Columbia, has not decided yet how the school district will spend its extra money, spokeswoman Sarah McBee said.

LEVEL UP SUPPLEMENT School District of Lancaster: $2,183,062 Columbia Borough School District: $360,371 Ephrata Area School District: $360,173

Complex planning

For School District of Lancaster, the plan is to consider using the money toward plans to improve literacy and math, middle school math and equity at the high school, Superintendent Damaris Rau said. The school district did not clarify any further, and Matt Przywara, the districts chief financial and operations officer, said the administration plans to discuss potential solutions at their August school board meeting.

Deciding how best to use the Level Up supplement, plus millions in pandemic relief money from the federal government, requires a complex planning process, Przywara said.

Inequitable funding remains

The Level Up supplement targeted the 100 poorest school districts rather than the 100 most inequitably funded school districts. Inequitable funding has long been a thorn in Lancasters side, and its still embedded several years after a bipartisan group of legislators created the states fair funding formula, which has only applied to increases in education funding since it was implemented in 2016.

Even with the increase in education funding, including the Level Up money, the amount of funding is still 10% of the $25 million in additional funding the School District of Lancaster would get if all spending went through the formula.

The school district is currently a plaintiff in the states landmark school funding lawsuit, which is expected to go to trial in early September.

Without full and fair funding, both our students and our taxpayers will continue to be short-changed, Rau said.

While School District of Lancaster and Columbia Borough would have likely gotten funds if the money was based on equitable funding rather than poverty, Conestoga Valley, one of the most chronically underfunded school districts in the state, would have perhaps benefited the most of any county school.

Conestoga Valley Superintendent Dave Zuilkoski was unavailable for comment.

We already know what the problem is

This approach, state Sen. Scott Martin, of Martic Township, said, flies in the face of the original fair funding formula.

Martin, a Republican who chairs the Senate Education Committee, said he would have rather seen the additional $100 million funneled into the basic education formula rather than separated and doled out to the 100 poorest school districts.

We already know what the problem is, Martin said. The fair funding formula isnt being fully utilized.

Democratic state Rep. Mike Sturla, of Lancaster, said if he had it his way, he would have expanded the Level Up funding supplement instead of squirreling away more than $2.5 billion in the states Rainy Day Fund, as legislators did in the 2021-22 budget.

Sturla said he hopes to work with Republicans to create a similar separate supplemental fund next year with more money for inequitably funded school districts.

Im optimistic that we can continue doing this into the future, he said, and were starting down the path of some sort of equitable funding.

Notice any problems?

Email the Lancaster Watchdog at watchdog@lnpnews.com or go to LancasterOnline.com/watchdog and tell us about it.
Stormy weather is headed towards Lancaster County on Sunday evening, according to the National Weather Service in State College.

A hazardous weather outlook was issued in Lancaster County and much of central Pennsylvania in anticipation of strong to severe thunderstorms with gusty winds Sunday afternoon, the National Weather Service said.

The storms are expected to begin after 2 p.m., bringing between a tenth and a quarter of an inch of rain to the county, forecasts show. Some of the storms could produce small hail and gusty winds.

Showers and thunderstorms are expected to continue Monday, likely after 11 a.m., coupled with a heat index that could reach 100 degrees, according to a National Weather Service forecast.

Tuesday and Wednesday will see similar weather, with showers and possibly thunderstorms likely throughout the day and high temperatures that approach 90 degrees.

Thursday will see sunnier weather with a high near 90 degrees, but Friday and Saturday will again see a chance of showers with temperatures reaching the low 90s or high 80s on both days.
When: East Petersburg Borough Council meeting, July 6.

What happened: Community members spoke of their concerns about two separate issues. Neighbors of Constitution Square lamented what they called the lack of police presence and parental supervision of children destroying property and using foul language in their neighborhood park. The second issue centered on public safety at the intersection of Main Street (Route 72) and Graystone Road  the site of a fiery crash that killed two people in May.

Constitution Square: Residents of the large development on the north side of town said the alleged criminal behavior is a chronic issue, and they were following up on similar complaints they made to Borough Council last year. Steve McKinney said he and his wife are frustrated at the lack of progress. Council President John Wolf suggested people call 911 while the vandalism is occurring. But residents said if the cops ever show up they grill the people reporting it, and they dont go after the miscreants. East Petersburg Borough contracts with Northern Lancaster County Regional Police Department for its police services; there were no representatives of the police department in attendance.

Quotable: The police make us feel like were the problem, Mrs. McKinney said.

Solutions suggested: Residents said they want park sign rules to be enforced  the $500 fine for littering and adult supervision required for kids under 7. Steve McKinney suggested using a drone to monitor the area from the air and take photos of whats happening. Joshua Roberts, borough Planning Commission board member, said photos and video could be uploaded to eastpetewatchdog.com, which may help get parents involved in reeling in their kids.

Police response: We have GPS data to prove officers respond to that area, Chief David Steffen said after the meeting. We are criticized for being intrusive and criticized for not being intrusive enough. The Juvenile Code ensures confidentiality of children and crimes. As for using drones to monitor the area: That is an absolutely asinine idea. Were not in North Korea  we are not going to spy on people.

Chiefs solution: People should report problems. Theres a form on the police departments website to file a complaint if citizens feel the problem was handled badly or not at all.

Graystone Road intersection: Resident Ammon Graybill brought up concerns about the hazards of the intersection of Graystone Road and Main Street. Graybill said he would like to see signs posted leading into that area  warning motorists to slow down. Something should be done, he said. Council members nodded but did not directly respond to Graybills suggestion for signs to be posted. However, Wolf said he would not speak about the intersection because it is under investigation since the most recent fatal car crash.

Events: National Night Out, an annual community-building campaign, starts at 5:30 p.m. Aug. 3 with a bike ride followed by open swim at East Petersburg Community Pool, refreshments, bounce houses and other kid-friendly activities until 8 p.m. Activities are free. Two Towers Jamboree Music Fest will be held from 5 to 10 p.m. Aug. 7. Covered Bridge Classic bike ride will pass through the borough Aug. 15.

Public meetings: Council will meet for a committee meeting at 6 p.m. July 22 and then again for a regular meeting at 7 p.m. Aug. 4.
When: Lancaster City Council committee meeting, July 6, held in council chambers and streamed on the citys YouTube channel.

What happened: City Council heard a revised proposal to increase the mayors salary. It differed from a salary proposal officials discussed in June and then tabled.

History: The last time City Council made changes to the mayors salary was in 2016 when members unanimously voted to increase pay for whomever landed in the mayors office in 2018. At the time of that vote, Rick Gray  a longtime defense attorney  was paid $77,932 annually for being mayor as he had been since 2009, based on a salary set by council in 2005.

Specifics: Mayor Danene Sorace  who is seeking a second term  was paid $85,000 in 2018 with a salary increasing 1.5% each year to $88,883 in 2021. The proposal presented to council in June would have followed he same annual percentage increase, starting in 2022 and taking it to $94,337 in 2025. The revised proposal would instead keep the mayors salary at $88,883 for 2022. Each year after that the mayors salary would be increased by the same percentage boost given to members of the Pennsylvania General Assembly. If the General Assembly votes to freeze salaries for any period, as happened last year, the Lancaster mayors salary would also be frozen, said Patrick Hopkins, the citys business administrator.

Comparison: Hopkins said that when he looked at the budgeted salaries of all full-time city employees, the mayors current salary was around 78th on the list meaning that almost a quarter of the citys employment base has a higher annual base compensation. I think thats a disconnect that doesnt make sense, he said.

What's next: Council will give an official first reading to the proposal on July 13 and could vote on July 27. Hopkins said his interpretation of state code means that council has until early August to vote on a salary increase or the mayor's salary would be frozen for four years.

Quotable: For the last mayors administration, we had a white man with money that could afford to freeze (the) salary. And now we have a second female mayor.  Our second mayor thats a female should not be making less money than her male counterparts within her team, said council member Xavier Garcia-Molina. Is the salary pay equitable and fair? It's frankly not. It was set up that way by an individual who had the privilege to do so.

Also: Council advanced some COVID-19-related items to its July 13 agenda, including repealing an ordinance adopted last year addressing construction guidelines. Council will also consider changing the citys pandemic-related outdoor dining permits into licenses, set to expire at the end of this year. About 30 city restaurants got those, said Stephen Campbell, director of public works. What happens next year with outdoor dining remains to be seen.

Sewer and water relief: Council is also looking at some tweaks to the sewer and water bill collections process. Service has not been cut off during the pandemic and overdue accounts are up considerably for customers both in and out of the city. Eventually that process will need to resume, said city officials, who are encouraging customers to apply for assistance. Just a fraction of the $34 million available for rental, utility and court cost assistance in Lancaster County had been spent as of mid-June.
When: New Holland Borough Council meeting, July 6.

What happened: Borough Council authorized $571,000 in pandemic relief funds to be used toward the cost of a new well.

Background: The federal funds are being distributed to local governments through the American Rescue Plan Act to speed up recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. Councilman Patrick Morgan explained the funds received over a two-year period can be used as follows: support public health expenditures; address negative economic impacts caused by public health emergency; replace lost public sector review; provide premium pay for essential workers; and invest in water, sewer and broadband infrastructure.

Quotable: This funding will reduce the need for the water authority to temporarily borrow from other in-house funds as previously planned to avoid outside debt, said Dick Fulcher, borough manager.

Background: The new $2.5 million well at 121 Conestoga St. will be operational by Nov. 21. The well will be capable of pumping one million gallons a day, making it one of the largest wells in Lancaster County. The Cletus H. Stone Jr. Building, which houses the new well, is named after the man who supervised New Holland Water Department for 25 years until his retirement in May. New Holland Borough Authority also received a $200,000 water grant toward the well cost from the state Department of Community and Economic Development.

Trash reimbursement: Borough Council approved the request by Eagle Disposal to reimburse the waste management company $124 a week for extra time and cost to haul waste to Lancaster Waste-to-Energy facility in Bainbridge while Lancaster Solid Waste Management Authority makes repairs at its Lancaster Transfer Station.
To the writer of the July 4 Sunday LNP | LancasterOnline letter asserting that the data leak from the IRS was not a partisan act: The leak was clearly a partisan act, in that the leaked information supports the agenda of only one party, to be used against the other.

However, more troubling is your assertion that when our laws are not upholding our ideals, then I believe that extra-legal means are a justifiable way to inform the people that government has gone astray. This is wrong and un-American. In America, we recognize the rule of law, which means that if you do not get what you want politically, then you resort to the courts or the electoral process. We can all do this, and this rule of law unites and protects us all.

Once you start believing that your cause is so right that you must advance it by extra-legal means, then you can justify leaking confidential information, storming the U.S. Capitol, causing harm to people, or any other criminal action. Those who leaked the IRS information, along with those who stormed the Capitol on Jan. 6, are, in my view, criminals.

When thoughtful Americans engage in protests and civil disobedience to shine a light on laws that they disagree with, as did the founders of our country, as did the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., and as other protesters have done through American history, they courageously accepted the consequences of their conduct. They did not hide behind anonymous leaks, nor did they weaponize a government agency for political purposes.

James Reeder

Manheim Township
As an Afghanistan veteran, I agree with the majority of Americans that it is time to bring our troops home. What I do not agree with is the middle of the night withdrawal that we are witnessing today. Reports state that at Bagram Airfield, north of Kabul, the remainder of our garrison left without so much as a handshake for the Afghan military commander who now operates it. At one point, thousands of Americans lived and worked on this base and now we are gone without even formal recognition of the importance of this closure?

What about those Afghan soldiers and civilians who worked side by side with my unit and other coalition forces? We were slow to announce a plan for protecting these heroes and their families. Bringing them to the United States or providing them with a means to protect themselves should have been part of the early planning. We should not leave Afghanistan as if we were running out of a house on fire. We should leave deliberately and with pride, knowing that we have kept America and the world a safer place.

David E. Wood

Manheim Township
EIR LEAD EDITORIAL FOR SUNDAY, JULY 11, 2021

Zepp-LaRouche on Afghanistan: The New Name for Peace Is Development

July 10, 2021 (EIRNS)Dramatic developments are taking place over the past days which make clear that the world is standing at a crossroads. Two very distinct ideas about the nature of man are contending for the future of human civilization. One, which could well lead to the destruction of civilization itself in a nuclear holocaust, sides with the Aristotelian outlook of the British Empire, that some people are born to rule and others to serve, that human beings are as defined by Thomas Hobbes, as all against all, with nations following the same logic, locked into geopolitical laws of zero-sum survival of the fittest. The other view believes that: Development holds the key to the peoples well-being, [and] no country should be left behind. All nations are equally entitled to development opportunities and rights to development. While it would be understandable that one may think this statement came from Franklin D. Roosevelt as he planned his postwar vision for the role of a United Nations, it is in fact the words of Xi Jinping, speaking on July 6 to delegates of 500 parties and institutions from around the world, representing 160 countries, fully three-fourths of the human race, joining in support of the principle of Peace Through Development, as intended by Chinas Belt and Road Initiative.

Today, the Schiller Institutes founder and president Helga Zepp-LaRouche released a statement titled: Afghanistan at a Crossroads: Graveyard for Empires or Start of a New Era? She posits that the policies taken by the worlds nations today on the future of Afghanistan not only affects every citizen of every country, in the sense that the danger of terrorism and drug proliferation affect us all, but also because it could well determine the fate of mankind itself. The only solution to the Afghanistan quagmire, she writes, is for the great nations of the world, and all the nations of the region, to join forces in a Great Project to develop Afghanistan as the hub for the New Silk Road, both east-west development corridors connecting East Asia, Central Asia, West Asia, Eastern Europe and Western Europe, and north-south development corridors linking Russia, China, Iran, India and Pakistan.

Is it possible? Or is it, as seen by the geopoliticians of the British Empire, contrary to their warped sense of human nature, which will always seek out an advantage against the other? Will Americans follow this British prescription for imperial divide and rule, or will they recall the spirit of the U.S. Declaration of Independence: We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. Was this intended only for those who follow so-called Western values, and who follow the so-called rules based order, or is it indeed intended for all of humanity?

Zepp-LaRouche writes in the statement on Afghanistan:

It was clear from the start that this war could not be won. Implementation of NATOs mutual defense clause under Article 5 after the 9/11 terrorist attacks was based on the assumption that Osama bin Laden and the Taliban regime were behind those attacks, which would thus justify the war in Afghanistan. But as U.S. Senator Bob Graham, the Chairman of the Congressional Joint Inquiry into Intelligence Community Activities Before and After the Terrorist Attacks of September 11, 2001, repeatedly pointed out in 2014, the then-last two U.S. Presidents, Bush and Obama, suppressed the truth about who had commissioned 9/11. And it was only because of that suppression that the threat to the world from ISIS then became possible.

She also pointed to the leaking of the Afghanistan Papers in the New York Times in 2018, exposing that the Afghanistan War had been the unrelenting disaster from the start, with official reports on the war being absolute lies, as had also been the case in the failed Vietnam War, as exposed in the Pentagon Papers, made public in June 1971 when the recently deceased American hero then-Sen. Mike Gravel read them into the Congressional Record. The Afghanistan Papers, Zepp-LaRouche writes, included

the stunning statements of Lt. Gen. Douglas Lute, the Afghanistan czar under the Bush and Obama administrations, who in an internal hearing before the Office of the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction in 2014 had said: We were devoid of a fundamental understanding of Afghanistanwe didnt know what we were doing.  What are we trying to do here? We didnt have the foggiest notion of what we were undertaking. If the American people knew the magnitude of this dysfunction  who would say that it was all in vain? 

Zepp-LaRouche concludes:
Russias UN Ambassador Nebenzia Hails Adoption of Syria Aid Resolution as Historic Moment

July 10, 2021 (EIRNS)Russias Ambassador to the United Nations Vassily Nebenzia described the UN Security Councils unanimous adoption of the joint Russian-American resolution on cross-border aid for Syria as an historic moment. Nebenzia explained that Russia spelled out its red lines during consultations on the document and secured provisions in the final document that had been lacking in the original draft. He stressed how important it is that the resolution is a compromise.

This is a historic moment. For the first time Russia and the United States not only could agree, but elaborate a consolidated draft resolution that found support with all our colleagues in the Council. Hopefully, this kind of scenario will be a turning point that not only Syria and the Middle East, but the entire world will benefit from, he concluded in his statement.

Nebenzia stated that, for the first time, the resolution emphasizes the development of shipments across the contact line, that is, from inside Syria via Damascus. Thus UNSC members gave the green light to having the CBM [Cross-Border Mechanism] gradually supplemented, and then substituted by cross-line humanitarian deliveries, he underscored. The cross-border aid mechanism will be closely supervised, and the UN Secretary General will report to the Security Council about its operation in six months.

The resolution, prepared by Russia, the U.S., Ireland and Norway, implies the extension of the operation of the Bab al-Hawa checkpoint on the Syrian-Turkish border for six months, and likely to be extended another six months after that.

TASS also quotes an unnamed senior U.S. administration official at yesterdays White House briefing, saying that the passing of the resolution would not have been possible without the summit between U.S. President Joe Biden and Russian President Vladimir Putin. So, we think thats quite a consequential action and a genuine impact of the Presidents personal engagement and of the summit, the official said.

The resolution also addresses the practical measures to address the socio-economic impact of COVID, which Nebenzia said should be paid for by the international community. In his exchange with media after the resolution signing, he harshly addressed the French threat to withhold that funding for humanitarian relief barring political change in Syria. He told the media:

But you heard what UNSC President [French Ambassador Nicolas de Riviere] said when speaking in his national capacity. He said that they would not provide a single cent unless they saw a credible political process. To that we tell them: You are not doing this assistance for the Syrian government, you are doing this for the Syrian people. And that cannot be conditional. Whatever you might think of the Syrian government, the Syrian people should not suffer. 

The resolution calls on the UNs 193 member nations to respond with practical steps to address the urgent needs of the Syrian people in light of the profound socioeconomics and humanitarian impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Syria, as a country in a situation of complex humanitarian emergency. It also welcomes all efforts and initiatives to broaden the humanitarian activities in Syria, including water, sanitation, health, education, and shelter as well as early recovery projects.
White House on Biden-Putin Call: Cyber Talks This Week; Syria Compromise with Russia

July 10, 2021 (EIRNS)The White House gave a background briefing to media yesterday with a senior administration official describing the call between Presidents Joe Biden and Vladimir Putin, and the unanimous vote in the UN Security Council extending the authorization of cross-border humanitarian aid for Syria through Turkey into Idlib Province, which for the first time included a condition negotiated by Russia to move towards giving the Damascus government control over distribution of aid throughout the country.

The briefer said there were two topics (although a four-hour call certainly included other topics as well), cybersecurity and Syria. On cyber, he had no more to say than Biden had told the press, as reported above.

On Syria, the briefing became contentious. The senior official said:

First, Syriawhich I really want to underscore because I think it deserves some attention. The leaders commended the work of their respective teams following the U.S.-Russia summit that led to todays unanimous renewal of cross-border humanitarian assistance to Syria in the UN Security Council. And I genuinely encourage you to reach out to NGOs and other humanitarian organizations about the impact of this. For months, weve been concerned about the likelihood, if not a near certainty, of a Russian veto of the UN Security Council resolution that allows for humanitarian assistance to be provided across the Syrian border from Turkey. And it is our strong sense that only leader-level engagement along the lines that took place at the summit in Geneva would have gotten this extension done and this access secured at a time of severe humanitarian distress and need in Syria. So, we think thats quite a consequential action and a genuine impact of the Presidents personal engagement and of the summit.

The media hounds pounced at the idea that the Security Council resolution was a compromise with the dreaded evil empire of Russia. The first question:

On Syria, you mentioned we should call NGO groups, and we have. And they say that this isnt good enough.... Human Rights Watch said that Russia successfully blackmailed the international community. Amnesty [International] said Russia continues to play games with the lives and welfare of millions of people. So how do you paint this as a success if these groups are saying its not?

The senior official stood his ground, although avoiding any comment on the joint cooperation with Russia:

So, first of all, this was a 15-0 vote in the Security Council, broadly, strongly believed by the United States and our closest allies that this was a big step forward on the humanitarian front. And the groups that weve been in touch with have a different impression from the ones that youve just quoted.... I mean, for our purposes, what we were concerned about was the continued, sustained, and ideally enhanced flow of humanitarian assistance into all parts of Syria, and we think thats what this has accomplished.

Note that this is the first time the U.S. showed any concern for aid to all parts of Syria, formerly only referring to the areas under U.S. or Turkish control, while actually preventing any aid from going through the real government in Damascus.
Sunday, July 11, 2021

From The New York Times:

The United States will search federal boarding schools for possible burial sites of Native American children, hundreds of thousands of whom were forcibly taken from their communities to be culturally assimilated in the schools for more than a century, the interior secretary announced on Tuesday.

The initiative is likely to resemble a recent effort in Canada, where the discovery of the remains of 215 children at the site of a defunct boarding school rekindled discussion of the traumatic history and treatment of Native populations.

The forced removals were a result of the Civilization Fund Act of 1819, which sought to introduce the habits and arts of civilization to Indian tribes adjoining frontier settlements through instruction. In the years after the law was enacted, residential boarding schools were established across the nation and used to house relocated Indigenous children, suppressing American Indian, Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian cultures.

The new program, called the Federal Indian Boarding School Initiative, will identify the facilities and sites where there may have been student burials, as well as the tribal affiliations of the children, the Department of the Interior said. It will also mine records from 1819 to 1969 that were kept by the department, which had oversight of the facilities, working with tribal nations, Alaska Native corporations and Native Hawaiian organizations.

Read more here.

https://lawprofessors.typepad.com/family_law/2021/07/us-to-search-former-native-american-schools-for-childrens-remains.html


American President Joe Biden told Russian President Vladimir Putin in a phone call last Friday that he must take action against cybercriminals.

The call came less than a month after the two leaders met in Geneva, Switzerland. Biden warned Putin against permitting cyberattacks on U.S. businesses and infrastructure from Russia. Recently, a new ransomware attack linked to the REvil hacking group based in Russia caused widespread disruption around the world.

The White House said, President Biden reiterated that the United States will take any necessary action to defend its people and its critical infrastructure in the face of this continuing challenge.

The REvil attack

Cybersecurity experts quickly identified the organization that calls itself REvil as responsible for the most recent attacks. The Russia-linked group even seemed to admit involvement publicly. The group offered a software tool on their website to recover data from all affected computers at a cost of $70 million in cryptocurrency.

The latest attack affected as many as 1,500 businesses around the world. U.S. officials said the damage appeared to be minor. Cybersecurity experts, however, said their information remains incomplete.

The attack used software that permits computer professionals to enter a computer system from a distance. The company Kaseya, which is based in Miami, Florida, makes the software.

U.S. officials say they have talked with private businesses about strengthening their computer defenses. They have also tried to make it harder to collect ransomware payments. But the government has been slow to carry out its own offensive cyberattacks because of concerns it could grow into a greater crisis. There are also limits to what the U.S. can do to stop Russian cybercriminals.

Bidens meeting with Putin

During their meeting in June, Biden said he gave Putin a list of 16 important parts of U.S. infrastructure that he said were off-limits to attack. They included water systems and the energy industry. He said, "responsible countries need to take action against criminals who conduct ransomware activities on their territory."

Biden also suggested that he told Putin he is ready to answer should the Russians go too far. "I pointed out to him that we have significant cyber capability. And he knows it," Biden said.

But at the same time, Biden knows that punishing Russian actions can increase tensions. A cyberwar would work against the administrations goal of improving relations with Russia, say some experts.

Jonathan Trimble is a retired FBI agent and cybersecurity executive. He said the U.S. must answer cyberattacks without losing control or increase it to a conflict that goes beyond the cyberspace."

Fighting ransomware attacks

A National Security Council spokesperson said fighting ransomware is important but bringing such attacks to an end will not happen quickly.

The administration already has acted against the Russians for spying. In April, the U.S. government expelled 10 Russian diplomats and placed restrictions on several people and companies. They were punished for interference in last year's presidential election and cyberattacks on federal agencies.

The U.S. can bring legal charges against the criminals but if they do not leave Russia voluntarily, there is little chance that they will appear in American courts. Even with legal action, attacks continue to come from Russia and also China.

In at least some cases, officials can recover the money victims paid to criminals. The Justice Department took back part of the $4.4 million paid to those responsible for the attack on Colonial Pipeline in May. That attack blocked the gasoline supply in the southeast U.S. for days.

James Lewis is a senior vice president at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. He said the U.S. has been in a defensive position for too long. He said the government could act by limiting cyber criminals use of financial networks or carrying its own hacks on the hackers.

"These are all tough choices, Lewis said. He added that the U.S. position is usually to be careful, which is why the attacks continue.

Im Jonathan Evans.

The Associated Press reported this story. Jill Robbins adapted it for Learning English. Mario Ritter, Jr. was the editor.

___________________________________________________________

Words in This Story

cyber - combining form. related to use of a computer

hack, hacker n. to secretly get into a computer system to get information or cause damage; a person who hacks computers

ransomware  n. a computer program that locks a computer until an amount of money is paid

infrastructure  n. the basic equipment and structures (such as roads and bridges) that are needed for a country, region, or organization to function properly

conduct  v. to plan and do (something, such as an activity)

cryptocurrency n. a kind of money that is exchanged only through computers and that is not supported by the government of any country

What do you think of the ransomware attacks? Does your own government have a policy on them? We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments Section.
British billionaire Richard Branson is set to launch into space on Sunday on a rocket plane built by the space tourism company he created.

The 70-year-old Branson will join two pilots and three other mission specialists on the flight. Virgin Galactic -- the business Branson started in 2004 -- aims to fly private citizens to the edge of space. The trips are designed to permit passengers to experience three to four minutes of weightlessness and observe the curvature of Earth.

Virgin Galactics experience takes place in a space plane called VSS Unity. A large carrier airplane, called VMS Eve, carries the space plane to 15,000 meters and then releases it. VSS Unity then uses rocket power to fly to the edge of Earths atmosphere.

The trip will begin and end at Virgin Galactics Spaceport America complex in the southwestern state of New Mexico. The flight is expected to carry the group to a height of about 89 kilometers.

Virgins mission marks the 22nd test flight of the spacecraft, and fourth crewed trip beyond Earths atmosphere. But it will be the first to carry a full group of space travelers in addition to pilots.

If successful, Sundays flight will mean that Branson made it to space before Jeff Bezos -- the creator of rival space tourism company Blue Origin. About a month ago, Bezos announced his plans to be on his companys first human space flight.

Bezos flight is set to launch on July 20 from the companys launch center in West Texas. He will be joined by his brother, Mark, and two other guests.

Blue Origins New Shepard rocket launches together with a self-piloted spacecraft that can carry up to six people. The spacecraft separates from the reusable rocket, which is designed to return to Earth and land in an upright position by itself.

Much has been written about a race to space between the two billionaires. Branson had long stated his desire to fly aboard Virgin Galactics space plane. His latest plans were made public shortly after Bezos made his announcement. However, Branson has said it was not his goal to beat Bezos to space.

"It's honestly not a race," he recently told Reuters news agency. "If it's a race, it's a race to produce wonderful spaceships that can make many more people be able to access space. And I think that's both of our aims.

Bezos has not commented publicly on Bransons upcoming flight.

So far, more than 600 people have reserved seats with Virgin Galactic at a cost of $250,000 each. Blue Origin expects to announce prices and sell trips once Bezos flies.

Americas SpaceX, led by Elon Musk, also has a space tourism business, and has sold several seats on private space flights. But SpaceX has said its space tourism program aims to launch people into super high orbit  about 800 to 1,200 kilometers above Earth. The price for those trips is expected to be millions of dollars.

Musk has stated his desire to one day ride into space on a company-built spaceship. He has not said when he might be ready to go.

But Musk recently said on Twitter: There is a big difference between reaching space and reaching orbit.

Im Bryan Lynn.

The Associated Press and Reuters reported on this story. Bryan Lynn adapted the reports for VOA Learning English. Mario Ritter Jr. was the editor.

We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments section, and visit our Facebook page.

___________________________________________________________

Words in This Story

tourism  n. the activity of traveling to a place for pleasure

mission  n. a flight by an aircraft or spacecraft to perform a specific task

curvature  n. the state of being curved or bent

rival  n. someone or something that is competing with another person or thing

access  n. the right or ability to approach, enter or use

reserve  v. to place a request for a product or service ahead of time
The U.S. space agency NASA is reporting new progress on Mars for its experimental helicopter and Perseverance explorer. The helicopter, called Ingenuity, completed its ninth flight on the Red Planet on July 5.

NASA described the flight as the most successful so far. This is because Ingenuity broke several new records: for length of flight, speed and distance.

The helicopters movements are controlled by a team operating from NASAs Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) in California. The team said in the ninth flight, Ingenuity traveled for the first time across what it described as unfriendly terrain. The previous flights involved shorter trips over mostly flat terrain.

The helicopter is working together with NASAs Perseverance explorer, or rover. Currently, both are in an area of Mars known as Seitah. The area contains rocks, sandy hills and craters.

This kind of terrain can present challenges for Ingenuity, raising the possibility the aircraft could crash during flight or upon landing. The team says one reason for this is that Ingenuity was built to guide itself with an algorithm designed to fly it across mainly flat ground.

The main goal of the Ingenuity experiment was to demonstrate that a helicopter could successfully take off, fly and land on Mars. The aircraft was not built to perform detailed searches and other complex operations. But since Ingenuity has progressed so well in previous tests, NASA controllers decided to push its limits even further.

The team described the latest flight as a nail-biter. But in the end, it reported Ingenuity was alive and well after completing a trip of 625 meters through challenging terrain. The flight lasted 2 minutes and 46 seconds. The aircraft reached a speed of 5 meters per second.

As it flies, Ingenuity captures detailed images of the surface of Mars. NASA says the helicopters ninth flight was designed to provide the first close view of major science targets that (Perseverance) will not reach for quite some time.

The latest images will be studied by the Perseverance team, which will then decide which areas may be most valuable for the rover to visit. Ingenuity is supporting Perseverances goal to collect Martian soil and rocks to help scientists search for signs of ancient life on the planet.

Self-navigation system

NASA also recently announced that Perseverance has started using an improved self-navigation system as it expands its exploration activities across Mars.

So far, the rovers team at JPL has been planning the navigation paths and sending the travel instructions to Perseverance. But now, NASA says the rover will increasingly take charge of the drive by itself -- using a powerful auto-navigation system.

The system, called AutoNav, first creates a three-dimensional, or 3D, map of the terrain ahead. It then identifies any objects in the path and maps the best way to avoid them. JPL controllers say AutoNav can complete this process without any additional direction from them.

Vandi Verma is a senior engineer, rover planner and driver at JPL. She said in a statement the system gives the rover the ability to think while driving. She added: The rover is thinking about the autonomous drive while its wheels are turning.

NASA says that ability, combined with other improvements, might enable Perseverance to hit a top speed of 120 meters per hour. Another NASA rover on Mars, Curiosity, is equipped with an earlier version of AutoNav. On average, it moves about 30 meters per hour.

Im Bryan Lynn.

Bryan Lynn wrote this story, based on reports from NASA. Hai Do was the editor.

We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments section, and visit our Facebook page.

Quiz - NASAs Helicopter and Rover Make New Progress on Mars Start the Quiz to find out Start Quiz

____________________________________________

Words in This Story

terrain  n. a particular kind of land

crater  n. a round hole made by an explosive force such as a bomb or an object falling from the sky

challenge  n. a difficult task or problem

algorithm  n. a set of steps that are followed in order to solve a mathematical problem or to complete a computer process

nail-biter  n. an event that is exciting because you do not know how it will end

navigation  n. the movement and leading of things, such as ships or vehicles

three-dimensional (3D)  adj. having or appearing to have length, depth and height

autonomous  adj. independent and having the power to operate automatically without human involvement


Seventeen-year-old Charles Wilkinson will not go to college after completing his study at Edison High School last June. That does not mean Wilkinson will face an uncertain future. In fact, he is excited about his future.

About nine percent of high school graduates like Wilkinson in Fairfax County in northern Virginia do not go to either a four-year college or a community college. Some of them may have difficulty with traditional school subjects. But they are better at making things and using tools to solve problems.

CTE classes

Wilkinson told VOA he used to wonder what to do with his learning in math, science, and history. But that was before he started taking an auto body repair class at Edison Academy, his high schools center for career training.

At the academy, Wilkinson learned to fix dents and do basic welding  a process where one uses heat to melt pieces of metal and join them together.

With his training, Wilkinson got a job at a factory to make parts for machines. In his extra time, he rebuilt an old car that he bought for $600. It is an Austin Healy Sprite, a small convertible made in Great Britain about 50 years ago. Convertible is a term for a car that does not have a hardtop like most vehicles.

Other students learned to work on heating and cooling systems and take care of animals at the academy. Some studied how to solve computer security problems, cut hair, and build homes during their CTE, or career and technical education, classes.

Robert Stringham teaches CTE classes in heating and cooling at the academy. He said the current CTE students are better prepared for the future than those who went to high school in the 1990s.

In those days, Stringham said, some saw CTE classes as a dumping ground for students who had trouble with traditional school subjects. But now, he said, CTE students are able to learn even more skills.

Because thats what it really is  technical. And things are becoming more to where its not just about hands-on.  Youve got to problem-solve and youve got to think creativity.

CTE classes can also be good for students whose families do not speak English at home. If they have trouble understanding a teacher speaking or reading a textbook, they can often learn a skill by watching.

In his class, Stringham said, students learned to work with computers and electrical parts that control heating and cooling systems. Other students worked on a home-building project during the 2020-2021 school year. And the house they built will be sold for close to $1 million.

Upon graduation, Stringham said, his students are prepared for a first-year job at a manufacturing plant or to train with an experienced electrician or woodworker.

Other possibilities

Jacob Torres took heating and cooling classes with Stringham. The coronavirus pandemic reduced his in-person class time last year. So he worked on the heating system at his parents home to keep learning.

Torres plans to continue learning about electrical systems and other subjects at Northern Virginia Community College. After two years, Torres will then decide whether to go to a four-year college or to work full-time.

Monica Bentley is the administrator at Edison Academy. She said students like Wilkinson and Torres often find a strong connection to school when they discover career training.

For example, Wilkinson was not able to use the schools equipment to work on his car because of limited in-person learning during the pandemic. As soon as the workspace re-opened in early 2021, he was there and worked until the very last second on the last day of school. He cant get enough of this, Bentley said.

Wilkinson said it is a nice feeling to look at his Austin Healy after days of painting and repairing.

Sometimes when I get discouraged, I can look at the car and be like, well, I figured this out myself.  Even if its not great, its like, oh, well, I made that. Thats pretty cool. Its a good feeling.

Im Dan Friedell.

Dan Friedell wrote this story for Learning English. Hai Do was the editor.

What are some projects high school students work on where you live? Tell us in the Comments Section and visit our Facebook page. Quiz - Restoring Cars, Building Million Dollar Homes: CTE Students Do It All Start the Quiz to find out Start Quiz ___________________________________________________________________

Words in This Story

graduate n. a person who has earned a degree or diploma from a school, college, or university

academy n. a school that provides training in special subjects or skills

dent n. an area on a surface that is lower than the rest of the surface especially because of being hit or pushed in

dumping ground  idiom. a place where people or things that are not wanted are sent

textbookn. a book about a particular subject that is used in the study of that subject especially in a school

discouraged- adj. the state of being frustrated or disappointed or the feeling of not wanting to do something
The process for realigning Idahos political map with a decades worth of population expansion finds itself in roughly the same spot as it was 10 years ago  under pressure to get the job done without any time to spare.
Not at all.

A little but not enough to alter my schedule.

Enough that I try to stay inside as much as possible.

It's really done a number on me.

Vote

View Results
John Lindsey is Pacific Gas and Electric Co.s Diablo Canyon Power Plant marine meteorologist and a media relations representative. Email him at pgeweather@pge.com or follow him on Twitter @PGE_John.
U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Alice Trevino, Air Force Installation Contracting Center commander, and U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Christine Beeler, commander of Mission and Installation Contracting Command, listen as a team explains their processes to work through an exercise scenario during the Joint Force Contracting Exercise between the two branches, at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, June 24, 2021. More than 90 personnel from Wright-Patt and other installations such as Fort Hood, Texas, Shaw AFB, South Carolina, Fort Bragg, North Carolina, and Joint Base San Antonio, Texas were involved in the planning, evaluation, and participation of the joint exercise.
Shirley Contreras lives in Orcutt and writes for the Santa Maria Valley Historical Society. She can be contacted at 623-8193 or at shirleycontreras2@yahoo.com. Her book, The Good Years, a selection of stories shes written for the Santa Maria Times since 1991, is on sale at the Santa Maria Valley Historical Society, 616 S. Broadway.
Mark James Miller is an Associate English Instructor at Allan Hancock College and President of the Part-Time Faculty Association. He can be reached at mark@pfaofahc.com.
FILE - In this June 21, 2021 file photo, Bassem Awadallah, a former royal adviser, leaves a state security court in a vehicle after the first session of his closed-door trial, in Amman, Jordan. Awadallah, a Jordanian American, alleges he was tortured and fears for his life in Jordanian detention, Michael Sullivan, a U.S. lawyer said Sunday, July 11, 2021, on the eve of a verdict in the high-profile sedition trial linked to a rare public rift in the kingdom's ruling family.
Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
When we first started, we were thinking, Well, it's not Texas. People aren't really going to go for the beef product as much as pork products, said Bajakian. But we were wrong. It totally flipped on us.

Bay added, We had our first pop-up barbecue event in the parking lot of Beans 'n Cream Coffee House. We made all this pork and just one brisket thinking everybody was going to want pork. We sold out of brisket in 30 minutes and had a lot of pork leftover. So then we switched and went to brisket for the next event and it's just grown and grown.

Bay and Bajakian have now been in business for about two and a half years, hosting their own pop-cup barbecue events and catering for weddings, business parties and more, smoking their beef, chicken and pork on a custom-designed rig, or large reverse sear smoker. Primal Cue has grown so much that theyve ordered a second rig for the end of this month.

We're just getting bigger catering events, said Bajakian. I think the largest one we had last year was around 100 people. This year, we're at 200 or 300.
Your book is called Don't Ask Permission to Fly. What does it mean to fly?

I think the overall context of the title is don't allow other people to impose their impression of who you are and what you can accomplish on you. You are in charge of defining yourself and helping other people see the you that you really are. That's been a constant theme in my life. I'm still figuring out all the ways that I can benefit the people around me, but I just want to make sure I'm making a positive contribution.

Writing a book, in itself, was the experience of flying. Putting my thoughts on paper was a huge step forward for me. At 35, I think I've spent a lot of time trying not to let other people see me struggle. The reality is, if we shield people from our true experiences, how is anyone ever supposed to understand the reality of what's going on for so many people?

You say in the book that running for the Dane County Board of Supervisors was one of the best things you've ever done. Why?
Ive also spent two years working with people seeking sanctuary in Europe and believe that we need to view such people not as threats  or solely as victims in need of charity  but as resilient people to whom we owe our solidarity and respect, people who have families they love and bicker with, hopes and dreams for their futures, free-time hobbies and bad habits, like anyone else.

People like my friend, David, who loves to sing and play guitar but left El Salvador after the civil war put six bullets in his leg. People like my former student, Asifa, who has a gift for languages and now writes a blog about her experience fleeing genocide in Iraq as a teenager.

We of course need stability in the countries people are fleeing (the U.S. could do with taking a hard look in the mirror about its actions internationally), but we also need violent immigration tactics to stop, as well as the dehumanizing reporting we too often see in the media. And, as soon as possible, we need safe, legal ways to apply for asylum that do not force people to sleep on the streets or in crowded facilities during a global health crisis.
The Wisconsin Legislature has under Assembly Speaker Robin Vos, R-Rochester, become a sleazier and more self-serving institution. Its not just that Boss Vos and his Republican allies have warped election rules in order to benefit themselves politically. They have also rejected openness and ethical standards, making the Assembly and the Senate more secretive chambers.

The Republicans are in charge and deserve the lions share of the blame for the current degeneration of the Legislature. But when it comes to ethics, Democrats have also fallen short over the years. So watchdogs need to maintain sharp scrutiny on the permanent political class that holds sway in the Capitol.

They identified a serious threat at the end of June, when legislators of both parties voted for a slyly dishonest scheme to undermine the publics right to know about official wrongdoing. Gov. Tony Evers, a defender of the old-school progressive faith in open government, responded appropriately  with a veto and a stern rebuke to the proponents of secrecy in which he declared, The people of Wisconsin have a right to know about misconduct of public officials, including those in the Legislature.
We know from research and our own lived experiences as white people raised in the United States that trying to be colorblind or leave the past in the past, as these bills aim to do, simply doesnt work. Colorblindness leaves us ignorant of how systemic racism shows up in our past and shapes our present. When we have no opportunity to learn and talk about our countrys complex history  including the theft of Indigenous peoples land, enslavement of Black people, banning of immigrants from certain countries, barring women from voting and redlining of Black neighborhoods  we are left with a sanitized version of our history that tries to justify a deeply unequal status quo in our present day.

As parents, we want an education for our children that imparts honesty about who we are, integrity in how we treat others, and courage to do whats right. That means revealing the whole truth of our countrys history  not just the moments of pride, but also the moments when our country we did not live up to our values of justice, equality and freedom. Understanding how and when we failed to live up to these goals allows for a critical examination of how we can do better and make progress in ensuring justice, equality and freedom for everyone.
A Middleton company that creates software for the building products industry and was the site of a 2018 workplace shooting is being sold to a Texas firm for $450 million.

Builders FirstSource in Dallas has announced that it is purchasing WTS Paradigm, which has 280 employees and is located near Greenway Station.

WTS will remain in Middleton, according to Builders FirstSource. The transaction is expected to be completed later this year and generate approximately $50 million in revenue, about double that of 2014 when WTS had 145 employees.

We will continue to be a great partner to all our existing customers, said Nathan Herbst, CEO of WTS and who founded the company in 1999. Becoming a part of Builders FirstSource will unlock new opportunities for our employees, introduce us to new customers and allow us to accelerate the adoption and deployment of our software to solve our customers complex business problems.

WTS Paradigm specializes in technology, software development and consulting services that help manufacturers, retailers and home builders in the building products industry boost sales, reduce costs and improve efficiencies. WTS software, according to the company, allows its customers to configure, estimate and manufacture complex products with many options, such as windows and doors.
While their children swam Tuesday at the Goodman Pool in Madison, Ploeger and Shuda thought such monthly checks are a good idea if they help cut child poverty and hunger. Ploeger said he would 100% support higher taxes on himself and others to pay for them.

Families that might have greater need, I think it would have huge benefit for them potentially, said Ploeger, whose children are 7 and 10. The last thing we want is children going hungry in the midst of a very affluent city and a very affluent state and the most affluent country in the world.

Shuda, whose children are 4 and 7, said that because her daughter was learning from home during the pandemic, she and her partner ended up paying more for child care last year, and that paying for child care for both when they were younger was very expensive.

With payments to families, I think far more people would be able to work  that financial burden of covering child cares really difficult, she said. A lot of people have to quit working to stay home.
Its not surprising that hes not doing something necessarily kind of big and splashy and attention-seeking because hes really just focused on doing the work and getting things done, Baldauff said. And I think hes got a lot to show for that approach.

Given Wisconsins position as a battleground state that has become increasingly purple over the years, Scholz said he expects the attorney general election to be a close, competitive race. He said it will likely be a one- to two-point spread between Kaul and whichever conservative challenger wins the primary.

This race is not going to be easy, Kaul acknowledged during Saturdays event.

Scholz said Toney and Owens are also both quality candidates that he could see Republicans getting excited about.

It certainly could be a race that gets people enthused, he said.

The next test for all the candidates, including Kaul, is whether theyll raise enough money to put together a strong campaign, Scholz said. He said even candidates who look strong on paper could fall short if they dont raise enough money.

The first window into how much money Kaul, Toney and Owens have raised in 2021 will come Thursday with the campaign finance filing deadline.
The Burlington teacher should have stressed to students that no evidence of widespread fraud has been found that could have changed the outcome of the 2020 election results. Biden won, and Trump lost. The fair election is over.

Yet the Burlington teacher delivered at least one important lesson: Dont live in a bubble, he told his students. Youre already in one if youve blocked friends who disagree with you on social media, all the trusted people in your life are ideologically aligned, you only receive news from agreeable sources, you refuse to discuss or respect political differences.

Rather than searching for offense in classrooms, state lawmakers should trust local school boards, teachers and students to foster open discussions  including about race and racism. Students need to know the hard and disturbing truth about slavery, segregation, the Tuskegee experiment and the Tulsa massacre, for example. They need  and want  to study current events, such as the police killing of George Floyd.

Our nation has many flaws and challenges. It also has made lots of progress, thanks to the freedoms we enjoy.
Roger greeted Anderson in his own way  by promptly plopping down in her lap.

He just came over to sniff me, and then he sat in my lap and rolled over and gave me his belly, so I knew that he remembered it was me, Anderson said. No one else can touch him. And I would try to walk away and he would be like, No, youre not leaving. 

Seeing Roger again felt surreal, Anderson said. The whole drive home, she kept looking in the backseat to make sure he was still there.

Rogers next stop was the vet. Miraculously, Anderson said, he weighed exactly the same as he had when hed gone missing. He had two ticks on him and a piece of cheatgrass in an ear, but was otherwise in excellent health.

A week after coming home, Roger is still settling back in. Anderson said his separation anxiety and skittishness has regressed to where it was when she first adopted him, and she knows it will take months of hard work to help him progress. For now, shes just enjoying every moment they have together.

Were just going to be training and hanging out with him and just enjoying life, because it is so good and Im so lucky, she said. Its unreal.
The superseding indictment indicates that Maurino, Duncan, Kryscuk and an unnamed person met in Boise for live-fire weapons training somewhere outside of the city in July 2020. Duncan drove to Idaho and was seen unloading heavy boxes at Kryscuks home somewhere in Boise, according to federal officials. At that time Kryscuk was living in Boise and Duncan was living at an Air Force base in San Antonio, Texas.

During the training, prosecutors say, the group made a video while shooting short barrel rifles and assault-style rifles. At the end of the video, the four are seen giving a Heil Hitler sign and are wearing skull masks associated with the Atomwaffen Division, a terrorist neo-Nazi organization that is connected to multiple murders in the United States. The last frame of the video featured the phrase come home white man.

All of the men were current or former members of the military at the time of their charges. Prosecutors say Collins and Duncan are former Marines who were previously assigned to Camp Lejeune in Jacksonville, North Carolina. At the time of the alleged crimes, Hermanson was still enlisted in the Marine Corps at Camp Lejeune.
BUHL  A Proud Boys float was one of nearly 100 that went through the center of town during last weekends Sagebrush Days parade.

The men accompanying the float wore the black and yellow polo shirts often associated with the far-right group, while they carried an American flag and a black flag with the yellow letters P.B.

The organization, which has locally run chapters throughout the country, describes itself as a pro-Western fraternal organization for men who refuse to apologize for creating the modern world; aka Western Chauvinists, according to the U.S. Department of Justice.

Organizations such as the Southern Poverty Law Center and the Anti-Defamation League have labeled the organization as a hate group.

Caitlin Patten, who has lived in Buhl for six years, is concerned that a local chapter of this organization participated in the parade, given the groups national reputation and its connection with the Jan. 6 breach of the U.S. Capitol.

Im very concerned that a group that (is) nationally known as a hate group was allowed into a small town family-friendly parade, Patten said in a Facebook message to the Times-News. Whether or not the local group is more moderate or not, they are representing that name and that reputation.
One day after the announcement, TC Energy, the Canadian pipeline company that sought to build the Keystone XL pipeline, announced that it was terminating the project, a 1,700-mile pipeline intended to carry 800,000 barrels of oil a day from Alberta to the Gulf Coast, passing through five states, including South Dakota.

Although the wind and pipeline industries are different sides of the climate change coin, both were considered economic lifelines to small-town South Dakota. Both promised economic stability and a revenue stream that would keep many towns hopping until tourism hit its stride once again.

We are a smallish community of 28,000 people, so 300 jobs is a big deal, said the family member of a worker. Granted, two facilities in town, 3M and Banner Engineering, have recently doubled capacity, so most of the hourly employees should be absorbed by that, she said. However, some of these people have been with the company since 2008. How do you start over after 13 years?

It is a question that has been asked by many Americans in manufacturing jobs, who have had to compete with cheaper overseas products for generations. And it is a question many workers in the energy industry may be asking soon.

Salena Zito is a CNN political analyst, and a staff reporter and columnist for the Washington Examiner. She reaches the Everyman and Everywoman through shoe-leather journalism, traveling from Main Street to the beltway and all places in between.

Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0
Duppstadt said that was the case for them.

We closed for I think six weeks because nobody knew what the heck was going to happen, he said. But once we did, we were busier during the pandemic than we usually were. People told us they wanted to come to a place they trusted and felt comfortable in, waited on by people they know. They also said they wanted to come to a place where they knew where everything came from.

That is not surprising. The Edelman Trust Barometer shows trust in large businesses has been falling for at least a decade. People still hold large businesses in higher esteem than they do the government and the media. Still, as the younger generation puts more pressure on large corporations to adhere to social justice orthodoxy, that trust is likely to suffer.

Thats because more Americans feel comfortable with local businesses that traditionally stay out of political issues.

When you come to this general store, no one will lecture you  unless, that is, you dont close the screen door behind you.
But whichever employee looked the pontoon over for a routine inspection discovered the first quagga mussel thats ever been detected in Yellowstone. An equally concerning nonnative mollusk, the zebra mussel, was found in the park once before in 2017, Mills said, after hitching a ride to the Rockies on a Michigan boat that was also caught by AIS inspectors and decontaminated before it was allowed to launch.

The Yellowstone visitors who rented the Salt Lake City-area pontoon with a quagga mussel stowaway this year didnt get that chance  the rig wasnt allowed to enter the water.

The biological risk was just too high to let that boat launch, Mills said. Luckily, they did have a second boat with them, so they were able to complete their trip.

The infested vessel, Mills explained, was deemed worthy of a high risk inspection from the start. Thats because of where it originated from, not far from the southwestern United States waters where quagga mussels have taken over. The style of boat also was a factor because it is likely to stay in the water for an extended period of time. Plus, it was a rental that could have been anywhere.
Default cases happen frequently  in more than 40% of cases since 2019, according to an EdNews analysis  but Colon Durham says Connor was the first to raise concerns with the PSC about notifications in the default process. Default cases happen for a number of reasons, Colon Durham said, and the PSC does not track how often they occur because the commission couldnt get in touch with a teacher.

Connor was disciplined in January of 2021, and his teaching certificate suspended for a year, when the commission found he breached his contract with the Plummer-Worley school district. After he spoke with the PSC in June, commissioners voted to revise his discipline in the case.

After starting the 2019-20 school year in Plummer-Worley, Connor said he got into a housing bind. Faced with the prospect of living in his car during a North Idaho winter, Connor resigned only months into his teaching contract and moved to California. Connors resignation was not accepted by the Plummer-Worley school board, according to PSC documents, and he was disciplined for failing to fulfill the terms of his contract.

We didnt have that specific information before, because we didnt get a response to the complaint, Schwab said. We didnt know any particulars, all we got was the school district saying he breached his contract.
A: Where the vehicles are is going to be the answers I give. If the vehicles are parked on the street and have not been moved for over 48 hours then the vehicle could be assumed abandoned and be towed after tagged for removal after 48 hours if not moved.

As far as citation I dont believe the owner could be cited under state code as it is more for traffic hazards that are parked in the lane of travel.

Now as far as being on somebodies property, if the owner of the property did not own the car that car could be tagged for 48 hour removal but an attempt to contact the owner must be made. If the vehicle was not removed by then, the vehicle could be removed per land owners request. I will let you know that some agencies make the home owner call a tow service to remove the vehicle.

If there was an ordinance dealing with either of these situations then a citation could be the result as well as towing fees but that again would be determined by ordinance and the court.

Officer down

Please put these officers, killed in the line of duty, and their families in your prayers. They fought the good fight, now may they rest in peace. God bless these heroes.
Now, heres the hook: Throughout life, opportunities occur. Sometimes, we are able to take advantage of them; other times, we do not even recognize they existed until after they are gone. We might ask ourselves various questions: Are we paying attention to the surrounding landscape? Do we prepare for and then recognize the opportunities so we can take advantage of them while they are here? When opportunities present themselves, do we have all the equipment necessary to take full advantage of them, or will we simply allow ourselves to be swept up, tossed about and then left high and dry?
Fun fact: It took special counsel Robert Mueller less than two years to release his report into Russian interference in the 2016 election, dubbed Crossfire Hurricane. Its been more than two years since then Attorney General William Barr named John Durham to head a probe into the origins of the Russian investigation.

One investigation resulted in a raft of indictments and convictions. The other, not so much, probably because Durham is more scrupulous than the Mueller team.

Were still interested in the results of John Durhams investigation, Steve Groves, a former aide to President Donald Trump now with the Heritage Foundation, told me. And now that his investigation has lasted longer than the Mueller investigation, hopefully well learn about his findings soon.

For his troubles, Mueller can boast a long list of scalps. That might lead the public to believe his team uncovered massive wrongdoing in the Trump campaign. Thats not the case.

The March 2019 Mueller report found that Russia did try to tilt the presidential race in Trumps favor, but the probe did not establish that members of the Trump Campaign conspired or coordinated with the Russian government in its election interference activities. Thats right: no collusion.
Until it doesas both the highly professional Mr. Irwin, and a few unbelievably dim Yellowstone visitors inevitably find out.

So what is the value of our national parks? Is it to provide us with tame, picture-postcard, green-screen-style backdrops for the benefit of our Facebook feed and our desire to appear larger to ourselves than we actually are? Or is it to more fully connect our parched and citified souls with the nature that formed and still forms our human naturea nature comprised of equal parts beauty and violence?

Personally, I think national parks exist to remind us of the raw and primeval world from which we emergedeither as protozoa or Adam and Eve, take your pick. Either way, the nagging truth remains that we are not as far from our elemental roots as we like to think we are. We can tell ourselves that we have moved beyond our primeval stirrings, but more often were just ignoring them.

In a world of streaming screens, our national parks remind us of how far we have strayed. Many are deeply changed by visiting a national park. But some resolutely refuse to learn the lessons the wilderness is trying to teach them.

And those are the ones who attempt to pet and play with baby bears and bison. The results, I suppose, are just natures way of thinning the herd.

Chris Huston is an author and award-winning columnist living in the Magic Valley. Connect with Chris on Facebook and Instagram at Chris Huston-Finding My Way and at chrishustonauthor.com.

Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0
Then theres snarky Wayne, who sees government evil everywhere, particularly in the funding of public schools, but whos never been elected to anything but a rightist precinct position. Govern? These inquisitors couldnt find their way out of an empty paper bag.

The so so-called proof of indoctrination at Boise State University, which Hoffmans Idaho Slavery Foundation hypes, just turns out to depend on an unproduced, so-called video which now cant be found, but which supposedly fingered by (wait for it) an Idaho legislator, who conveniently hasnt stepped forward.

Humm. You dont have to be Sherlock Holmes to wonder if one of McGeachins legislative hotties was the source of this manufactured account which is now suddenly unavailable. Its an old trick of propogandists everywhere: make a whispered allegation, which then gets reported by slanted media, which then serves it up as true in subsequent huff- and-puff commentary. You just invent what you cant find otherwise, ala the Gulag Archipelago of the Soviet Union or the Brown Shirts of the Third Reich.
So, by gollies, Greg is taking action! On our dime, of course. His big plan? Build a wall! Yes, obviously demented by an advanced case of Gubernatorious Imbecilious, the extent of Abbotts creativity is an insane repeat of Donnie Trumps failed boondoggle of a border wall. To fund his goofy political gambit, the governor has expropriated $250 million from the states meager budget to secure our border. Apparently, no one has told the governor that $250 million would build less than 10 miles of wall on our 1,200-mile border with Mexico ... and wont keep anyone from crossing.

But failure seems to be built into Abbotts DNA. He oversees a state power grid so feeble that it failed in February, killing more than 150 Texans; he has left 5 million of our people without health coverage, more than any other state; and he presides over a crumbling state infrastructure network that cant score better than a D grade.

Did I mention that Abbott wants to run for president? Not of the Insane Governors Club, but of America! Seriously.

Its one thing to strive for herd immunity to defeat a coronavirus, but in politics, the herd instinct can send a whole species over a cliff.
Please log in to keep reading.

Enjoy unlimited articles at one of our lowest prices ever.
Broadband survey for city, county

Henry County is asking residents of the county and Martinsville to participate in a new survey designed to pinpoint the most significant gaps in the areas broadband coverage.

Residents of both Henry County and the city of Martinsville may take part in the survey which will be available until Sept. 15.

Because the region is considered by the Federal Communications Commission to be a lower priority to receive federal and state grants to expand broadband, public participation is needed to help provide a fuller picture of how many people dont have access to broadband, a release from the county said.

The survey, created in partnership with ECC Technologies, will help to determine where broadband users are unserved or underserved. The data will then be used to develop a digital map of the areas internet providers and resources.

The survey is not designed to help or promote any one particular vendor. It is for information-gathering purposes only and will ask participants to include their addresses and answers to other optional questions related to demographics. Residents also will be able to conduct a speed test on their networks. The survey continues through Sept. 15.
Not only is PHCC the first college in Virginia to have this international recognition, but TBIC also provided us with strong confirmation that our programs are meeting needs for both our students and the local economy, PHCC Vice President of Economic and Community Development Rhonda Hodges said in the release.

Averett nursing accredited, too

The Averett University School of Nursing recently received accreditation by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, which is one of the most recognized accrediting agencies in the country, the school said in a release.

Averetts traditional, on-campus, 4-year bachelors in nursing degree program was re-accredited for 10 years  the maximum number of years allowed  and this is the programs second time to receive accreditation from CCNE.

Averetts Master of Science in nursing received accreditation for 5 years, the maximum allowed for initial licensure for a new program, and the post-graduate advanced practiced registered nurses certificate program received was accredited for 10.

It signifies that a program is among the best of the best, a distinction that enables it to attract motivated, top-performing students, Averetts School of Nursings Interim Dean Teresa Beach said in a release.
In this July 6, 2021, file photo, a patient receives a Johnson & Johnson vaccine against COVID-19 in Hammanskraal, South Africa. New infections in South Africa rose to record levels in recent days, part of a rapid rise across the continent, and experts say the surge here has not yet peaked. South Africa reimposed several restrictions, and its vaccination drive is finding its feet after several stumbles. But even as the campaign gathers pace, experts say it's too late to reduce the deadly impact of the current spike. Credit: AP Photo/Alet Pretorius, File

Some in wheelchairs, others on canes, hundreds of South Africans waited recently on the ramps of an open-air Johannesburg parking garage to get their COVID-19 vaccine shots. Despite the masks, social distancing and blustery weather of the Southern Hemisphere winter, a celebratory atmosphere took hold.

"What a relief!" said Vincent Damon, a 63-year-old electrical technician, after getting his second dose. "In the last four days, I've lost four friends. All of them under 60. This pandemic has gotten worse. It's frightening."

New infections in South Africa rose to record levels in recent days, part of a rapid rise across the continent, and experts say the surge here hasn't yet peaked. To fight the new wave, South Africa reimposed several restrictions, including shutting restaurants and bars and limiting alcohol salesand its vaccination drive is finding its feet after several stumbles.

But even as the campaign gathers pace, experts say it's too late to reduce the deadly impact of the current spike. Instead, South Africa is now rushing to vaccinate enough of its 60 million people to blunt the impact of the next inevitable surge.

"Our vaccination campaign is gathering momentum, but obviously it's too late to do much in terms of reducing the impact of this current resurgence we're experiencing, which by all accounts is going to completely dwarf what we experienced either in the first or second waves in South Africa," said Shabir Madhi, dean of health sciences and professor of vaccinology at the University of Witwatersrand.

In this July 7, 2021, file photo, a health care worker helps as a COVID-19 patient arrives by ambulance at the Brackengate Hospital of Hope, in Cape Town, South Africa. New infections in South Africa rose to record levels in recent days, part of a rapid rise across the continent, and experts say the surge here has not yet peaked. South Africa reimposed several restrictions, and its vaccination drive is finding its feet after several stumbles. But even as the campaign gathers pace, experts say it's too late to reduce the deadly impact of the current spike. Credit: AP Photo/Nardus Engelbrecht, File

South Africa accounts for more than 35% of the 5.8 million cases recorded by Africa's 54 countries, although it is home to just over 4% of the continent's population. The seven-day rolling average of daily deaths in the country more than doubled over the past two weeks to more than 360 fatalities per day on July 9.

Its troubles reflect a broader trend. Neighboring Zimbabwe went back into lockdown on July 6, and Congo, Rwanda, Senegal and Zambia are among the 16 African countries battling the new surge of infections sweeping across the continent.

"Africa has just marked the continent's most dire pandemic week ever. But the worst is yet to come as the fast-moving third wave continues to gain speed and new ground," said Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, the World Health Organization's regional director for Africa.

In this July 6, 2021, file photo, patients, wait to be vaccinated against COVID-19 in Hammanskraal, South Africa. New infections in South Africa rose to record levels in recent days, part of a rapid rise across the continent, and experts say the surge here has not yet peaked. South Africa reimposed several restrictions, and its vaccination drive is finding its feet after several stumbles. But even as the campaign gathers pace, experts say it's too late to reduce the deadly impact of the current spike. Credit: AP Photo/Alet Pretorius, File

"The end to this precipitous rise is still weeks away. Cases are doubling now every 18 days, compared with every 21 days only a week ago," she added Thursday.

The current upsurge comes while the continent's vaccination rates are painfully low: Just 16 million, or less than 2%, of Africa's 1.3 billion people are now fully vaccinated, according to the WHO.

More than 4 million South Africans, or about 6.5%, have received at least one dose, with 1.3 million fully vaccinated, according to government figures Saturday. Still, the drive is picking up speed after a bumpy campaign so far, marked by missteps and bad luck.

Although South African President Cyril Ramaphosa was quick to respond to COVID-19 and put the country into one of the world's strictest lockdowns in March last year, his officials were slow to place firm orders for vaccines, say critics.

In this July 5 2021, file photo, a policeman receives his Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine in Soweto, South Africa. New infections in South Africa rose to record levels in recent days, part of a rapid rise across the continent, and experts say the surge here has not yet peaked. South Africa reimposed several restrictions, and its vaccination drive is finding its feet after several stumbles. But even as the campaign gathers pace, experts say it's too late to reduce the deadly impact of the current spike. Credit: AP Photo/Alet Pretorius, File

This appeared to be resolved when South Africa's first delivery of vaccines1 million doses of AstraZenecaarrived in February. Just as the government was to begin administering the shots to front-line health care workers, a small study showed that AstraZeneca provided low protection against the beta variant, which was dominant in South Africa at the time. The AstraZeneca vaccines were scrapped, and South Africa quickly pivoted to Johnson & Johnson, which was still in testing but appeared to show protection against the mutation.

At first, South Africa received such small shipments of the J&J doses that its campaign lurched from week to week. But then a South African pharmaceutical firm was contracted by J&J to produce its vaccine, using large batches of ingredients sent from the U.S. The South African company, Aspen Pharmacare, has the capacity to assemble and package more than 200 million doses of the J&J vaccine per year, one of very few firms in all of Africa with that capability.

But just as the first 2 million J&J doses produced by Aspen were about to be used to kick start South Africa's sputtering vaccination drive, the U.S. drug regulator recommended a pause in the distribution of the vaccine over concerns about rare blood clots. The suspension was brief, but South Africa eventually had to discard its doses because they were made with materials provided by a U.S. factory where there were concerns about contamination.

In this June 23, 2021, file photo, a family walks past a mural promoting vaccination for COVID-19 in Duduza township, east of Johannesburg, South Africa. New infections in South Africa rose to record levels in recent days, part of a rapid rise across the continent, and experts say the surge here has not yet peaked. South Africa reimposed several restrictions, and its vaccination drive is finding its feet after several stumbles. But even as the campaign gathers pace, experts say it's too late to reduce the deadly impact of the current spike. Credit: AP Photo/Themba Hadebe, File

A further obstacle came when Health Minister Zweli Mkhize was suspended amid a corruption scandal in which his family members are accused of benefitting from an inflated government contract.

This all exacted a toll on South Africa's vaccination drive. By the middle of May, the country had inoculated just 40% of its 1.25 million health care workersa segment of the population it had hoped to be finished vaccinating by that time before moving on to the general public.

In recent weeks, the supply issues have eased: Large shipments are arriving weekly of the 40 million Pfizer doses that South Africa purchased. The country is getting another 31 million J&J vaccines, most assembled in South Africa. Vaccinations began for those 60 and over in late May, and schoolteachers and police officers became eligible for vaccines in June. In early July, shots opened up to those age 50 and over, and later this month the eligibility will be expanded to those 35 and older.

In this June 23, 2021, file photo, a teacher receives the single-dose Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine from a healthcare worker at Roshnee Civic Center, south of Johannesburg, South Africa. New infections in South Africa rose to record levels in recent days, part of a rapid rise across the continent, and experts say the surge here has not yet peaked. South Africa reimposed several restrictions, and its vaccination drive is finding its feet after several stumbles. But even as the campaign gathers pace, experts say it's too late to reduce the deadly impact of the current spike. Credit: AP Photo/Themba Hadebe, File

In this July 5 2021, file photo a policeman receives his Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine in Soweto, South Africa. New infections in South Africa rose to record levels in recent days, part of a rapid rise across the continent, and experts say the surge here has not yet peaked. South Africa reimposed several restrictions, and its vaccination drive is finding its feet after several stumbles. But even as the campaign gathers pace, experts say it's too late to reduce the deadly impact of the current spike. Credit: AP Photo/Alet Pretorius/File

In this June 11, 2021, file photo, Catherine Daries, 87, in a wheelchair, is helped after receiving a first dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine at a vaccination center, at the Karl Bremer Hospital, in Cape Town, South Africa. New infections in South Africa rose to record levels in recent days, part of a rapid rise across the continent, and experts say the surge here has not yet peaked. South Africa reimposed several restrictions, and its vaccination drive is finding its feet after several stumbles. But even as the campaign gathers pace, experts say it's too late to reduce the deadly impact of the current spike. Credit: AP Photo/Nardus Engelbrecht, File

In this July 6, 2021, file photo, a health worker prepares a vaccine against COVID-19 in Hammanskraal, South Africa. New infections in South Africa rose to record levels in recent days, part of a rapid rise across the continent, and experts say the surge here has not yet peaked. South Africa reimposed several restrictions, and its vaccination drive is finding its feet after several stumbles. But even as the campaign gathers pace, experts say it's too late to reduce the deadly impact of the current spike. Credit: AP Photo/Alet Pretorius, File

In this July 6, 2021, file photo, a patients receives a Johnson & Johnson vaccine against COVID-19 in Hammanskraal, South Africa. New infections in South Africa rose to record levels in recent days, part of a rapid rise across the continent, and experts say the surge here has not yet peaked. South Africa reimposed several restrictions, and its vaccination drive is finding its feet after several stumbles. But even as the campaign gathers pace, experts say it's too late to reduce the deadly impact of the current spike. Credit: AP Photo/Alet Pretorius/File

In this May 17, 2021, file photo, Anglican Archbishop Emeritus, Desmond Tutu, left, and his wife Leah leave, after receiving shots of the COVID-19 vaccine, at the Brooklyn Chest Hospital in Cape Town, South Africa. New infections in South Africa rose to record levels in recent days, part of a rapid rise across the continent, and experts say the surge here has not yet peaked. South Africa reimposed several restrictions, and its vaccination drive is finding its feet after several stumbles. But even as the campaign gathers pace, experts say it's too late to reduce the deadly impact of the current spike. Credit: AP Photo/Nardus Engelbrecht, File

Vaccination sites have multiplied from a few dozen to several hundred, and the country soon hopes to be on pace to inoculate two-thirds of its population by the end of February.

The increased supply can be seen at the vaccine center atop the Johannesburg parking garage. It started giving about 200 shots per day when it opened in May. In the first week of July it reached 1,000 a day and last week it was jabbing 2,000 daily, according to workers at the busy site.

Even if the country can manage to get about half of the population over 40 vaccinated in the coming months, expert Salim Abdool Karim said he thought it would blunt the impact of another surge.

"We could basically avert a significant fourth wave, maybe it could just be a minor fourth wave," said Abdool Karim, who is director of the Center for the AIDS Program of Research in South Africa. "But that is contingent on one thing: that we do not have to fight a new variant. As we've seen with the beta and delta variants, a new one could change everything."

 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
Novel Coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 Transmission electron micrograph of SARS-CoV-2 virus particles, isolated from a patient. Image captured and color-enhanced at the NIAID Integrated Research Facility (IRF) in Fort Detrick, Maryland. Credit: National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, NIH

Researchers in Belgium report on the case of a 90-year-old woman who was simultaneously infected with two different variants of concern (VOCs) of COVID-19, in a Case Report being presented at the European Congress of Clinical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases (ECCMID) held online this year.

On March 3 2021, the woman, whose medical history was unremarkable, was admitted to the OLV Hospital in the Belgian city of Aalst after a spate of falls. She tested positive for COVID-19 on the same day. She lived alone and received nursing care at home, and had not been vaccinated against COVID-19.

Initially, there were no signs of respiratory distress and the patient had good oxygen saturation. However, she developed rapidly worsening respiratory symptoms, and died five days later.

When the patient's respiratory sample was tested for VOCs with PCR, they discovered that she had been infected by two different strains of the virusone which originated in the UK, known as B.1.1.7 (Alpha), and another that was first detected in South Africa (B.1.351; Beta).

The presence of both strains was confirmed by PCR on a second respiratory sample, by sequencing of the S-gene and by whole genome sequencing.

"This is one of the first documented cases of co-infection with two SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern", says lead author and molecular biologist Dr. Anne Vankeerberghen from the OLV Hospital in Aalst, Belgium. "Both these variants were circulating in Belgium at the time, so it is likely that the lady was co-infected with different viruses from two different people. Unfortunately, we don't know how she became infected."

On December 14, 2020, the UK authorities informed WHO that a variant (B.1.1.7; Alpha) had been detected in the south east of England (Kent). Within a few weeks, this variant took over from the viral strains circulating in this region, and has since spread to more than 50 countries, including Belgium. On December 18, 2020, the South African authorities reported that a variant (B.1.351; Beta) had been detected and was spreading rapidly throughout three provinces of South Africa, and has now been identified in at least 40 countries, including Belgium.

In January 2021, scientists in Brazil reported that two people had been simultaneously infected with two different strains of the coronavirusthe Brazilian variant known as B.1.1.28 (E484K) and a novel variant VUI-NP13L, which had previously been discovered in Rio Grande do Sul. But the study has yet to be published in a scientific journal [1]. Previous research has reported people infected with different influenza strains [2].

"Whether the co-infection of the two variants of concern played a role in the fast deterioration of the patient is difficult to say", says Vankeerberghen. "Up to now, there have been no other published cases. However, the global occurrence of this phenomenon is probably underestimated due to limited testing for variants of concern and the lack of a simple way to identify co-infections with whole genome sequencing."

She continues, "Since co-infections with variants of concern can only be detected by VOC-analysis of positive samples, we would encourage scientists to perform fast, easy and cheap VOC-analysis by PCR on a large proportion of their positive samples, rather than just whole genome sequencing on a small proportion. Independent of the technique used, being alert to co-infections remains crucial."

Explore further Study evaluates potential causes of increased transmission in SARS-CoV-2 variants

More information: [1] Pervasive transmission of E484K and emergence of VUI-NP13L with evidence of SARS-CoV-2 co-infection events by two different lineages in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil | medRxiv [1] Pervasive transmission of E484K and emergence of VUI-NP13L with evidence of SARS-CoV-2 co-infection events by two different lineages in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil | medRxiv www.medrxiv.org/content/10.110  021.01.21.21249764v1 [2] Natural co-infection of influenza A/H3N2 and A/H1N1pdm09 viruses resulting in a reassortant A/H3N2 virus - ScienceDirect www.sciencedirect.com/science/  ii/S1386653215007404 ECCMID ABSTRACT 04978: Case report: a 90-year-old lady infected with two CoVID-19 VoCs: 20I/501Y.V1 and 20H/501Y.V2

Provided by European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases
She is frustrated with tools, such as the gas tax, being taken away by the state Legislature, she said. Educating and communicating efficiently about taxes and property appraisals is also important.

"We should be able to, as a community, look at ways that we can generate revenue from all the people that come to visit Missoula in the summer," Gilels said. "We are a destination and people pay those taxes and fees everywhere else in the country they go."

Tax increment funding has been a hot topic in Missoula over the years, and she wants to take a "judicious" look and have "scrutiny" when considering it, she said. They do have value and are an important funding tool for creating affordable housing and city infrastructure, she added.

She also wants better ways to communicate to the public what those funds are being used for.

"I think they're incredibly important and without it, there are a whole lot of things we wouldn't have (like) the Food Bank building, Caras Park ... our sidewalks and lighting (and) affordable housing resources we're now able to allocate," Gilels said.

Neighborhood councils are a key part of citizen involvement in local government, she said, and she would like to see them come together and help find solutions to city problems.
BEIJING (AP)  China on Sunday said it will take necessary measures to respond to the U.S. blacklisting of Chinese companies over their alleged role in abuses of Uyghur people and other Muslim ethnic minorities.

The Commerce Ministry said the U.S. move constituted an unreasonable suppression of Chinese enterprises and a serious breach of international economic and trade rules.

China will take necessary measures to firmly safeguard Chinese companies legitimate rights and interests, the ministry's statement said.

No details were given, but China has denied allegations of arbitrary detention and forced labor in the far western region of Xinjiang and increasingly responded to sanctions against companies and officials with its own bans on visas and financial links.

The U.S. Commerce Department said in a statement Friday that the electronics and technology firms and other businesses helped enable Beijings campaign of repression, mass detention and high-technology surveillance against Muslim minorities in Xinjiang.
The thing about borders is they have two sides.

In order for the United States to reopen its northern border successfully, it must first have an understanding with those on the other side: the Canadian government.

Count Montanans among those border-sharing state residents frustrated by the fact that travel across this crucial border, although gradually loosening, is still restricted, and that no clear plan has been set forth to help Montana communities prepare for the remaining weeks of the summer tourism season.

It really is in Canadas lap, but I thought it would be open by now, U.S. Sen. Jon Tester told the Missoulians Editorial Board last week.

Hes not the only one. The calls to fully reopen the northern border, or at least come up with a plan for doing so, have been ramping up in recent weeks, and are coming from businesses, industry associations and members of Congress on both sides of the aisle. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, for one, last week called on both U.S. and Canadian officials to set out a plan for reopening, and urged U.S. authorities to take the first move in good faith to safely reopen the border to vaccinated Canadians.
If youve ever been on a date with someone who got up to go to the restroom and never came back, you know how Afghan officers at Bagram Airfield felt when they woke up the other day to find the American military gone.

According to the Afghans, our units vacated in the middle of the night without so much as a goodbye, cutting off the electricity on their way out. The sudden departure gave looters a chance to ransack some barracks before the Afghan military established control.

The American experience in Afghanistan has produced a lot of tragedy, but even tragedies can include moments of farce. Its conceivable that the U.S. commander decided to escape without an awkward breakup conversation.

The U.S. says it coordinated its withdrawal with the Afghan government. Its entirely believable that the Afghan military received a notification but, due to bureaucratic lethargy or simple bungling, never got around to acting on it.

In any event, the U.S. has completed 90% of its pullout from the country where our forces have been fighting for nearly 20 years. We are not leaving in the glow of victory but with the fragrance of failure. Our best efforts were never enough to stamp out the Taliban and establish a secure and democratic government in Kabul.
For those of you who may not go back to that time, I served as Chief Executive of Butte Silver Bow from 1979 to 1989, a period when Butte lost our mining operations under the Anaconda Company (later ARCO), suffered other significant economic dislocations and became a plant closure city whose obituary was announced nationally on the NBC Nightly News by anchor Tom Brokaw.

But it was also a time when Butte, like a Phoenix, rose from the ashes and in 1988 became an All-American City. When I was honored to be selected as one of the top twenty mayors in America in 1987 by U.S. News and World Report, it reflected not just my leadership but also reflected the strength of community vision that we fostered at that time and the concerted action of thousands of Butte citizens in pursuit of that vision.

I believe that the Butte vision at that time allowed us to pursue our dream economy in a way that captured the collective energy of all Butte citizens. That did not happen by accident. More than 1,500 of Buttes community leaders attended many professional seminars put on by a top U.S. consultant to teach us the most effective techniques for creating a vision for our towns future. Sure, there were the naysayers, but in the can do spirit we rolled up our sleeves and we went from there.
CHICAGO (AP)  Law enforcement officers in Chicago fatally shot a 33-year-old man who pointed a gun at them as they tried to arrest him Friday, authorities said.

The shooting occurred about 9:40 a.m. in the West Garfield Park neighborhood as members of a fugitive task force were trying to serve an arrest warrant for aggravated criminal sexual assault with a firearm, Chicago police Superintendent David O. Brown told reporters.

A group of law enforcement officers identified the man, but he wouldnt get out of the vehicle he was in and pointed a gun at the officers, Brown said.

Three Chicago police officers and a U.S. marshal opened fire. It wasn't immediately clear if the man fired any shots.

Police spokesman Tom Ahern told the Chicago Tribune that the man was taken to Mount Sinai Medical Center in grave condition and later died.

No officers were wounded, but the four who fired shots were taken to a hospital for evaluation, Brown said.
The Chemtool fire rattled the community, displaced residents, and took the combined resources and efforts of several fire departments to get under control. Although the flames have been extinguished, the hazard posed to the public and the environment continues, and Chemtool owes the community more information, Raoul said. My office, in collaboration with the Winnebago County States Attorneys office will ensure that Chemtool is held responsible for evaluating the extent of the contamination and thoroughly remediating the damage.

Lubrizol, which owns the Chemtool plant, said in a statement this week that it has started to outline the scope of the site cleanup and working with local and state authorities on a plan.

We remain devastated by the fire at our Rockton Chemtool site and the impact on the local community, spokesman Cody Adams said Friday in a response to the lawsuit. Throughout this event, we have been working with state and federal regulators to address their concerns and the needs of residents and will continue to do so.

The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency said Friday that samples taken from the area show air and water, including in all wells used as a water source for Rockton residents, are safe. The agency worked with the Illinois National Guard to conduct the sampling, as well as with other state and federal agencies, including the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

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

Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0
A lone passenger wearing a protective face mask stands on a deserted train platform at Circular Quay during a lockdown to curb the spread of a coronavirus disease outbreak in Sydney, Australia, July 1, 2021.
You have permission to edit this article.

Edit Close
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.
Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, center, with his daughter, Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio, left, and longtime aide, Sen. Bong Go, pose for a photo in Tokyo, Japan on Oct. 22, 2019.
The African Network Information Centre (Afrinic) has confiscated over 6 million Internet Protocol addresses from controversial China-centred network service provider Cloud Innovation.

This trove of Internet Protocol (IP) resources was worth at least R1.8 billion on the open market, industry sources with knowledge of the IP reseller space told MyBroadband.

IP addresses are an essential and increasingly scarce resource.

For anyone to connect to the Internet or for any server to host content online, they need an IP address.

A block of IP addresses may be thought of as raw, undeveloped, Internet land.

Cloud Innovation is controversial in the African Internet community because of its hoard of IP addresses and because it appeared to mainly serve the Chinese market with these resources.

Although registered in the Seychelles, Cloud Innovation works hand in glove with a Hong Kong company called Larus Limited.

An analysis from Internet investigator Ron Guilmette in 2020 showed that around a sixth of Cloud Innovations IP address space was routed in Africa.

Afrinics seizure of the valuable IP addresses comes after Cloud Innovation launched legal action against the Internet registry in the Supreme Court of Mauritius and lost.

In a letter to members in May 2021, Afrinic CEO Eddy Kayihura stated that Cloud Innovation applied for an injunction after Afrinic informed the company that it breached its Registration Service Agreement.

Kayihura said that Afrinic provided Cloud Innovation with 30 days to remedy the breach, but the company elected instead to approach the court.

The application for injunction was set aside on 7 July, and the Afrinic board met the following day and decided to terminate Cloud Innovations membership with the organisation.

According to Kayihura, the board found that Cloud Innovation failed to honour its obligations under its Registration Service Agreement with Afrinic.

The resources previously allocated to Cloud Innovation Ltd will be frozen on the Afrinic WHOIS database, Kayihura explained.

If IP addresses are Internet real estate, then Afrinics WHOIS database is like the deeds office for all of African and the Indian Ocean region.

In order not to disrupt Internet connectivity of the relevant users especially in the current context of the Covid-19 pandemic, all affected users will exceptionally be granted a grace period of 90 days to consider other available options in their best interests, he said.

Consequently, the actual reclamation of the relevant number resources will occur following the expiry of the grace period.

MyBroadband contacted Kayihura and Cloud Innovation founder Lu Heng for comment on the matter.

Both men said that they would only respond to questions in the coming week, as permitted by their respective lawyers.

However, Heng pointed to a posting on a public mailing list summarising the complaints of some Afrinic members about what is happening.

Based on the complaint posted online, Cloud Innovation is not the only network service provider to receive a notice from Afrinic stating that it is in breach of its original Registration Service Agreement.

According to these complaints, Afrinic argues that it can review IP address allocations if a companys actual usage of a block of addresses no longer matches the original needs it justified its application with.

Afrinic has also reportedly stated that the Internet resources it allocates may not be used outside the African region.

The complainants dispute this.

When MyBroadband previously asked Heng about the controversy surrounding Cloud Innovations vast allocation of IP addresses, he said that there were no restrictions on how and where Afrinic-issued IP resources may be used until recently.

That understanding [that Afrinic resources should be used in Africa] was not part of Afrinic policy until Afrinic began issuing from its final /8 [16 million addresses], Heng stated.

Cloud Innovation does not have any Afrinic address space from the final /8. While there is a widespread community perspective that this should be applied retroactively, no such policy has ever gained consensus in the Afrinic community.

Heng said the claim that Cloud Innovation acquired this space while African ISPs struggled to get more than a /20 (4,096 addresses) or even a /22 (1,024 addresses) isnt valid.

At the time Cloud Innovation acquired our space from Afrinic, space was readily available to any provider with a justified need, he said.

Those struggles began after the soft landing policy kicked in, and Cloud Innovation has not received any space from Afrinic since that time.

Heng added that there is consensus around the world that Regional Internet Registries like Afrinic are for registration purposes only.

Routing is generally considered out of the scope of RIR policies. While some similar regional restrictive policies were proposed in almost all regions, none of them get passed, he said.

Moreover, we do realize the African Internet is underdeveloped, and we are doing everything we can to help Africa. Through our [Larus] foundation and other efforts, we have been working for years to widen participation in the policy process, especially by students and those just beginning their careers, to donate to African schools that need computers, and through other educational outreach.

Cloud Innovation is fighting to keep the following blocks of IP addresses:

45.192.0.0/12  1,048,576 addresses

154.80.0.0/12  1,048,576 addresses

154.192.0.0/11  2,097,152 addresses

156.224.0.0/11  2,097,152 addresses

Queries to the Afrinic WHOIS database for these blocks returns the following message:
President Cyril Ramaphosa is unlikely to move South Africa away from level 4 lockdown as the number of Covid-19 cases in South Africa remains high.

The National Coronavirus Command Council (NCCC) will meet today to assess developments in the Covid-19 pandemic and the national response to this challenge.

The NCCC meeting will be followed by meetings of the Presidents Coordinating Council and Cabinet.

These meetings come two weeks after Ramaphosa moved the country to Alert Level 4 to curb the spread of the virus.

The new level 4 lockdown regulations include a curfew between 21:00 to 04:00, a ban on alcohol sales, restrictions on gatherings, and closing schools by bringing holidays forward.

Leisure travel into and out of Gauteng, which is experiencing a devastating third wave, is also banned as a measure to limit the movement of the virus.

South Africas alcohol industry has warned that an extension of the alcohol ban will lead to the permanent loss of thousands of jobs, while the Restaurant Association of South Africa (RASA) has cautioned against extending the current lockdown rules, which it said will decimate the industry.

SA Medical Association vice-chairperson Dr Mvuyisi Mzukwa told the City Press that the organisation also believes the sale of alcohol for off-site consumption should now be allowed for the sake of the economy.

However, people looking for Ramaphosa to lift the current lockdown restrictions may be disappointed.

Citing well-placed sources, the City Press reported that the current level 4 lockdown regulations and the bulk of the stricter regulations are likely to be extended for another two weeks.

The Sunday Times also reported that the level 4 lockdown is likely to be extended, and that a relaxation of the alcohol ban is not believed to be on the cards.

Many experts, including Professor Alex van den Heever from the Wits School of Governance, shares this view.

Van den Heever said infections in most provinces remain high, and he expects Ramaphosa to announce an extension of the current lockdown rules.

Stellenbosch University chief economist Hugo Pienaar also predicted an extension as Covid-19 cases continue to rise in some provinces.

Irrespective of the dire impact on the hospitality, liquor, and aviation sectors, the state of the pandemic will make it very hard to relax the regulations, he said.

A source told SowetanLIVE, all indications are that the status quo will remain, with room for additional restrictions as Covid-19 infection numbers are still escalating.

While the lockdown rules are likely to be extended, schools are still set to open as initially planned.

Rapport reported that the Department of Basic Education recommended that schools reopen on 19 July after the holiday.

Department spokesman Elijah Mhlanga said they have received advice from the Ministerial Advisory Committee that schools should still open on 19 July.

Covid-19 cases in South Africa

The charts below, courtesy of Media Hack, show the daily confirmed Covid-19 cases in South Africa and the daily case trend per province.
On the north side of the tower at the first floor level is a partial, one-story porch with modestly detailed square support posts. The main entrance, or front door, into the building is within the this porch area. However, it is set in the northern facade of the tower. This placement is atypical for an Italian Villa or almost any residence of this era. Usually the front door is placed in plain view of the front walk or street.

The porch entablature is modestly ornamented with a plain molded cornice and paneled frieze that mimics the wall-roof-line junction entablature that wraps around the building; however, this paneled frieze is interrupted by decorative brackets.

Also, this entablature is set between the second and third floors of the tower. This placement creates the appearance the towers third floor is a separate cupola. One final typical Italian Villa style feature is the Sterling residences horizontal exterior wood siding.

The Italian Villa style is an uncommon variation of the Italianate style and comprises only about two-percent of Americas inventory of historic properties. While the Sterling residence is Napas example of this architectural rarity, its namesake, Robert H. Sterling, and his life were almost as unique as his one time Franklin street home.
Quality journalism doesn't happen without your help. Subscribe today! Support local news coverage and the people who report it by subscribing to the Napa Valley Register. Special offer: $1 for your first 3 months!

Its so nice, so nice being back here, said 15-year-old Taylor Buchanan of the St. Helena FFA chapter, about an hour before presenting the two pigs she has raised this year before several hundred spectators under the Expos livestock canopy.

I really love raising animals, so its a good experience. Seeing everyones faces together and having live voices again, and not just seeing numbers go up on a screen, she said, already clad in her FFA groups regulation white paints, shirt and blue jacket a half-hour before the bidding opened at 9 a.m.

Im so happy to see everyone again; its just so nice to see all the hustle and bustle again, said 17-year-old Kayla Maynard of American Canyon 4-H, whose pig Chunk was one of the first to be led from the animal pens to the pavilions stage during Saturdays five-hour event.

Faced with months of virtual classes followed by a virtual auction a year ago, she added,I prepared just as much as I would have, but it definitely was not as enjoyable. Its a year I wont forget; Im glad it probably wont happen again.
And the president should have junked the fake peace deal with the Taliban inked by former President Donald Trump that gifted the Taliban but undercut the Afghan government.

Instead, Biden insists the 300,000 Afghan troops and air force we trained can keep the Talibs at bay.

Sorry, lets get real. The lack of critical close U.S. air support  the Afghan air force is simply inadequate  now leaves Afghan cities vulnerable.

Moreover, the swift, total U.S. military withdrawal  and impact on air support  has clearly trashed Afghan military morale; soldiers are fleeing even in the north, once a bastion of anti-Taliban feeling. Yet Biden insisted Thursday that the Afghan army was fully capable of handling the fight.

Meantime, the Afghan government in Kabul seems paralyzed by fear. There was a false sense of security given to Afghan officials by the U.S. military and U.S. officials, says Roggio.

Bottom line: Afghanistan could implode from within, sooner rather than later. And the Biden team doesnt seem prepared for what that would mean.

Lets just look at the administrations handling of the morally fraught issue of evacuating translators who helped the U.S. military.
The process of delimitation and demarcation has no direct connection with Karabakh [(Artsakh)]; this should have been done 30 years ago. Modest Kolerov, the chief editor of Regnum news agency, told this to Armenian News-NEWS.am.

According to him, the negotiation process is rhetorical, regardless of the attempts in Armenia to replace with the OSCE Minsk Group format the trilateral statement on Karabakh signed between Armenia, Russia, and Azerbaijan, and this negotiation process is almost non-existent.

"Therefore, there is nothing to stop, and it is necessary to demarcate in any case; moreover, it should have been done 30 years ago. Armenia itself should have done that, so that tomorrow the inaccurately or unprofitably drawn border will not become a reason to protest that the Russians drew it that way," Kolerov said.

According to him, Armenia has lost Karabakh forever.

"Now the issue is something else. Will Armenian Karabakh be maintained thanks to Russian peacekeepers? It will not be maintained without them. What to do so that the Russian peacekeepers stay there? This is a separate issue and should be addressed. It is very good that Armenia is helping Karabakh with money, but in the future Armenia will not be able to have a bearing on the status of Karabakh," Modest Kolerov concluded.
The Armenian political circles must accept that a union of Armenia with Russia is the only way to survive as a state. Modest Kolerov, the chief editor of Regnum news agency, told this to Armenian News-NEWS.am.

Referring to the last meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Armenian acting PM Nikol Pashinyan, Kolerov said that each meeting has two sides, and each side has its tasks.

"What are Russia's tasks? To maintain the balance of power in Transcaucasia, to keep Armenia from state suicide as much as possible. The imbalance of forces in Transcaucasia threatens Russia as a Caucasian power. Pashinyan has a task to stay in power and solve the existing problems of his power without too close relations with Russia. From the outside, the situation seems catastrophic. Pashinyan's Armenia was capitulated in Karabakh, did not make every effort to defend it, and now Armenia does not even guard the border with Azerbaijan, it does not want to.

Each side has its own ideas about the border. Now the operative situation on the border is dictated by Azerbaijan, whereas Armenia does not defend itself, although it has all the rights to do so. Armenia wants Russia to defend its border with Azerbaijan, but the border has not been established. Armenia agrees that Russia should determine the border, delimit the border and, in general, do everything in Pashinyans stead.

Third, without Nagorno-Karabakh, Armenia's strategic, geopolitical weight tends to zero. And only tactical balance gives it some sense. One can imagine a situation when large-scale depopulation may start in Armenia, as in Latvia. Pensioners and officials could remain in Armenia. I fully imagine such a situation when only pensioners and Pashinyan will remain in Armenia. Maintaining balance in the historical perspective requires making historic decisions. Pashinyan is not ready for that, he does not enjoy enough legitimacy and confidence to do that. He received the majority of votes [in the snap parliamentary elections on June 20], but this is only 25 percent of the total number of voters. No force can make strategic decisions with 25 percent of the vote; it can capitulate once again.

Modern Armenia cannot defend itself. It cannot even guarantee the preservation of statehood. I drew attention to the agreement on holding joint military exercises between Georgia, Turkey, and Azerbaijan. If anyone in Armenia thought that Georgia is an ally or a good neighbor, these exercises should sober him up. In order to defend its territory, Armenia needs to enter into a union state with Russia; Armenia needs it.

But the problem is that now there are more Armenians in Russia than in Armenia. For the vast majority of people in Russian society, there is no problem with Armenia as a state. I am convinced that if a referendum is held on the creation of a union state of Armenia and Russia, the idea will not receive the support of the majority. The idea of a union state is marginal even in Armenia, although for it this is a matter of state survival. However, Armenia, led by a man who came to power with a Russophobic, anti-Russian program, who now has to get help from Russia, is constantly resorting to harsh and provocative insinuations about the [Russian-made] Iskander [missile system] and other things.

Pashinyan understands perfectly well that he is perceived in Russia exclusively as the current leader of Armenia, but he has not been, is not and will not be trusted. This also prevents him from making serious decisions. Moreover, Pashinyan is also not going to make any historic decision. He is going to change his approach in the future, too, receiving help from Russia, putting the accountability on Moscow. Moreover, he simultaneously hopes that instead of Russia, for example, France will be the other strategic ally. Those who follow Armenia in Moscow realize that well.

A strategic solution has not matured under Pashinyan, and it is impossible. This strategic solution is not known in Russia and will be perceived with suspicion. The Armenian political circles must accept that a union of Armenia with Russia is the only way to survive as a state. Armenia should work in that regard every day, explain, tell, defend its own existence, not try to receive donor assistance.

After 2008, Russia has two more military basesbesides Armeniain Transcaucasia. So the Gyumri [military base] and the Erebuni [airbase of Russia] are not the only ones, and there is nothing left for blackmail anymore. This is also meaningless, especially given the fact that it was the Russian troops who protected the [Armenian] population of Karabakh and now guarantee that Karabakh remains Armenian. If they leave, the Armenian population of Karabakh will also leave," Modest Kolerov said.
By the decision of the Transcaucasian Central Executive Committee on February 18, 1929, the transfer of 21 villages of Kapan city to the then Jabrayil province of Azerbaijan at that time is an example of serious territorial losses in Armenia. The Human Rights Defender (Ombudsman) Arman Tatoyan wrote about this on Facebook.

"Archival documents prove: one of the main reasons for this decision was that the USSR government was ignoring the rights of border residents, discussing border issues only from a military and political point of view, and was in a weak position on those issues.

It refers, first of all, to the property and economic rights of people; they were firmly connected with Kapan.

At that time, the issue of Kapans security was also a priority, which was also ignored.

From a strategic and communications point of view, Armenia suffered a serious loss at that time, conceding to superior positions to Azerbaijan.

As a result of that decision, it turned out that the border line between the two countries was going to pass through the suburbs of Kapan, Tatoyan added.
37-year-old citizen of Armenia parks car and jumps off bridge

Armenian analyst on Turkish-Azerbaijani tandem's pressure on Armenia and Russia's and Turkey's presence

168.am reports on the judges of Armenia Constitutional Court who supported or were against decision on elections

5.1 magnitude earthquake hits California's north coast

Armenian human rights activist on the opposition and the Constitutional Court's decision on snap elections

Araghchi: Vienna talks have to wait until next Iranian government takes charge

Florida man hits live alligator and tries to throw it onto buildings roof

132 new cases of COVID-19 confirmed in Armenia

Three-headed baby born in India

Opposition party to appeal Armenia Constitutional Court's decision on snap elections in ECHR

One nation, 3 states: Azerbaijan delegation in Northern Cyprus for first time

Assad inauguration held in Syria

POWs who returned to Armenia from Azerbaijan are questioned

Two more members of opposition Armenia bloc apprehended

Pashinyan: Strengthening the Armenia southern regions resistance is one of EU 2.6bn assistance programs

Armenia acting PM: We are ready to start negotiations according to OSCE Minsk Groups co-chairs statement

Germany floods death toll rises to more than 130

Charles Michel: Useful to be able to withdraw Armenian, Azerbaijani armed forces from disputed territories

Adjacent areas closed off before European Council President leaves Armenia government building

Armenia Police: 16 people apprehended today from outside government building

Acting premier: Azerbaijan refuses to provide corridor to Armenia

Pashinyan: Armenia-EU contacts have never been so intense

Netherlands Armenian organizations demand explanation from their MFA over Dutch ambassador's visit to Shushi

Tight surveillance outside Armenia government building, several people apprehended

Five new cases of coronavirus reported in Karabakh

European Council President visits Armenian Genocide Memorial in Yerevan

911 motorcycles to serve on Yerevan streets

Police apprehend opposition Armenia bloc member

Armenia President condoles with Germany colleague

Taliban stepping up attacks in Afghanistan, says US intelligence

187 new cases of COVID-19 confirmed in Armenia

Captain Artur Aghasyan posthumously awarded highest title of Hero of Artsakh

California physician charged with selling fake Covid immunization pellets

Biden to meet with Iraq PM

Armenia citizens can enter Georgia through 2 checkpoints

Armenia soldier, 20, dies

Newspaper: Armenia opposition blocs holding their breath awaiting Constitutional Court decision of today

Newspaper: Armenia ex-President Kocharyan is Yerevan mayor Marutyan's 'lifebuoy'

Eiffel Tower reopens to visitors after nearly 9 months

'Bloodthirsty vampire' arrested in Kenya

There are 21615 people or 5,448 families displaced from Nagorno-Karabakh

Lavrov says US mission in Afghanistan failed

Azeri parliamentary group in occupied Northern Cyprus to commemorate 47th anniversary of Turkish troops' landing

Vietnam calls on Washington to lift Cuba embargo

Germany declares regime of military catastrophe due to flooding

Armenia Ambassador, Russia Deputy FM discuss provision of international humanitarian aid to Karabakh

Sputnik Armenia: 2 missing Armenian servicemen find themselves in territory under control of Azerbaijan Armed Forces

Karabakh Ombudsman: People of Artsakh have never lived and can never live in peace with Azerbaijan

Remains of former Armenian footballer found

Armenia acting PM introduced to businessman's newly opened brandy factory

Armenia ex-deputy MOD: If Pashinyan is still in power after November 9, 2020, it means he has unfinished business

Armenia Chamber of Advocates holds 3rd meeting to provide legal aid to Armenian captives in Azerbaijan

European Council President Charles Michel arrives in Armenia

Yerevan court to announce decision on pre-trial measure against Sisian mayor tomorrow

Alexander Lapshin on Yerkir.am's article about his talks with journalist, Armenia acting PM and ex-spokesperson

Young members of ARF-D protesting against EU representative's visit to Armenia

Lukashevich at OSCE: Assistance in future solution to Nagorno-Karabakh issue in South Caucasus is required

Digest: Azerbaijan opens fire near Armenia border, EU to lift restrictions for Armenian citizens?

Opposition 'Armenia' bloc member: Law-enforcement authorities need to explore disclosure of Lapshin-Karapetyan talk

Armenia acting PM receives Deputy Chief of General Staff of Russia Armed Forces

Armenias Karahunj village head testified against Goris city mayor, says lawyer

Armenian National Committee addresses letter to Belgian FM condemning Ambassadors visit to Shushi

Dollar goes down again Armenia

Azerbaijan starts construction of tunnels in Karabakh occupied territories

Armenia Prosecutor General's Office charges head of Lori Province's Jrashen village with abuse of official powers

Armenia ambassador to Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore is recalled

At least 70 people die in Germany and Belgium due to floods

Armenia ambassador to US to now serve as envoy to UK

France and US urge Lebanese politicians to form cabinet

Armenia funeral commission set up in connection with Djivan Gasparyan's passing

Mayor of Armenias Goris to be arrested

European Council chief's Armenia visit agenda is announced

Beijing urges WHO to investigate theory that COVID-19 was imported to Wuhan

2022 US federal budget envisages $950K for Glendale Armenian museum, says Congressman Schiff

Condition of newborn left at Yerevan building entrance continues to stabilize

Azerbaijan setting up new military unit in occupied Aghdam of Artsakh

1,200 apartments to be built in capital Stepanakert, 20 new districts to be constructed in Karabakh villages

Reuters photojournalist killed in Afghanistan

Armenia ex-President Kocharyan: Fear, uncertainty not respected in international relations

About 20,000 translators from Afghanistan in US apply for evacuation

MOD: Azerbaijan army opened fire on Armenia positions

Turks open fire at Cyprus Coast Guard ship

162 new cases of COVID-19 confirmed in Armenia

US State Department responds to questions related to Nagorno-Karabakh conflict

Situation in Cuba calm after riots

Biden says US not planning on sending troops to Haiti after assassination of its president

US considering possibility of restoring internet access in Cuba, Biden says

Biden: Russia must not be allowed to use energy as a weapon

Newspaper: New developments occur in case on dishonoring of Armenian soldiers' remains

Newspaper: Armenias European agenda

Erdogan wants to do the same with Afghanistan as with Artsakh

US senators call on Biden to put pressure on Turkeys Erdogan over Cyprus

Karabakh Ombudsman: Azerbaijani side briefly fired gunshots from rifles 4-5 times in direction of Shushi

Ukraine citizens organize disco party near Internal Affairs Ministry building for Avakov's resignation

European Council calls on EU member states to lift travel restrictions for Armenia citizens

Opposition 'Armenia' bloc member: Syunik Province is being attacked by Baku and Yerevan

Armenia President grants high state award to merited architect Sashur Kalashyan

Armenia acting PM hosts participants of Summer Olympics

Armenia MOD clarifies which servicemen can receive free food in post-war period

Armenia MOD hosts Armenian-Italian military-political consultations
YEREVAN.  The judicial act that entered into legal force has confirmed that acting PM Nikol Pashinyan's speech contained threats of using violence and that those threats were continuous. Davit Harutyunyan, a representative of the opposition I Have Honor bloc and former Minister of Justice, said this Sunday during the Constitutional Courts consideration of the petition to invalidate the results of the snap parliamentary elections on June 20.

"It refers to the final judicial act made by the administrative court and entered into legal force. The threats voiced by Pashinyan were not only perceived as real, but were in fact real.

It is very important that the mentioned threats and calls for violence were voiced not only by a member of the electoral list of the party running in the elections, but also by Armenias acting Prime Minister with considerable powers and influence, who is the head of the executive power, and to whom the police and the NSS [(National Security Service)] are immediately subordinate.

These circumstances have a completely different effect on the impartial observer or citizen, and these threats can reasonably be perceived as real.

After the elections, Pashinyan's 'hammer' has started to work with full force and power, and the first fruits of the promised personnel 'massacre' are already visible," Harutyunyan added, and mentioned specific examples when the acting premiers aforesaid threats were actually carried out.
YEREVAN.  The Central Electoral Commission (CEC) finds that the requirements of the petitions are subject to dismissal. CEC Chairman Tigran Mukuchyan said this during the Constitutional Court examination Sunday of the petitions challenging the results of the snap parliamentary elections that were conducted in Armenia on June 20.

"First of all, in order to declare the election results invalid, it is necessary to find out whether there were any violations of the requirements of the Electoral Code as a result of the organization and conduct of the elections, as well as the summing up of the voting results.

Second, those registered irregularities should call into question the registered results of voting.

Third, the nature of the irregularities must be such that, when summing up the election results or discussing the complaint, it is no longer possible to clearly determine the exact outcome of the expression of the will of the participants in the voting.

In order to declare the election results invalid, it is necessary that the consequences of the irregularities be irreversible, the opportunity to clearly find out the exact expression of the will of the voting participants must be lost.

Therefore, declaring the election results invalid is a rather serious political and legal weapon, which should be used only in exclusive cases," Mukuchyan said.

According to the CEC chairman, when declaring the election results invalid, the citizens' right to participate in the elections should be given priority.

"The expression of the will of the voting participants materializes especially in the election results. Thats why the presumption of the validity of the registered results is underscored in the creation of guarantees to protect the election results. If in practice this principle is not observed by the election commissions, then inevitably mechanisms are formed that allow falsifying the election results, contrary to the expression of the will of the voting participants," Mukuchyan added.

As reported earlier, four political forces have petitioned to the Constitutional Court and disputed the aforesaid election results. The Constitutional Court decided to combine the petitions of the opposition "Armenia" and "I Have Honor" blocs, as well as of the opposition the Zartonk (Awakening) and Hayots Hayrenik (Armenian Homeland) parties to challenge the election results, as all these petitions refer to the same issue.

It is already the third day that the Constitutional Court is considering these petitions.
Jojo Rabbit actress Rebel Wilson began shedding some pounds in 2020, and her recent beach selfie proves her weight-loss plan is working great.

Given that the pandemic made 2020 an unusual year, some people decided to do activities they wouldnt regularly do. In Rebel Wilsons case, she turned 2020 into her year of health.

After following the Mayr Method to eat healthier and working out with trainer Jono Castano to stay in shape, Wilson lost over 60 pounds and reached her goal weight before the turn of the year.

Rebel Wilson on April 28, 2019 in New York City | Photo: Getty Images

LOSING WEIGHT

Wilson first told her fans about her weight-loss journey in January 2020 and regularly shared updates. Everything started with more walks, smarter food choices, and drinking more water.

Eventually, Wilson began uploading videos of herself working out, and they were nothing short of intense. Apart from walking up and down the stairs at the Opera House in Sydney, Australia, she channeled her inner Chris Hemsworth by flipping tires.

As per the Mayr Method, it was developed by Dr. Franz Xaver Mayr almost 100 years ago. He believed people poison their bodies with what they eat, so the method aims to improve health through digestion.

To sum up, the Mayr Method eliminates food intolerances, cuts down sugar intake, and encourages eating whole foods. If done correctly, it is supposed to boost the immune system, reduce inflammation, and help lose some weight.

CHANGES AFTER LOSING WEIGHT

Her physique was not the only aspect in Wilsons life that changed after shedding so many pounds, though. She once confessed the rest of the world began treating her differently.

Before her year of health, people hardly ever looked twice at her. Now, they offer her some help with her groceries and even hold doors open for her.

The difference is so evident that it makes her wonder, Is this what other people experience all the time? Fortunately, Wilson has always been confident of her body as she understands she looks good at all sizes.

According to the actress, losing weight made her super confident, which is why she has been posting so many selfies on Instagram. Although she believes she shouldn't share that many pictures, her fans love them all.

One of Wilsons recent Instagram posts concerned her fans.

BEACH SELFIE

On July 5, for example, Wilson uploaded a slideshow with four selfies, and she looked gorgeous. The Pitch Perfect star appeared relaxing on what seemed like a yacht wearing a light blue outfit, a white hat, and blue sunglasses.

As soon as she posted that image, her fans and followers took to the comment section to share their thoughts. Most pointed out just how amazing and beautiful Wilson looked, while others wrote that the color of her outfit was lovely on her.

One day earlier, Wilson shared another selfie from the beach lying on a towel and under a sun umbrella. She put on a black top and black and gold sunglasses for the occasion and looked flawless.

She also uploaded a picture wearing a black bodysuit that made her waist look tiny. Her outfit was very similar to the one Olivia Newton-John wore in Grease.

Unfortunately, one of Wilsons recent Instagram posts concerned her fans. In the caption, she seemingly gave herself the courage to keep up with what shes been doing. She wrote:

I know it's hard right now, I know you're trying to deal with stuff  but let's keep getting up every day and CRUSH IT.

Most of her followers  including some of her celebrity friends  showed support, but judging by her more recent posts, shes doing just fine.

Wilson is certainly not the only entertainer with impressive weight-loss journeys as Adele, Gabourey Sidibe, and John Goodman have also lost several pounds. Way to go!
Taiwan companies 'signing deal' for BioNTech jabs

Chemical troops disinfected public areas and transport in the capital Taipei City, as the government extended the Covid alert level 3 to July 26. File photo: AFP

Taiwan's TSMC and Foxconn said on Sunday they were in the middle of the contract signing process to buy Covid-19 vaccines from Germany's BioNTech SE, part of a drawn out and highly politicised process for Taiwan to access the shot.



Taiwan's government has tried for months to buy the vaccine directly from BioNTech and has blamed China, which claims the self-ruled island as its own territory, for nixing a deal the two sides were due to sign earlier this year. China denies the accusations.



Last month, facing public pressure about the slow pace of Taiwan's inoculation programme, the government agreed to allow Terry Gou, the billionaire founder of Taiwan's Foxconn , as well as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (TSMC) to negotiate on its behalf for the vaccines, which would be donated to Taiwan's government for distribution.



"There are multiple parties. We are in the middle of the contract signing process. We will make announcements once the process is completed," TSMC said a statement.



Foxconn used almost exactly the same wording in a separate statement. Neither elaborated.



Both companies are major Apple Inc suppliers.



BioNTech and Fosun did not immediately respond to requests for comment.



Gou's spokesperson said: "When there is further news, we will formally explain it to the outside world". She gave no details.



Speaking to reporters on Sunday, Premier Su Tseng-chang would only say that talks for the vaccine were ongoing.



"Once there is an definite outcome, we'll naturally report it to everyone."



A source briefed on the matter told Reuters that contract talks were "not yet 100 percent complete", while another source said while they were close to finalising the deal, uncertainties remained.



"It has become increasingly clear that it is not the Taiwan side who is complicating the signing of the contract," the second source said, referring to extra "obstacles" set up by Beijing.



China's Taiwan Affairs Office did not answer calls seeking comment outside of business hours on Sunday.



China's government has repeatedly said that if Taiwan wants the vaccine, it has to respect commercial rules and do it through the regional distributor Fosun.



Germany's government has also been involved, saying it has been helping in the direct talks between Taiwan and BioNTech.



Taiwan has millions of vaccines on order, mainly from AstraZeneca Plc and Moderna Inc, while the United States and Japan have together donated almost five million doses to the island to help speed up vaccinations.



Around one-tenth of Taiwan's 23.5 million people have received at least one of the two-shot regimen, though Taiwan's own relatively small domestic coronavirus outbreak is now largely under control. (AFP)
Fosun says it has struck deal to send Taiwan vaccines

Authorities in Taipei have tried for months to buy the vaccine directly from BioNTech. File photo: AFP

The Chinese sales agent for Germany's BioNTech SE said on Sunday it had signed a deal to provide 10 million Covid-19 vaccine doses to Taiwan, part of a drawn-out and highly politicised process for the island to access the shots.



Authorities in Taipei have tried for months to buy the vaccine directly from BioNTech and have blamed Beijing for nixing an agreement the two sides were due to sign earlier this year. Beijing denies the accusations.



Last month, facing public pressure about the slow pace of Taiwan's inoculation programme, the government agreed to allow Terry Gou, the billionaire founder of Taiwan's Foxconn, as well as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (TSMC), to negotiate on its behalf for the vaccines, which would be donated to Taiwan's government for distribution.



Shanghai Fosun Pharmaceutical Group Co Ltd, which has a contract with BioNTech to sell the Covid-19 vaccines in China, Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan, said in a statement that the shots would be sold to TSMC and Gou's charity foundation via Fosun's Hong Kong subsidiary and a Taiwanese medical firm.



"We are very pleased to see that this vaccine jointly developed by Fosun Pharmaceutical and BioNTech can play a positive role in the prevention and control of the epidemic in Taiwan," Fosun Chairman Wu Yifang said in the statement.



Fosun quoted BioNTech Chief Executive Ugur Sahin as saying the company was "very grateful to be able to also supply the Taiwanese people with vaccine doses manufactured in Europe".



However, both TSMC and Foxconn referred Reuters to their statements earlier on Sunday in which they said they were still in the middle of the contract signing process.



The Fosun statement referred to the "Taiwan region", terminology favoured by Beijing to assert its sovereignty claims.



There was no immediate response from Taiwan's government.



BioNTech, which developed the vaccine jointly with Pfizer, also did not immediately respond to a request for comment.



TSMC and Foxconn are major Apple Inc suppliers.



Gou and TSMC this month reached an initial agreement with a Fosun subsidiary for the vaccines, sources told Reuters previously.



The BioNTech vaccine drama has transfixed Taiwan and dominated headlines. A major Taiwanese Buddhist group, the Tzu Chi Foundation, is also trying to buy the shots.



Beijing has repeatedly said that if Taiwan wants the vaccine, it has to respect commercial rules and do it through Fosun.



Germany's government has also been involved, saying it has been helping in the direct talks between Taiwan and BioNTech.



Taiwan has millions of vaccines on order, mainly from AstraZeneca Plc and Moderna Inc, while the United States and Japan have together donated almost five million doses to the island to help speed up vaccinations.



Around one-tenth of Taiwan's 23.5 million people have received at least one of the two-shot regimen, though Taiwan's own relatively small domestic coronavirus outbreak is now largely under control. (Reuters)
The Guardian

After Opengate Capital acquired Hufcor, a company in Janesville that treated people like they were family, it announced plans to move 166 jobs to Mexico They treated people like they were family, not a number, said Kathy Pawluk. Photograph: Handout For most of her 36 years at the Hufcor factory in Janesville, Wisconsin, Kathy Pawluk loved working there, at least until a private-equity firm took over four years ago. There were Christmas parties and summer picnics, and workers could listen to
A Minneapolis Police officers unrolls caution tape at a crime scene on June 16, 2020 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Stephen Maturen/Getty Images

An intense argument escalated into a shooting outside a barbershop in Houston, Texas.

The debate between two men stemmed from who won a foot race, police said Saturday.

Three people, including two innocent bystanders, were shot and sent to nearby hospitals.

Visit Insider's homepage for more stories.

An argument about who won a race resulted in a shooting outside of a barbershop in Houston, Texas, that left three people wounded.

Houston Police Assistant Chief Wendy Baimbridge told reporters at a press briefing that the department received a call about the shooting around 3 p.m. Officers responded to the Mean Kuts barbershop at 10008 Tidwell Road, Houston's KTRK reported.

"Upon arrival, we discovered that two males were fighting outside ...verbally arguing about who ran a race faster," Baimbridge said, adding that they may have been debating about the race for a month.

This content is not available due to your privacy preferences. Update your settings here to see it.

Bainbridge said police had gathered evidence about the incident from a phone video and a witness account.

One man began to walk away from the confrontation when he was shot by the suspect twice in the arm. Baimbridge said two people inside the establishment who were not involved in the argument were struck by stray bullets.

Police said in a tweet the victims were sent to nearby hospitals with "non-life-threatening injuries." The suspect left the scene in a vehicle, Baimbridge said.

The Houston Police Department did not immediately respond to Insider's request for comment.

Read the original article on Insider
By Lidia Kelly

MELBOURNE (Reuters) -Australia reported its first locally contracted COVID-19 death of the year on Sunday and a 2021 record 77 new cases of the virus in the state of New South Wales, which is battling an outbreak of the highly infectious Delta variant.

State Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the numbers in and around the country's biggest city Sydney, already under a hard lockdown, are expected to rise.

"I'll be shocked if it's less than 100 this time tomorrow, of additional new cases," Berejiklian told a televised briefing.

On Saturday there were 50 cases, the previous 2021 record high. The recent outbreak stands at 566 cases.

Of Sunday's cases, 33 were people who had spent time in the community while they were infectious, raising the likelihood that the three-week lockdown of more than 5 million people in Sydney and surroundings will be extended.

"Given where we're at and given the lockdown was supposed to be lifted on Friday, everybody can tell it's highly unlikely at this stage," Berejiklian said.

The neighbouring state of Victoria, which on Sunday recorded its 11th straight days without new infections, said it was closing its borders with New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory to prevent spreading of the virus.

In Sydney, there are 52 cases in hospital, or about one in 10 people infected in the current outbreak. Fifteen people are in intensive care, five require ventilation. The death, the country's first locally contracted case since December, involved a woman in her 90s.

Australia has fared much better than many other developed countries in keeping its COVID-19 numbers relatively low, seeing just over 31,000 cases since the start of the pandemic and 911 deaths.

The vaccination rollout, however, has been sluggish due to supply constraints and changing medical advice for its mainstay AstraZeneca shots.

Vaccinations are available for now only to people over 40 and groups at risk either due to their health or exposure to the virus at work. Of those hospitalised in Sydney, 11 are under the age of 35 and more than three-quarters of the patients have not had any doses, health authorities said.

(Reporting by Lidia Kelly; Editing by William Mallard and Jacqueline Wong)
DALLAS  Donald Trump says his endorsement is the most valuable commodity in Republican politics, but some GOP candidates seem willing to test that claim.

As conservative activists gathered over the weekend in Texas, the state's outgoing Republican Party chairman, Allen West, announced he will challenge incumbent Gov. Greg Abbott in a primary next year, even though Abbott has the coveted Trump endorsement.

Beyond Texas, the value of Trump's endorsement will be tested in North Carolina, Alabama and other states with competitive Republican primaries in which the former president has picked a candidate.

Some delegates to the Conservative Political Action Conference at a high-end Dallas hotel said they respect Trump, but he won't necessarily determine their vote in elections.

"It's a factor, but I don't know if it's going to be the decisive factor," said Deb Blencowe, 63, a community college teacher from nearby Collin County who leans toward West over Abbott in next year's GOP primary.

Michael Ward, 24, a meter reader technician from Henderson County, said Trump will be very influential in elections, but that doesn't mean nonendorsed Republican candidates should give up.

"It's definitely a challenge to beat a Trump endorsement," Ward said. "But that does not mean another candidate cannot be a challenger."

Testing Trump's influence

Trump put his influence on the line by backing primary challengers to Republicans who supported impeaching him over the insurrection by his supporters Jan. 6 at the U.S. Capitol, or otherwise opposed his efforts to overturn his 2020 election loss to President Joe Biden.

At CPAC, Donald Trump targets the Republican Party of Liz Cheney and Mitch McConnell

'His presence is dominating': How state and local Republican parties are turning ever more toward Trump

The former president discussed his 2022 campaign plans in a 90-minute address Sunday to CPAC, predicting Republicans will win back Congress thanks to him.

Story continues

In an address that touched on familiar themes, particularly his false claims about election fraud in 2020, Trump told adoring delegates that "our endorsement has become  and it's really not just my endorsement, it's your endorsement  has become the most powerful weapon in politics."

The 45th president remains popular with Republican base voters who show up for primaries, political analysts said. Trump easily won a 2024 presidential preference poll at this weekend's CPAC, topping Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis 70%-21%.

His endorsements will affect different races in different ways, and it's not known how strong the Trump brand will be when elections roll around over the next year and a half.

"I think the Trump endorsement is helpful but not determinative," said Henry Olsen, a senior fellow at the Washington-based Ethics and Public Policy Center.

West, who spoke at CPAC on Sunday and received a warm welcome, is a decided underdog in his bid to unseat Abbott. He has said that although he supports Trump, "I don't serve President Trump," whose endorsement doesn't decide anything.

"I serve God, country and Texas," West said after his CPAC speech, surrounded by supporters. "An endorsement doesn't bother me. "

Don Huffines, a former Texas state senator who is also challenging Abbott in next year's primary, spoke at CPAC on Saturday and told delegates he is "the actual Republican" in the race.

Afterward, Huffines said he supports Trump, but the former president "just made a mistake" in backing Abbott. The endorsement has "had very little impact on my campaign," Huffines said, and supporters "love Trump, but they love me, too."

The Trump factor

Trump endorsements have already roiled several Republican contests, including the governor's race in Arkansas.

After Trump backed his former press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders in the GOP primary, another potential candidate  Lt. Gov. Tim Griffin  opted out of the race and decided to run for attorney general. (Attorney General Leslie Rutledge remains in the governor's race, though Trump's support solidifies Sanders' position as front-runner.)

Former President Donald Trump announces lawsuits against Facebook, Twitter and YouTube in Bedminster, N.J., on July 7, 2021.

In North Carolina, Trump's decision to jump into a Republican Senate primary did not force out other major contenders, at least not yet.

In a speech June 5 at the state Republican convention, Trump endorsed Rep. Ted Budd in the GOP primary for an open Senate seat. Two other prominent candidates  Rep. Mark Walker, R-N.C., and former Gov. Pat McCrory  are staying in the race.

Walker told the USA TODAY Network that former White House chief of staff Mark Meadows  a former North Carolina congressman  "orchestrated" the Budd endorsement without telling Trump about Walker's strong support among state Republicans, including a win at a straw poll conducted at the convention.

Budd promoted polling data showing that Trump's endorsement has helped him, though analysts said it's too early to measure the ex-president's effect on races that are months away.

Still hoping for support from Trump and his voters, Walker said North Carolina Republicans will make up their own minds: "I think over time you're going to see us performing so strong among grassroots conservatives that I think people will take a look at this race."

Both Budd and Walker spoke at CPAC over the weekend.

Janine Parry, a political scientist at the University of Arkansas, said, "North Carolina could be a good test case of how lockstep these Republican voters are."

The Trump factor is also in play in an Alabama Senate primary.

Trump endorsed Congressman Mo Brooks, one of his most outspoken supporters of false claims of "voter fraud" in the 2020 election. Brooks, who spoke at CPAC on Friday, faces a well-funded opponent in Katie Boyd Britt, former chief of staff for Sen. Richard Shelby, R-Ala., and a favorite among more old-line Republicans.

Olsen called the Alabama race "an excellent test" in what he called "the battle for party control between Donald Trump and the old establishment."

Trump also endorsed Brooks in a 2017 special Senate primary; Brooks finished third.

Trump will shape races, not decide them

Republican professionals are eager to see whom, if anybody, Trump endorses in crowded Republican primaries in Ohio and Missouri. Both states are key to GOP hopes of regaining control of the U.S. Senate.

An early test of Trump's political strength comes next month in Ohio: a special election to replace Rep. Steve Stivers, a Republican who retired from Congress to join the Ohio Chamber of Commerce.

The ex-president endorsed Mike Carey, a longtime coal lobbyist who has never held public office. There are 11 candidates in the Republican primary Aug. 3, including members of the state Legislature.

More: Donald Trump sues CEOs Jack Dorsey of Twitter and Mark Zuckerberg of Facebook

More: Rupert Murdoch made the decision to call Arizona for Biden, new book says. Fox News denies the allegations.

In an interview with Newsmax in April, Trump said, "Everybody wants the endorsement because if they don't get the endorsement they're not going to win, for the most part they're not going to win."

Some analysts said they would be surprised if Trump knocks off all 10 House Republicans who voted to impeach him on a charge of inciting the riot Jan. 6 at the Capitol where his supporters tried to stop the confirmation of electoral votes.

Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, one of seven Republican senators who voted to convict Trump, has a fundraising advantage over Trump-backed challenger Kelly Tshibaka. (Murkowski has not officially said whether she plans to run.)

Trump has also targeted state officials he said didn't help him try to overturn Biden's election. That group includes Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp and Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger.

Democrats watch all this with glee. They said Trump's support will produce far-right candidates who will lose general elections, helping Democrats retain control of Congress.

"Nothing speaks to the chaos of the Republican Party more than the radical rights obsession with an endorsement from Donald Trump, whose incompetence cost hundreds of thousands of American lives," said Adonna Biel, a spokesperson for the Democratic National Committee.

In some cases, Trump's endorsement won't mean much because he is backing incumbents who are heavy favorites to win reelection  including Abbott of Texas, who appeared with Trump during a visit to the Texas-Mexico border.

Some Texas Republicans said West, who has frequently tangled with Abbott and other party members, will be beaten badly by the governor. "It's going to be ugly, it's going to be bloodless, and he's going to deserve it," said Matt Mackowiak, a Texas-based Republican political consultant.

Mackowiak said Trump's endorsement is a valuable asset but won't put every candidate over the top in tight races.

"He may lose some of them," Mackowiak said. "The Trump endorsement doesn't decide these races, but it will shape them."

At CPAC, delegates such as Blencowe said some conservatives don't like Abbott, and West may have a chance  so might other challengers in other races in other states.

"Things may change," Blencowe said. "You never know  Trump could change his mind."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: How much does a Trump endorsement help GOP candidates?
Key negotiators expect the Senate Budget Committee to settle on a roughly $3.5 trillion reconciliation package as the starting point for a Democrat-only bill for "soft" infrastructure, people familiar with the matter tell Axios.

Why it matters: That total is well below the $6 trillion that Sen. Bernie Sanders  the Vermont independent who leads the committee  had initially proposed. Adopting it would be a blow to his fellow progressives.

Get market news worthy of your time with Axios Markets. Subscribe for free.

The emerging agreement will, however, cover all of the major Biden administration proposals on soft infrastructure, including the president's families, climate and housing programs, according to a source familiar with the Senate budget resolution discussions.

While negotiators are still finalizing details, the proposal is close to fully offset with new revenues, among other pay-fors.

The roughly $3.5 trillion could get shaved down further once the full Senate  including centrists like Sens. Joe Manchin (D- W.Va.), Kyrsten Sinema (D-Ariz.) and Jon Tester (D-Mont.)  extract their own demands.

The package will need the support of every Democrat on the Senate floor to pass.

Driving the news: Sanders is still pushing for a high number, telling the New York Times' Maureen Dowd for an interview published Sunday that $2 trillion to $3 trillion is much too low.

Sanders will have to convince centrists on the committee such as Sen. Mark Warner (D-Va.), who hasnt revealed his top-line number but privately suggested it's more in the $3- to $4-trillion range.

After two weeks of staff negotiations, senators on the Budget Committee are expected to meet Monday evening to try to bridge differences on the total size of the package and how much of it needs to be paid with new revenues.

"A lot of work has gone into the effort and much more work needs to be done," said Mike Casca, a spokesperson for Sanders. "Sen. Sanders wrote a $6 trillion proposal to address the desperate needs of working people and the existential threat of climate change, and hes confident that Democrats will come together around a reconciliation bill that does just that."

The big picture: Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) has declared he wants the budget resolution and the bipartisan infrastructure package both to pass the full Senate before senators leave for their August recess.

Story continues

That timeline will put pressure on senators worried about having some of their recess canceled, which could complicate lawmakers' fundraising plans.

Go deeper: Revenues are emerging as a key dividing line within the Democratic caucus, with centrists like Manchin saying new spending will have to be paid for with new taxes.

Other centrists are uncomfortable with raising taxes on corporations, capital gains and personal income too high, which in turn puts a ceiling on any new spending.

Between the lines: The White House is taking a wait-and-see approach and wants to give Senate Democrats the space to compromise.

House centrists have no interest in voting for anything that cant pass the Senate, including tax increases, putting most of the action in the Senate.

Editor's note: This story has been updated with a comment from Mike Casca, a spokesperson for Sanders.

Like this article? Get more from Axios and subscribe to Axios Markets for free.
Boises East African community is still reeling two weeks after officers with the citys police department shot a Somali man while following up on a report that a child was in danger  a sudden and shocking reminder of the violence many within the diaspora escaped more than a decade ago as refugees from their home nations.

Mohamud Hassan Mkoma, 33, of Boise, underwent a fourth surgery Thursday and remains on a ventilator at Saint Alphonsus Regional Medical Center, according to family, in critical but stable condition. Beyond the hospitals walls, Mkomas family and the wider Somali Bantu community continue to push for answers from police and city officials about why responding officers fired their weapons at the father of the 14-year-old boy he was alleged to have taken.

I came here because I ran away from a war, and from where I was running, it caught up to me here, Mkomas mother, Mchiwa Hassan, said in her native Kizigua through an interpreter. The son that I gave birth to, they said that hes a thief  and the boy was his own son. I dont want to fight with anyone. All I want is peace, and I dont want my son to be in the police custody.

Members of the Somali community, including immediate family, met with Boise Police Chief Ryan Lee and a department refugee liaison on Wednesday, seeking more details, such as release of the 911 dispatch call and video footage from the body cameras worn by the three officers involved in the shooting.

During the two-hour meeting, three people who were present at the meeting  including Mkomas younger sister, Hawo Mkoma  said the group also asked for increased visitation for family at the hospital. In addition, they requested that the officer assigned to watch over Mkoma be removed as the man recovers, concerned that such surveillance will retraumatize their loved one, who they said suffers from a mental health disorder.

Lee and Detective Dustin Robinson said they would work on ensuring that Mkomas family is more comfortable with arrangements at the hospital, attendees said. They were told, however, that until Ada Countys Critical Incident Task Force investigation is finished  and that review could take between six and nine months  Lee is restricted in what he can say and release about the incident.

Story continues

BPD spokesperson Haley Williams declined to answer a list of questions about what was discussed at the meeting between the chief and the Somali group, and whether police officers were aware that the boy reported to be at risk during the incident was Mkomas son. Boise police have never acknowledged that the teenager was related to Mkoma, other than stating in a news release after the shooting that the suspect they sought that Sunday night was known to the family.

The details of the investigation are not always available for release while the investigation is ongoing. You are asking a lot of great questions, and we will be able to answer all of them in time, Williams said in a short emailed statement to the Idaho Statesman.

Last week, BPD also denied a Statesman request made under the Idaho Public Records Act for the police report from the incident, citing an ongoing investigation.

Family disputes Boise polices narrative

Boise Mayor Lauren McLean is scheduled to meet Monday with members of the Bantu community. In the meantime, she has been briefed on the incident, a city spokesperson confirmed, and the citys independent Office of Police Oversight has already launched its own review of BPDs only officer-involved shooting this year. That inquiry is separate from the task forces investigation, being led by the Garden City Police Department.

Garden City received the nod to head that task force review based on a rotation, Williams said. Garden City Police Lt. Cory Stambaugh, a member of the Boise police force for nearly a dozen years  until February 2020  previously told the Statesman in an interview that there is no timetable for the investigation to be finished.

But family members have reiterated that they believe Boise police issued a false narrative about Mkoma. They do not know who called 911 to report him, they said. They also doubt that he possessed the unknown weapon that police reported seeing while Mkoma was out driving his Dodge SUV with his eldest son on a Sunday afternoon.

Hawo Mkoma, right, and brother Mohamed Mkoma, provide more details about their sibling, Mohamud Hassan Mkoma, who was shot by Boise police on June 27.

They wont tell us anything. They just said that the child was missing, Hawo Mkoma said in an interview. Theyre like, Oh, we got the suspect, we got the child to safety, we saved him. I feel like theyre just making themselves the heroes.

Boise police tell a different story. On June 27, the department issued a string of tweets that included a photo of Mkoma and of the 14-year-old boy, stating that they believed the teen could be at risk. The BPD post came just before the department planned to issue an Amber Alert, police said.

Not long after BPD posted its initial tweet about Mkoma, at about 6:25 p.m. that Sunday, police said patrol officers spotted his vehicle not far from where the teen was reportedly taken. When they tried to stop the vehicle, Mkoma sped away, according to a BPD news release. Police then deployed a chase maneuver that spun out the vehicle near the intersection of 36th Street and Eyrie Way. They said a Black child who matched the description of the missing boy was inside, and officers also saw what they believed was a weapon while trying to stop the vehicle, the release said.

Just north of Quail Hollow Golf Course, where police brought the vehicle to a stop, officers challenged the driver, Lee said at a news conference the day of the incident. Police fired at Mkoma, after events transpired that compelled the officers to use force, Lee said at the time. Officers Steve Martinez, Jeff Ridgeway and Aaron Hartje were later identified by the department as those involved in the shooting.

Since then, little more has been released about the incident.

Court records reveal complicated history

Mohamud Mkoma pleaded guilty to one count of misdemeanor domestic battery against a household member in 2015, according to Ada County court records. A six-month jail sentence was deferred as he completed two years of probation. Over that same period, he was also issued a no-contact order with the victim, who is unnamed in the online record.

A year into his probation sentence, Mkoma faced two misdemeanor assault or battery charges, as well as a probation violation. He pleaded guilty to each in exchange for a reduced sentence, serving a handful of days in jail and receiving an extended probation, court records show. He was also ordered to undergo a mental health evaluation and to stay current with his medications, according to records. He completed his probation last September.

Mkomas wife initially filed for divorce in early 2018 in Ada County, but records show the case was dismissed later that year. She filed the petition again this January and the couples marriage formally ended in May, according to the county court database.

Mkomas family said that he and his ex-wife shared custody of the 14-year-old. They also said that for the past two months  after the divorce was finalized  the teenager was living with his father and his uncle at an apartment complex not far from the Boise Bench. Mkomas mother lives in the same complex, family members said at a private Bantu community meeting last week.

The guy wouldnt hurt a fly at all, so it was just kind of mind-boggling how the whole thing transpired, said Monica Pursley, a longtime neighbor of the Mkomas. Hes a very, very quiet man. He doesnt cause any disturbances. He walks around very quietly, and is just an elder son who looks out for his mom and his siblings.

Protest planned after mind-boggling events

Mkomas sister and younger brother refute the characterization of their elder sibling as the suspect of a crime in spite of his past legal troubles. They described him as one of several in their family who fled Somalia not long after civil war exploded in their home country in the early 1990s. They said they landed in refugee camps in neighboring Kenya. After about four years, the family was approved for relocation to Boise in the winter of 2004, they said, and most of the family has lived in the area since.

More than 760 Somali refugees have resettled since 2000 in Idaho between Boise and Twin Falls, according to the Idaho Office for Refugees. Today, roughly 300 Somalis live in Boise, a member of the Bantu community estimated, including about 200 Bantus.

Mkoma is a father of five, his sister and brother said, and speaks limited English while living with mental illness. He would never harm his son, they asserted, and they question whether police who approached their older brother tried to speak to him before drawing their weapons.

Williams, the BPD spokesperson, declined to answer a question about whether the three police officers involved in the shooting were up to date on the departments required 40 hours of crisis intervention training.

The Bantu community had a protest for Mkoma scheduled for last Tuesday, but postponed it over worries that the event could lead to the presence of armed counterprotesters and potential altercations. But now the group is planning to hold a demonstration this Tuesday outside Boise City Hall.

Its a relief that were not alone, that the family and community backs us up and are here to support us. Its a good feeling, Mohamed Mkoma, the 23-year-old younger brother of the man police shot, told the Statesman.

Boises Black Lives Matter group went ahead with a small rally last week outside City Hall, while leaders in the Bantu community, including Mkomas family, met privately to decide how to move forward. The Boise BLM demonstration drew nearly two dozen counterprotesters, some holding pro-police flags and some carrying rifles, handguns and knives.

The areas East African residents say they will have a peaceful protest Tuesday to ensure that greater Boise  including city and police officials  knows the Bantu community no longer feels the same sense of safety it had just two weeks ago. Members of the community and Mkomas family said they are numb over the incident and no longer trust local law enforcement.

While we wait, we have the right to protest and tell the community the other side of the story, that its not the picture that was painted, that hes a kidnapper, Fowzia Adan, a local Somali who attended the meeting with Lee last week, told the Statesman. Hes a father and he had visitation rights that day. And we do understand that police (have) their own protocols on what they share and what they cant, but we have the right to tell, and we sure will next Tuesday.
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla.  The man accused of making a false bomb threat Saturday at the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport has been in trouble with the law before.

Wegal Rosen, a 74-year-old Canadian man who owns a condo at Century Village in Deerfield Beach, was arrested in 2019 after getting into a scuffle with an elderly woman in the retirement community.

The case, with a third-degree felony charge of battery on a person over 65, was eventually dropped by the Broward State Attorneys Office, court records show.

It is unlikely that will happen in the airport case, said Eric Schwartzreich, a defense attorney who is not representing Rosen.

Three airport terminals were evacuated Saturday after Rosen got into a heated argument with a worker at an airport ticket counter and claimed to have a bomb in his bag.

There was no bomb, but the airport was shut down for nearly four hours, causing widespread panic and confusion among passengers.

The incident also led to more than 50 flight delays and eight cancellations, an airport official said Sunday.

If convicted of the second-degree felony, Rosen could be sentenced to 15 years in prison and fined $10,000.

The court could also require him to pay restitution to cover the costs and damages arising from his false bomb threat, Schwartzreich said.

Theres all kind of damages  including the cost of having law enforcement shut down the airport. he said. Its not a joking matter to make a false report of a bomb at the airport.

Rosen was arrested Saturday and taken to the Broward Main Jail, where he remained Sunday.

Rosen paid $49,500 for an 828-square-foot condo at Century Village in 2016, property records show. He has another home on Queen St. E. in Toronto, according to court records.

It was in Century Village where he got into a dispute with a woman from the neighborhood that landed him in jail two years ago on Jan. 4, 2019.

Susan Leibowitz, now 79, helps work security for Century Village.

Story continues

Leibowitz noticed Rosen park in the parking lot of a diner located inside the gated retirement community. She told him he couldnt park his car there unless he went to the restaurant.

But Rosen refused to move his car, court records show.

He was quite rude about it, Leibowitz said Sunday.

He grabbed her hands when she got out her phone to take photos, she said. Leibowitz called Century Village security for backup, then called police.

When the deputy arrived, Rosen admitted to pushing the camera out of his face.

Leibowitz told police he grabbed her hands and ended up breaking one of her nails.

Leibowitz didnt realize Rosen had been arrested in the airport bomb scare until getting a call from her sister Sunday morning.

Im not surprised really, to be very honest, she said. He was arrogant. I dont know anything about him. He was just arrogant. He told me, I will not move. I am staying here. You cant make me move. This was the way he was. Im here. I can do what I want. I think he enjoyed it  until he got arrested.

Deerfield Beach Commissioner Bernie Parness lives in Century Village but did not know Rosen personally.

Theres only 16,000 people who live here, Parness said Sunday.

But Parness remembers hearing about the parking lot scuffle two years ago.

He blew his top and grabbed a woman over a parking space, he said. And she called police.

Parness got a call from a higher up at the Sheriffs Office Sunday letting him know a Century Village resident had been arrested in the bomb scare case.

But Parness doesnt believe it reflects badly on his retirement community  or his city.

We are not different than any other community, he said. That would mean I expect Century Village not to be a part of this world. Any neighborhood, any city, any town can have someone fly off the handle and do something stupid.
The District of Columbia agreed to pay $220,000 to Capitol Hill Baptist Church after it sued the city over coronavirus mandates that restricted in-person worship.

The settlement signed Thursday was reached after the church filed a federal lawsuit in September 2020 in an attempt to hold outdoor services while wearing masks and being socially distant, noted First Liberty Institute which represented the church.

POPE VOICES 'AFFECTION' FOR AMERICANS AS HE MEETS BLINKEN

On Oct. 9, 2020, a federal court in the nations capital ruled in favor of the church and granted a preliminary injunction  allowing members of its congregation to meet outside.

Though Democratic Mayor Muriel Bowser lifted the majority of COVID-related restrictions in May, the suit persisted and alleged the city violated the First Amendment.

"All Capitol Hill Baptist Church ever asked is for equal treatment under the law so they could meet together safely as a church," Hiram Sasser, Executive General Counsel for First Liberty Institute said in a statement. "The church is relieved and grateful that this ordeal is behind them."

DESANTIS SIGNS BILL REQUIRING STUDENTS TO 'REFLECT' AND 'PRAY AS THEY SEE FIT' BEFORE CLASS

First Liberty Institute explained the Capitol Hill Baptist Church believes in-person gatherings are fundamental in practicing its doctrine.

Despite tight restrictions placed on organized events, churches, and workplaces during the coronavirus pandemic Bowser allowed large-scale Black Lives Matter protests to continue throughout the summer and into the fall.

"Government officials need to know that illegal restrictions on First Amendment rights are intolerable and costly," Sasser said.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

The city agreed in the settlement not to enforce any "current or future" restrictions on the church that has served as a Capitol Hill staple since 1878.

Fox News could not immediately reach the mayors office for comment, though the citys suit was just one of a series of complaints lodged during the pandemic that shut down organized religion nationwide.
Associated Press

U.S. Interior Secretary Deb Haaland visited her home state Saturday to celebrate what marks the largest wilderness land donation in the agencys history and another addition to the nation's landholdings as the Biden administration aims to conserve nearly one-third of Americas lands and waters by 2030. The 15-square-mile (40-square-kilometer) donation from the Trust for Public Land increases the size of the Sabinoso Wilderness Area in northeastern New Mexico by nearly 50%. Haaland, who joined other officials at a remote site in San Miguel County, acknowledged that the area makes up part of the ancestral homelands of the Jicarilla Apache and northern pueblos of New Mexico.
A child is being searched for in Florida City Saturday night. Miami-Dade Fire Rescue says a drowning may be involved.

Around 5:50 p.m., Florida City police and Miami-Dade Fire Rescue were called to 525 SW 10th Ave. Information on what the authorities were called to is sparse, but police say they are searching for a child.

Fire Rescue says the incident involves a drowning and they have accounted for the patient.

Questions on who this patient is, why a child is being searched for or what his or her condition is could not yet be answered by authorities.

This is a developing story and will be updated when more information is available.
SHANGHAI (Reuters) -China said on Sunday it "resolutely opposes" the addition of 23 Chinese entities to a U.S. economic blacklist over issues including alleged human rights abuses and military ties.

The Ministry of Commerce said in a statement the inclusion of the Chinese entities was a "serious breach of international economic and trade rules" and an "unreasonable suppression" of Chinese companies.

Beijing "will take necessary measures to safeguard China's legitimate rights and interests," it said, citing a spokesperson.

The U.S. Department of Commerce said on Friday it had added 14 companies and other entities to its economic blacklist, saying they had been "implicated in human rights violations and abuses in the implementation of China's campaign of repression, mass detention, and high technology surveillance against Uyghurs, Kazakhs, and other members of Muslim minority groups in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region."

Beijing denies the alleged abuses.

Entities included on the economic blacklist are generally required to apply for licenses from the Commerce Department and face tough scrutiny when they seek permission to receive items from U.S. suppliers.

Washington also added five entities it said directly support China's military modernisation programmes related to lasers and battle management systems. It identified a further four entities for "exporting and attempting to export items" to entities already sanctioned by the U.S.

Wuhan Raycus Fiber Laser Technologies Co, one of the added entities, said in an exchange filing on Sunday that its inclusion on the economic blacklist would not have a substantial impact on its research and production.

In 2019, the Commerce Department under then-president Donald Trump targeted 20 Chinese public security bureaus and eight companies including video surveillance firm Hikvision, as well as leaders in facial recognition technology SenseTime Group Ltd and Megvii Technology Ltd, over China's treatment of Muslim minorities.

(Reporting by Andrew Galbraith; Additional reporting by Ryan Woo in Beijing; Editing by Lincoln Feast and William Mallard)
Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie listens as US President Donald Trump speaks during a news conference in the Briefing Room of the White House on 27 September, 2020 in Washington, DC (Getty Images)

Former New Jersey Gov Chris Christie offered criticism for the foreign policy decisions of past presidents on both sides of the aisle, including former President Donald Trump, when asked what lessons the US should take from its military withdrawal from Afghanistan.

On ABCs This Week the former presidential candidate who was once thought to be under consideration for a role in the Trump administration, possibly as attorney general, said that presidents from both parties had overestimated the usefulness of US military might as a tool for effecting change around the world.

20 years  Americas longest war, said host George Stephanopolous to Mr Christie. Biggest lesson learned, biggest challenge ahead?

Well, look. The biggest lesson learned is once again the limits of American military power. It has utility to it, but its not a cureall for all our problems, responded the Republican former governor.

And we have to get much more creative, George, about our foreign policy than weve been, quite frankly over a number of administrations from George W. Bush through Barack Obama and Donald Trump, Mr Christie continued.

The lesson learned, Mr Christie went on to say, was coming as the US had yet to see what the region will look like once the dust settles from the USs withdrawal; as of recently, Taliban forces have been making significant gains in the country.

The former governor added that he sided with Republicans who have said that it is a mistake to leave Afghanistan without leaving a security force behind, a proposition that was rejected by President Joe Biden who has said that he does not see the possibility of a better outcome achievable by keeping US troops in the country.

The withdrawal of US troops was initiated last year by Mr Trump, who initially set a deadline for the pullout to complete by May 1.

Read More

DeSantis parts with Trump in response to Surfside tragedy

Trump stunned aides by saying he wanted to use Covid as excuse to delay 2020 election, new book claims

Chris Christie's book 'Republican Rescue' coming this fall
Authorities in Denver arrested four people and seized over a dozen firearms from hotel rooms near the location of the Major League Baseball All-Star Game over the weekend.

On Friday, law enforcement responded to a "suspicious occurrence" at the Maven Hotel, located less than a mile from Coors Field. After executing two search warrants, Richard Platt, 42, Gabriel Rodriguez, 48, Ricardo Rodriguez, 44, and Kanoelehua Serikawa, 43, were placed into custody, police wrote on Saturday. A total of 16 long guns, body armor, and more than 1,000 rounds of ammunition were recovered from the rooms, and officials speculated that a "Las Vegas-style shooting" plot was averted, multiple sources told the Denver Post.

One of the suspects, who was not identified by name, reportedly wrote on Facebook that he was going to go out in a big way" following a recent divorce.

JUDGE RULES AIR FORCE MOSTLY RESPONSIBLE FOR 2017 MASS SHOOTING AT TEXAS CHURCH

Platt was booked on charges of investigation of possession of a weapon by a previous offender, two counts of possession of controlled substance with intent to distribute, and a warrant from another jurisdiction. Gabriel Rodriguez was also charged with investigation of possession of a weapon by a previous offender and possession of a controlled substance, while Ricardo Rodriguez faced only alleged weapons offenses.

The fourth suspect, Serikawa, was taken into custody on drug charges in addition to an outstanding warrant from another area.

The Denver Police Department was "unable to provide more details" pertaining to the incident, though federal law enforcement has been called to investigate, a spokesperson told the Washington Examiner.

The MLB All-Star Game will take place on Tuesday at 7:30 p.m.

In October 2017, Stephen Paddock, a 64-year-old Nevada man, opened fire on a crowd attending the Route 91 Harvest music festival on the Las Vegas Strip, killing 60 and injuring more than 500 people. Paddock took his own life before police stormed his hotel room and found multiple firearms equipped with bump stocks, plastic shoulder stock replacements that simulate automatic fire from a long gun.

Story continues

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER

Details regarding Paddock's motive for the shooting remain scarce.

Washington Examiner Videos

Tags: News, Colorado, Denver, Police, Law Enforcement, Firearms, Las Vegas shooting, Las Vegas, MLB

Original Author: Jake Dima

Original Location: Colorado police arrest four people and seize multiple guns in apparent 'Las Vegas-style shooting' plot
"The grass should be up to here," Janie VanWinkle says, holding a hand next to her knee above the scant growth on her ranch in Colorado, which -- just as in 2020, and 2018 -- is again being hit by devastating drought.

"Here we are again," she says, wearing a checkered shirt and a persistent smile that belies her ranch's woes at a time when record high temperatures have been scorching much of the US West.

"The soil moisture is just completely depleted, you can dig down four feet and there's no moisture in the dirt. So that's the cumulative effect that makes it tougher than previous droughts."

But the drought is only one of many challenges facing ranchers, not only in Mesa County where she lives, but across the West.

"The drought's right here in your face, you never get away from that," she says. "So it feels like we are always under attack, whether it's 'fake' meat, wolves, animal rights, environmental issues -- you name it."

Colorado provides a case study of the modern tensions between cities and the countryside, between the metropolis of Denver -- a haven for digital start-ups and progressive movements -- and sparsely inhabited regions where ranchers spend hours on horseback checking on their grazing herds.

Janie VanWinkle, her husband Howard, and their son Dean own about 450 head of cattle, after selling 70 last fall in expectation of the coming drought, and 35 in June as their hay stock began to run low.

They are constantly juggling between buying more feed as its price rises, and selling more cattle.

While the survival of the ranch is not immediately threatened, this will be a bad year: Janie VanWinkle estimates that her cattle will weigh 100 to 120 pounds (45 to 55 kilograms) less than usual when they are sold to feedlots in the fall.

- 'Emotional cost' -

Looking ahead, the most likely scenario "is that these drier conditions will be the norm," said Russ Schumacher, a professor of atmospheric science at Colorado State University.

Story continues

"It will take years of above normal precipitation -- not just one year -- to get out of these conditions," he added.

The higher temperatures brought on by climate change are magnifying the consequences of low rain- and snowfall, Schumacher said.

When her son came home from college, Janie VanWinkle recalled, "Dean was like, 'You guys need to be irrigating!'

"But we are! We have been!" she said. "Its just not doing anything, because it's been so hot."

She worries about what the future holds for her son -- the fifth generation of ranchers in the family -- not just because of the drought but because of an increasing tangle of societal pressures.

In March, Colorado's Democratic governor urged people to observe a day without meat; the state voted in 2020 to reintroduce wolves, which prey on cattle; and real-estate developers and tourism promoters keep buying up prime ranchland.

An NGO that campaigns against animal cruelty recently sought to organize a statewide referendum that would have banned artificial insemination and the slaughter of cattle less than five years old (instead of the more typical age of less than two years).

"All of these things come together and it does create a huge emotional toll on our ranchers and our livestock producers. It's brutal," said VanWinkle, who was the previous president of the Colorado Cattlemen's Association.

In the long run, "social perception is going to change things more than drought," she said. "It's sometimes just totally overwhelming."

- 'Biggest upcyclers' -

Dean VanWinkle, who recently completed his college studies in animal science, remains convinced that the cattle-ranching industry can adapt and survive -- even flourish -- while respecting the environment.

"Cattle are the biggest upcyclers, really, that there is," he said, referring to their ability to transform hay into protein.

"Ultimately," he added, "cattle themselves are pretty much climate neutral."

That claim is widely disputed. Worldwide, cattle are responsible for 14.5 percent of the greenhouse gas emissions behind climate change, according to the United Nations.

The rate in the United States is lower, however -- four percent, according to the US Environmental Protection Agency.

The American industry boasts that it produces as much meat now as in 1977, but with herds that are 33 percent smaller, owing to progress in genetics and nutrition.

"The producers are extremely adaptive," said Kim Stackhouse-Lawson, who heads a sustainable livestock initiative at Colorado State University in collaboration with the industry.

Among possible developments, she mentioned breeds better adapted to different climates, new technologies like drones or computer-linked "necklaces" to guide cattle, and diversification by ranchers into eco-tourism or hunting expeditions.

"I believe that the future is bright," said Brackett Pollard, who wears two hats, as a rancher and a banker.

"We've learned through the pandemic, where prices were exceptionally high, that people are willing to pay a lot for our product," said Pollard, who raises several hundred head of cattle at his ranch near the town of Rifle.

"We've got social pressures," he added, but "the demand for beef has never been higher."

juj/Dt/bbk/bgs
HAVANA (AP)  Thousands of Cubans marched on Havanas Malecon promenade and elsewhere on the island Sunday to protest food shortages and high prices amid the coronavirus crisis, in one of biggest anti-government demonstrations in memory.

Many young people took part in the afternoon protest in the capital, which disrupted traffic until police moved in after several hours and broke up the march when a few protesters threw rocks.

Police initially trailed behind as protesters chanted Freedom, Enough and Unite. One motorcyclist pulled out a U.S. flag, but it was snatched from him by others.

We are fed up with the queues, the shortages. Thats why Im here, one middle-age protester told The Associated Press. He declined to identify himself for fear of being arrested later.

Cuba is going through its worst economic crisis in decades, along with a resurgence of coronavirus cases, as it suffers the consequences of U.S. sanctions imposed by the Trump administration.

An official in the Biden administration tweeted support for Sunday's demonstrations.

Peaceful protests are growing in #Cuba as the Cuban people exercise their right to peaceful assembly to express concern about rising COVID cases/deaths & medicine shortages. We commend the numerous efforts of the Cuban people mobilizing donations to help neighbors in need, tweeted Julie Chung, acting assistant secretary for state for Western Hemisphere affairs.

Cubas director general for U.S. affairs, Carlos F. de Cossio, dismissed her remarks in his own tweet: US State Department and its officials, involved to their necks in promoting social and political instability in #Cuba, should avoid expressing hypocritical concern for a situation they have been betting on. Cuba is and will continue to be a peaceful country, contrary to the US.

The demonstration grew to a few thousand in the vicinity of Galeano Avenue and the marchers pressed on despite a few charges by police officers and tear gas barrages. People standing on many balconies along the central artery in the Centro Habana neighborhood applauded the protesters passing by. Others joined in the march.

Story continues

Although many people tried to take out their cellphones and broadcast the protest live, Cuban authorities shut down internet service throughout the afternoon.

About 2 1/2 hours into the march, some protesters pulled up cobblestones and threw them at police, at which point officers began arresting people and the marchers dispersed.

AP journalists counted at least 20 people who were taken away in police cars or by individuals in civilian clothes.

The people came out to express themselves freely, and they are repressing and beating them, Rev. Jorge Luis Gil, a Roman Catholic priest, said while standing at a street corner in Centro Habana.

About 300 people close to the government then arrived with a large Cuban flag shouting slogans in favor of the late President Fidel Castro and the Cuban revolution. Some people from the group assaulted an AP videojournalist, disabling his camera, while an AP photojournalist was injured by the police.

Demonstrations were also held elsewhere on the island, including the small town of San Antonio de los Banos, where people protested power outages and were visited by President Miguel Diaz-Canel. He entered a few homes, where he took questions from residents.

Afterward, though, he accused Cuban of stirring up trouble.

As if pandemic outbreaks had not existed all over the world, the Cuban-American mafia, paying very well on social networks to influencers and Youtubers, has created a whole campaign ... and has called for demonstrations across the country, Diaz-Canel told reporters.
Grant Faint/Getty Images

Some have pushed the idea that residents of California are leaving the state in high numbers.

But a new study by the University of California found the "Cal exodus" to be a myth.

The researchers said some residents are leaving the state, but not in unusual numbers.

See more stories on Insider's business page.

Residents of California are not moving out of the state in abnormal numbers, contrary to popular belief, according to a new survey by the University of California published this week.

Much has been written about people making the move from California to other places in the US, like Idaho or Florida and Texas. The UC researchers said the new survey is part of a larger research project that began last fall to examine whether or not there actually is a "Cal exodus."

But the researchers found that while some Californians are leaving the state, it is not happening at unusual rates. They also said there was no evidence of "millionaire flight" and that the state attracts "as much venture capital as all other states combined."

Read more: Invasion of the remote workers! How 'digital nomads' are ruining tropical paradises

"Despite the popular notion of unhappy Californians leaving the state en masse, our robust research shows there is actually no exodus," said Thad Kousser, chair of the political science department at UC San Diego and lead researcher of the most recent survey.

The project analyzed survey data and found the number of residents who said they were considering leaving the state remained static over the past two years. Researchers also found no increase in Google searches for terms like "moving company" or "U-Haul" in the state.

"The empirical data will be, at once, disappointing to those who want to write California's obituary, as well as a call to action for policymakers to address the challenges that have caused some to lose faith in the California Dream," UC Regent John A. Perez said in a press release about the study.

Story continues

The survey of 3,000 residents also found 21% of Democrat respondents were seriously considering moving while 30% of Republicans were. However, it also found that the number of residents who say California is one of the best places to live decreased from 50% in a 2019 poll to 42%.

Have a news tip? Contact this reporter at kvlamis@insider.com.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Writer Tarah Chieffi thinks that Disney parks will continue to evolve, and that's a good thing. Tarah Chieffi/Insider

Disney parks bill themselves as a place where everyone can experience joy, wonder, and magic.

Recently, Disney has made changes to some attractions and guidelines to stay true to this sentiment.

Some feel the changes are too "woke" and ruin the magic, but they only help more people find it.

Visit Insider's homepage for more stories.

"To all that come to this happy place, welcome. Disneyland is your land."

These are the words Walt Disney spoke at Disneyland's grand opening on July 17, 1955. In building his theme park, the entrepreneur created a destination where visitors of all ages could feel joy and wonder. And more than 65 years later, people visit Disney parks all over the world to experience their special brand of magic.

As time went on, however, it became increasingly clear that not everybody could feel that magic when visiting a Disney park, thanks to racist characters and offensive show scenes in certain attractions - which the company has begun revamping. It's also worth noting that Disney himself was not without controversy, with allegations of anti-Semitism, racism, and sexism resurfacing in recent years.

When it comes to its image as a company, Disney has started to address its own issues and become more inclusive. The most recent example cropped up when fireworks returned to Disney World in early July, and Disney replaced the gendered "Ladies and Gentlemen, Boys and Girls'' greeting that played at the start of the Magic Kingdom's nightly fireworks show with "Good evening, dreamers of all ages!"

Back in April, the corporation announced that parks employees will now be able to display "gender-inclusive hairstyles, jewelry, nail styles, and costume choices," as well as visible tattoos. The move drew pushback, and one outraged fan wrote an opinion piece in the Orlando Sentinel blasting the decision, which he chalked up to "wokeness."

But responses like these miss a crucial element of Disney magic: It's meant to be accessible to everyone, not just you. If not everyone feels comfortable at the parks, that failing falls on Disney's shoulders, not the individual's. These changes will likely keep coming, and Disney will likely keep evolving. That's a good thing, and folks who wring their hands over "history" and "tradition" should get used to it.

Story continues

Pirate Redd (seen here in a pink dress) was once a bride up for auction on Pirates of the Caribbean. David Roark/Walt Disney World

Disney has been adapting to criticism of its rides and history

The first ride to get a major makeover was Pirates of the Caribbean, in 2018. Where guests used to see women being sold at auction underneath a sign that read "Take a Wench for a Bride," they now see a female pirate named Redd helping to auction off rum and other goods from a recently ransacked town.

In a USA TODAY story addressing the updates, Kathy Magnum, a since-retired regional executive with Walt Disney Imagineering, said, "I kept thinking of a little girl riding that boat right now. Is this a scene we want her to be seeing?" While some may see the bride auction scene as silly or harmless, it's much more impactful for a child to see that women aren't property to be bought and sold.

In June 2020, Disney announced Splash Mountain would be get a "Princess and the Frog" update. I wasn't aware of the ride's racist source material - the 1946 Walt Disney Film "Song of the South" - until about 10 years ago. Since then, though, I've always felt uncomfortable that there was a Disney ride with characters and music from a film even Disney has acknowledged is offensive. (The movie isn't available on DVD or on Disney's streaming service, Disney Plus.)

A Disney Parks Blog post announcing the change said, "The new concept is inclusive - one that all of our guests can connect with and be inspired by, and it speaks to the diversity of the millions of people who visit our parks each year." Knowing the original ride's history made it impossible to enjoy, and I look forward to the reimagined version featuring Disney's first Black princess.

Disney World and Disneyland guests will soon splash into an adventure with Tiana from Princess and the Frog. Disney

Disney's most recent ride makeover happened in January 2021 with the news that the Jungle Cruise would be setting out on "new adventures" that better "reflect and value the diversity of the world around us." Rather than racist jokes about native war parties, cannibals, and shrunken head traders, the ride will soon tell the story of a diverse group of explorers whose expedition goes off course.

If you're reading this and rolling your eyes because you think Disney is too 'woke,' consider yourself lucky

That means these changes have nothing to do with you, and everything to do with people who can't enjoy the parks because of these things.

If you already love Disney and consider it "The Most Magical Place on Earth," you should want others to feel the same way.

Based on some reactions to Disney's recent changes, though, not everyone agrees.

When Disney announced it would be removing the bride auction scene from Pirates of the Caribbean, tens of thousands of people signed a petition hoping to keep the ride the way it was. The same happened when Disney confirmed Splash Mountain would be getting a makeover. A Jungle Cruise petition had considerably fewer signatures.

Disneys Jungle Cruise ride is in the process of removing problematic show scenes and replacing them with a new storyline. Tarah Chieffi/Insider

I've been visiting Disney since before I can remember and for most of my life I didn't realize how problematic these things were. Once I began to view them through the lens of those who were made to feel uncomfortable or discriminated against, I couldn't enjoy them either.

The changes Disney is making aren't taking the magic away from those who've already found it - they're simply helping more people find it. If everybody is welcome at Disney, these changes will continue to be necessary until everyone truly feels that way.

Read the original article on Insider
LAS VEGAS  Just before the main event of UFC 264 between Conor McGregor and Dustin Poirier, former President Donald Trump walked into the event to a roar of cheers inside T-Mobile Arena on Saturday night.

Trump came through the fighter tunnel before the welterweight bout between Gilbert Burns and Stephen Thompson. The crowd was on its feet as he was escorted to his seat near the octagon, near where supporter and New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft was seated.

Despite the mainly pro-Trump crowd, there were some faint boos sprinkled in throughout. However, they were quickly drowned out as multiple "U-S-A" chants broke out.

This content is not available due to your privacy preferences. Update your settings here to see it.

Trump and UFC President Dana White have had a long-standing friendship. In November 2019, Trump became the first person ever elected into office to attend a UFC event when he sat cageside at UFC 244 in his home state of New York, where he received more boos than cheers. White, in return, spoke at the 2020 Republican National Convention, advocating for Trump's presidential re-election.

Following UFC 264, White told reporters he met with Trump before the main event and that having Trump at T-Mobile Arena was just, "two friends, who are fight fans, watching a fight."

Former U.S. President Donald Trump, left, attends UFC 264.

Trump's attendance is one of the few public appearances he's made since leaving the White House in January. He recently held a rally in Florida as the Trump Organization was indicted by a grand jury in Manhattan for tax-related offenses last week.

Follow Jordan Mendoza on Twitter: @jord_mendoza.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Donald Trump cheered as he arrives at UFC 264 at T-Mobile Arena
CANNES, France (Reuters) - Documentary makers and environmental activists including British teenager Bella Lack on Sunday said they hoped to inspire more efforts on climate change, including through several films with hopeful messages presented at the Cannes Film Festival.

The world's biggest cinema showcase is back after a 2020 hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and has this year highlighted productions with an environmental focus in a special selection.

The festival, which has attracted people from around the world, including big hitting Hollywood stars like Adam Driver and Matt Damon, has also tried to cut back on waste, using some hybrid or electric cars to shuttle people around and replacing its red carpet, which it used to change three times a day, with recyle-friendly material, organisers said.

The world of film could also be an example in other ways, said 18-year-old activist Lack, who appears in "Animal" along with chimpanzee expert Jane Goodall, in a documentary by Cyril Dion shown at the festival.

"People believe that all young people are terrified and motivated by fear... I've actually been motivated by hope and by imagination," Lack told a news conference. "That's what the cinema industry and Cannes can act as, as a vehicle to catalyse the imagination of adults."

Other films being presented include "Bigger Than Us", produced by Oscar-winning actress Marion Cotillard and which features young campaigners from Indonesia to Malawi.

Director Flore Vasseur said the activists had pressured the crew to take steps such as cutting out plastic on set.

"This industry does not have an extraordinary track record on this issue," Vasseur said. "We're all on a learning curve, we're all looking for solutions."

The green selection also included French actor and director Louis Garrel's "The Crusade", a fictional comedy about children who sell their parents' jewellery in their quest to save the planet.

(Reporting by Sarah White; Editing by Emelia Sithole-Matarise)
Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

On the 26th floor of City Hall, one lesson in the history of Los Angeles is abundantly clear. Accomplishments of the past are never greater than the problems of the present.

Hidden in the corridors of this granite aerie are portraits of nearly 50 former mayors. Most are strangers, whose legacies have been overshadowed by the never-ending demands of an ever-evolving city.

Eric Garcetti is about to join this gallery, and his premature departure  ambassadorship, India  means Angelenos must again look to the future and consider a new mayor whose agenda will be more urgent and complicated than ever before.

As Los Angeles emerges from the shadows of a global pandemic, its economy is a patchwork of inequity and privilege. Homeless camps have spilled from streets and underpasses onto beaches and city parks.

Families face the prospect of eviction against a backdrop of rising housing costs. Violent crime is on the rise, and racial bias and abuse have undermined confidence in the Police Department.

Garcetti leaves a city that is, by many accounts, still broken, and imagining his successor  whether interim or elected  may require looking beyond the past: beyond the coalition-building skills of Tom Bradley, the entrepreneurial savvy of Richard Riordan, the institutional memory of James Hahn, the zeal of Antonio Villaraigosa and Garcetti's own steady hand.

The future holds unseen possibilities. A woman has yet to hold the office, and except for Bradley and Villaraigosa, former mayors have not reflected the citys increasing diversity.

If the stakes are high, so are the expectations for a job that was constrained by the 1925 City Charter (slightly revised 70 years later) and is seen by many as largely symbolic.

The mayor is a figure whose task it is to be a mirror of the citys best aspirations, said cultural historian D.J. Waldie, and be honest about the citys limitations, to point out where the aspirations have failed without being a scold.

Story continues

Though the mayors authority is limited  the 15 council members arguably have more influence  the office does manage the citys financial decisions, which may be the first place to set priorities.

We need to fix this city, said former Councilwoman and county Supervisor Gloria Molina, whose remedy begins with a practicality: Making sure that there is a budget for the needs of everyone.

But the job needs more than a seasoned bureaucrat. For Molina, the ideal candidate will be bold, strong and capable of taking in the breadth of Los Angeles and not be beholden to neighborhoods, lobbyists or developers, constituencies that determine success at the polls.

The best mayor, she said, would be "unelectable," a fitting description if the City Council names an interim mayor who assumes office without having to campaign and would be free to make decisions without political consequence.

Being elected, Molina said, requires you to acquiesce to major influencers, and that compromises your ability to address the very issues that need to be addressed. That is why we are in the situation we are in.

Community activist Najee Ali has a simple prescription for when the next mayor is sworn in: Pick up where Garcetti left off.

If I were to give Garcetti a grade, it would be for me a B-plus, he said, and the only reason he doesnt get an A is he didnt have enough time to complete everything that needs to be done for our city.

Housing, law enforcement, public safety and social programs are the citys immediate priorities, said Ali, who praised Garcettis commitment to bringing in state and federal funds for housing and for reallocating the LAPD budget for gang intervention and mental health services.

Those are not sexy issues, but they are important quality-of-life issues, he said.

Luis Rodriguez, the citys poet laureate from 2014 to 2016, believes the job requires a vision for the future that will address the city's economic disparity and its need for social healing. The answers are in the problems, he said.

Los Angeles is in crisis because we are holding on to "dead ideas, dead organizational principles, dead ways of doing things," and only by letting go will new ideas and innovation come forward, Rodriguez said.

People are asking for radical change, he said, but radical is not overturning things or burning things down. It is looking instead at the economic, cultural and social roots for all of this.

Rodriguez added that gentrification is among the citys most critical issues because of its effect upon mostly Black and Latino communities. Failure to address this problem or apply meaningful remedies has only made homelessness  along with drug and alcohol abuse and mental illness  worse, he said.

Los Angeles has to come to terms with the interconnectedness of these problems, said Bill Deverell, director of the Huntington-USC Institute on California and the West, otherwise the efforts will be piecemeal and temporary.

We need a mayor who recognizes that these challenges are not discrete, he said. Housing equity, public health, law enforcement, jurisprudence, racial and ethnic parity  they are all one gigantic tapestry. Recognizing that interconnectedness is crucial and fundamental to making productive change that lasts.

Architect Wendy Gilmartin, who is on the advisory board of the Los Angeles Forum for Architecture and Urban Design, agrees.

The new mayor, she said, has to see the citys problems in the aggregate and understand how intertwined they are. Los Angeles history of land speculation and its continual obsession with real estate, for example, have played a role in fostering racial inequity in the city, she said.

We need a mayor who recognizes these connections, she said.

While Gilmartin praises some of Garcettis initiatives, she would like to see them taken further. Garcettis granny flat  or accessory dwelling unit  program is an important step in bringing density into the city, but its implementation has not been as progressive as the concept. For that, she recommends an overhaul, as Riordan did, of the citys Department of Public Works, where permitting and planning take place.

Gilmartin similarly questions the value of a guaranteed basic income plan that would provide $1,000 a month to 2,000 low-income families when an average one-bedroom unit rents for $2,400.

If you are struggling to pay a mortgage, you wont build an accessory dwelling unit in your yard, she said.

Coming out of the pandemic, Gilmartin would like to see leadership that can advance novel approaches to the housing crisis, such as converting vacant office space into subsidized apartments.

The housing crisis  and its corollary, homelessness  is also on the mind of Lew Horne, a Los Angeles-based division president for the real estate brokerage firm CBRE. Anything else, he said, is a distant second.

Horne would like to see a new mayor with both political and business experience and a willingness to make decisions that are not going to be popular with everyone.

In business, he said, we look for the outcome and work backward. We work toward a solve and not toward the management or maintenance of a problem.

With more than 60,000 unsheltered people in the county, Horne believes that the idea of opening 50 beds at a time is inadequate.

How do we address wholesale change? he asked. The answer begins with a mayor who would champion reforms in zoning to allow for greater density in the city and in the California Environmental Quality Act, used to slow or stop development.

Communities also need special incentives to overcome local resistance toward housing homeless individuals.

Everyone wants to solve homelessness, he said, and the next mayor needs to use the bully pulpit to communicate not just to the City Council or the business community but to the citizens of Los Angeles what is at stake if the crisis isnt solved.

We have to do this, or we risk our future, he said.

But before the future can be imagined, Eric Avila, an urban cultural historian at UCLA, argues for a better understanding of the habits and biases of the past. Los Angeles, he said, needs to let go of its old identity and see itself as a city, not as a disparate collection of neighborhoods, suburbs and urban centers.

The suburban dream, predicated on the automobile and highway, is not sustainable, he said. The automobile and highway have hurt our neighborhoods and warped our sense of public life and our sense of connectedness.

By investing in alternative modes of public transit, the new mayor will have an opportunity to invigorate public spaces, which in turn will bring residents together. Avila would like to see streets become more like promenades and believes the transformation would create a more healthful and dynamic urban environment. He sees police officers, for instance, walking these neighborhoods and street vendors bringing these spaces alive.

Whatever the new thinking  bold, strong, even unelectable  humility may be needed as well. Its absence on the 26th floor of City Hall is also conspicuous, where each portrait captures a steely resolve that says nothing  not war, depression (or recession), scandal or even peace  is too great to overcome.

But history paints a less certain truth. Even if the new mayor unites the citys disparate voices, the reality is that solutions to the most stubborn problems lie beyond the reach of one person.

Issues like homelessness arent just the mayors or the City Councils problem, Molina said. They are our personal problems as well.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Jul. 10The U.S. and Gonzaga incoming freshman Chet Holmgren passed their first serious test at the FIBA U19 World Cup in Riga, Latvia.

Holmgren scored 12 points, grabbed eight rebounds and swatted six shots as the U.S. downed Canada 92-86 Saturday in a matchup of the top two teams in the world rankings.

The Americans (6-0) advance to Sunday's championship game against France. The U.S. has won four of the last five World Cups, interrupted only by Canada's title in 2017.

Canada (5-1) faces Serbia loser for third place.

Holmgren made all three of his shot attempts and scored eight points as the U.S. built a 49-38 halftime lead. He drove the baseline for a two-handed dunk to boost the lead to 55-43 but Canada closed within one. The U.S. responded with seven unanswered points.

Canada's Ryan Nembhard, younger brother of Gonzaga senior point guard Andrew Nembhard, hit a 3-pointer to help cut the U.S. lead to 69-63 at the end of three.

Holmgren blocked a shot, led the break and finished with a dunk to put USA up 71-63 early in the fourth. The U.S., which lost guard Kennedy Chandler to injury late in the fourth, pulled away with a 15-0 run.

The Creighton-bound Nembhard made 7 of 22 shots and finished with 18 points, eight rebounds and six assists in nearly 39 minutes. Caleb Houstan, who drew recruiting interest from Gonzaga before signing with Michigan, scored a game-high 23 points on 6-of-19 shooting in nearly 37 minutes. Zach Edey, a 7-foot-4 center at Purdue, had 16 points and 16 boards.

The 7-1 Holmgren was effective at both ends of the court. He made his only 3-point attempt and 4 of 6 inside the arc in 23-plus minutes of playing time. He swatted two of Nembhard's shots and two attempts by Bennedict Mathurin, who will play for former Gonzaga assistant coach Tommy Lloyd at Arizona.

Mathurin scored 19 points.

Holmgren has scored in double figures in all six tournament games. He's averaging 3.2 blocks per game.

Kenneth Lofton led the Americans with 16 points, Mike Miles added 15 and Creighton center Ryan Kalkbrenner added 10. The U.S. shot 46% from the field and blocked 13 shots. Canada made just 35.3% of its field-goal attempts.
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott on Sunday said he's taking Hollywood actor Matthew McConaughey "very seriously" as a possible gubernatorial challenger.

"It doesn't matter what the name is, I take everybody very seriously, and it shows," Abbott said of McConaughey during a segment on Fox News Sunday. "I will tell you two things, and that is if you look at my polling numbers, they are very, very strong. In addition to that, I have $55 million in the bank already, and Im a very aggressive fundraiser."

"So I will have the resources and the backing of a lot of people across the state of Texas to ensure that whoever decides to run against me, we will be able to win," the Republican governor added.

MATTHEW MCCONAUGHEY WOULD BE 'FORMIDABLE' TEXAS GOVERNOR CANDIDATE: TED CRUZ

As of earlier this month, Abbott was favored by 39% of Texas voters, while McConaughey was favored by 38% in a hypothetical matchup, according to a poll from the Dallas Morning News and the University of Texas at Tyler. The governor, however, holds a large 45%-33% margin over failed 2020 Democratic presidential candidate Beto O'Rourke, who has not yet ruled out a gubernatorial bid.

In March, McConaughey said he had given a move for political office "honest consideration" and vowed to employ an aggressively centric" approach if he commenced the run. He has yet to declare his candidacy.

"I would say, as far as running, Im not until I am. So my decision hasnt changed because Im still not. Am I giving it honest consideration? Yeah," the actor told the Austin American-Statesman at the time. "Id be a fool not to. And its an honorable consideration. I still have to answer the same question for myself and my family. Honestly. Is that the truest and best category for me to be most useful? Im ready to step into a leadership position in this next chapter of my life, but I dont know that thats in politics."

Story continues

Texas Sen. Ted Cruz last month called McConaughey a formidable candidate if he chose to run.

"I hope Matthew decides not to run" against Abbott because I am a big fan of Greg Abbott. He was my boss for five and a half years. Hes a close friend and mentor," the Texas Republican said.

Abbott has his challengers from within his own side of the aisle as former GOP state Sen. Don Huffines announced his candidacy in May after lambasting the governor for instituting COVID-19 lockdown measures during the onset of the pandemic.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER

"It is time to face the facts: Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has not been a leader in the coronavirus crisis," he wrote in an April 2020 op-ed. "He has relinquished his responsibilities to local governments, and in his own words, acknowledged he is looking to Washington for guidance. This is a very disappointing and un-Texan response."

Representatives for McConaughey did not immediately respond to a request for comment from the Washington Examiner.

Washington Examiner Videos

Tags: News, Hollywood, Greg Abbott, Texas, Governor, Ted Cruz

Original Author: Jake Dima

Original Location: Greg Abbott taking Matthew McConaughey 'very seriously' as potential gubernatorial challenger
A Haitian doctor who has been a fixture in Florida for more than two decades has been arrested in Haiti under suspicion that he was one of the leaders behind the middle-of-the-night assassination of President Jovenel Moise last week, Haitis police chief said Sunday.

Christian Emmanuel Sanons name was mentioned by several of the people who are in custody in the case, Haiti National Police Chief Leon Charles said. Sanon was the first person one of the suspects called after being captured. The Haiti National Police arrested him as part of their ongoing investigation into the leadership of the group of 26 Colombians and two Haitian Americans suspected of carrying out the assassination.

Sanon made contact with two other people who are implicated, they know who they are, and are recognized as intellectual authors of the assassination of President Jovenel Moise, Charles said.

Sanons arrest makes him the third person of Haitian descent who has been arrested in the killing. James Solages, 35, and Joseph G. Vincent, 55, Haitian Americans from South Florida, are also in police custody after turning themselves in hours after the killing.

The two Haitian Americans, who are now among 21 suspects in police custody, told Haitian officials during questioning that their mission was not to kill the president but to serve a 2019 arrest warrant that had been issued by a judge and to take Moise to the presidential palace. There, they would install Sanon, 63, as president, a source who spoke with the two men told the Herald.

On Saturday, Charles had alluded to Sanon in a Miami Herald interview, though he did not name him. He said that the suspects, including the two Haitian Americans, confirmed that they worked for a company based in the U.S. and Colombia.... [which] worked with the two Haitian Americans and a high-profile doctor here.

The company is Miami-based CTU Security, registered in Florida as the Counter Terrorist Unit Federal Academy LLC.

Story continues

I would say that the Haitian [doctor] recruited CTU and CTU recruited the Colombians. Thats the pattern, Charles said.

Sanons arrest comes as Haitian police, working with Colombian law enforcement, try to piece together the events leading to the death of Moise, who was shot 12 times in the upstairs bedroom of his home around 1 a.m. Wednesday.

Among the unanswered questions: How Sanon, who once filed for bankruptcy, could be behind a costly conspiracy. Some of the people arrested said that they were paid $3,000 a month and had been living in Haiti since January.

During a press conference late Sunday, Charles said police have two ongoing investigations: one into the death of the president and the perpetrators, the other an administrative probe being handled by police internal affairs.

Questions have been raised about Moises presidential guards and how the assailants were able to break into his residence and get past the guard gate and two dogs. Police sources have told the Herald that four members of the presidential security detail, including the head of the General Security Unit of the National Palace, Dimitri Herard, have been removed from their leadership duties and must report daily to internal affairs. They have also been requested for questioning. Herard is currently the subject of a US law enforcement investigation into arms trafficking in Haiti, the Washington-based Center for Economic Policy and Research reported this week.

Meanwhile, five Colombian former soldiers suspected of having been involved in the attack on the presidents home remain at large, while 18 others are now in custody.

Sanon arrived in Haiti in June on board a private plane with political motivations, Charles said, and recruited the suspects to provide him security as the new president of Haiti. According to interviews with the Colombian suspect, the group was initially recruited to provide Sanon security as a VIP, but the mission changed and they were told to serve an arrest warrant on Moise. Charles did not address when or how the plan changed to kill Moise.

At some point 22 other people landed in Haiti to join the first group already in the country.

Among the items police found at Sanons home after his arrest was a cache of arms and ammunition including six rifles, 9mm guns, 20 cartridges of bullets and four Dominican Republic license plates, Charles said.

Sanon has been living on and off in Florida for more than 20 years, from the Tampa Bay area to South Florida. Public records show that he has had more than a dozen businesses registered in the state, but most of them are inactive. They ranged from medical services to an energy company to real estate.

While he refers to himself as a doctor, records show no medical license in Florida, where he filed a federal bankruptcy case in Tampa in 2013. Court records refer to him as a doctor who works in Haiti and the Dominican Republic. A YouTube video championing his work says he studied medicine in the Dominican Republic.

In his bankruptcy filing, Sanon also listed himself as church pastor at the Tabarre Evangelical Tabernacle, as president of a non-government organization called Organization Rome Haiti, and as president of Radio-Tele Vasco  all in Tabarre, Haiti.

Sanon had a home in Brandon, near Tampa, which he lost in a foreclosure before filing for bankruptcy. At the time, he said he had more than $140,000 in equity in the home. According to bankruptcy records, he was making an annual salary of $60,000 and had debts totaling more than $400,000. During the bankruptcy, Sanon switched his address from Brandon to Hollywood, then to Boynton Beach.

Other court records show that Sanon had been living in Margate, in Broward County, as far back as 1998, when he got a ticket for a traffic violation.

A video shared on YouTube describes Sanon as one of the leaders needed to represent the Haitian people, and that he has the support of more than 200 companies to foster the industrial development and socio-economic recovery of Haiti.

According to the video, Sanon was born in Jacmel in 1956 and studied biology in New York before studying in the Dominican Republic.

Miami Herald reporter Daniel Chang and McClatchy Washington Bureau reporter Kevin G. Hall contributed to this report.
Marwa Al Ibrahim never imagined she would be living in the United States.

But violence in Iraq forced her to apply for refugee status. Her father lost one of his arms from a sticky bomb. Her anxiety over the safety of her young son and husband grew.

I felt like death was approaching, Al Ibrahim, 35, told the Fort Worth Star-Telegram while holding her one-year-old daughter in their home.

In 2014, Al Ibrahim and her family became among the thousands of refugees who have resettled in the United States. For some like Al Ibrahim, the Fort Worth area is now their new home  giving them hopes of better opportunities and a safe place.

When arriving in the United States, Al Ibrahim realized many people in this country were just like her.

We have so much in common. Thats what surprised me, Al Ibrahim said. We look forward to being safe, self-sufficient, and supporting our families.

According to the United Nations Higher Commission for Refugees, there are 82.4 million people forcibly displaced worldwide and 26.4 million are refugees. The agency reported there were 340,881 people in the United States considered refugees in 2020.

Texas is one of the top states refugees may be relocated to in the U.S.

Catholic Charities of Fort Worth and Refugee Services of Texas helped resettle 393 refugees in Tarrant County in 2020. Many people came from Afghanistan, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Myanmar.

Before leaving Iraq, Al Ibrahim knew she wanted to help others in her situation. She is now working as a supervisor for the employment program in the Fort Worth office of Refugee Services of Texas. She helps other refugees adjust to lives in the U.S. and receive the services they need to flourish.

How does someone become a refugee?

The United Nations Higher Commission on Refugees decides how an individual can be considered a refugee. An applicant is screened by the international agency and is referred to a country for resettlement.

Natalie Nanasi, a professor at SMU Dedman School of Law and the director of the Judge Elmo B. Hunter Legal Center for Victims of Crimes Against Women, said coming to the United States as a refugee is extremely difficult.

Story continues

Coming to the United States as a refugee is about the hardest way for one to come into this country, she said.

Nanasi said the screening process is extensive and can take years. Many refugees dont have a say on where they are relocated and to which state in the United States.

The President of the United States consults with Congress to determine the amount of refugees that will be allowed to come into the country for the following year. Refugee admissions declined under President Donald Trumps Administration.

President Joe Biden signed an Emergency Presidential Determination to raise the resettlement goal to 62,500 for 2021 after initially saying it would keep the previous administrations limit of 15,000, NPR reported.

In the United States, the State Department will approve a persons application and then they will be screened by the Department of Homeland Security and intelligence agencies, like the FBI. A persons family and other connections will be looked into by the government agencies.

Nanasi said the entire experience of being a refugee can be challenging. A person experiences leaving their home, living in limbo for years and restarting in a new country where they may not know the language.

Refugees by definition are people who have experienced terrible things, Nanasi said.

Many refugees also experience culture shock, trauma and deal with raising their children in a new place.

In the late 1980s, Nanasis family left Hungary and relocated to the United States when she was a young child. Nanasis paperwork labeled her country of citizenship as stateless.

Refugees can do things that are great benefits to our society, Nanasi said.

From Iraq to Fort Worth

It took six years from the time Al Ibrahim and her family applied for refugee resettlement and arrived in the United States. She worked as an interpreter for a French newspaper while living in Iraq.

Years later, her skills led Al Ibrahim to her career today helping other refugees navigate American culture.

A resettlement agency greeted Al Ibrahim and her family at the airport when they arrived in Texas and took them to a furnished apartment which had essentials like food in the refrigerator and dishes in the cabinets.

Like many resettlement agencies in the area, the organization immediately gave the family an orientation on the public transportation system, helped schedule doctor appointments, provided career counseling and guided them through enrolling in public assistance programs such as SNAP and Medicaid.

Al Ibrahim said the process was overwhelming at first because being told about the many details of the various programs is different than physically experiencing them first-hand. When living in Iraq, she didnt have to schedule a doctors appointment before walking in.

Resettlement agencies also help enroll refugees into ESL (English as a second language) classes, children in school, and provide orientation on budgeting, US laws, and cultural adjustment.

Before relocating, refugees have an orientation on their destination country. Al Ibrahim said she learned about American culture and the role of case workers who would help her family when they arrived.

The role of the case worker sparked an interest in her. She became curious on how she could help others in her situation when arriving to the United States.

I wanted to do the same, to help people stand on their feet, the mother said.

After arriving in Texas, Al Ibrahims family realized childcare was too expensive for their young son. She decided to stay home to take care of him while her husband worked. According to the United Way of Tarrant Countys 2018-2019 Community Assessment, the average childcare cost for a toddler is almost $800 per month.

When Al Ibrahim had to go on errands, she would take her son in his stroller and navigate the public transportation system.

Members of her community began asking her for help with paperwork because she knew how to speak English. This led her to become a certified interpreter in the United States. She said that refugees with language barriers can have more challenges due to having trouble with filling out applications for jobs. The federal government expects refugees to find jobs as soon as possible.

Once they find jobs, they feel really safe and secure, she said.

A refugee may still be dealing with trauma after arriving in their destination country. The first few years may be focused on employment and adjusting to their new lives. Some refugees in Tarrant County have been able to buy homes within five to 10 years after arriving, according to resettlement agencies.

Al Ibrahim eventually got a job with Refugee Services of Texas Fort Worth office. She started off as an employment case manager and has worked as a supervisor for two years.

Zoe Wilkerson, area director for Refugee Services of Texas Fort Worth office, said Al Ibrahim is a powerful asset to the organization.

Marwas desire to go above and beyond and help staff stem from her heart for our client populations and an understanding of where they have come from, Wilkerson said. Marwa has experienced hardship but her positive outlook and constant smiles would make it hard for anyone to know.

Al Ibrahims typical day involves checking in with her team and helping them with any challenges their clients may have, and providing guidance and training. As an employment case manager, she helped clients with their job search, took them to potential employers and provided career counseling.

Overcoming challenges

When Al Ibrahim arrived to Texas, she had family members who lived here. However, not all refugees have family in their destination country. Last year, Catholic Charities of Fort Worth helped resettle 34 single people who arrived alone.

Al Ibrahim said it is important for refugees to have opportunities to meet others to form a community. Refugee Services of Texas provides a program to connect members of the community with their clients. Some participants cook with each other, practice their language skills and develop strong friendships.

In 2019, Al Ibrahim became a U.S. Citizen. An individual isnt able to have refugee status for very long. Al Ibrahim said she is proud to say she is an American because the United States is her home, it provided her a safe place, opportunities and chances for her children.

This is why I came here, to give back to the country who supported me, she said.

For Al Ibrahims children, she hopes they will appreciate the sacrifices their family had to make to come to the United States safely, diversity and their history.

Al Ibrahim said her experience has taught her a lot about herself: Shes independent. Shes strong. Shes patient.

Flexible enough to learn and go through situations that did scare me, Al Ibrahim said.
A California hotel canceled an America First rally after learning Reps. Matt Gaetz and Marjorie Taylor Greene were slated to be featured speakers.

The duo of GOP lawmakers was slated to speak at an "America First" rally at Pacific Hills Banquet and Event Center in Laguna Hills, California, in July, but the event was canceled by the venue over concerns about Gaetz and Greene being the featured speakers.

"As soon as we found out who the speakers were, we immediately canceled it," venue general manager Javad Mirtavoosi told the Orange County Register on Friday. "We just thought it would be best for our facility to cancel."

Flyers promoting the event began circulating on social media last week, but the two Trump-supporting lawmakers have now been forced to search for another venue.

FAR-FETCHED TRUMP SPEAKER BID FUELS FUNDRAISING PLEAS ON LEFT AND RIGHT

Gaetz and Greene have both become controversial figures within the GOP in recent months, with Gaetz facing accusations of having a sexual relationship with a minor and Greene being removed from her House committees over comments she made before being elected that critics said promoted far-right causes and conspiracy theories. Greene later generated more controversy by comparing mask and vaccine mandates to the actions of Nazi Germany during the Holocaust.

Gaetz has denied the allegations against him, while Greene has apologized on multiple occasions for her controversial rhetoric.

The two Republicans were also both linked to a plan to create a caucus dedicated to the idea that the United States is based on Anglo-Saxon traditions, but the group was scrapped amid public criticism and pushback from within the GOP in April.

We just want to stay clear of that, Mirtavoosi said.

Gaetz and Greene have continued to sell tickets to the event while they search for a new venue, according to Greene campaign spokesman Nick Dyer.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER

Story continues

"We're very close to securing a location that will proudly host our America First Rally with Congresswoman Greene and Congressman Gaetz," Dyer told the Orange County Register.

The offices of Gaetz and Greene did not immediately respond to the Washington Examiner's requests for comment.

Washington Examiner Videos

Tags: News, Matt Gaetz, California, Republicans, Cancel Culture, Marjorie Taylor Greene

Original Author: Michael Lee

Original Location: Hotel cancels 'America First' rally after learning Gaetz and Greene were featured speakers
A woman votes in Irans most recent presidential election. (Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

Lawmakers from both parties broke through the partisan wasteland that is Washington DC this weekend to show support for Irans largest opposition movement and call for an end to the Iranian governments various misdeeds.

At a conference on Saturday hosted by the Organization of Iranian American Communities (OIAC), Republicans and Democrats shared a virtual stage and a common message of support for the group, a rarity especially following the events of 6 Jan which have left Capitol Hill more divided than ever.

More than 1,000 dignitaries and lawmakers from various countries attended the packed event; US guests included allies of former President Donald Trump such as Mike Pompeo, House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, and Sen Ted Cruz while others seen as close to Speaker Nancy Pelosi, such as New Yorks Hakeem Jeffries and Californias Judy Chu were also in attendance.

The speakers messages of support for the Iranian-American community and the struggle against Irans government varied little in terms of content, though some including Mr Pompeo and Mr Cruz took the opportunity to tout the actions of the Trump administration against Iran and call for pressure against the regime to be maintained.

We are now heading into a dangerous chapter with the Biden-Harris Administration. They work actively to undermine the national security gains made in the last 4 years and to reinvigorate the ayatollahs. The administration has shown every sign that it intends to and will embrace and appease the regime, charged Mr Cruz in his remarks.

Our administrations policies were there for the Iranian people at every turn, added Mr Pompeo, who went on to assert that the current Iranian regime was largely unchangeable by US policies.

Democrats who spoke on Saturday, including Sens Cory Booker and Maggie Hassan, largely focused their criticism on Irans regime, while offering little in terms of what to expect for Iran-US relations under the Biden administration.

Story continues

The regime in Tehran must be held accountable for treating women like second class citizens and for the mistreatment, including murder, of its critics, said Ms Hassan in her remarks.

We want to see Irans culture and economy and society thrive, unrestricted by oppressive leaders working constructively on shared problems and peacefully engaging with its neighbors and the rest of the world, added Mr Booker. Irans and its people have so much to offer if they are simply given the chance.

Others who attended the politically star-studded event on Saturday included former Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper, former UK House of Commons Speaker John Bercow, and activist Martin Luther King III, son of the murdered civil rights champion.

At the center of Saturdays conference was its host, Maryam Rajavi, president-elect of the National Council of Resistance of Iran and co-leader of the Peoples Mujahedin of Iran, a left-leaning opposition group considered to be the largest such group in the country. The latter group has a fraught history with the US and the West in general, and was listed as a terrorist organization by the US until a legal campaign culminated in the Obama administration removing that designation.

Many of the groups followers relocated to Albania with the support of the United Nations in the years following that legal campaign, and remain there today. The group was extensively supported by the Trump administration, and in particular by former National Security Adviser John Bolton, who vowed before taking the role that the group would be celebrating in Tehran by the end of 2018.

Ms Rajavis fiery speech at Saturdays gathering focused on the alleged crimes of Ebrahim Raisi, Irans president-elect, while she and others asserted that Irans government was in its weakest position in years.

Yes, the mullahs religious fascism chose [Ebrahim Raisi], the henchman of the 1988 massacre, to solidify their rule and close ranks, to preserve their power, and to prevent their inevitable overthrow in the face of looming uprisings, she said.

But they have actually dug their own graves, added Ms Rajavi. They are like a scorpion that stings itself after being surrounded by flames. Only the regimes fear of the uprisings and the supreme leaders political demise can explain Raisis taking office.

Much of the discussion surrounding President Joe Bidens Iran policy currently centers around whether or not the US will rejoin the 2015 nuclear accord negotiated under the Obama administration, which set enrichment limits for Irans nuclear program and was exited by the US under President Donald Trump.

The president wrote in an op-ed last year that his administration would return to the Iran nuclear deal if Iran returns to strict compliance with the nuclear deal, which as of yet it has not.

Read More

Yellen: Compete on economic strengths, not low tax rates

Police testimony will lead off panel's first Jan. 6 hearing

Police testimony will lead off panels first January 6th hearing on the Capitol Riot
JERUSALEM (AP)  SpaceIL, the nonprofit Israeli initiative whose spacecraft crashed on the moon two years ago, said Sunday that it has secured $70 million in funding to make a second attempt at a lunar landing.

SpaceIL said the new pledges means that it has raised almost all of the $100 million it estimates is needed for the mission to meet its 2024 launch target.

SpaceIL said the funding would come from South African-Israeli billionaire Morris Kahn, who bankrolled much of the first mission, French-Israeli billionaire Patrick Drahi and South African philanthropist Martin Moshal, co-founder of venture capital firm Entree Capital.

The first Beresheet, or Genesis spacecraft, built by SpaceIL and state-owned Israel Aerospace Industries, crashed into the moon moments before touchdown in April 2019, falling short in its attempt to become the first privately funded lunar landing.

According to the Davidson Institute, a branch of the Weizmann Institute of Science research university in Israel, the spacecraft suffered a string of technical malfunctions. That included damage to the star trackers, a type of navigation tool, failure of computer systems and engine failure.

The new mission, to be called Beresheet 2, was first announced in late 2020 and plans to set new global space records through a double landing on the moon and the installment of the lightest ever moon landers, each weighing 60 kg (132 pounds) without fuel.

It will be composed of three spacecraft  an orbiter and two landers  with the mission hoping to follow China in becoming only the second to successfully land on the far side of the moon.

The orbiter, known as the mothership, is set to remain in space for years, serving as a platform for educational science activities through a remote connection that allows students from around the world to participate in deep-space research.

The Beresheet project is my lifes mission, so I decided to take it up again. I plan to do everything that is within my power to take Israel back to the moon, this time for a historic double landing, said Kahn, who is chairman of SpaceIL.
JERUSALEM (Reuters) - Israel's Supreme Court on Sunday ruled that current legal restrictions barring same-sex couples from becoming parents through surrogacy were unlawful and must be lifted within six months.

The country's LGBTQ+ community praised the decision as a breakthrough. It had demanded for years to be allowed to pursue surrogacy, which is already accessible to heterosexual couples and single women in Israel.

The issue has highlighted a liberal/conservative divide, often along religious lines, in Israel, where same-sex marriages are not conducted by state-sanctioned authorities but are formally recognised if they are performed abroad.

The Supreme Court, petitioned by gay rights activists, ruled more than a year ago that a surrogacy ban for same-sex couples and single men violated their rights and called for the rules to be changed.

But having been informed by the government - which took office last month and includes a mix of liberal, conservative and Arab Islamist parties - that making legislative changes right now would be unfeasible, the court determined the exclusions would become invalid within six months.

"Finally, equality!" Health Minister Nitzan Horowitz wrote on Twitter.

The Health Ministry, he said, would begin the necessary preparations to uphold the court's decision.

(Reporting by Ari Rabinovitch; Editing by Jeffrey Heller and Raissa Kasolowsky)
Rep. Jim Clyburn is urging President Joe Biden to get behind a mechanism to bypass Republicans and pass voting reforms with only Democratic support.

Clyburn said Biden "should endorse" his proposal to create a carveout to the Senate's filibuster for legislation that applies to the Constitution, thereby allowing Democrats to enact H.R. 1, their sweeping elections reform proposal, as well as a second bill reauthorizing portions of the 1965 Voting Rights Act, without any GOP votes.

"I don't care whether he does it in a microphone or on the telephone. Just do it," he told Politico.

BIDEN FACES UNCERTAIN POLITICS OF THE FILIBUSTER AS HIS AGENDA STALLS IN CONGRESS

Biden could "pick up the phone and tell [Sen.] Joe Manchin, 'Hey, we should do a carveout,'" Clyburn told the outlet, a suggestion that he said he's shared with several administration officials, including Vice President Kamala Harris.

Clyburn made a similar suggestion in March, citing a Supreme Court exemption as evidence that the filibuster should not apply to voting rights and civil rights legislation.

Ever since Sen. Joe Manchin, a centrist, announced his opposition to his party's 800-page election overhaul bill known as the For the People Act, many Democrats have voiced support for eliminating the Senate's legislative filibuster, a protocol that effectively mandates 60 votes for passing legislation, a daunting task given Democrats' slim Senate majority.

Despite the growing pressure, Manchin and Sen. Kyrsten Sinema, a fellow centrist Democrat, have dug in their heels, opposing the abolition of the filibuster on the grounds that it forces members of the Senate to cooperate in a bipartisan fashion.

"[The filibuster] means the big guy doesn't pick on the little guy," Manchin said. "I've been in the minority. I've been in the majority. So, all I'm trying to protect is basically civility but making it work."

Story continues

Manchin has instead teamed up with Sen. Lisa Murkowski, a Republican, to urge a bipartisan reauthorization of the Voting Rights Act, a more modest reform than the Democrats' would-be sweeping overhaul.

"Congress must come together, just as we have done time and again, to reaffirm our long-standing bipartisan commitment to free, accessible, and secure elections for all. ... Protecting Americans' access to democracy has not been a partisan issue for the past 56 years, and we must not allow it to become one now," Murkowski and Manchin wrote of the proposal.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER

Without Manchin's support, H.R. 1, which passed the House on March 3, will likely fail in the Senate, given uniform Republican opposition to the measure.

Representatives for Clyburn, Manchin, and the White House did not immediately respond to the Washington Examiner's requests for comment.

Washington Examiner Videos

Tags: News, Jim Clyburn, Joe Manchin, Filibuster, Joe Biden, Voting, Congress, White House

Original Author: Carly Roman

Original Location: Jim Clyburn urges filibuster 'carveout' to move voting reform forward without GOP support
Illinois Republican Rep. Adam Kinzinger on Sunday said it is "insanity" for his GOP colleagues to invoke Nazi parallels to combat the proposed door-to-door COVID-19 vaccination awareness efforts of the Biden administration.

"It's insanity. It's absolute insanity," the congressman said of the comparisons during a Sunday segment of CNN's State of the Union.

"This is outrage politics that is being played by my party, and it's going to get Americans killed," he added. "Our party has been hijacked. My party has been hijacked. It is on its way to the ground. And for some people, it's a fun ride, right? We can put out this outrageous stuff on Twitter. 'Yeah, I'm getting all these retweets, and everybody knows me. I'm famous.'"

Last week, President Joe Biden said efforts to vaccinate as many people in the United States as possible should involve officials going "door to door" to spread news of the inoculation.

MARJORIE TAYLOR GREENE APOLOGIZES FOR COMPARING HOLOCAUST TO COVID-19 RULES

We are continuing to wind down the mass vaccination sites that did so much in the spring.  Now, we need to go to community by community, neighborhood by neighborhood, and oftentimes, door to door, literally knocking on doors, to get help for the remaining people protected from the virus, he said on Tuesday.

In response, Georgia Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene compared the Biden door knockers to Nazi-era "brown shirts."

"Biden pushing a vaccine that is NOT FDA approved shows covid is a political tool used to control people," the congresswoman wrote in a Tuesday tweet. "People have a choice, they dont need your medical brown shirts showing up at their door ordering vaccinations. You cant force people to be part of the human experiment."

Similarly, Colorado Rep. Lauren Boebert likened the officials to "Needle Nazis."

"Biden has deployed his Needle Nazis to Mesa County," she tweeted on Thursday. "The people of my district are more than smart enough to make their own decisions about the experimental vaccine and dont need coercion by federal agents. Did I wake up in Communist China?"

Story continues

Kinzinger conceded that Biden's comments could have been said in a "different" way, though he called out Greene by name and told voters not to "listen" to her. He also appeared to refer to both Greene and Boebert as "garbage politicians."

"Now, what President Biden said  and maybe he could have said it slightly different  is, we're willing to come to your house to give you the vaccine," he said. "At no point was anybody saying they're going to break down your door and jam a vaccine in your arm, despite your protest."

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER

"Listen, if you are a Republican voter, do not listen to people like Marjorie Taylor Greene," he added. "The vaccine is safe. COVID is real. Get vaccinated, because if you're going to listen to the outrage ... Now, she's basically saying the vaccine's going to kill you."

Neither Boebert's nor Greene's offices immediately respond to a request for comment from the Washington Examiner.

Washington Examiner Videos

Tags: News, Adam Kinzinger, Coronavirus, Vaccination, Joe Biden, Biden Administration, Marjorie Taylor Greene, Lauren Boebert, Nazis, Republican Party

Original Author: Jake Dima

Original Location: Kinzinger says it's 'insanity' for GOP colleagues to invoke Nazi comparisons on door-to-door COVID vaccine efforts
By Andrius Sytas

VILNIUS (Reuters) - Lithuania will propose on Monday expanding European Union sanctions on Belarus for sending illegal migrants across the border into the EU, its foreign affairs minister's spokeswoman told Reuters on Friday.

"We will propose to consider gradually expanding sectorial sanctions", the spokeswoman said. European Union foreign ministers are meeting in Brussels on Friday.

Lithuania began building a 550-km (320-mile) razor wire barrier on its border with Belarus on Friday, after accusing Belarusian authorities of flying in migrants from abroad to send them illegally into the European Union. It says hundreds of mainly Iraqi migrants have crossed the frontier in recent days after being brought there by Belarus.

(Reporting by Andrius Sytas in Vilnius; Editing by Peter Graff)
"It's a place that every young artist wants to play  literally almost every person of fame and notoriety, they've all played in this building," said rock star Roger Daltrey, the frontman for The Who.

For Daltrey, London's Royal Albert Hall is haunted, in a good way, by its history. "When you stand on that stage, you feel the ghosts!" he said.

And what ghosts! Over the past 150 years, Rachmaninoff, The Rolling Stones, Jimi Hendrix, Diana Ross, Frank Sinatra, Luciano Pavarotti, and Adele, to name, just a few.

Since 1861 the venue has been haunted (in a good way) by its history, hosting artists from Rachmaninoff to The Rolling Stones. Now, after having cancelled nearly 500 shows due to the pandemic, the 6,000-seat hall is reopening, filling a hole in Britain's cultural life. / Credit: CBS News

"It's hosted just an incredible array of things, from ice skating to circus to ballet," said archivist Elizabeth Harper, who keeps records of all the stars, on stage and backstage.

She showed correspondent Roxana Saberi photos from The Beatles' first concert there, in 1963, before an appreciative audience: "You can see, it's quite female-heavy!"

The Beatles' first Royal Albert Hall performance on April 18, 1963, part of the BBC's

She also has never-before-seen photographs of Princess Diana.

Princess Diana backstage at the Royal Albert Hall. / Credit: Royal Albert Hall

The idea for a place to "promote the arts and sciences to the British masses" began with Prince Albert.

But he died in 1861, before the hall was completed. A decade later, his widow, Queen Victoria, was still grieving at the opening ceremony.

Harper said, "It's really sad, because she says in her diary she was so overcome with emotion, she couldn't speak, and she just thought of her dear Prince Albert."

At the time, the hall was one of the largest in the world. "They didn't know how to fill a venue like this, nowhere else existed quite like it," Harper said. "But eventually they found quite crowd-pleasing events to draw people in."

Events like the world's first major body-building contest, and speeches by suffragists and scientists. In 1933, Albert Einstein spoke here, warning of the looming horrors of World War II.

Legend has it the hall survived that war relatively unscathed because enemy pilots relied on its dome as a navigation point.

Story continues

In the 1970s, feminists stormed the hall, disrupting the Miss World Pageant.

"The events that have been held here over the last 150 years, they really reflect every social change, every political change that's happened, not just in the U.K., but internationally," Harper said.

But the Royal Albert Hall has not always embraced change. It banned all pop and rock concerts in the early seventies, after some shows got a bit out-of-hand.

Jimi Hendrix smashing guitar licks, and guitars, at the Royal Albert Hall in 1969. / Credit: "The Jimi Hendrix Experience: The Royal Albert Hall"

"Fans were ripping off the box curtains.," Harper said. "There was one concert where they actually stomped through the ceiling of a box."

Daltrey recalled, "We find out, we'd been banned from Albert Hall. We said, 'Why? What have we done?'"

"What did they say?" asked Saberi.

"They said we were 'rowdy.'"

Harper said, "Pop and rock gradually made its return, and I think the ban was sort of forgotten about as a bit of a mistake."

Daltrey returned, hosting annual shows at the hall supporting teen cancer units in hospitals across the U.K. and the U.S. "There's something about this hall that gives it a grandeur," he said. "It's 6,000 people, but they could all be in your front room. You can see every person distinctly, so it's great."

Inspired by Roman amphitheaters, the architecture also allows every member of the audience to see everyone else. That's one reason Grammy-winner David Arnold, who's scored five James Bond films, doesn't just put on shows here; he also loves coming to listen.

"You can buy expensive seats, you can come in for five pounds," Arnold said. "It just feels like every memory you've ever had, of experiencing something bigger than you that somehow wouldn't exist without you there."

Harper showed Saberi the best seats in the house  the royal box, where the Queen and the royal family would come to see a concert  and the royals' "retiring room," where they can have preshow drinks, or come during the interval.

The royal box. / Credit: CBS News

Last year, for the first time since World War II, the site was silenced, by the pandemic.

"There haven't been any live events," said Harper. "For that whole year we've been shut. Financially it's been very perilous for the Royal Albert Hall."

It had to cancel nearly 500 shows, losing the equivalent of tens of millions of dollars.

Saberi asked Daltrey, "Do you think people are ready again for live music?"

"Oh, yes. I don't think any doubt about that," he replied. "People are gagging to go out and party. We need that connection."

Now, the Royal Albert Hall is coming back to life, in time to celebrate 150 years of ghosts  and to create new memories.

Daltrey said, "This place can bounce. I tell you, it's fabulous!"

/ Credit: CBS News

For more info:

Royal Albert Hall, LondonRoger Daltrey, The WhoTeenage Cancer TrustDavid Arnold

Story produced by Erin Lyall. Editor: Brian Robbins.

See also:

Why "A Day in the Life" was banned from being performed in the Royal Albert Hall

Extreme heat in western states fuels wildfires

Biden and New York mayoral candidate Eric Adams to hold talks on surge in nationwide gun violence

26-year-old rising photographer Flo Ngala shifts her focus from artist to journalist
A man who was a recent mayoral candidate in Mexico was arrested in New York and accused of peddling four purported pieces by modern art icons Jean-Michel Basquiat and Keith Haring, federal prosecutors said Friday.

The man, Angel Pereda, 49, was arrested Friday in New York based on an allegation of wire fraud in what federal law enforcement authorities described as an attempt to get millions of dollars in exchange for fake works of art, the U.S. attorney for Southern New York said in a statement.

Pereda, also known as Angel Luis Pereda Eguiluz, recently ran unsuccessfully for mayor of the central Mexican city of San Andres Cholula, known for its proximity to the Great Pyramid of Cholula, according to Mexican news accounts.

IMAGE: A fake Keith Haring piece that prosecutors allege Angel Pereda sold. (U.S. Justice Department)

News accounts indicate that he also runs an eponymous foundation.

No connection was made between the allegations against and Pereda campaign. An FBI agent investigating the case, Christopher McKeogh, noted in the criminal complaint that Pereda was the subject of "news articles referring to an apparent recent municipal election."

The federal public defender's office and the Mexican Consulate in New York City did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

McKeogh alleged that Pereda tried to sell multiple fake artworks to various auction houses, including a copy of Basquiat's "Glory Boys Kingdom," a vase and a painting by Haring, and a collaborative painting by Basquiat and Haring.

Pieces by Basquiat and Haring have brought big numbers at auction. In 2017 a Basquiat painting was sold for $110.5 million, a U.S. record at the time.

Late last year, at least two auction houses in New York City discovered that pieces being peddled to them were fake through the Keith Haring Foundation, federal officials said. In one case a Haring piece was said to have been owned by the "Pareda Family, Mexico," they said.

A person "acting at the direction of the FBI" told Pereda on June 23 that one such piece, by Basquiat, was fake but that it would be flipped to a potential buyer for $6 million if Pereda could come up with fake documents showing its provenance, which he did, the complaint alleges.

Story continues

"PEREDA expected to receive a portion of the revenue of the sale of this fraudulent painting," the filing said.

In one case, thousands of dollars were wired to an account Pereda held in Mexico for the purpose of "purchasing a painting," it said.

It was not clear what became of Pereda after he was arrested. He was not listed in an online database as a federal inmate. The charge of wire fraud carries a maximum sentence of 20 years if he is convicted.

The FBI, which continues to investigate, asked anyone with information about Pereda to step forward.
A New Jersey congressional hopeful and Air Force veteran launched a counterattack this week after Utahs Black Lives Matter chapter declared the U.S. flag a "symbol of hatred" for Black Americans in a Fourth of July Facebook post.

"The fact of the matter is that Black people are Americans, and Black history is American history," Republican House candidate Billy Prempeh told Fox News Friday. "And the flag is absolutely a part of our history. The good, the bad, the ugly, all of it. And that's what makes America great, because despite all of that, we continue to move forward."

BLM Utah founder Lex Scott told Fox News earlier this week that the post was meant to highlight how her criticism of the flag would draw sharp criticism while the embrace of Old Glory by hate groups including the Ku Klux Klan does not.

Prempeh sees it differently.

"Statements like that, saying that the flag is divisive, and that its carried by KKK members, its not necessarily true," he said. "Its a giant gaslighting statement to make to try and put all Americans, all the people that are pro-America, into a box stating that thats a hateful symbol."

BLM UTAH CHAPTER CALLS AMERICAN FLAG SYMBOL OF HATRED

The flag is the opposite, he said.

"I see the flag as a unifying symbol, a symbol that has changed over time," Prempeh said. "And we havent always had the same American flagAnd I believe that symbolizes all the things that have happened in this country over the past 245 years."

The 31-year-old Republican House candidate said over the course of U.S. history, Americans made "incredible, incredible advancements" in terms of civil rights and social justice.

"And in 245 years, the worlds followed suit  to the point that many leave their home countries to become a part of the American identity and continue to push our country forward," he said.

His own parents emigrated from Ghana in the 1980s.

Story continues

"I'm an Air Force veteran, and I took a lot of pride fighting under the American flag," he said. "And I still take a lot of pride in being under that flag."

He also said he believed the late civil rights icon Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. "would be proud" of the countrys direction.

"It's only been 80 years since segregation," he said. "And we had the first Black president elected not once, but twice."

The Paterson, N.J., native is challenging Democratic Rep. Bill Pascrell for New Jerseys 9th Congressional District seat.

In his first campaign ad, he declares, "America is a great nation, and Americans are incredible people. Anyone who tells you otherwise is straight up lying to you."

Then he stands up and grabs an American flag  hammering home his "America first" campaign message.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

Prempeh said hes confident at this point in the race and wishes his opponent well amid rumors that the 84-year-old representatives health is failing.

The candidate and other volunteers will be in Patersons namesake park for a cleanup along the Passaic River Saturday morning.

"Even if you don't live in Paterson, we all share the Passaic River," he said. "It's our responsibility. Let's make the Passaic River great again!"
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP)  Omans sultan arrived in Saudi Arabia on Sunday, starting the first visit by an Omani ruler to the kingdom in years against the backdrop of intensified efforts to end the war in Yemen and the sultanates worsening economic woes.

With trumpets blaring, canons firing and fighter jets streaking overhead, Sultan Haitham bin Tariq Al Said landed in Neom, a futuristic desert city planned along the kingdoms Red Sea coast.

Saudi Arabias powerful crown prince, Mohammed bin Salman, greeted Sultan Haitham on the tarmac and guided him down a long lavender carpet for meetings with King Salman at the palace, as regional tensions simmer and Oman's government faces growing stress at home.

The choice of the kingdom as Sultan Haithams first foreign destination since taking power last year signals Omans respect for the influence of Saudi Arabia, the spiritual anchor of the Sunni Muslim world and the regions largest economy with vast oil reserves.

It also reflects the states' mutual self-interest, as Saudi Arabia seeks to cool relations with Iran and chart a path out of its costly campaign in Yemen, which has spawned the worlds worst humanitarian crisis and settled into a bloody stalemate. Oman in recent weeks has accelerated its long-standing diplomatic efforts to end the catastrophic conflict, which pits a Saudi-led military coalition against Iran-backed Houthi rebels.

The sultan met Saudi Arabia's King Salman to discuss ways to boost ties, the official Saudi Press Agency reported, without elaborating. Closer relations with Saudi Arabia could become critical as Oman, long prized for its neutrality in the turbulent region, struggles to balance its books and turns to wealthier Gulf neighbors for support.

The two-day visit, in all its royal pomp and pageantry, is rare for an Omani leader. Sultan Haitham ascended the throne after the death of the long-ruling Sultan Qaboos bin Said, whose foreign trips and public appearances grew scarce as he aged.

The 65-year-old former culture minister's reign has so far spanned the pandemic's fallout and oil price shock. Now, he faces a series a tests: tens of billions of dollars of outstanding debt, a junk credit rating and rising youth unemployment, which prompted a rare burst of protests in May.

Oman requested technical assistance from the International Monetary Fund, the institution reported last week, to help the government manage its debt, which has ballooned to nearly 83% of the countrys gross domestic product.
Reuters Videos

Surveillance video shows the 5-year-old child walking ahead of his mother and siblings in Queens on Thursday (July 15) evening.A man is seen getting out of a car, running to the child, snatching him off the sidewalk and putting him in the backseat of a parked car. The child's mother is seen pulling her son through the car's front passenger seat window.The child was not hurt.The mother, identified by local media as 45-year-old Dolores Diaz, said she did not know why someone would try to take her child and said her neighborhood is safe.Late Friday, police arrested 24-year-old James McGonagle. He has been charged with attempted kidnapping as well as other counts.Police said they are looking for a second suspect.
Associated Press

Tony Stewart was like everyone else in U.S. motorsports this week, frequently checking social media to see Paul Tracy's latest theatrics in a one-sided war against NASCAR golden girl Hailie Deegan. Tracy has been furious  or could he just be playing the heel in a made-for-TV racing league?  because 19-year-old Deegan had the audacity to spin him at Slinger Speedway in Wisconsin last week in the fifth round of the Superstar Racing Experience.
Pfizer is planning to brief U.S. health officials this week on whether a third dose of its COVID-19 vaccine is needed, a company spokesperson told Axios, following the company's announcement last week that it will seek government authorization for such a shot.

Why it matters: The upcoming meeting, first reported by The Washington Post, will come after the FDA and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention publicly pushed back against the claim that the booster shot will be necessary.

Get market news worthy of your time with Axios Markets. Subscribe for free.

"Americans who have been fully vaccinated do not need a booster shot at this time," the CDC and FDA wrote in a joint statement.

Catch up fast: Pfizer and BioNTech last week released the initial results of a study on coronavirus booster shots, finding that a third dose was five to 10 times more effective at neutralizing the virus than two doses.

Yes, but: Government officials like NIAID Director Anthony Fauci have reiterated that people who have gotten two doses of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine or a single dose of Johnson & Johnson do not need a booster shot.

Fauci told CNN that Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla apologized to him for not giving health officials advance notice that the company would seek the authorization.

Among those invited to the meeting were National Institutes of Health Director Francis Collins, CDC Director Rochelle Walensky, Acting FDA Commissioner Janet Woodcock, Surgeon General Vivek Murthy and Chief Science Officer of the White House COVID-19 Response Team David Kessler, according to the Post.

Officials at the FDA, CDC and Department of Health and Human Services did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Of note: Israeli Health Minister Nitzan Horowitz announced Sunday that, effective immediately, the country would begin offering a third Pfizer shot to adults with impaired immune systems, Reuters reports.

However the country hasn't yet decided whether it will make the third dose available to the general population.

Like this article? Get more from Axios and subscribe to Axios Markets for free.
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - COVID-19 vaccine maker Pfizer Inc will meet with federal health officials as soon as Monday to discuss the need for a booster dose of the coronavirus vaccine as it prepares to seek authorization, the company said on Sunday.

The meeting comes days after the drugmaker and its partner BioNTech SE announced plans to seek U.S. and European regulatory approval for a third dose of their COVID-19 shot amid the spread of variants and data they said showed heightened risk of infection six months after initial inoculation.

That push prompted a quick response from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, saying Americans do not need a booster right now.

On Monday, Pfizer is scheduled to meet with representatives of the FDA, a company spokesperson said. The meeting was first reported by the Washington Post.

Representatives for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Anthony Fauci, President Joe Bidens chief medical adviser who also directs the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, as well as the heads of the National Institutes of Health and the CDC were also among those invited to the briefing, which could move to another day, according to the Post's report.

Fauci, in several television interviews on Sunday, said U.S. health officials were not dismissing the possible future need for boosters -- especially as breakthrough infections among those who have been vaccinated have emerged -- but that more data is needed for any formal recommendation.

"There's a lot of dynamic things going on right now," he told ABC News' "This Week" program.

"There are studies being done now ongoing as we speak about looking at the feasibility about if and when we should be boosting people... there's a lot of work going on to examine this in real time," he added on CNN's "State of the Union."

Story continues

Despite the FDA and CDC's statement, "that doesn't mean that we're not very, very actively following and gathering all of this information to see if and when we might need it and if and when we do, we'll have everything in place to do it."

U.S. health officials are still struggling to get people in some areas to receive their initial inoculations as the highly contagious Delta variant has grown to be the nation's dominant strain, with COVID-19 cases rising mostly among the unvaccinated.

European officials has also said vaccines currently seem protective against variants. Canada has also said it is monitoring variants and the possible need for boosters.

While some scientists have also questioned the need for booster shots, others have said they could be beneficial for the elderly and other vulnerable populations, although it is unclear when they would be needed.

Some public health experts have also expressed concern that authorizing boosters in wealthy developed nations while other countries are still struggling against initial inoculations will further exacerbate vaccine inequity.

(Reporting by Susan Heavey and Chris Prentice; additional reporting by Linda So; Editing by Chizu Nomiyama)
A Randallstown man charged in the death of his ex-girlfriend allegedly confessed to shooting and killing her in her White Marsh home Thursday, according to charging documents.

Gomezgeka L. Chisala, 29, has been charged with first-degree murder in the death of of 32-year-old Shaunya Green, Baltimore County police said.

Chisala, who was arrested at the crime scene, confessed to the killing in an interview with officers at police headquarters, according to charging documents.

Im guilty. I fired the shot. I killed her, the Randallstown resident told officers, according to the documents.

Attempts to reach Chisala and his family were unsuccessful Sunday. He was ordered held without bail, and no lawyer was listed for him in court documents.

According to the documents, Chisala told officers he drove to Greens home on Proctor Avenue with his handgun. At that time, it wasnt loaded, and the magazines were in his pocket, he told police. After the two argued, Chisala went into the backyard of the home and loaded his weapon, the documents said. He walked back inside the house and placed the gun under Greens bed, and continued to argue with her, according to the documents.

He eventually retrieved the gun, and Green struggled with Chisala for the weapon, according to the documents. One shot was fired but did not hit anyone before Chisala took hold of the gun and shot Green in the neck, the documents said.

At about 4:30 a.m., officers arrived on the scene. They found Green, who was taken to Franklin Square Hospital and pronounced dead at about 5:40 a.m. According to charging documents, when police asked for a description of the suspect, Chisala raised his hand.
Rob Lowe, Prince Harry, and Meghan Markle. Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images; Karwai Tang/WireImage/Getty Images

Rob Lowe claimed Meghan Markle and Prince Harry had changed his town of Montecito, California.

Lowe said the royals were even causing longer lines at his local Starbucks.

But baristas there said the royals weren't to blame - and that they'd never even seen Lowe.

Visit Insider's homepage for more stories.

Rob Lowe recently made headlines when he spoke about being neighbors with Meghan Markle and Prince Harry in his "sleepy little town" of Montecito, California.

Lowe is one of the many celebrities who call Montecito home, joining the likes of Oprah Winfrey, Ariana Grande, and Ellen DeGeneres.

But it was the Duke and Duchess of Sussex whom Lowe said had changed the small Santa Barbara County town, with Lowe telling E News that they were the cause of longer lines at his local Starbucks.

"Once the royals move into your neighborhood, the neighborhood is never going to be the same," he added. "The good news is property values go up. The bad news is the lines are longer at Starbucks."

Harry and Markle. Kirsty Wigglesworth/Pool/Getty Images

Intrigued by Lowe's comments, and wanting to see the star-studded community for myself, I recently spent a night in Montecito. I wanted to find out whether the town had actually changed after Markle and Harry moved in and see how the locals felt about their new royal neighbors.

I even stopped by the Starbucks in Montecito, where the baristas confirmed that there had been longer lines. But, they added, it had nothing to do with the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.

"Because of COVID, there's a lot of mobile orders," one of the workers explained to me. "So the lines to pick up have been longer."

The Starbucks in Montecito, California. Anneta Konstantinides/Insider

When I mentioned that it was Lowe who said the royals were to blame for the longer lines, the barista simply replied, "I've never seen Rob Lowe."

The barista's comments were similar to everyone else whom I spoke to in town.

No one had spotted Markle or Harry in Montecito since they moved from Los Angeles in July 2020. And the locals said nothing had changed in the neighborhood either. One woman who worked at a boutique told me she hadn't even seen any paparazzi.

Story continues

Montecito, California. nik wheeler/Getty Images

"There have always been tourists," she said with a shrug, adding that she still considers Montecito to be a "hidden gem" in Santa Barbara.

A college student I spoke to who worked at a nearby boutique said that while she's seen plenty of Montecito's most famous residents - including Katy Perry, Jane Lynch, and Chrissy Teigen - their presence barely makes waves in the small town.

"There's like an unspoken rule," she said. "We treat them like everyone else."

Read the original article on Insider
Duncan Browne, 23, was assaulted in Liverpool city centre on 4 July. (Merseyside Police)

A second man has been arrested in connection with the murder of a 23-year-old who died after being assaulted in Liverpool city centre after England's Euro 2020 quarter final match against Ukraine.

Duncan Browne was allegedly punched while waiting for a taxi outside City Buffet Restaurant on Hanover Street on 4 July.

He suffered a cardiac arrest and died in hospital a day later.

Duncan Browne was attacked outside City Buffet on Hanover Street in Liverpool city centre. (Google Maps)

A 37-year-old man from Liverpool was held on suspicion of murder earlier this week and on Sunday Merseyside Police said another man, a 36-year-old from Liverpool, had been arrested.

He is currently in custody where he is being questioned by detectives, the force said.

Read more: Vaccine hub forced to close after disturbance from lockdown protesters

Detectives are continuing to appeal for any witnesses to the incident, which happened just before 3.30am on Sunday, 4 July.

Police think Browne's assailants fled in a taxi after the incident.

Detective Inspector Gavin Mulcahy, from Merseyside Police, previously said: "Duncan had enjoyed an evening with friends in the city centre, watching the Euro 2020 Quarter Final match between Ukraine v England.

"He had every right to go out with friends to enjoy himself, and return home safely to bed. But because of the callous actions of his attackers, Duncans family are now grieving his loss at a very young age after an unspeakable tragedy."

Watch: Arlene Phillips opens up on how it felt to become a Dame
A woman crossing a well-known Charlotte intersection in a crosswalk early Saturday was killed by an impaired, speeding driver who ran a red light, police said.

Judy Lorraine Sinclair died at Carolinas Medical Center after the driver hit her on LaSalle Street at Beatties Ford Road in north Charlotte at about 2:45 a.m., according to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department.

Police arrested the 28-year-old driver, Lisa Monique Brown, at the scene.

Brown was jailed on charges of felony death by vehicle, felony hit and run, felony serious Injury, driving while impaired, careless and reckless, a red light violation and two counts of failure to reduce speed, police said.

A Lexus driven by Denise Shauntia Dunlap also was hit, and she was taken to Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center with serious injuries, according to CMPD.

Brown was unhurt, police said.

CMPD urged any witnesses to call Detective Justin Kupfer at 704-432-2169, extension 1, or Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.
Sporadic violence has erupted in South Africa, with dozens arrested after looting in the eastern KwaZulu-Natal province, where ex-president Jacob Zuma is in jail, and in the economic capital Johannesburg.

Police said in a statement Sunday they had arrested 37 people in KwaZulu-Natal and 25 in Johannesburg over the previous two days.

In KwaZulu-Natal, protests broke out a day after Zuma was imprisoned on Thursday.

The N3 highway linking coastal city Durban and Johannesburg was blocked for many hours, including a stretch south of Estcourt prison, where Zuma is being held.

Around 23 trucks were set alight at Mooi River around 150 kilometres (100 miles) northwest of Durban.

Although some of the protests appear to have been triggered by Zuma's 15-month detention for contempt of court, they are tied in with a sense of economic desperation as the country faces tightened restrictions under a third wave of the Covid-19 pandemic.

"We don't know yet what the strike is all about... but from what people have been saying it's something related to our former president," Sphamandla Ndlazi told AFP in the Jeppe neighbourhood of Johannesburg, with looted shops and burnt cars in the background.

President Cyril Ramaphosa reiterated calls for calm on Sunday in a speech focused on Covid-19 restrictions, urging people to express themselves "in peaceful protest" and avoid acts that endanger lives and damage the economy.

But looting was continuing into Sunday evening in the area around Durban.

- A body on the street -

"People have been intimidated and threatened, and some have even been hurt," Ramaphosa said, adding that "some people may have died".

AFP journalists saw the body of a man covered by a blanket in the gutter of a street in Jeppe.

Police spokesperson Brigadier Mathapelo Peters later confirmed the death to AFP, but the man's identity and the circumstances of his death were yet to be made public.

Story continues

In KwaZulu-Natal, the police "had their hands full yesterday and throughout the night", spokesman Jay Naicker told AFP on Sunday.

"Criminals and opportunistic individuals" took advantage of the tense climate to "enrich themselves", he added. Several stores were looted, including in the Durban suburb of Mariann Hill.

In Johannesburg, hundreds defied restrictions to demonstrate in two disenfranchised suburbs late Saturday, but their protests ended in violence, looting and 25 arrests, police said.

In Jeppe, police dispersed a crowd of 300 who had set up barricades on a main road before looting businesses.

Similar scenes unfolded in Alexandra, one of the poorest townships that neighbours the well-off city of Sandton, where nearly 800 rioters clashed with the police overnight.

One officer was shot and hospitalised and police said they "remain on high alert" an major roads and at hotspots in both KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng, where Johannesburg is located.

Shops will remain shut on Monday in both provinces to avoid looting, district associations said.

South Africa's top court ordered Zuma jailed on June 29 for refusing to appear before a probe into the corruption that entangled his nine years in power.

But the 79-year-old former anti-apartheid fighter remains popular, especially in his native KwaZulu-Natal where he is seen to embody traditional values.

ger-mv-ten/tgb/har
Photo Illustration by The Daily Beast / Photos Getty

Nativists have long warned that the border states are undergoing an invasion. Theyre not lying.

But, it turns out, the invaders arent Mexican immigrants eager to do the dirty and dangerous jobs that Americans wont go near at any price. Like the rest of the country, which is grappling with severe worker shortages as we come out of the COVID-19 lockdown, the biggest problem Americans have with immigrants at the moment is that we cant get enough.

The real menace swarming Texas and Arizona right now is a wave of slimy and opportunistic Republican governors from around the country racing to jump on the anti-immigrant bandwagon. And in the process, theyre tripping over their partys glaring contradictions, rank hypocrisy, and mixed messages about whether states should have a hand in shaping U.S. immigration policy.

Spoiler alert: They should not. In fact, the states should generally keep their mitts off immigration policy.

Why So Many Latinos Backed the Man Who Keeps Smearing Us

The Constitution agrees with me. Article I, Section 8: The Congress shall have power to establish a uniform Rule of Naturalization Time and again, the federal courts have agreed with the principle that the federal government should run the show on immigration by striking down brazen attempts by the states to horn in.

See: Californias Proposition 187 that, in 1994, tried to get rid of illegal immigrants by denying them access to schools, hospitals, and social services. A federal judge struck down the measure as unconstitutional.

No matter. More than a half-dozen Republican governorsall of them seeing a chance to earn street cred with the base by appearing tough on immigrationhave their sights set on the border.

Its Been 25 Years Since California's Prop. 187but It Never Really Went Away

South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem, likely to be a top contender for the 2024 GOP presidential nomination, is preparing to deploy up to 50 National Guard troops to Texas to help secure the border. This week, Noem said shell send another 125 troops in the coming months.

Story continues

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, another likely presidential contender, recently said that he will deploy state and local law enforcement officers to both Texas and Arizona because where the federal government has failed, the states are stepping up in to do our best to fill the void.

 Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson has also authorized a 90-day deployment for up to 40 National Guard troops in order to, as he puts it, reduce the adverse impact of illegal immigration on Arkansas.

 Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds recently authorized National Guard troops from her state to head to the border because, she said, the Hawkeye State has no choice but to act.

 Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts is stepping up and deploying state troopers to the border.

 Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine is also sending highway patrol officers to the border.

 And Idaho Gov. Brad Little has said his state plans to help but is evaluating its resources to see what it can spare.

Texans, youre going to need a bigger state.

The governors should advise the personnel theyre sending to the Lone Star State to be careful where they step. The place is a crime scene.

On Aug. 3, 2019, Patrick Crusius, a 21-year-old white nationalist from North Texas, drove 10 hours to the border city of El Paso where he allegedly shot and killed 23 people and injured 23 others.

Most of the victims were Mexican or Mexican American. No surprise there. That was the point. Crusius allegedly told the officers who arrested him that he intended to kill as many Mexicans as possible. He wrote in a racist manifesto that he wanted to fend off the Hispanic invasion of Texas.

From El Paso to Christchurch, a Racist Lie Is Fueling Terrorist Attacks

Today, nearly two years later, youll still hear Texas Republican politicians like Gov. Greg Abbott and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick irresponsibly toss slabs of red meat to their partys overwhelmingly white base.

We are being invaded, Patrick said at a press conference last month. That term has been used in the past, but it has never been more true.

Homes are being invaded, Abbott said about the same time when he announced the state would be spending an initial $250 million to construct a do-it-yourself barrier on the states southern border with Mexico. The governor was apparently referring to the too-close-for-comfort run-ins that property owners along the border have with immigrants crossing their land.

Sure enough. U.S. Customs and Border Protection reported that they encountered 180,034 migrants during the month of May. But nearly 62 percent of those migrants were turned away at the border by authorities under pandemic public health restrictions.

Some invasion that turned out to be. Amateurs.

Republicans dont have facts on their side, so theyre peddling fear. And fear doesnt need facts. Abbott remains convinced that his statewhich, not for nothing, used to be part of Mexico until it made the mistake of being too welcoming of troublemaking migrants like Sam Houston, James Travis, and Davy Crockettis being overrun by brown people. So much so that the Texas governor hollered out for reinforcements.

In June, Abbott and Gov. Doug Ducey of Arizona sent their fellow Republican governors a two-page letter declaring that Border states like Texas and Arizona are ground zero for this crisis and bear a disproportionate share of the burden while asking for the cops and Guard members arriving now.

Abbott and Ducey also claimed in the letter that the Biden administration had proven unwilling or unable to secure the U.S.-Mexico border and instead laid the groundwork for an open-border disaster.

Democrats Must Destroy Trumps Open Borders Myth

I call bullshit. In the course of writing about immigration over the last 30 years, I lived in both Arizona and Texas. Let me tell you what I saw at the revolution: a whole lot of employers who made a bunch of money by hiring illegal immigrants. Some of those immigrants, we can assume, have relatives who now want to join them in the United States.

If Texas and Arizona have become popular destinations for undocumented travelers, they have only themselves to blame. If Abbott and Ducey want to go all Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday, I suggest they round up the scoundrels responsible for hiring so many immigrants over the last couple decades: the employers who keep the economies of Texas and Arizona humming along.

If Texas and Arizona are indeed behind the eight ball in the current immigration crisis, it wasnt geography that put them there. It was greed.

And now a lot of whats driving Republican governors to set their sights on the U.S.-Mexico border is greeds first cousin: ambition.

Securing the border is now, has always been, and will always be the responsibility of the federal government. It doesnt take a village of idiots.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

Get our top stories in your inbox every day. Sign up now!

Daily Beast Membership: Beast Inside goes deeper on the stories that matter to you. Learn more.
Thai beauty queens who took part in a pageant last month could face criminal charges for not wearing masks, police warned Sunday, after a cluster of 22 infections emerged from the event.

Thirteen contestants and nine others associated with the Miss Grand Samut Sakhon pageant, which was held at a Bangkok venue late June, have tested positive for the virus, officers said.

Thailand is grappling with a deadly third wave of infections with 9,539 new cases announced Saturday and 86 deaths.

"There are likely to be many people involved in the pageant including contestants who violated rules and regulations," Piya Tawichai, deputy commissioner of the metropolitan police told reporters in Bangkok on Sunday.

Organisers had got permission to hold the event, but had to comply with 20 specific rules, including mask wearing, police said.

"People who attended the pageant and did not wear masks also (breached) the emergency decree and diseases control laws," Piya said.

Organisers and participants in the province-level pageant were being investigated and could face possible criminal charges, the force added.

Photos on the event's Facebook page show finalists in gowns and sashes, not wearing masks and not socially distancing.

Comment has been sought from pageant organisers.

Late last week, the Thai government announced a curfew across Bangkok and nine other hotspot provinces, which comes into effect on Monday, barring people from venturing out between 9 pm and 4 am.

Thailand has registered a total of 336,371 cases and 2,711 fatalities. Most of the infections have occurred since April.

The country is fast running out of hospital beds and the Thai government is facing heat over a slow vaccine roll-out and limited testing.

tp-lpm/leg
Getty

By early March, with the coronavirus burrowed into the lungs of thousands of Americans, the mask crisis had turned into a global calamity. With simultaneous coronavirus outbreaks in dozens of countries, all of their governments were trying to procure masks. The World Health Organization said that mask production needed to increase by at least 40 percent to meet the global demand, but U.S. factories simply werent equipped to manufacture N95s on a mass scale. Most countries relied on Chinese products, and China had tight control over exports.

The U.S. decision to send masks to China in January had infuriated U.S. health-care workers, who by March were being advised to reuse N95 masks as much as possible and use homemade bandanas if they could not get medical-grade masks. (In normal times, N95s are discarded between patients.) The lack of guidance from the White House only exacerbated the situation. People were still binge-buying masks, willing to pay up to $200 or more for a pack of ten N95s. All of those factors caused severe shortages in hospitals, which were soon bidding against one another for the paltry available supply.

Deborah Birx, Anthony Fauci, and Robert Redfield knew that the public health measures in place were nowhere near adequate. Americans would do more to blunt the viruss spread. So in March, they decided to begin writing guidelines, or a set of best practices. Some of the recommendations were stark, advising against gatherings in groups of more than ten and discouraging people from eating indoors at restaurants and bars. But others were weak. The guidelines advised people to stay home if they felt sick. When it came to personal hygiene, they listed just four items: wash your hands, avoid touching your face, sneeze or cough into a tissue or the inside of your elbow, and disinfect frequently used surfaces as often as possible. There was no mention of social distancing or mask wearing.

Matt Pottinger kept pushing, and some of the task forces health officials began to support him, especially when the research began confirming suspicions that huge numbers of infected people without symptoms were spreading it to others. They would later find that at least half of the transmissions were from asymptomatic or pre-symptomatic patients, an astounding discovery. And new studies were becoming available that indicated that cloth masks worked, which meant the concerns over diverting masks away from those who really needed them was no longer an issue. With the doctors now convinced that masks worked, they knew it was time for a new strategy. If some sort of face covering would in fact help slow the virus spread, it could help alleviate the extraordinary pressure that health-care providers were facing in trying to treat the crush of patients. The doctors were going to strongly advocate for universal mask wearing.

Story continues

It turned out that Robert Kadlec had been working on finding a way to produce enough cloth masks for every American. He had studied protection against respiratory viruses and aerosolized threats back in the 1990s, when he had been a career officer and physician in the U.S. Air Force. He began referencing decades-old studies showing that cloth masks provided some protection against aerosols that were 1 to 10 microns in size. (A human hair is about 100 microns.) The coronavirus was smaller than that, but the size range depended on whether the person wearing the mask sneezed, coughed, breathed, or talked. In February, he reached out to Jerry Cook, a vice president at the underwear manufacturer Hanes. Could the company repurpose some of its facilities to manufacture three-ply cloth masks for every household in America? he asked.

Cook contacted a handful of other underwear and garment manufacturers, and together they came up with a plan to manufacture 650 million three-ply masks over the next couple of months. The middle layer of the mask was impregnated with a microbiocide that was capable of killing the virus to further protect people in case they did come into contact with the virus. The goal was to send a pack of five masks to every household in the United States to make it easy for everyone to start wearing one.

In March, when Kadlec pitched his idea to other health officials, all of them endorsed it enthusiastically. They were already leaning toward encouraging Americans to wear face coverings. And more and more studies and anecdotal evidence were demonstrating their effectiveness. People could even make their own. Anything was better than nothing. Not everyone was fully convinced just yet. Redfield, who was adamant that the CDC was the gold standard of public health and should not be eclipsed, repeatedly issued the same warning. We cant get ahead of the data, hed say. (The CDC was conducting its own study on masks, and Redfield wanted to wait for its results.)

Kadlecs initiative would have the advantage of ensuring that every American had a mask and remove any barriers to complying with the new guidance. And if the masks were coming from the U.S. governmentand by extension the presidenta debate over whether people should wear them might be avoided. Kadlec first took the idea to a unified command group at the Federal Emergency Management Agency, which unanimously endorsed it. The next step was for Alex Azar, Kadlecs boss, to take the idea to the task force.

At a subsequent task force meeting, Azar modeled for the assembled group the Hanes mask. He was immediately ridiculed. Some task force members hated the fact that the mask was white. Health officials said they could have the masks made in other colors, but these were white because they would show dirt and remind people to wash them. (The company would eventually manufacture some skin-colored ones at Birxs request.)

We cant send these out, Domestic Policy Council director Joe Grogan told Azar. It looks like you have a pair of underwear on your face. Pete Gaynor, the FEMA administrator, who had already endorsed Kadlecs initiative, joked that the mask looked like a jockstrap. Another official said it looked like a training bra. Marc Short, the vice presidents chief of staff, intervened in the midst of Azars presentation. He felt that the plan was half baked and that the answers to basic questions, such as how much the plan would cost and how the masks would be delivered, were unsatisfactory.

Short and other officials were also annoyed that Kadlec tried to purchase the masks without OMBs signoff, and felt he was freelancing because he had already crafted an entire communications plan around the effort. (There were also concerns from some political officials that Trump would oppose having a U.S. Postal Service he despised playing an integral role by being responsible for shipping all of the masks.) Short went over to Pence. This isnt ready, he told the vice president. Were pulling it off the agenda. Grogan agreed.

Kadlec was dismayed when no one spoke up to defend the initiative or even devote a full discussion to it. He had prepared a full slideshow presentation to sell the task force on the idea and thought he had figured out how to market it to the skeptical White House. He had initially consideredand written upone presentation that would effectively kiss up to the White House by making the initiative center around Trump and how much he cared about the American people. But then he had landed on something else to appeal to the White Houses sensibilities: that having everyone wear masks would allow the country to reopen economically and get people back to work. People would still need to take precautions such as social distancing, but wearing masks would assure them of some level of protection.

Kadlec never gave either presentation. Short yanked it off the agenda and made sure it never got back on.

The underwear and garment companies ultimately manufactured the 650 million masks as planned, enough for almost every American to have at least two. The health officials hoped that the initiative would send a clear message from the U.S. government: Wear a mask and protect your fellow neighbor; help the country get back to normal safely. But instead of being sent to households across the country, boxes and boxes of masks sat untouched for months. (HHS ended up sending many of them to health-care centers that served low-income patients and other places in need.)

The government could not reach a consensus on masks, and the bitter split on the task force worsened. Libertarians such as Marc Short and Chief of Staff Mark Meadows were adamantly opposed to actively promoting the use of masks, and face coverings began turning into a partisan Rorschach test of whether you were with Trump or against him.

Courtesy Harper Collins

Excerpted with permission from Nightmare Scenario: Inside the Trump Administration's Response to the Pandemic That Changed History by Yasmeen Abutleb and Damian Paletta, published by Harper, copyright 2021 by Yasmeen Abutaleb and Damian Paletta.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

Get our top stories in your inbox every day. Sign up now!

Daily Beast Membership: Beast Inside goes deeper on the stories that matter to you. Learn more.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump, right, attends UFC 264, Saturday, July 10, 2021, in Las Vegas. (AP)

Former President Donald Trump was met with boos, cheers, and chants of U-S-A when he arrived for the McGregor vs Poirier UFC fight in Las Vegas.

The loud chants and cheers largely overshadowed the boos of Mr Trump as he entered the T-Mobile Arena through the fighters tunnel with UFC president Dana White late on Saturday.

Mr Trump and Mr White have been friends for a long time. The then-president became the first elected officeholder to ever attend a UFC event when he went to UFC 244 in New York in 2019, USA Today reported. Unlike in Nevada, Mr Trump was greeted with more boos than cheers in his home state.

Mr White spoke at the 2020 Republican National Convention, pushing for his reelection. The UFC boss told reporters that having the former president at UFC 246 was just two friends, who are fight fans, watching a fight.

Mr Trump was escorted to a seat near the octagon, close to the owner of the New England Patriots, Robert Kraft.

Donald Trump Jr shared a video from the event.

This content is not available due to your privacy preferences. Update your settings here to see it.

Mr Trump arrived for the final three fights at the packed arena.

This content is not available due to your privacy preferences. Update your settings here to see it.

Other celebrities who attended the fight included Dave Chappelle, Mel Gibson, Miles Teller, Jared Leto, Steve Aoki, Jackass Steve-O, Baker Mayfield, and Las Vegas Raiders owner Mark Davis.

Former US President Donald Trump attends UFC 264 at T-Mobile Arena. (Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports)

Conor McGregor ended up losing to Dustin Poirier by doctor stoppage in the main event of UFC 264. The Irishman was unable to continue after injuring his ankle towards the end of the first round.

Read More

Dustin Poirier tells Conor McGregor he got what he deserved in UFC 264 defeat

Conor McGregor loses fight against Dustin Poirier after breaking leg in UFC 264 main event as Trump watches on

Conor McGregor insults Dustin Poiriers wife after suffering defeat at UFC 264 following broken leg
(Getty Images)

In his headlining remarks at the nations largest Republican conference, Donald Trump revived his baseless narrative that the 2020 presidential election was rigged against him, a running theme across a weekend-long conference strategising for control of local governments and Congress as GOP lawmakers launch a nationwide voter suppression campaign.

The former president took the stage on the final day of the Conservative Political Action Conference in Dallas, Texas on 11 July, hours after appearing on Fox News to air his baseless conspiracy theory and downplaying his supporters attack on the US Capitol, fuelled by his election lies.

We were doing so well until the rigged election came along, Mr Trump said at CPAC.

The conference, once a high-profile stage to glimpse the state of the contemporary GOP, has become a clearinghouse for online-drive conspiracy theories, self-righteous delusions, and culture war grievances.

It also has attracted far-right militia, violent reactionaries and QAnon proponents, coalescing around their perceived persecution and cancellation from Democratic elected officials, conspiring with social media companies to censor them.

In a straw poll, attendees ranked as their biggest priorities voter ID and election integrity after Republican lawmakers in nearly every state filed dozens of restrictive voting bills under the guise of protective voter confidence undermined by Mr Trumps own rhetoric, which called the outcome of the 2020 election a hoax before a single ballot was cast.

Panels at CPAC included Detecting Threats to Election Integrity: How to Collect Evidence of Fraud and Spare the Fraud, Spoil the Child: The Future of American Elections.

Theres so much evidence, Mr Trump said, without presenting any. Theres bad things going on in this country. ... Its a disgrace to our nation, and we are truly being scorned and disrespected all over the world.

After his company and its chief financial officer were indicted on a range of criminal charges following a years-long investigation for tax fraud, the former president told the CPAC crowd that innocent Republicans are being prosecuted.

Story continues

Read More

Chris Christie: Afghanistan withdrawal shows limits of American military power

Texas GOP advances voting restrictions as hundreds push back

Republican lawmaker who served in Afghanistan says its likely US will have to return
By Ben Blanchard and Yimou Lee

TAIPEI (Reuters) -The Chinese sales agent for Germany's BioNTech SE said on Sunday it had signed a deal to provide 10 million COVID-19 vaccine doses to Taiwan, part of a drawn-out and highly politicised process for the island to access the shots.

Taiwan's government has tried for months to buy the vaccine directly from BioNTech and has blamed China, which claims the self-ruled island as its own territory, for nixing an agreement the two sides were due to sign earlier this year. China denies the accusations.

Last month, facing public pressure about the slow pace of Taiwan's inoculation programme, the government agreed to allow Terry Gou, the billionaire founder of Taiwan's Foxconn, as well as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (TSMC), to negotiate on its behalf for the vaccines, which would be donated to Taiwan's government for distribution.

Shanghai Fosun Pharmaceutical Group Co Ltd, which has a contract with BioNTech to sell the COVID-19 vaccines in China, Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan, said in a statement that the shots would be sold to TSMC and Gou's charity foundation via Fosun's Hong Kong subsidiary and a Taiwanese medical firm.

"We are very pleased to see that this vaccine jointly developed by Fosun Pharmaceutical and BioNTech can play a positive role in the prevention and control of the epidemic in Taiwan," Fosun Chairman Wu Yifang said in the statement.

Fosun quoted BioNTech Chief Executive Ugur Sahin as saying the company was "very grateful to be able to also supply the Taiwanese people with vaccine doses manufactured in Europe".

VACCINE DRAMA

However, both TSMC and Foxconn referred Reuters to their statements earlier on Sunday in which they said they were still in the middle of the contract signing process.

The Fosun statement referred to the "Taiwan region", terminology favoured by the Chinese government to assert its sovereignty claims rather than imply the island is a separate country.

Story continues

There was no immediate response from Taiwan's government.

BioNTech, which developed the vaccine jointly with Pfizer, also did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

TSMC and Foxconn are major Apple Inc suppliers.

Gou and TSMC this month reached an initial agreement with a Fosun subsidiary for the vaccines, sources told Reuters previously.

The BioNTech vaccine drama has transfixed Taiwan and dominated headlines. A major Taiwanese Buddhist group, the Tzu Chi Foundation, is also trying to buy the shots.

China's government has repeatedly said that if Taiwan wants the vaccine, it has to respect commercial rules and do it through Fosun.

Germany's government has also been involved, saying it has been helping in the direct talks between Taiwan and BioNTech.

Taiwan has millions of vaccines on order, mainly from AstraZeneca Plc and Moderna Inc, while the United States and Japan have together donated almost five million doses to the island to help speed up vaccinations.

Around one-tenth of Taiwan's 23.5 million people have received at least one of the two-shot regimen, though Taiwan's own relatively small domestic coronavirus outbreak is now largely under control.

(Reporting by Ben Blanchard and Yimou Lee; Additional reporting by Taipei newsroom, and Andrew Galbraith in Shanghai; Editing by Lincoln Feast, William Mallard and Emelia Sithole-Matarise)
MUMBAI (Reuters) - Twitter Inc's India unit appointed a resident grievance officer, days after designating a chief compliance officer, to meet new IT rules in the country, amid tensions with the government.

The website https://help.twitter.com/en/rules-and-policies/report-twitter-abuse-india of the U.S. social media firm on Sunday showed Vinay Prakash as the new grievance officer along with his contact details and procedures for users to report potential violations of its rules and terms.

On Thursday, Twitter had told an Indian court it would appoint an interim grievance officer to comply with the new rules. It had also said it planned to have a final appointment for the job in eight weeks.

The IT rules, which became effective end-May, are aimed at regulating content on social media and making firms act more swiftly on legal requests to remove posts and sharing details on the originators of messages.

But the regulatory scrutiny of Twitter, along with others such as WhatsApp and Amazon, has ratcheted up friction between the U.S. tech firms and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government and upset the business environment in a key growth market.

(Reporting by Abhirup Roy and Sankalp Phartiyal; Editing by Jacqueline Wong)
In their camp hidden in the forested hills of Kayah state near the Thai border, Myanmar anti-junta volunteers practice firing their homemade weapons, do physical training, and play guitar in between skirmishes with the military.

Myanmar has been in turmoil since the military ousted Aung San Suu Kyi's elected government in February and launched a bloody crackdown on pro-democracy protests.

In some areas civilians have formed "defence forces" to combat the State Administration Council, as the junta dubs itself, often using hunting rifles or weapons manufactured at makeshift factories.

"I've been away from my family more than three months," one member of the defence force at the camp told AFP on condition of anonymity.

"I will return home after this revolution."

During that time the group of roughly 60 has fought around twenty skirmishes with the Myanmar military, or Tatmadaw, he said.

Communication is patchy in the country's eastern states, and AFP was unable to verify the number of clashes.

Since the coup, fighting between Myanmar's military and rebel groups in the east of the country has displaced an estimated 100,000 people, the UN said last month.

Locals in Kayah state have accused the military of using artillery shells that have landed in villages.

That has only hardened resolve to take up arms.

"We will never forget and forgive till the end of the world" reads a tattoo across the neck of one volunteer.

The wooden rifle of another has "Spring Revolution" carved into the butt and barrel in Burmese script.

In a mixture of combat camouflage and T-shirts, the volunteers go on patrol, navigating single track paths through the jagged hills.

They practice firing their motley assemblage of weapons at a makeshift firing range.

During downtime, one plays guitar on a bench while another resting inside a tent checks his weapon.

More than 890 people have been killed by the junta's security forces since February 1, according to a local monitoring group.

Story continues

As well as the rise of local self-defence forces, analysts believe hundreds of anti-coup protesters from Myanmar's towns and cities have trekked into insurgent-held areas to receive military training.

The civilian fighters are often outnumbered and outgunned in clashes with Myanmar's military -- one of Southeast Asia's most battle-hardened and brutal.

But the volunteers are determined to fight on.

"If we all fight, we will win," one told AFP.

"I believe we can win."

bur-rma/oho
Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

JetBlue Airways is launching its first flights to London next month and using a new plane to do it.

Only 138 seats are offered with a sizeable business class cabin to draw in premium passengers.

In-flight entertainment, in-flight WiFi, and hot meals will be complimentary for all flyers.

See more stories on Insider's business page.

JetBlue is going to London, UK next month, and powering its transatlantic debut will be a brand-new aircraft to its fleet, the Airbus A321neoLR.

JetBlue Airways' first Airbus A321neoLR. JetBlue Airways and Airbus

Read More: JetBlue is promising London-bound passengers free meals, wider seats, and more when service finally starts this summer  take a look

The next-generation and "long-range" version of Airbus' largest single-aisle jet offers JetBlue a 4,000-nautical mile range while also burning less fuel on the overseas journey.

JetBlue Airways' first Airbus A321neoLR. JetBlue Airways and Airbus

Passengers accustomed to flying the New York-London route will note that it's the smallest aircraft to service the busy transatlantic corridor that's generated billions in revenue for some airlines. But JetBlue is giving the plane a fresh new look compared to its other jets to help bring more travelers across the pond.

Inside JetBlue Airways' Airbus A321neoLR. JetBlue Airways and Airbus

Take a look inside the jet that will take JetBlue passengers to London starting in August.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

From the outside, JetBlue's newest plane looks like any other in the leisure carrier's fleet. On the inside, however, is a technological marvel jam-packed with passenger-friendly amenities.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

Only 138 seats are offered on an aircraft that can normally seat around 200.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

Mint business class is also making its transatlantic debut with brand-new seats to boot.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

A total of 24 business class seats are angled towards the aisle in what's known as a herringbone pattern.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

There's one seat on each side of the aisle in a 1-1 configuration, as opposed to the alternating 2-2, 1-1 configuration on JetBlue's first-generation Mint planes.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

The arrangement is ideal for solo travelers as they offer complete privacy from the rest of the aircraft. JetBlue told Insider that privacy was the greatest request that it received from Mint flyers.

Story continues

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

And to that effect, each seat will have fully closeable doors that block passengers off from the rest of the plane.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

JetBlue is traditionally a leisure airline but is enticing premium customers the most business class seats it has ever offered on a single plane. And it shows, the cabin is so deep that it stretches all the way to the aircraft's wings.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

Each seat offers an abundance of privacy since flyers don't have to share the row and high walls create a feeling of exclusivity. This seat is referred to as the "Mint Suite."

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

Wireless charging pads are also available in yet another unique touch.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

Lighting in the suites is offered through a personal reading lamp and a larger lamp with customizable mood lighting.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

A pillow and comforter kit is left on each seat before boarding. JetBlue tasked Tuft & Needle with designing a new comforter complete with a "foot nook" to keep feet warm during the flight.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

Vegan leather material was used to create the seat, which is actually a mattress also crafted by Tuft & Needle. Flyers seeking maximum sleeping time can also flick on the "do not disturb" light and flight attendants will know not to bother them or serve them meals.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

Standard at each business class seat is a 17-inch entertainment system. One of the features unique to JetBlue is that the screens can be extended during taxi, takeoff, and landing.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

The in-flight entertainment system can be controlled by touch or by using one of the tethered remotes that also act as game controllers. Device-pairing is also an option so flyers can use their phones as a remote.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

In-seat power is offered with 110V AC power outlets and USB charging ports, as well as a hook on which to wrap cords.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

Each business class flyer will receive an amenity kit from Wanderfuel with the essentials to survive a long flight.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

The other type of seat in Mint is the "Mint Studio," located in the first row of the cabin.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

There are only two of these seats, both in row one, and JetBlue is selling them at a premium because of the extra space they offer.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

The Mint Studio is ideal for those wanting more space or traveling with a companion. There's more living space and even a cushioned bench for a companion to use.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

JetBlue ran with this idea and even installed another tray table so flyers can work side by side or share a meal.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

There's even an additional power outlet in the seat.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

Other perks of the Mint Studio include a larger 22-inch in-flight entertainment screen.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

There's also more storage space in the Mint Studio with additional compartments throughout.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

A personal storage closet, ideal for a handbag or other small items, is yet another perk of booking the Mint Studio.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

The remaining 114 seats house the economy section in a standard 3-3 configuration.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

Seats are split between 24 extra-legroom "even more space" seats and 90 "core" seats with standard legroom.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

Even more space seats, denoted by their orange headrests, offer 35 inches of legroom.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

Seat width in the section is the standard 18.4 for inches that every economy seat has.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

These seats are also among the closest to the front so flyers can get off of the plane sooner than most, while also enjoying early boarding privileges compared to the rest of economy.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

Beyond extra legroom and being closer to the front, there's not much more that these seats offer.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

Even more space seats are nearly identical to standard core seats, with both offering adjustable headrests, in-seat power, and seat-back entertainment screens.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

But the extra legroom may make a bigger difference to some on the longer eastbound transatlantic crossings.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

The first row in economy is actually an exit row seat that isn't listed as part of JetBlue's "even more space" product because it doesn't recline. The legroom, however, is quite generous.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

And with only four rows of seats for the entire plane, there are not many to be had.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

The remaining 90 seats are the domain of JetBlue's core product.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

Each seat in this cabin offers 32 inches of pitch and the standard 18.4 inches of width.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

Each seat in economy will offer 10.1-inch seat-back screens with JetBlue's latest entertainment product.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

A selection of movies, television shows, games, and a moving map will be available during the flight.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

Armrest remotes aren't being offered by the screens can be controlled by touch or by pairing a device.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

In-seat power in economy is available both through 110v AC power outlets and USB charging ports underneath the screens.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

Complimentary in-flight WiFi will also be available for all passengers throughout the entire flight, with JetBlue the only carrier on the route to offer it.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

Hot meals will be offered in economy, with JetBlue tapping Dig to provide the service. Examples of some main courses are charred chicken and brown rice, meatballs and tomato farro, and spiced eggplant and quinoa.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

In the back of the plane, available for economy flyers, is the "pantry." The self-serve station will have drinks and snacks for passengers to take at their leisure.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

All flyers in economy will receive a blanket but no pillow as part of the initial launch offering.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

All the armrests go up in economy rows so flyers can use the row as a bed if one is entirely free.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

There are some economy seats to be avoided, however, and those are the ones in rows 22 and 23 as the windows are misaligned.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

London's Heathrow Airport is famous for its approaches that fly right over iconic sites as Canary Warf, Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and the Palace of Westminster. But flyers in those rows won't get to see them.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

Otherwise, there are no truly bad seats in the cabin. One of the last rows in economy is also reserved for the flight crew to rest so fewer flyers will be relegated to what is often regarded as the worst place to sit in economy.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

One Mint seat is also blocked for flight attendants to rest.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

Above the cabin, mood lighting will help shape the ambiance in the cabin with a variety of settings depending on the phase of flight.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

At night, for example, relaxing colors will ease flyers to sleep and then gently wake them up.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

Flights to London begin on August 11.

Inside JetBlue Airways' new Airbus A321neoLR. Thomas Pallini/Insider

Read the original article on Business Insider
People protest as a storm rolls in on June 6, 2020 in Denver, Colorado. Michael Ciaglo/Getty Images

Video of a car hitting a demonstrator during protests over the death of George Floyd protests last May went viral.

A jury found that the woman driving the car was not guilty of assault.

A lawyer for Jennifer Watson said she was scared for her safety.

Visit Insider's homepage for more stories.

A woman accused of hitting a person with her car during protests following the death of George Floyd last summer in Denver has been found not guilty of assault by a jury, several outlets reported.

A jury found Jennifer Watson, 37, guilty of misdemeanor reckless driving, KUSA reported.

Video of the incident went viral last summer. The video from May 28 showed a black SUV honking its horn at a group of demonstrators around it.

Before the start of the video, a protester was on the hood of the car, Insider reported. The car then started moving, the protester jumped off, and people can be heard screaming watch out.

The car then swerved, hit the protester, and drove off.

Watson's attorney, Ryan Brackley, said Watson was scared for her safety, KUSA reported.

"Ms. Watson should not have been charged. We appreciate the jury's verdict of not guilty to the assault charge," Watson's attorneys at Brackley Law Office PLLC said in a statement.

Brackley said Watson was taking her usual route home when she was surrounded by protesters. He said she was alone with her dog when the man that was ran over identified as Max Bailey, 22, jumped on the hood of her car and her windshield was smashed, as KUSA reported

Bailey told the outlet that he jumped on the hood of the car because he feared being run over. He suffered some swelling and bruising following the incident.

Protests erupted across the country last summer after Floyd's death on May 25, 2020. Floyd died after former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin knelt on his neck for over nine minutes during an arrest. Floyd repeatedly said he was unable to breathe, video of the encounter showed.

In April, Chauvin was found guilty of second-degree murder, third-degree murder, and manslaughter for Floyd's death.

Read the original article on Insider
China's President Xi Jinping and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un spoke of "hostile forces" as they vowed to strengthen ties on Sunday ahead of the 60th anniversary of the countries' treaty of friendship, per KCNA.

Why it matters: The report by the state-run North Korean news agency is meant as a message to the U.S. amid stalled nuclear talks and escalating tensions between Washington and Pyongyang, as well as Washington and Beijing, analysts said, according to AFP.

Stay on top of the latest market trends and economic insights with Axios Markets. Subscribe for free

What they're saying: The two countries' governments "are now staunchly advancing toward a bright future by smashing the high-handedness and desperate maneuvers of the hostile forces on the strength of militant friendship and blood ties even under the complicated international situation," Kim said in a statement.

"Despite the increasingly rampant anti-socialist attempts by the imperialists and the rapidly changing relations between or among countries in the wake of the Cold War, the deep-rooted" relations between China and North Korea were "strengthening," he added.

The big picture: The Biden administration last month extended for another year an executive order that's been in place for more than a decade, which declares a national emergency over the nuclear threat from North Korea.

The administration and U.S. lawmakers have also taken steps against China's government  including sanctions against Chinese officials for rights abuses and banning Americans from investing in companies linked to the Chinese military and its surveillance activities.

Go deeper: Biden's Korean War diplomacy

More from Axios: Sign up to get the latest market trends with Axios Markets. Subscribe for free
When Shipman resident Wisteria Johnson took to the stage Saturday, she led the crowd in spelling: V-I-C-T-O-R-Y.

What do we have? Johnson asked. The crowd exclaimed in response: Victory!

More than 100 opponents of the now-canceled Atlantic Coast Pipeline gathered Saturday at the Rockfish Valley Community Center in Nelson County for a celebration more than a year in the making.

Dozens were grouped under white tents with overlapping chatter and music filling the air. The area was decorated with anti-pipeline paraphernalia, and many wore blue No Pipeline T-shirts.

Im sure you all remember what it felt like when you heard the news that the pipeline was canceled, Joyce Burton, with Friends of Nelson, said as she clutched a copy of the Nelson County Times with the headline that read, Atlantic Coast Pipeline canceled.

I just remember the disbelief; I had bruises on my arm from pinching myself. Im really excited that now, after a year, were finally able to reconnect with that feeling of relief we had back then, Burton said.
The consequence is that Supreme Court justices may no longer reflect the America they preside over. This can be problematic. If the court were to routinely stray too far from the publics values, the public could reject its dictates. The Supreme Court relies on public confidence to maintain its legitimacy.

Life tenure has also turned staffing the Supreme Court into an increasingly partisan process, politicizing one of the nations most powerful institutions.

In the 1980s and 1990s, Supreme Court nominees could generally expect large, bipartisan support in the Senate. Today, judicial confirmation votes are almost strictly down party lines. Public support for judicial nominees also shows large differences between Democrats and Republicans.

Life tenure can turn supposedly independent judges into political players who attempt to time their departures to secure their preferred successors, as Justice Anthony Kennedy did in 2018. Trump appointed Brett Kavanaugh, one of Kennedys former clerks, to replace him.

The proposed solution

Many Supreme Court experts have coalesced around a solution to these problems: staggered, 18-year terms with a vacancy automatically occurring every two years in nonelection years.
When he served as governor from 2002 until 2006, Sen. Mark Warner was a strong defender of workers protections. He kept Virginias right-to-work statute intact throughout his term and has spoken favorably of its role in protecting workers.

That is why our members, and their employees, are urging Sen. Warner to oppose the PRO Act. This legislation protects workers in name only  in reality, it gives unions a stranglehold over employee-employer relations and power over how workplaces are run. Besides undoing Virginias and 26 states right-to-work laws, the PRO Act would impose policies such as requiring managers to go through a union representative to talk with their employees about pay, benefits or anything in the realm of human resources. It would also prevent the use of secret ballots in unionization and union elections, opening employees up to intimidation and harassment. It even allows unions to conduct strikes without notice.

Of course, unions do have an important role to play in the modern workplace. Businesses and employees that want union representation to help with negotiations or other aspects of day-to-day human resources questions should be free to choose to do so. But the PRO Act would go much further than that, amounting to a federal rewrite of Virginias employment laws to give unions a permanent position in every office, shop floor or factory across the Old Dominion.

Right-to-work has been tested for decades in Virginia, and it has proven itself an important means of empowering workers. Sen. Warner protected the right to work during his time in the Executive Mansion, and now it is up to him to protect it again in Washington. Workers in all industries across Lynchburg and across the Commonwealth are counting on him to stand up for them.

Megan A. Lucas is CEO and Chief Economic Development Officer of the Lynchburg Regional Business Alliance.
Japan's finance minister Aso Taro has called the agreement reached by G20 finance chiefs "a historic change in a century."

Aso spoke to reporters after the meeting of G20 finance ministers and central bank governors ended in Italy on Saturday.

He said the move will bring dramatic change to the tax autonomy of a country.

Aso said he has been working on the issue since 2013 when he and Bank of Japan Governor Kuroda Haruhiko stimulated international discussions at a meeting of the Group of Seven. He added he strongly endorses the achievement.

Kuroda said there were concerns that some sovereign countries may have an unfair share of taxation on multinational companies due to an advance in the digital economy unless tax rules on such entities are revised.

He said "more than 100 countries agreed to change the 100-year-old tax rules". Kuroda called it a historically remarkable agreement.
The Japanese government says three in four senior citizens in the country have received at least one shot of a coronavirus vaccine.

The government announced that almost 26.9 million elderly people had received the first shot by Saturday.

That is 75.75 percent of people aged 65 or older, and also those who will turn 65 by next March.

Slightly over 16.2 million, or 45.66 percent of those people, have received a second shot.

The government aims to complete vaccinating elderly people who wish to be inoculated by the end of July.

Gifu Prefecture in central Japan has the highest vaccination rate among senior citizens. The government said 87.39 percent of its elderly received their first jab, while 58.15 percent received a second dose.

In Tokyo, 74.99 percent of seniors received the first shot, and 47.61 percent got a second one.

Including healthcare workers and people younger than 65, the nationwide vaccination rate was 28.4 percent for the first dose and 16.8 percent for the second dose as of Thursday.
The newly opened Women and Newborns Center at Methodist Jennie Edmundson Hospital has already proved more than 250 times how it is meeting the needs of mothers and their babies throughout southwest Iowa.

Since opening its doors Dec. 15, more than 250 babies have been born at the state-of-the art facility in Council Bluffs. Of that number, 17 babies who previously would have been transferred to a Methodist facility in Omaha were able to remain in the redesigned Level II Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Jennie Edmundson.

This new center is making a huge difference for the mothers who come here, Women and Newborns Director Ashley Nihsen. Babies who are born late pre-term, from 34 weeks to 36 weeks, on average will spend an extra 10 days in the NICU.

For their mothers and families to be with them here at Jennie Edmundson and not have to travel farther is wonderful, she continued. Weve had families whove had newborns in special care/NICU that were able to go home, see their other kids and then come back and stay at night with us because we were less than an hour from their home.
In the pandemic, we found that our food system and our food supply system, while it is incredibly efficient, is not resilient, Vilsack said.

When the spread of COVID-19 forced plants to shut down there were disruptions in the market, he said.

We have got to expand the amount of capacity, the processing capacity, in this country, Vilsack said. We can no longer rely on a handful of processing companies to do the job, to make the market competitive, to do right by farmers, to ensure as well that we have a resilient food supply system.

So were breaking new ground today in the Department of Agriculture. Were making available a minimum of $500 million that will be made available in grants, loans, guaranteed loans and assistance for planning and the organizing that goes into figuring out how to build and increase processing capacity in the United States.

Support Local Journalism Your subscription makes our reporting possible. {{featured_button_text}}

The program will focus on beef, pork and poultry, Vilsack said. He said he believes that will leverage billions of dollars of additional investment.
As the COVID-19 pandemic recedes across much of the U.S., the difference between the lasting and temporary changes that it wrought are starting to emerge. Hype and wishful thinking have contributed to predictions that are likely to prove wrong; just because a change was striking or desirable doesnt mean it will stick.

One way to think about the changes is to analyze the balance of power between competing interests  employers and employees, buyers and sellers, doctors and patients, among many others. Another is to ask which changes were already underway before the pandemic and see whether those are likely to accelerate or stall.

The pre-pandemic world operated as it did for specific reasons  and those reasons will reassert themselves as life continues to normalize.

Take remote work. It may be a great arrangement for many workers, giving them more control over their time and allowing them to avoid commuting. It may be great for many employers, letting them save on costly real estate while maintaining a productive workforce.
How is it possible that someone who went through all that to help this country is being sent away over a piece of bread?

The government declines to discuss this case. According to CNN, its decision simply cited terrorist activity, though Niazy said he told the story about the bread in his asylum interview.

Herting said in federal immigration courts in recent years what constitutes support of terrorism has expanded and become more skewed. He pointed to a 2018 case, in which a woman was denied asylum because after being captured and seeing her husband murdered by guerrillas in El Salvador, she was forced to cook and clean for the guerrillas. Providing those services, even under threat of death, was considered by the immigration court to be support of terrorists.

I dont like putting odds on outcomes for my clients, but the case law is not positive for Zalmay, Herting wrote in an email to me. Certainly we still have hope that we can get people interested enough in his story that there may be positive change, but without some reform in the law, hes facing a very steep uphill climb. I am sure the court will be sympathetic to his story, but sympathy doesnt change the law and the law in this area is fundamentally rotten.
Photo-Illustration: Intelligencer. Photo: Rbkomar/Getty Images

Thanks to vaccines, the number of COVID-19 cases has plummeted in the U.S. and restrictions are being lifted across the country. But as we return to our normal activities, we face a more familiar summertime scourge. Were in the thick of Lyme disease season, the two-month run from early June to the end of July when 85 percent of infections take place. Surprisingly, vaccines may have allowed us to avoid this epidemic, too. As I learned during my own recent bout with Lyme disease, a vaccine has existed for decades, but its no longer available.

Its yet another frustrating aspect of this mysterious disease. One bite from a tiny, hard-to-detect tick can lead to a host of odd symptoms, including arthritis, serious cardiac issues, and neurological damage in the most severe cases. The disease is easy to treat once you get a diagnosis, but that can be elusive. And while work is underway to develop a new and better vaccine, it may take years to come to market. Heres what we know about how the disease works, and what you can do to stay safe.

Lyme disease is dangerous for us  and a tragedy for the bacteria

Lyme disease is caused by a bite from a deer tick, also known as black-legged ticks or Ixodes scapularis. The tick attaches by jamming a barb-lined spear into your skin, gluing itself in place with a sticky substance, and injecting a fluid into the wound that prevents the blood from clotting. Thats gross, but its not health-endangering.

The problem is when the parasite has itself been parasitized by a spiral-shaped bacteria called Borrelia burgdorferi or one of its closely related cousins. As the tick slurps up your blood, bacteria make their way from its gut to its salivary glands and then into your body.

For the Borrelia, this is a terrible tragedy. The bacteria was hoping to find itself was inside the body of one of its natural hosts: a mouse, bird, or deer. It has evolved to live inside these animals as a harmless passenger. Through evolution, parasites come to an agreement with their hosts that they wont harm each other, says Sam Telford, a professor of epidemiology at the Tufts Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine whos a leading expert on Lyme disease.

When a host animal is bitten by another tick, the bacteria will move on, and the endless dance will continue. But humans are a dead end: Its unlikely that any human suffering the deeply uncomfortable effects of Borrelia infection will be wandering around in a woodsy habitat where it might get re-parasitized by another tick. So as nasty as Lyme disease is for us, for the Borrelia, its the end of the road.

You probably wont see the tick that infects you

After hatching out of an egg, the deer tick passes through three stages: larva, nymph, and adult. At each stage, the tick must find a new host and feed. Since when they hatch they are uninfected by Borrelia, larva cant cause Lyme disease. And adult ticks are easy to feel and spot when they crawl on you, so theyre also unlikely to latch on and pass along the disease. The really dangerous vectors are the nymphs, about 15 percent of which carry Borrelia and which are so tiny  less than a tenth of an inch long, about the size of a poppy seed  that its very difficult to see them. Most people who come down with Lyme disease dont notice that theyve been bitten.

Tick nymphs are active in the spring, lurking in tall grass or shrubbery, waiting for a host to drop down onto. Since this time of year is also when human beings are most likely to be frolicking amid the greenery with lots of tasty exposed flesh, Lyme disease cases spike around now.

No one knows why Lyme disease makes you sick

Compared to malaria, which is caused by single-cell organisms that can be seen teeming in each drop of blood under the microscope, Borrelia infects the human body in relatively low concentrations. In about three-quarters of all cases it causes a circular, itchy rash called Erythema migrans around the site of the original tick bite. Beyond that, its not clear exactly why the bacteria makes us sick. In many people, the infection doesnt cause any symptoms. For the unlucky, the disease hits hard, with a suite of symptoms that includes fever, muscle aches, joint pain, nausea, and a general sense of feeling absolutely miserable. If left untreated, Lyme can lead to arthritis, neurological disorders like partial facial paralysis, or cardiac disease.

For me, the worst part was shooting headaches so intense theyd wake me up in the middle of the night. The constant pain made me so uncomfortable that my personality was changing: I became impatient, sullen, short-tempered. When my doctors office called to say that my test results had come back positive, I was elated: I knew that within a day or two of starting a course of antibiotics, Id gotten a reprieve from a misery that otherwise could have dragged on until God knows when.

The more our suburbs sprawl, the worse Lyme gets

The first case of Lyme wasnt discovered until 1975, when two mothers in Lyme, Connecticut, pressed for scientists to explain why children in their neighborhood were coming down with a form of arthritis.

A half-century later, Lyme disease is all over the place. The Centers for Disease Control estimates that as many as half a million Americans come down with it each year, and cases are reported in all 50 states, as well as in Europe and Asia. But it isnt spreading, in the way that a disease like COVID spreads, by being passed from person to person. Instead, the bacillus has been there all along, weaving its way between tick and warm-blooded hosts. Whats different is that weve inserted ourselves into this ancient dance. Weve created the conditions over the last 40 or 50 years, says Telford, by increasingly building housing in areas that were once forest or farm fields, allowing foliage to grow up of the kind that deer like to eat, and by stopping hunting that would otherwise keep deer populations in check. There have always been little patches of vegetation that no one ever stumbled across, Telford says. With suburbanization these have grown up and spread.

A safe and effective vaccine exists, but you cant get it

After Borrelia burgdorferi was identified in 1983 as the cause of Lyme disease, researchers went to work developing a vaccine, and in short order they found success. SmithKlineBeecham tested its three-dose LYMErix vaccine on some 10,000 volunteers and found that it was 76 percent effective, with no significant side effects. In 1998 the FDA approved it, and areas where the vaccine was widely administered showed sharp drops in Lyme disease.

In a perfect world wed still be using LYMErix today, and hundreds of thousands of people might have been spared the disease, including me. But it was not to be. Within a year of the vaccines introduction, anecdotal reports began circulating about possible side effects. The media reported on the plight of vaccine victims, and a Philadelphia law firm filed a class-action lawsuit against SmithKlineBeecham. The furor prompted the FDA to review the safety data; it concluded that the concerns were unwarranted. But the damage had been done. Demand for the vaccine fell off so precipitously that the manufacturer simply pulled it from the market.

Thats not the end of the story, though. Pfizer has teamed up with the French pharmaceutical company Valneva to develop a new Lyme disease vaccine called VLA15 that will target a broader range of Borrelia subspecies, meaning that it will, hopefully, have a significantly higher overall efficacy. Currently undergoing phase 2 trials, the vaccine is unlikely to see approval before 2025.

Meanwhile, earlier this year a company called MassBiologics began phase 1 trials of a shot called Lyme PrEP that contains monoclonal antibodies against Borrelia. Unlike a vaccine, this doesnt prod your immune system to take up arms against the invader, but instead delivers the antibodies that can kill the bacteria all by themselves. While the approach has been proven 100 percent effective in animal tests, according to the researchers, the work isnt as far along as the VLA15 vaccine, so its probably further from approval.

If you have Lyme disease, you may have another illness, too

Ticks have been called the dirty syringes of the animal kingdom, swapping infected blood indiscriminately among their hosts. So if Lyme disease were the only thing we could get from these vermin, wed be lucky. But were not. There are a half-dozen or more other tick-born pathogens that can get passed on along with Borrelia, including Babesia microti and Anaplasma phagocytophila (both of which can cause fever and death). When someone is diagnosed with Lyme disease they should at least be tested for other pathogens, Telford says.

While waiting for new treatments to come along, your best bet is to take some simple precautions to avoid encountering Borrelia in the first place: Wear long-sleeved clothes when in tick habitat, apply DEET insect repellent, and check yourself for embedded ticks. If worse comes to worst and you come down with symptoms, talk to your doctor about getting tested. Antibiotics like doxycycline are highly effective against the disease even in its more serious later stages.

After all, says Telford, Lyme disease is a drag, but you shouldnt let the fear of it ruin your life: People should enjoy the outdoors, he says.

Sign Up for the Intelligencer Newsletter Daily news about the politics, business, and technology shaping our world. Email This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Terms & Privacy Notice By submitting your email, you agree to our Terms and Privacy Notice and to receive email correspondence from us.
BERLIN (AP)  The Iranian government has expressed anger over the appearance of senior European and U.S. politicians at a rally in support of an opposition group that has long sought to overthrow Iran's theocratic rulers  and which was once considered a terror organization by the West.

Iran's official IRNA news agency reported that the country's foreign ministry on Sunday summoned Slovenia's envoy in Tehran over a video message by the EU nations prime minister at the event hosted by the National Council of Resistance of Iran.

The NRCI is the political wing of the Mujahedeen-e-Khalq, which is considered a terror organization by Iran and was once designated as such by the United States until it was delisted in 2012. The EU removed the group from its terrorism list in 2009.

Hundreds of people rallied Saturday in front of Berlins iconic Brandenburg Gate, while speakers including former U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, Democratic strategist Donna Brazile and numerous serving U.S. senators from across the aisle lauded the NRCI and its aims.
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.


Thank you for Reading! We hope that you continue to enjoy our free content.
Earlier this month the International Energy Agency had yet another dire warning for those concerned about the welfare of the planet. Natural gas demand, the IEA said, was improving faster than earlier expected and this could throw the world off the agencys Roadmap to Net Zero by 2050.

The gas demand rebound was the result of the recovery in economic activity, the agency acknowledged as well as noting the strong growth in this demand expected in the near future would be due to natural gas replacing more polluting fossil fuels such as coal and oil in the electricity generating sector, among others. Still, this was not good enough for the IEAs net-zero scenario.

The rebound in gas demand shows that the global economy is recovering from the shock of the pandemic and that gas is continuing to replace more emissions-intensive fuels, said Keisuke Sadamori, director of energy markets and security at the IEA.

But stronger policies need to be implemented to put global gas demand on a path in line with reaching net-zero emissions by 2050 while still fostering economic prosperity, the official added, noting this involved using gas more efficiently and promoting cleaner and low-carbon gases.

Now, the IEA has taken its net-zero roadmap as the target to follow but it needs noting that not everyone agrees this target is realistic. Under that scenario, the IEA said exploration for new oil and gas production had to stop now, this year. Yet just weeks after the release, the agency called on OPEC+ to increase production as demand for oil rebounded faster and stronger than the agency had apparently expected.

The agency then went on to say in its net-zero roadmap that the world needs to add more hydropower capacity in order to reach its net-zero goals. Hydropower already provides more clean energy than solar and wind taken together and accounts for a sixth of global electricity generation but we need more, the IEA said last month.

Related: U.S. Shale On Track For One Of Its Best Years Ever Meanwhile, California is struggling to secure enough electricity supplies for this summer, not least because drought has reduced its hydropower resources significantly. China, on the other hand, recently put online two huge hydropower projects. That happened despite environmentalist opposition that such projects affect ecosystems adversely. Opposition is emerging against solar projects, too.

What does this all mean for the net-zero goals of governments and agencies such as the IEA? For starters, it means they have got their work cut out for them. Renewable energy capacity additions ran at record highs last year amid the pandemic but now these are slowing down because raw material shortages are causing prices to soar.

Meanwhile, demand for oil and gas alike is rising fast as people start traveling again. Airlines, which last year languished under the weight of the pandemic, are now scrambling to meet soaring demand for their services. And analysts are talking about oil reaching $90 or even $100 per barrel.

Now, its the analysts job to speculate on oil prices based on all the known factors that affect it at any given time. Right now, we have a combination of internal discord in OPEC between the UAE and Saudi Arabia that adds uncertainty about supply at a time of rising demand. Naturally, prices would be going up. Yet what the current demand and supply situation also suggests is that lofty net-zero goals would be harder to achieve than their authors might like.

Related: Oil Price Plunge Continues Amid OPEC+ Deadlock

Governments are already pushing for more EV sales, some are even banning them, and subsidizing new wind and solar power capacity while retiring coal power plants and, in Germanys case, nuclear plants as well for reasons unrelated to emissions. Still, oil and gas demand remains strong and even coal demand is strengthening, including in Germany.

At the time of writing, Germany, a frontrunner in the net-zero transition, was generating most of its electricity from coal, according to electricityMap. The same was true for the end of June.

Great Britain, also an ambitious net-zero nation, was generating most of its electricity from natural gas. If these two need to rely so heavily on fossil fuels, then the IEAs scenario for net-zero will be really challenging.

Efficiency is one way to overcome these challenges but efficiency gains, especially in mature technologies such as electricity generation take time. Encouraging gas producers to reduce their methane emissionsas a means of producing cleaner gasesis certainly a noble goal but this, too, will take time as well as investments that could push gas prices higher.

It is therefore easy to warn against rising fossil fuel consumption. It is much harder to suggest realistic alternatives to these fossil fuels that can compete with them on every indicator that matters, from cost to reliability of supply. Until such alternatives are developed, warnings of the sort the IEA is making are pretty much pointless.

By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
U.S. natural gas prices have more than doubled since last years pandemic-induced slump. Prices surged in the second quarter of 2021 by 40 percent, registering the largest quarterly rise since the second quarter of 2016.

The U.S. benchmark natural gas price at the Henry Hub has traded above $3.60 per million British thermal units (MMBtu) so far in July. Extreme heat, rising liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports, and lower than usual gas stocks in storage continue to support prices at the start of the third quarter.

Going forward, analysts expect higher volatility in prices as weather models and anticipated heat waves will be one of the key factors in determining price actions. Natural gas consumption in U.S. electricity generation, however, is set to decline this year because of the much higher prices, which make coal more competitive. Coal-fired power generation is set for a short-term recovery this summer as higher prices of coals main fossil fuel competitor, natural gas, will discourage parts of gas-fired electricity generation.

Still, natural gas prices are currently at their highest since the middle of December 2018, driven by record U.S. LNG exports, low domestic stock levels, and extreme weather both in the past winter and this summer.

Amid all this, natural gas production in the United States has stayed relatively flat in recent months, due to lower production of associated gas from oil-directed rigs.

Natural gas prices are expected to stay above $3/MMBtu in the coming two quarters. Downward pressure will likely emerge next year because of an expected rise in U.S. natural gas production and a slowdown in export growth, the Energy Information Administration (EIA) said in its Short-Term Energy Outlook for July published this week.

Last week, U.S. natural gas prices jumped amid a tight natural gas market and expectations of high demand for electricity in hotter than usual weather in many parts of the United States. The Henry Hub rally as a heatwave gripped the Pacific Northwest resulted in the highest price for the prompt futures in more than two years.

Expectations of cooler weather this week have weighed on natural gas futures, but the weekly natural gas inventory report from EIA was constructive and sent prices higher on Thursday.

The net injections into storage totaled 16 billion cubic feet (Bcf) for the week ending July 2, below the median analyst estimate of 27 Bcf and well below the five-year average net injections of 63 Bcf, the EIA said.

This week last year net injections into storage stood at 57 Bcf. As of July 2, working natural gas stocks totaled 2,574 Bcf, which is 190 Bcf lower than the five-year average and 551 Bcf lower than last year at this time.

The average rate of injections into storage so far in the refill season April-October is also lower, by 17 percent, compared to the five-year average.

For the whole refill season, the EIA sees injections 5 percent below the five-year average rate because record exports are set to outpace increase in natural gas production.

Rising natural gas demand outside the power sector and higher exports resulted in an average Henry Hub spot price of $3.25/MMBtu in the first half of 2021, also because of the brief spike in prices to $5.35/MMBtu during the Texas Freeze in February.

The Henry Hub spot price is set to drop from recent highs, the EIA forecasts in its July STEO. The average price for the third quarter is expected at $3.22/MMBtu, which will also be the average price for all of 2021, as per EIAs latest estimates.

However, prices are expected to stay above $3.00/MMBtu for the rest of 2021, driven by continuing record natural gas exports and rising demand for natural gas outside of the electric power sector amid relatively flat natural gas production.

Next year, downward pressure from higher production and slowing export growth would lead to average Henry Hub spot price of $3.00/MMBtu in 2022, the EIA reckons.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
Govt-and-politics

alert

18 months in, St. Francis still not meeting contract requirements. How long will Nebraska give it?

LINCOLN  The Kansas-based nonprofit overseeing Omaha-area child welfare cases has yet to meet key requirements of its multimillion-dollar contract, almost 18 months after the contract began.

St. Francis Ministries has never complied with the caseload limits set by Nebraska law, making it harder for workers to give children and families the attention needed.

More recently, the nonprofits license as a child placing agency has been put on probation, a disciplinary action that could eventually jeopardize its ability to place children in foster or adoptive homes.

But with lawmakers expressing frustration and agency watchdogs voicing concern over the persistent nature of the problems, it remains unknown if St. Francis will be forced to correct its failures.

Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services officials remain tightlipped about how long they will give St. Francis to fulfill its contract obligations. Nor will they talk about plans for the management of Omaha-area child welfare cases when the current 25-month, $147.3 million contract ends.

DHHS is working daily to ensure St. Francis Ministries prioritizes the quality of services, continuity of care, and well-being and safety of children in its decision-making, according to an email sent by department spokesman Garret Swanson.

DHHS will comment on our plans beyond February 2023 at the appropriate time, but right now we are focused on managing the contract and improving the performance of St. Francis, the email said.

Investigation of Omaha-area child welfare contract raises echoes of the past The legislative investigation into Nebraska's contract with St. Francis Ministries has begun, a decade after a similar probe into the statewide child welfare privatization effort.

But on Friday, leaders of a legislative investigation of the contract expressed concern about St. Francis track record and the states oversight.

We obviously see a lot of serious things, said State Sen. John Arch of La Vista, who chairs the investigative committee. The question of how long do you wait for compliance is the key question.

Sen. Mark Kolterman of Seward, another committee member, gave a gloomier assessment after hearing reports about the private contractors performance over the past 18 months.

Its disheartening to think of the millions and millions and millions of dollars were dumping into this program and not getting results, he said.

Matt Stephens, St. Francis vice president of programs north, acknowledged that the nonprofit has some uphill battles. But he expressed confidence in its dedication to child welfare and its efforts at meeting the requirements of the Nebraska contract.

Do I wish that we were meeting every contractual obligation everywhere? he asked. Absolutely. Thats what we should be striving for, but ultimately, we should be sure that our children and families are safe and that they are getting the services that they need.

My staff is incredibly committed to serving the children and families that are in the Eastern Service Area, Stephens said, noting that St. Francis has continuously exceeded the contract requirements on two vital measurements  protecting children from repeat abuse within 12 months and preventing abuse in foster care.

Wins and losses in Nebraska's 2021 legislative session Here's a look at some of the wins and losses during the 2021 session of the Nebraska Legislature.

But the nonprofit has failed to make sustained progress on meeting statutory caseload limits and lags all other areas of the state on the measure.

In May, the last month for which numbers are available, six of every 10 case managers were juggling more children and families than state law allows. That was the worst month since January 2020, when the private agency first took on full responsibility for the care of abused and neglected children in Douglas and Sarpy Counties.

Heavy caseloads make it harder for St. Francis case managers to meet other performance goals, leading to exhaustion and burnout and contributing to a near tripling of case manager turnover since the beginning of this year, from 3.3% in January up to 9.3% in May.

On Friday, Monika Gross, executive director of the Nebraska Foster Care Review Office, described some results of high caseloads and rising turnover to the investigative committee. She said the cases represented just a few of those encountered by her staff involving St. Francis.

Among them was the case of five children placed in foster care with relatives. The foster family moved in October, but the childrens records have yet to be updated with their new address. No home study has been conducted in preparation for their planned adoption, and no records have been kept of their medical, dental, vision and mental health care.

The children went without medication for almost a year because their Medicaid coverage was ended. So far this year, the children have had three different St. Francis case managers.

Legislative committee outlines plan for investigation of child welfare contractor The committee charged with investigating the state's contract with St. Francis Ministries met for the first time Thursday.

There was also the case of a young child placed in foster care with a relative. The child was left there even though the relatives significant other did not pass a background check and other children were barred from being placed in the home.

St. Francis workers left the child in the home until Foster Care Review Office staff pointed out that one foster parent was in jail and there was a warrant for the other. The child was in the home from July 2020 until April 2021.

While Stephens would not address specific cases, he said St. Francis has developed a really aggressive hiring plan and is working on several initiatives aimed at attracting and keeping workers for a difficult, sometimes traumatic job.

Those efforts include raises, mentors for new workers and an on-call program to handle off-hours problems and let workers get a break.

I want you to hear that we are committed to continuing to hire the right people, train the right people and really put them into the workforce in a way that is beneficial to children and families in the Eastern Service Area, he said. If we can do that, which gets caseloads lower, that really allows our staff to spend more time with each family, and some of those other metrics will improve once you have more time to devote per family.

Potentially more disruptive is the action taken against St. Francis license as a child placing agency. State health inspectors put the license on probation in May after the nonprofit failed a September inspection and, despite repeated opportunities, had not corrected its problems by mid-April. HHS has given St. Francis until Aug. 1 to correct its deficiencies.

'Serious sense of urgency': Nebraska Legislature to start St. Francis probe within 2 weeks Citing a serious sense of urgency, Nebraska lawmakers will launch their investigation into the states problematic contract for private management of Omaha-area child welfare cases.

Losing the child placing agency license would prevent St. Francis from carrying out a core part of its contract  placing children in foster or adoptive homes, according to Jennifer Carter, the inspector general for Nebraska Child Welfare.

Inspectors initially found St. Francis deficient on 25 items. It remained deficient on 14 as of April, state records show. Most involved a lack of documentation, such as records of the required monthly case manager visits with children, proof that children got a medical examination within 14 days of entering foster care and inventories of foster childrens belongings.

Also missing were financial records and reports that were to have been submitted to the board of directors for St. Francis Nebraska operations, a board required under the state contract. According to the notice of disciplinary action, that board did not meet in 2020.

Stephens pointed to St. Francis previous leaders in explaining the lack of meetings. Those leaders were terminated last fall, after a whistleblower raised allegations of fiscal mismanagement. But he said the nonprofit is on track to address all of the deficiencies by the Aug. 1 deadline and get off probation.

Nebraska's procurement process missed underbid by St. Francis Ministries When a Kansas-based nonprofit offered to oversee Omaha-area child welfare cases for 40% less than the state had been paying, most Nebraskans involved in child welfare saw a disaster in the making.

Earlier this year, interim St. Francis CEO William Clark blamed the previous leadership for underbidding the Nebraska contract, which led to a financial crisis.

St. Francis won the Omaha-area job in July 2019 by offering to do it for $197 million over five years, less than 60% of the bid from PromiseShip, the Omaha-based agency that had contracted to manage child welfare cases for almost a decade. During the bid review, PromiseShip outscored St. Francis on all areas except cost.

In late January, Clark told state lawmakers that St. Francis would be out of money to operate by Feb. 12 unless Nebraska agreed to pay more. HHS officials responded by inking an emergency contract that boosted payments to St. Francis by 55% and erased the cost difference with PromiseShip.

At the time, HHS CEO Dannette Smith said the state agreed to the new contract to maintain continuity of services in the Omaha area. But she also promised increased state oversight, saying department officials would be persnickety in making sure that St. Francis fulfilled its obligations and maintained financial stability.

Nebraska state senator calls for investigation of Omaha-area child welfare contract Nebraska has no backup plan to care for abused and neglected children in the Omaha area if an embattled Kansas nonprofit can no longer do the job, a top state official acknowledged Wednesday.

Stephens said the new contract and agencywide changes made by current leadership have put St. Francis on a more solid financial footing.

We are in a much different position today than we were in our recent-ish past when we were spending money that, quite frankly, we shouldnt have been, he said. I think were in a really good spot.

But he declined to comment on whether the agency would want to stay on in Nebraska beyond the current contract.

The emergency contract ends Feb. 28, 2023, a month after Gov. Pete Ricketts is term-limited out of office. Under state law, the contract could be extended for another year. Any other decision would require months of lead time to allow for a gradual transition of cases and a possible rebidding of the contract.

Care of Omaha-area children slips under embattled Kansas child welfare contractor Three key child welfare measures worsened in Douglas and Sarpy Counties between December 2019 and November last year under the management of the embattled St. Francis Ministries.
With his chain saw idle for a moment, Ray Agosta happily took a break for the glass of ice water offered by his wife, Marilyn.

Before them Sunday afternoon were piles of downed tree limbs. Nearby, Sharon Street in northeast Omaha was still choked with limbs. If the tucked-away road was to be cleared and their 80-plus-year-old aunts yard was to be cleaned up, it seemed up to these two 60-somethings.

This is not easy, Marilyn Agosta said. If we were younger, it wouldnt be such a big deal. Its overwhelming.

As thousands of metro area residents faced another night without power, and as chain saws could be heard buzzing in neighborhoods, Omahans got some good news Sunday:

More than 80% of power outages were likely to be repaired by days end, and the citys trash crews will pick up limbs curbside this week.

Numerous rules apply to the curbside pickup, so the service wont solve every problem residents face, but it will help, the Agostas said.

We can get this to the curb, Ray Agosta said. But we need some help with the big stuff.
BOSTON (AP)  A tomahawk once owned by Chief Standing Bear, a pioneering Native American civil rights leader, is returning to his Nebraska tribe after decades in a museum at Harvard.

The universitys Peabody Museum of Archaeology & Ethnology says its been working with members of the Ponca Tribe in Nebraska and Oklahoma to repatriate the artifact.

Larry Wright, Jr., chairman of the Ponca Tribe of Nebraska, said Tuesday the return of the historic weapon is a powerful symbol of homecoming for the tribe, which was among many forcibly relocated from their homelands to other territories by the federal government in the 1800s.

Thats a piece of our history that represents who we are and why were here in Nebraska, so for it to be back home is very appropriate," he said. "It tells that history and lets us never forgot what our people went through.

Standing Bear was arrested 1878 for leaving the tribe's Oklahoma reservation in order to fulfill a promise he made to bury his eldest son back in their tribe's homeland in Nebraska's Niobrara River Valley. In his landmark federal trial, he successfully argued for the recognition of Native Americans as persons entitled to rights and protection under law.
Among them was the case of five children placed in foster care with relatives. The foster family moved in October, but the childrens records have yet to be updated with their new address. No home study has been conducted in preparation for their planned adoption, and no records have been kept of their medical, dental, vision and mental health care.

The children went without medication for almost a year because their Medicaid coverage was ended. So far this year, the children have had three different St. Francis case managers.

There was also the case of a young child placed in foster care with a relative. The child was left there even though the relatives significant other did not pass a background check and other children were barred from being placed in the home.

St. Francis workers left the child in the home until Foster Care Review Office staff pointed out that one foster parent was in jail and there was a warrant for the other. The child was in the home from July 2020 until April 2021.

While Stephens would not address specific cases, he said St. Francis has developed a really aggressive hiring plan and is working on several initiatives aimed at attracting and keeping workers for a difficult, sometimes traumatic job.
Binding together a country that has come apart and lost its moorings under the stress of four years of mean-spirited juvenile delinquency at the top is a daunting challenge, but one that clearly has the new presidents focused attention. A week before the Pride Month event, Biden convened members of the Congressional Black Caucus and 94-year-old Opal Lee for a signing ceremony establishing June 19, or Juneteenth, as both a holiday and a day of national reflection. Lee is a longtime advocate for a federal holiday recognizing the end of slavery in the United States.

Juneteenth marks both the long, hard night of slavery and subjugation and the promise of a greater morning to come, said Biden, who pronounced the holiday one in which we remember the moral stain, the terrible toll that slavery took on America and continues to take. With that, he made official a day in which America would take note of what Black Americans have been forced to overcome.

I wish all Americans a happy Juneteenth, Biden said, choosing to close his remarks on an uplifting note.
Most people recognize that politicians shouldnt robotically do whatever voters want  or think they want  in a given moment. Presidents, for instance, have access to more information and are charged with protecting the long-term interests of the country. That means doing things  say, using military force or not using military force  even if theyre unpopular. Leaders often have to persuade the people to trust their judgment.

Now that weve gotten the basic civics out of the way, what if politicians followed the polls, not the voters?

Its an interesting question because it highlights how neither party reflects the consensus views of Americans.

Consider abortion. The Democratic Party is essentially all in on unrestricted abortion rights. The Republican Party is equally committed to the near-opposite position. Well, over the nearly half-century Gallup has been asking about abortion, the most popular position has always been for abortion to be more legal than Republicans want but with more restrictions than Democrats want.
More aggressive regulation of cryptocurrency markets could make ransom payment more difficult, but the hackers could always resort to anonymized cryptocurrencies.

What about military drone attacks on ransomware terrorists? It might be an option if they are in a relatively weak country, but that is hardly likely with Russia. U.S. President Joe Biden already is trying to pressure Russian President Vladimir Putin to help stop the attacks, but there is little guarantee this approach will yield dividends. Putin seems happy to see the U.S. squirm, and the government has not been able to rein in many of his other misdeeds.

Ultimately, the primary long-run solution is for businesses to pay for more secure systems. This could mean much less reliance on passwords (iris scans, anyone?), additional reliance on hardware, and greater use of multi-factor authorization. Health care providers and insurers may have to become a bit more like the CIA.

None of this will stop ransomware attacks. But it will likely cause them to decline.

How exactly all this will unfold is clear, though unpleasant to contemplate. Many businesses and institutions still dont view a ransomware attack as major threat, and they wont invest much more in security until they do. As more security-conscious institutions fortify their protections, hackers will switch to the less aware and less secure targets. Most countries have millions of soft targets, and this crime will continue until most of them have improved their defenses. That could take decades.

Tyler Cowen, a Bloomberg Opinion columnist, is a professor of economics at George Mason University.
The Nebraska Legislature hasnt reached that point yet, thank goodness, but the danger is clearly there. Its fine and appropriate for state senators  whether on the left, right or center  to stand up for their values and engage in serious, impassioned debate. Thats exactly what should happen in a state legislature. The point, then, isnt that lawmakers should never disagree  its how they should disagree.

Unfortunately, debate and interactions at the Legislature are too often in danger of going off the rails into Congress-style dysfunction, shattering the trust thats vital if legislation is to be effectively crafted and approved. Newcomers to the Legislature in 2023 need to understand whats at stake.

When Nebraska state senators defer passively to the Governors Office or political operatives to direct how floor action on bills will be handled, the legislative process is gravely harmed. When state senators hector each other publicly and impugn each others character, the Legislature comes across as cartoonish, personality-driven and Congress-like. When lawmakers promote the idea that a state senator isnt contributing significantly unless he or she is speaking on the microphone repeatedly, using expected rhetoric and soliciting social media attention, the public receives a misleading understanding of what effective public service is about.
Dont abandon them

The July 3 opinion essay written by Jay Jackson was spot on. America needs to step up and help those who helped and supported our military efforts. These individuals allied themselves with us out of a hope that we would be there for them.

Mr. Jackson mentioned our abandonment of the rebel fighters in Syria. If we think back a few decades, we might learn that we have a rather dismal record of supporting those who have allied with us. We left uncounted (and since forgotten) Vietnamese allies including civilians, Montagnard fighters and South Vietnamese troops.

It does not bode well for any nation to ask the assistance of native born, foreign citizens, only to abandon them at the end of conflicts we abandon. The United States should be better than that.

Barry Marsh, Central City, Neb.

Thanks for respect
Fernandez noted that overnight wind gusts of more than 90 mph were detected Saturday, classifying them as hurricane force.

OPPD said all of its crews were being dispatched on calls Saturday. Additionally, OPPDs utility partners from within Nebraska and as far as the East Coast proactively offered their services.

We are public power, and we support each other. ... It has been amazing to see the response from all those utilities who have been able to respond, Fernandez said.

OPPD said the Saturday morning storm was one of the most severe in recent history. For comparison, the Fathers Day tornado in 2017 caused about 75,000 outages  less than half of the initial outages reported Saturday.

The damage was widespread.

At 55th and Farnam Streets, Steve and Nancy Johnson worked to clear a large cottonwood branch that had dropped in their driveway and onto their neighbors fence.

It was my neighbors fence, Steve Johnson said. Ill say it in the past tense.
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has won the country's delayed elections with an overwhelming majority, the election board said on Saturday.



The board said Mr Abiy's Prosperity Party won 410 out of 436 seats, giving him another five-year term in office.



However, a fifth of the country failed to carry out voting overall due to insecurity and logistical problems.



Polls were not held in the war-torn Tigray region, where many thousands are living in famine conditions.



Another round of elections has been penned for 6 September in the affected areas, but a date has not been confirmed for Tigray.



The election had already been delayed due to the pandemic.



Mr Abiy, winner of the Nobel Peace Prize, described the vote as a "historically inclusive election" in a statement on Twitter.



A new government is expected to be formed in October. However, there are concerns about the election's integrity.



Opposition parties had complained that a government crackdown against their officials had disrupted their plans to prepare for the election.



Berhanu Nega said his party, Ethiopian Citizens for Social Justice, had filed more than 200 complaints after observers in a number of regions were blocked by local officials and militiamen.

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.

Featured Video
A gas tanker with registration number GT 8243-20, in the early hours of Friday, ran over and killed a 37-year old mother and her seven-month-old child in Bolgatanga.



It also injured two other children of the deceased, who are currently receiving treatment at the Upper East Regional Hospital in Bolgatanga.



Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) David Fianko-Okyere, the Public Relations Officer of the Regional Police Command, who confirmed the accident to the Ghana News Agency, said the bodies had been deposited at the Regional Hospital Morgue pending autopsy.



He said preliminary investigations revealed that the deceased, Salamatu Adam, carried her seven-month child, Nabel Sakito, at her back while riding a motorbike with registration number M-16-UE-4614.



Her other children, Mujaha Sakito, 10 years, and Mujara, five, were also on the motorbike.



ASP Fianko-Okyere said the mother was taking her children to school when the tanker crashed into them at the Zamse Senior Technical School Junction.



He said the mother, upon hearing the horn of the tanker, lost control of the motorbike, hit it against a tricycle in front of her, with registration number M-21-US-1656, and fell on the lane of the gas tanker, which was approaching from the opposite direction.



The tanker run over the woman and her children, killing her and her seven-month-old baby instantly.



All the three vehicles have been impounded while the driver of the tanker, Issah Eliasu, and the tricycle rider, Yahuza Yahaya, have been detained at the Regional Police Station in Bolgatanga to assist in investigation.

Source: GNA









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

Featured Video
The Ghana Statistical Service has announced a seven-day mop-up in the ongoing 2021 Population and Housing Census (PHC) to complete work in the outstanding enumeration areas.



The mop-up exercise will run from Monday, July 12 to Sunday, July 18.



The 2021 PHC, which commenced on Sunday, June 27, officially ends today, Sunday, July 11.



Professor Samuel Kobina Annim, the Government Statistician, who announced the mop-up at a press briefing in Accra, said 80 percent of data on the expected households had been received as of the 12th day of the enumeration.



He said the North East Region had the highest data of 97 percent enumeration, while the Greater Accra Region was the lowest with 55 percent.



"To put these figures in context, the numbers are based on the data that has been transmitted electronically to the Headquarters. In some areas, enumerators are unable to transmit their data due to the poor or absence of Internet connectivity," the Professor said.



Out of the 272 statistical districts, the Government Statistician said 181 were on course to complete the data collection as at today, Sunday, July 11, 2021.



He said currently, the completion rates in some districts based on the data received by the 12th day indicated that the enumeration would have to continue.



They include Ga West, Ga North, Ayawaso West Municipal, Adentan Municipal, Ga East, Ledzokuku, La Nkwatanang-Madina Municipal, Kpone Katamanso, Shai Osudoku and Tema West.



The Professor explained that some areas in Accra were recording low data due to residents unwillingness to participate, boundary issues and unavailability of respondents, especially persons leaving early for work and returning late in urban areas.



He noted that some farming and mining communities were larger than the expected number of structures or the population in rapidly expanding urban areas.



The Government Statistician said field closure activities had begun in Supervisory Areas where work had been completed and appealed to the public who were unwilling to be enumerated to cooperate with the enumerators.



He, however, said the interest being exhibited by the public to be counted was high and that the call centre had received more than 2,000 calls from people with concerns of not being listed or enumerated; questions about the exhaustiveness of the interview, and concerns about enumerator identity.



In some cases, the Professor said some of the members from the public were calling the District Census Officers, Regional Statisticians and other Census Officials directly.



"GSS wishes to assure the public who are yet to be counted that no one will be left behind. To persons yet to be counted, please make yourselves available by using the callback card or informing your neighbours when you will be available," he stated.



"Members who have not been counted should contact the Census call centre on the toll free number: 0800426426 or on 0591476893, 0591476895, 059476884, and 020685015," he added.



The 2021 PHC will provide important information to support evidence-based implementation of the national development agenda and support the tracking of achievements of the Sustainable Development Goals and Agenda 2063 of the African Union, among others.



The 2021 PHC is seeking to gather information on key issues, including travel history of household members who have migrated abroad, Socio-demographic characteristics, literacy and education, economic activity.



The rest of the indicators are difficulties in performing daily living activities, ownership and usage of Information Communication Technology devices, children born to women, 12 years or over, deaths of household members within the past 12 months, housing conditions, sanitation and source of water, lighting and cooking fuel.



The listing of structures started on Sunday, June 13, 2021.

Source: GNA









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

Featured Video
The Ho Central Police have arrested some 35 tricycles in an exercise to bring sanity to road networks in the Municipality.



Assistant Superintendent of Police, Mr Alex Yeboah, the Municipal Commander, who briefed the Ghana News Agency after the exercise, said the riders and operators of the tricycles were involved in road abuses and sometimes linked to criminal activities.



He said the riders continued to commit road infractions against other road users with the exercise targeted at stemming the growing culture.



He said some minors were identified as riders, who flagrantly abuse the road regulations with many without license or documents to engage in commercial activity.



ASP Yeboah said the Police had authorized those arrested to produce relevant documentation or be prosecuted according to the law.



He entreated owners of the tricycles to avoid using minors, promising that the Police would clamp down on them.

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.

Featured Video
Former Head of Monitoring Unit of the Forestry Commission, Charles Owusu has hit hard at NPP Bono Regional Chairman, Kwame Baffoe and NDC MP for Ningo Prampram, Sam George over their threats to sue government over the official decision to pay First and Second Ladies' salaries.



Parliament has approved that wives of the President and Vice President should receive salaries but this has been vehemently condemned by the two politicians and a section of the general public.



Kwame Baffoe, popularly called Abronye DC, has dragged the Attorney General to the Supreme Court praying the court for a declaration that, the approval by Parliament to pay salaries to the First and Second Ladies is inconsistent with ARTICLE 71 CLAUSES 1 AND 2 of the 1992 Constitution of the Republic of Ghana and consequently be declared null, void and unenforceable and an order that per Articles 108 and 178 of the 1992 Constitution of the Republic of Ghana; parliament cannot, on its own accord, initiate or approve payment of any such emoluments; which would necessarily be paid from public funds; without a bill to that effect emanating from and introduced by the Government and dully passed into law.



Sam George, also threatening a law suit, argues that the First and Second Ladies are not Public Officers, therefore the Parliamentary approval is in breach of Article 71 of the constitution.



"As far as I am aware there was no arrangement for that, the President's wife and the vice President's wife are not article 71 holders."



"I am a Member of Parliament, I personally do not subscribe to that, whether it is an NDC President or an NPP President, your wife is not a Public Officer, you wife is your wife. Are we also going to say that the Spouse of the Chief Justice , the spouse of the Speaker must also be paid? Where do we draw the line. Already they get allowances, they get protection from the state at the expense of the taxpayer and I don't have a problem with that'', he said in an interview on Neat FM.



Addressing the issue on Peace FM's ''Kokrokoo'', Charles Owusu rubbished the law suits asking ''if we cancel the payment to the First Ladies, what will happen in this country? Will it cause people to die or have life?''



''Today, this or that person is going to court saying we won't accept it...The thing is also that they are being paid already and the fact that you're going to court doesn't mean the government will decide today that it won't have a budget for the First Lady's office and the office of the Second Lady. Then we should close the office. Then we should propose that it's not necessary to give an office to the First and Second Ladies any longer'', he expressed his disappointments.



He argued that ''just as we pay their husbands, they must also be paid. If they work, then we must pay them''.



To him, it is petty for any person to come against the salaries.



''Let us love ourselves. The pettiness is too much'', he therefore advised.





Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

Featured Video
The number of new COVID-19 cases continued to decline locally this past week, mirroring a statewide trend as vaccination efforts continue to progress.

A total of 10.7 million New Yorkers, or 55% of the states total population, have completed the vaccine series as of Saturday morning, according to the states vaccine tracker.

That includes 40,223 Warren County residents that have been fully vaccinated, the equivalent to 66% of the countys total population.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo encouraged New Yorkers who have yet to get inoculated to get the shot.

I urge New Yorkers who havent take their shot to do so right away  the faster we vaccinate the population, the faster COVID becomes a thing of the past, he said.

Warren County

The county reported four new cases and eight recoveries between Sunday and Saturday.

Just five people were ill as of Saturday, an 83% decline in active cases compared to a month ago, according to Warren County Health Services.

Health Services will hold a walk-in vaccination clinic on Monday July 19 at the Tannery Pond Community Center in North Creek from 4 to 5 p.m.
Hudson Falls is ready to meet Hudson Falls.

A new streaming TV series pilot will be shown later this month on the big screen at the ever-busy Strand Theatre as a benefit for the nonprofit venue.

The writer-director-producer of the pilot used the name of Washington Countys largest village for the fledgling series title and setting, though the episode was filmed in Rockland County in the Lower Hudson Valley.

The two nouns, Hudson and Falls, sounded both innocent and sinister when combined and worked well for a title and community name, said independent TV and movie producer Elias Plagianos, of downstates Clarkstown. Falls was also chosen because there was a plot element involving a waterfall, though that was eliminated from the script during filming.

Its about a small town in upstate New York, but its not based on the actual Hudson Falls. Its a fictionalized version of it, Plagianos said. We didnt know there was a real Hudson Falls.

The plot involves a private investigator, played by actor Richard Kind (The Goldbergs and Mad About You among his many TV and movie credits), who travels to Hudson Falls to reconnect with his ex-wife there. He then gets involved in a murder investigation. In one trailer for the pilot, Hudson Falls PD is mentioned in a scene involving the local police department.

Secrets of this small town slowly get unraveled, offered Plagianos, whose credits include a 2009 feature film, The Crimson Mask, and a 2017 TV pilot, Shoot Me Nicely, starring Linda Hamilton.

Local premiere

At 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, July 20, the Strand will host the local premiere of the first episode of the hoped-for mystery series. Plagianos, along with members of the shows cast, are set to attend.

The Strand will be the biggest venue in which Plagianos has watched Hudson Falls, he said.

The evening will begin with a wine and hors doeuvres reception, end with a panel discussion and include a screening of Hudson Falls and the pilot for Distemper, another Plagianos TV series in development, the latter focusing on pandemic concerns in the Belgian Congo in 1918 and starring Abigail Hawk from the CBS series Blue Bloods.

The 22-minute first episode of Hudson Falls was made for under $40,000, but with actors and production values that rival the $1 million or more that some producers would spend on a half-hour show, Plagianos said.

In addition to Kind, the pilot features TV and motion picture actors Jessica Hecht, William Sadler, Tara Westwood and Robert John Burke.

Hudson Falls was shot during the pandemic, in the first week that film and TV productions in the state were allowed to resume last July, said Plagianos, who wrote the script in April 2020.

Cast and crew faced a variety of challenges as they cooperated with Screen Actors Guild rules to keep everyone safe, and many scenes were set up with just two actors or filmed outdoors to maintain social distancing. The pilot was shot with an easy-to-use Canon camera that kept the on-set crew size small.

There was such uncertainty coming back to a project like this, said Danny Frank, a publicist from Manchester, Vermont, who is working with Plagianos.

Plagianos said he is happy to have been at the forefront of getting productions before cameras again in the state, and he noted how difficult the pandemic shutdown was on the many actors, musicians and behind-the-scenes workers who earn their livelihoods in the performing arts.

Support for theaters

Along with marketing his work, Plagianos said he wants to support theaters, which were either closed for many months or, in the case of the Strand, had to be resourceful in the absence of live audiences. The Strand rented out the building for CD recording sessions and small film productions, including a time when the empty theater was used as a backdrop for a 14-minute dance film. The Strand also livestreamed performances from its stage during the shutdown.

Frank, who was familiar with the Strand from attending a 2019 comedy show there prior to his involvement with Hudson Falls, recently contacted Jonathan Newell, the Strands executive and artistic director.

They wanted to bring it here as a fundraiser, Newell said. Its pretty generous of them.

And while the plan is for Amazon Prime to make Hudson Falls available on its platforms, the start date was still fluctuating, Plagianos said in a late June interview.

Meanwhile, he is marketing Hudson Falls via festivals, such as SeriesFest, a Denver-based festival with a virtual viewing component. Hudson Falls will also get a look during this months LA Shorts International Film Festival, and the show was a New York International Screenplay Awards winner. Those festival appearances and awards are noted on Hudson Falls posters that publicist Frank recently dropped off at the Strand.

The cast is eager to shoot more episodes, Plagianos said, adding that the pilot ends with a cliffhanger.

We created it outside the normal TV development system. We hope the TV system takes notice and gives us a green light to shoot more, he said. Hopefully, people watch it and want more and write about it online.

Newell, of the Strand, has his own hopes, including getting the theaters next phase of upgrades completed.

And with the Strand right up the Northway from the New York City area, Newell said he hopes the beautifully sounding acoustic space will continue to grow as a vital artist workspace in the real Hudson Falls.

He wants to attract more varied acts and productions to the area generally, and to the Strand specifically, including maybe an off-off-Broadway show.

They dont really make them like this anymore, he said of the theater, which was brought back into the light from behind municipal office walls by a band of volunteers (assisted by community and business donations) when Kingsbury Town Hall employees moved out five years ago.

The building was hiding out for 50 years and we woke it up, Newell said, offering a sound bite that could be an enticing pitch for a streaming series all by itself.

Bob Condon is the local news editor for The Post-Star. He can be reached at condon@poststar.com or by calling 518-742-3250 (office) or 518-932-5277 (cell).

Love 2 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0
I ask for your support and assistance in providing parity to American citizens seeking to enter Canada who meet the same requirements imposed on Canadians returning from travel. This is a sensible step forward that will bring immediate relief to border communities as we continue our work towards fully restoring cross-border travel.

The North Country Chamber of Commerce welcomed Stefaniks communication to the premiers.

In recent outreach with (members of Parliament) in Ottawa, we were advised that there are weekly conversations between the Canadian prime minister and the premiers and that the evolving position of the provinces with regard to the border is bound to be a factor in achieving further steps by the Canadian government, chamber President Garry Douglas said in a statement.

This sparked the congresswomans letters to each one of them, while we have also begun to seek and engage in direct virtual meetings with provincial leaders to make the case for forward movement.

Douglas noted a previous conversation with Quebec and an upcoming cabinet-level discussion with Ontario.

This is all part of using every possible avenue to encourage progress and is in concert with the advocacy by Sen. Schumer and others aimed at both countries, he continued.

We will continue to advocate through multiple channels in multiple ways, and we thank Congresswoman Stefanik for her continued strong engagement as part of this broad and multi-faceted approach.

Love 3 Funny 4 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 3
"Our average price for our rings sold now has gone up substantially since Covid," said Brenna Lyden, founder and CEO of Everly Rings and East West Gem Company. She is also working with clients who are using money they saved during the pandemic to upgrade their current rings or getting entirely new ones.

Demand for diamonds

Pent up demand and a dip in production due to COVID-19 restrictions led to global diamond shortages during the pandemic.

"I had a hard time gearing up the production to sustain the demand," said Katarzyna Zygnerska Rosales, founder and designer of Kasia Jewelry in Solana Beach, Calif.

Many jewelry companies work with the Gemological Institute of America, a non-profit that trains jewelers and maintains the standards for diamond-grading services. The Clear Cut, for example, has all of its diamonds certified and graded there. "We are experiencing historically high submissions for laboratory services," said Tom Moses, GIA's chief laboratory and research officer.

At The Clear Cut, "we've been seeing a lot more demand for the in-person appointments," and some customers are even flying to New York to come to the showroom and look at rings," Landau said, underscoring the fact that clients are confident enough to resume travel and ready to try on rings in person.
Local

top story

In Atlantic City, rising seas threaten an already struggling industry

Edward Lea, Staff Photographer A sign marks the height of flooding inside Atlantic Citys Vagabond Kitchen + Tap House during 2012s Superstorm Sandy. Vagabond and many restaurants on the Atlantic City coastline are facing increasing flooding risks. Edward Lea, Staff Photographer Long-term plans call for raising West End Avenue. But in the meantime, Vagabond Kitchen + Tap House owner Elvis Cadavid stays alert when storms or flooding is expected. Edward Lea, Staff Photographer Cadavid Press archives The Gilchrist Restaurant in Gardner's Basin does not normally flood but will by 2050, according to a review by Climate Central.

ATLANTIC CITY  Whether its a noreaster, tropical system or even a full moon with an east wind, restaurant manager Elvis Cadavid will survey the kitchen at Vagabond Kitchen + Tap House and brace himself.

(Here) youre in the worst possible flood zone, Cadavid said.

About 1 feet below the seating area inside, his refrigerators, prep tables, fryers and any other kitchen equipment are put on wheels and elevated a few inches off the ground. Nearly every part of the land beneath the popular brewpub and late-night venue on North Trenton Avenue faces a chronic risk of flooding, according to an analysis by Climate Central, a nonadvocacy science and news group. Theres one exception: the patio on the Trenton Avenue side  that only faces a 10% chance of a flood each year, although by 2050, the patio also will become part of a frequent flood zone, the analysis found.

I spend thousands of dollars a year pumping out the crawlspace, said Cadavid. Some future work calls for adding a couple of sump pumps so you dont have to pay to drain it out each year.

When the flooding is in moderate or major stage, which means a crest higher than 6.9 feet above the average low tide mark, the restaurant can lose a lunch or dinner shift, and with it, revenue and worker wages. On occasion, the flooding is so bad everything shuts down.

Since Superstorm Sandy in 2012, Cadavid has filed three flood insurance claims for loss, including damaged refrigerator units. While the insurance covers the loss, it means higher premiums for the next flooding event.

The impacts from sea level rise affect almost every facet of life in the resort city, from its economy to its culture and physical landscape. To better understand how the sea continues to shape the resort, The Press and Climate Central are spending this year looking at the challenges, coping strategies and opportunities facing the city as it deals with increasing flooding risks.

Climate Central analyzed the impact on 26 non-casino based restaurants and found that 10 would experience frequent or chronic coastal flood risks on their properties by 2050. Some, such as Vagabond, are already feeling the impact, while others have yet to see severe flooding.

From 1993 to 2017, sea levels in New Jersey have risen an average of 1.9 inches per decade, according to a Rutgers University Science and Technology panel. Of that 1.9-inch growth, nine-tenths of an inch comes from natural processes, such as sinking land. A warming world, driven by man-made greenhouse gas emissions, accounts for 0.87 inches, while 0.2 inches of the rise is due to unknown factors. The rate of sea-level rise is increasing globally, and it will continue to affect Atlantic City at a quickening pace.

Another challenge to a struggling industry

The scars of each storm are etched on popular restaurants and bars like Vagabond.

I got markers all around my property, Cadavid said of the high water marks staining the outside of the building that sits on North Trenton Avenue along West End Avenue in the citys Chelsea Heights neighborhood. The flooding inside his restaurant during Sandy reached 20 inches. Outside, it rendered West End Avenue, a major artery between the city and neighboring Ventnor, impassable.

Aaron Levine, founder and CEO of LG Insurance based in Long Branch, Monmouth County, has been monitoring federal policy related to flood insurance restrictions and what it could mean for private residences and business properties in New Jersey. FEMAs new rules go into effect by October.

Flood insurance rates will go up as a result of the rule changes.

Its going to affect everybody, he said, but its going to be a bigger opportunity to spread the risk and allow lower-risk properties to take on a little more of the cost to offset the expense of the higher-risk properties.

He added that climate-related threats wont cease, and any business should remain prepared.

What wintertime climate change has meant for South Jersey MARC CARPENTER Snow remains on a trail in the Pine Barrens after the four day long nor'easter, which brought upwards of 8 inches of snow in the Burlington County Pine Barrens.

Significant storm activity is happening on a consistent and regular basis throughout the world, said Levine. From a professional agents perspective, we have to look at the global risks.

Levines advice: Get ahead of the game and mitigate risks. He suggests not waiting for a disaster to make building upgrades, for example. He also notes that insurance options are widely available through both federal programs and private companies.

For business owners, especially in hospitality, read the insurance policies, understand what the coverage is and do a cost-risk analysis to understand exactly whats going on so there are no surprises later, he said.

Loss of revenue, higher insurance costs and increased threats of flooding are the last things the hospitality industry needs. Adjusted for seasonal workers, 35,000 people work in the hospitality industry in the Atlantic City-Hammonton region, according to the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia, which tracks economic and labor data for the region.

Pre-pandemic, in April 2019, 44,100 people were working the industry, according to the Federal Reserve data.

Flooding can affect an employees ability to get to work. Cadavid said most of his team lives in flood-prone areas. Getting to the road on a day with coastal flooding may mean walking on crates from the front door of their home to a dry part of the street where their car is parked and then trying to find the route with the least amount of car-corrosive salt water. For some, it means making sure their legs dont get wet as the jitney pulls in.

I am very close to the water, so we do experience some flooding and it does make it a little difficult to get to work ... because you have to detour, said Sania Alikoarti, a hostess at Vagabond, who moved here from Albany, New York, three years ago.

Cadavid says another Vagabond employee who lives in adjacent Ventnor Heights makes a plan for getting to work whenever coastal flooding is expected. If its significant, shell stay at another persons house.

As Atlantic City continues to grapple with high unemployment rates  with one in three people out of a job  sea level rise and flooding threaten long-term prospects for steady income for hospitality workers.

Sea levels are projected to rise an additional 0.3 to 0.9 feet by 2030, according to the Rutgers study, regardless of how much more greenhouse gas pollution is released in the coming years. By 2050, its somewhere between 0.7 and 1.9 feet.

A familiar problem with an elusive solution

Some local entrepreneurs have resigned themselves to the fact that flooding is a way of life.

Its annoying, but I dont feel like it necessarily hurts us, said Mike Barham, owner of Gilchrist Restaurant, located on Rhode Island Avenue in an out-of-the-way, tourist-friendly spot known as Gardners Basin.

Across the parking lot sits another popular spot, Back Bay Ale House, where diners go for drinks, a meal or to watch the sun set from the open porches and picnic tables at its outside bar.

While the Gilchrist does not normally flood now, like Back Bay Ale House, it will by 2050, according Climate Centrals review.

One thing is clear, at least to City Councilman Jesse Kurtz, whose 6th Ward includes Vagabond: Atlantic City means too much to the state, investors and locals to be abandoned.

Kurtz said residents quickly identify flooding as a major problem, but seem resigned to it.

Solutions to the flooding exist, but action is needed, he said.

In working through the issue ... there is a solution and fundamentally, we have to decide if were going to shore up infrastructure and make things livable for people that are here or are we going to abandon the islands, Kurtz said.

Cadavid says he is working closely with Kurtz on the issue, including plans to raise the roads around his restaurant.

One of the challenges here is that its the intersection of local, county and state roads, Kurtz said of the intersections of West End and Trenton avenues and the adjacent Black Horse Pike.

Another issue: The nearby bay and marshland means the state Department of Environmental Protection and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers could require permitting.

Kurtz said a short-term fix is in the works as the state plans to elevate the off-ramp of the southbound pike lanes onto West End Avenue. That will happen in a matter of months.

This will address the flooding issues, but only modestly.

Kurtz said the long-term plan to remove flooding from West End Avenue, which turns into Wellington Avenue in Ventnor, is to lift the entire road, similar to what was done for the pike in parts of Egg Harbor Townships West Atlantic City neighborhood. The next phase calls for raising the pike from Naples Avenue to Bayport Drive by 2.5 feet at a cost of $27.5 million. That phase will happen in the next one to four years.

Meanwhile, the state is asking the private sector  businesses and homeowners alike  to absorb some of the costs by building higher.

In April, the state released a New Jersey Climate Change Resilience Strategy, which touted a plan to mitigate the effects of climate change. One of its recommendations was that all new construction in coastal zones be able to withstand roughly 5 feet of sea level rise by 2100. Some local governments and stakeholders have objected to the higher building requirements needed to meet that threshold, saying the state is forcing a response based on a threat that has only a 17% likelihood of happening.

In the meantime, Cadavid will continue to keep a careful eye on his restaurant, and will look out for flood warnings. His spot fared well during the pandemic, closing only briefly after a positive COVID-19 case on staff.

Still, Vagabond and many other restaurants on the Atlantic City coastline lost revenue last year, shifted staff and now likely face higher flood insurance costs due to sea level rise.

A return of indoor dining means more customers  and neither Cadavid nor Barnham of Gilchrist need another obstacle to filling their tables.

When its the perfect storm at high tide and the full moon, the roads ... can be bad, Barnham said. It can almost be impossible to get to us.

(Data analysis by Allison Kopicki of Climate Central.)

ABOUT THIS STORY This story was produced in collaboration with Climate Central, a nonadvocacy science and news group. Future stories will look at sea level rise and climate change's impact on Atlantic City's transportation and education systems.
Lees attorney Sebastian Ionno was not available for comment Friday. Attorney John Grady, who is representing the city and Laughlin, declined to comment.

Lee was hired by Absecon Police in 2005 and says in her suit that she was aware of unequal treatment in promotions, training and discipline between women and men of the department. The city and Laughlin, in the response filed by Grady, deny those allegations.

According to Lee, upon her return from maternity leave, she was exclusively breastfeeding her newborn. She said she requested a private area to pump breast milk and began using a storage room.

Support Local Journalism Your subscription makes our reporting possible. {{featured_button_text}}

Although she placed a sign on the door to let everyone know the room was occupied, Lee said her male coworkers would walk in the room anyway.

Absecon and Laughlin say they know nothing about (Lee) communicating any such request or requirement. The defendants admit in their response that only on one occasion did a male coworker walk in on Lee, and it was accidental.

In her complaint, Lee said soon after, she was told she could no longer use the room to pump, and no other area was provided. The city and Laughlin deny the allegation.
Since March of 2020, schools in New Jersey have been allocated nearly $5 billion in emergency federal funding for COVID-19 relief. While the second round of funding  totaling $829 million  included addressing learning loss as an allowable use, the third round of funding at $2.5 billion mandated that at least 20% must be used for it.

Most programs are four days a week over five weeks, and many are offering wrap-around services that will offer enrichment and address afternoon child care.

South Jersey school administrators said they wanted to focus on reading and math  two big components of statewide standardized testing  but another big component, they said is recouping the social and emotional skills lost from being socially distanced.

Some of those kids havent been in school and they forget how to play on the playground, said Stephanie Bush, director of curriculum and instruction for Stafford Township School District.

Stafford, a preschool through sixth-grade district, has about 150 students participating in its summer program. Bush said the district tested and tracked student progress throughout the year, so when they found out in the spring they would get funding for the summer program, they delved into the data to see where the deficiencies were.
The Trop case was settled in 2007 for $101 million.

There are obvious significant differences between the two collapses, Mongeluzzi said, as one building failed while being built while the other failed after standing for 40 years.

There are also issues in Surfside of a lack of maintenance, corrosion and deterioration of the columns and slabs and rebar connections, Mongeluzzi said, along with the pile driving and drilling at the adjacent project next door.

Mongeluzzi declined to say exactly how many families have retained him. He has had no access yet to the site, as rescue and recovery efforts are ongoing.

Authorities have opened criminal and civil investigations into the collapse of the oceanfront high-rise. At least five lawsuits have been filed by Champlain Towers families.

The whole world wants to know what happened here, Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava said at a news conference Tuesday. Everyone, she said, wants to know what could have been prevented and how we make sure it never happens again.

Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle has pledged to bring the matter to a grand jury, which will gather evidence and hear testimony, and could recommend criminal charges or reforms.
Much of the publics continued fear, and the public health guidance that reflects it, she said, might trace back to misguided warnings early in the vaccination campaign that vaccines didnt protect others.

Now theres data showing that the risk of getting infected at all drops by 60% to 80% after becoming fully vaccinated, said Muge Cevik, an infectious disease doctor at the University of St. Andrews in the U.K. And those who do get a breakthrough case have lower odds of transmitting it to others. That doubtless explains why hospitals didnt become overwhelmed when the delta variant became dominant there, and why deaths arent surging.

Who still got infected? Cevik said it was primarily younger people who hadnt been vaccinated, as well as a few vaccinated people with what she considers the highest risk occupations  taxi and bus drivers and people in the hospitality industry. The risk comes from long-duration indoor exposure to a large number of people every day. And remember: Hardly any of the infected vaccinated people became seriously ill.

Proponents of universal masking considered it a worthwhile strategy in 2020, but how much masks helped is still not well quantified.
Curfew supporters argue that they help prevent young people from becoming either perpetrators or victims of nighttime crime. But the research shows otherwise.

A Brookings Institution study of the curfew in Washington, D.C., found that gunshot incidents increased by 150% when the curfew was in effect. Thats not surprising since a street with people on it tends to be a safer street, while a deserted street tends to invite crime.

The Campbell Collaboration, a nonprofit that synthesizes research studies for policymakers, in 2016 examined 7,000 studies on juvenile curfews and analyzed the 12 most rigorous ones. It declared the evidence suggests that juvenile curfews are ineffective at reducing crime and victimization. Curfew hours on average had slightly increased crime, and curfews had no effect on crime overall. Similarly, juvenile victimization also appeared unaffected by the imposition of a curfew ordinance, Campbell said.

That result is in line with a 2003 systematic review by the National Criminal Justice Reference Service, which found that empirical studies of the impact of curfew laws failed to support the argument that curfews reduce crime and criminal victimization.
Included in a cluster of five players who are two strokes back at 14-under are a couple of battle-tested veterans who each have five PGA Tour wins to their credit: Moore, the 2016 JDC champ, and Kevin Na.

Both expressed confidence that they can finish the job today, especially if the rain and wind continue to come and go, as they did Saturday.

"The harder it gets, the short game is more important, and I feel like my short game is a strong part of my game," Na said. "I know it's going to rain again tomorrow and have some breeze, so you know what, I think I'm in a good position to give it a go. I've got nothing to lose."

Brown, Long and Champ also are at 14-under.

There are four more players at 13-under, including List, who shot a 58 at a hometown country club in Georgia a few weeks ago.

A batch of three players at 12-under includes Glover, who ironically is one of the few players on Tour who does not wear a glove and who has not won in 10 years, and Schenk, who grew up on a farm in Indiana using John Deere equipment and who travels around with a golden retriever named Bunker.

There are seven more players at 11-under including 2005 JDC champ Sean OHair.
News media gave a distorted picture of the historic importance of the fair-elections legislation offered by Democrats in the U.S. Congress. To be fair, its not easy to describe this mammoth bill with its many aspects.

Most stories focused primarily on the impact on registering and voting. These are, indeed, critical aspects of the proposal. The For the People Act would have set national standards for federal elections including: automatic and same-day voter registration, early voting and voting by mail, and purging of voter rolls that some states have used against the poor.

These items got most of the attention, and they are the ones that most fit in with D versus R framing that appeals to partisan emotions  and which led Senate Republicans to block the bill in its current form last month. But many components of the legislation that garnered less attention are popular with voters on both sides of the aisle and worth pursuing in any compromise versions that develop going forward.

Among them was an effort to shore up election security by requiring voting machines to leave a paper trail and be made in the U.S. But the two most important aspects we should keep are outlawing gerrymandering in establishing districts for the House of Representatives and tackling the growing cancer of money in politics.
WATERLOO, Iowa  An Ohio woman who tried to spring her boyfriend from an Iowa jail has been sentenced to probation.

The Waterloo-Cedar Falls Courier reports that the 23-year-old from Columbus said she made a mistake before a judge granted a defense request for a deferred judgment. That means the case will come off her record if she successfully completes probation.

Probation will be transferred to Ohio as part of the arrangement.

Authorities said she used the jails video visitation system to plan an escape with 28-year-old Tyrone Lamar Copeland, who was jailed. The scheme involved leaving a vehicle for Copeland at UnityPoint-Allen Hospital where he had a doctors appointment in December to amputate an infected toe.

Sheriffs deputies were tipped off to the plan, and his girlfriend was arrested when she pulled up at the hospital. She pleaded to conspiracy charges, which could have resulted in a five-year prison sentence.

Copeland also pleaded to conspiracy and was sentenced to five years. He also pleaded to unrelated drug and firearm charges and was sentenced to an additional five years.

Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 1
Davenport police arrested three people early Saturday who allegedly burgled a Davenport home and robbed the victim while armed.

Derek Alan Miller, 29, Joseph Noel Villalpando, 29, and Aryan Sue Snoddy, also known in Scott County Court records as Aryan Sue Snoody, 21, each is charged in connection with the burglary and robbery. All are from Muscatine.

Miller and Villalpando are charged with one count each of first-degree robbery and first-degree burglary. The robbery charge is a Class B felony that carries an automatic 25-year prison sentence, 70%, or 17  years, of which must be served before parole can be granted.

The burglary charge also is a Class B felony that carries 25 years.

All three are charged with conspiracy to commit a forcible felony, a Class C felony that carries a prison sentence of 10 years.

Villalpando is charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm, a Class D felony that carries a prison sentence of five years.

According to the arrest affidavit filed by Davenport Police Officer Nicholas Mark, at 1:02 a.m. officers were sent to 1420 Gaines St. to investigate a burglary.

Officers found the back door open and four people inside.
IN THE NEWS

Few details on trooper deployment

Iowa officials are being tight-lipped about the planned deployment of Iowa State Patrol troopers to assist law enforcement efforts at the U.S.-Mexico border, declining to identify how many have volunteered and when they might be traveling to Texas or Arizona to conduct an undisclosed assignment. Several Republican governors, including Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds, announced they would send troopers from their states to help protect the border, noting the rise in drugs, human trafficking and violent crime has become unsustainable. But Iowa officials answered few questions about the deployment.

Budget boost: The state treasury took in more than $8.1 billion for the 12-month period that ended June 30, a 16.3 percent increase that probably will translate into a whopping state budget surplus once the books officially close in September, officials said.

Drought conditions: Intermittent rains and cooler temperatures led to an improved crop-growing outlook for Iowa, although much of northwest and north-central Iowa still face severe to moderate drought or abnormally dry conditions, according to the latest U.S. Drought Monitor.
Daniel Ives, an analyst at Wedbush Securities, called the acquisition a clear black eye for Musk and Tesla, in large part because SolarCity has failed to turn a profit.

It basically was putting good money after bad, Ives said. For all the successes and all of the unimaginable heights Musk has achieved, this is one of the lowlights.

Most investors, Ives said, place no value on the company's solar business.

I just think Musk and Tesla underestimated the challenges and the hurdles that the business brings, he said.

That said, Ives said he thought Tesla's energy business could still become modestly successful.

Tesla, which has disbanded its media relations department, did not answer a message Friday seeking comment about the lawsuit. In its 2020 annual report, the company argued that the lawsuit was without merit and that Tesla would vigorously defend itself.

We are unable to estimate the possible loss or range of loss, if any, associated with these claims, the company report said.
The third person, a 35-year-old woman, suffered a graze wound to her face and she was taken to Mount Sinai Hospital in fair condition. Police said she had been walking in the area when the shots were fired.

Hours earlier, in the Heart of Chicago neighborhood, three people in their 20s were shot, one fatally, as they stood on the sidewalk in the 1800 block of South Paulina Street around 6 p.m., police said.

A 26-year-old man suffered gunshot wounds to the neck and head and was pronounced at the scene, 1838 S. Paulina St., at 6:33 p.m., according to medical examiners office data.

The two other people, a man and a woman, both were shot in the shoulder and they were taken to Stroger Hospital in good condition.

The third person who was killed was shot  along with another man who had been in critical condition  as they stood in the 2100 block of South Oakley Avenue in the Heart of Chicago neighborhood around 3:45 a.m. Sunday, police said.

A 22-year-old man was shot in the chest and taken to Mount Sinai Hospital, where he was pronounced at 4:15 a.m., according to medical examiners office data. He had been located at 2135 S. Oakley Ave., according to that agency.
You may remember the kind of bell I'm speaking of: one of those grade school clangers that summoned you back to the classroom. It always meant the end of something pleasant: playing in the school yard, sitting around the kitchen table at noon, sleeping the sleep of the semi-just in my fourth floor room at Ambrose Hall.

The seminary was a great place, mind you, filled with bright, quirky people and presided over by some of the finest men I have ever known. But they kept such absurd hours! And they made no allowances for those of us that pop psychologists call "B" types: folks who like to stay up late and get up many hours after sunrise.

But never mind our internal clocks; we all had to troop down to a small room in the pre-dawn light where Father Griffith would lead us in meditation. He would speak on some aspect of personal perfection in disjointed sentences, allowing pauses so that we could dwell on what he said and make personal application of his generalities.

To be honest, all I could think of most mornings was that I longed to be back in bed. Since my meditations centered more on sleep than saintliness, I tried prayer instead: usually a fervent plea for full consciousness.
RURAL AMERICA  Ive seen this cat for the past year or two, hunting mice in the field in front of my house, feral, calico and small. I have never been able to get close to her, but the other night I was cooking salmon on the grill and when I ventured out to turn the salmon over there she was, mewing and just generally chatting.

When the salmon was done I broke off a nice-sized piece for her and put it on the sidewalk next to the grill, thinking that surely a wild cat is not going to eat cooked salmon. As soon as I got in the house I looked out of the window. Her salmon was gone and there she was, licking her lips. Like all wild creatures, she was beautiful.

A couple of weeks ago I did something that surprised even me: I hung out with friends at their garage sale. I had a seat in the garage, next to a card table upon which lay a couple of Barbie dolls. My wife had a Barbie doll around 1960. Its likely in a box in my basement, not because she saved it but because her mother did.

It has been determined that were she real, Barbie would be 5'9" tall, have a 39" bust, 18" waist, and 32" hips, etc. etc. Heres the thing: Barbie herself walked into the garage that day, looking for bargains, and she caught the attention of all present. We all stared. Big blonde hair. Body-hugging black and silver dress. Ageless.
On Thursday, the state of Illinois announced the first winners of the COVID-19 vaccine lottery. The lucky $1 million winner was from Chicago, with three $150,000 scholarship winners coming from Chicago, suburban Cook County and DeKalb County.

Were sorry to see there were no Quad-Citians among the winners, but frankly all Illinoisans will benefit from the states decision to offer financial incentives to people who get vaccinated for the coronavirus if leads to higher vaccination rates.

The state says it is offering $7 million in cash prizes and another $3 million in scholarships.

The rest of the winners will be announced through August. Federal coronavirus aid is being used for the prize money.

Some might object to the idea of offering prizes to try to nudge people to get a shot. We already know some have ethical questions, while others have said the lottery wont, excuse the expression, move the needle much.

Still, we like the creativity. Should this be the only method of trying to convince the hesitant? Of course not. But it's worth trying, and it's just one approach the state is taking.
The more people that we can make aware of this issue of urban heat islands and the inequalities of who suffers the highest heat burdens and air-quality burdens, the more people can come to the table in these planning efforts and contribute their own knowledge and help make these planning strategies from the ground up, said Todd Lookingbill, a professor of biology and geography and the environment professor at the University of Richmond.

Lookingbill is leading the effort in Richmond. To get the most complete coverage of the city, he said the team will be going by specific points of interest with different types of land uses, such as downtown areas, parks, shopping centers and bus routes to measure various levels of tree coverage.

Richmond was broken down into 12 parcels. Volunteers  students and faculty from UR and the community  will go across the city on 12 routes (at 6 a.m., 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.) to capture temperature levels. By recording the cooler temperatures in the morning and hotter temperatures later in the day, researchers are looking to capture the extreme differences.

With assistance from scientists at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the team identified Thursday, July 15, to be one of the hottest days with low precipitation chances throughout Virginia.
Basically, [Labrie] told us that having two philanthropic partners was confusing, Wall told me. Thats his rationale. Wells added that he found the rationale confusing. But what could the Friends do?

Rather than dissolve, weve been looking into other opportunities on how we can help communities, Wells said.

Just one example of that was the 2021 move of a summer concert series from the Roanoke Mountain campground to Explore Park, which is not federally owned. (The next monthly concert, by the way, is July 18. The Blue Ridge Girls will begin playing at 5 p.m.)

Another product of the split is something you may have seen an announcement about recently. It concerns specialty Blue Ridge Parkway license tags issued by the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles.

The Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation  which already sells a license tag in North Carolina  has applied to the Virginia DMV to sell a Blue Ridge Parkway tag in Virginia. Naturally, some revenue from that would go to the foundation.

Problem is, theres already a Virginia tag for the parkway. It was created in 2012 by the Friends of the Blue Ridge Parkway  which is now Friends of the Blue Ridge.
The couple prepared to leave Chicago, where they met in 2008. De Leon retired as a federal environmental attorney, and Sciarine traded her teaching job in Chicago for one in Montgomery County.

De Leon trained in cheesemaking in Vermont, and Sciarine plans to take classes there this winter, she said.

De Leon, 65, said he was deeply influenced by the year he spent as a child in the Spanish farm country after his family fled the Cuban Revolution. There he watched his aunt make cheese from the dairy cows to sell at market. And the family made bacon and other traditional cured meats, he said.

He brought that old world farming philosophy to Monte Verde  or Green Mount in Spanish.

You can tell the goats that were born here, de Leon said. I dont dehorn goats. The only way they have to normalize their temperature is their horns.

An Illinois native, Sciarine, 60, was reared by entrepreneur parents, who owned their own business.

And I always wanted to own my own business, she said.
As far as issues, Hager-Smith said shes pushing for continued support of the business community. She said she believes the town has done a tremendous job assisting the business community throughout the pandemic, which she describes as horrible, horrible time.

As has been the case with many other localities, the COVID-19 pandemic has financially impacted Blacksburg. Key revenue streams such as the meals and lodging taxes and business licenses are over the near future expected to bring in hundreds of thousands of dollars less than they had in some previous years.

Hager-Smith, however, pointed to the provision of outside funding such as last years federal CARES Act and touted what she sees as an almost renewed sense of cooperation between the various agencies in the region to wade through the challenges of the health crisis. She specifically referenced a task force that was formed last year to handle much of the local response to the pandemic and a years-long campaign that helped with plans to return passenger rail to the New River Valley.

Its a highly developed sense of regionalism thats going to benefit us in the future, Hager-Smith said.
The park service also already has established itself in the watershed over the years, including through the 3,000-mile Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail and, of course, Fort Monroe National Monument. (About 120 acres of the former Army base was transferred to the NPS in 2015.)

But the new effort is the biggest yet.

Earlier this year, two Maryland congressmen formed a federal working group to explore the designation of the Chesapeake recreation area. Local Reps. Elaine Luria and Bobby Scott, along with Virginia Sens. Mark Warner and Tim Kaine, also support the effort.

Perry said advocates hope legislation could be drafted by the end of the year.

A recreation area is not exactly the same as a national park. While also a unit of the national park system, recreation areas tend to be near bodies of water and allow visitors access to water-based activities such as kayaking and fishing, according to the Interior Department website. There are currently a dozen nationwide.

Think along the lines of the Golden Gate Recreation Area in San Francisco, Perry said, which includes not just a park itself but connects to nearby outdoor sites too.
The work seemed to proceed smoothly and fairly easily as couples, families with small children and activists looked on from surrounding blocks. The crowd intermittently chanted and cheered as the workers made progress. Music wafted down the street as a pair of musicians played hymns from a church near the Lee statue.

There were at least a handful of opponents of the removal, including a man who heckled the mayor after her speech, but no visible, organized protester presence.

Ralph Dixon, a 59-year-old Black man born and raised in Charlottesville, was documenting the removal work Saturday morning, a camera around his neck.

Dixon said he was brought to the park where the Lee statue stood as a school-aged child.

"All the teachers, my teachers anyway, were always talking about what a great person this was," he said.

He said his understanding of Lee's legacy and the statue's message evolved as he became an adult. He said it was important to consider the context of the Jim Crow era during which the statue was erected and said especially after Heyer's death there was no reason the statue should stay.

"It needed to be done," he said.
It is so rare for an ordained woman in the Episcopal Church to be under the age of 35 and gay. I dont know what that number is, but I would dare to say its low, Davis said. So how could that be anything else but a calling?

Thursday was a celebration of that joy, she said, to everything Goldsmith had put into her life, and now this church. Dont make me sound too mushy, though, she added.

Agatha Rule, a member of the congregation at Trinity who also sits on the vestry, is thrilled with Goldsmith and her effect on the church, including the initiation of new programs, and outreach to different parts of the community.

Rule said there is an intentionality to Trinitys openness. We need to make sure that everybody knows they are safe here, and that you can come here and not just sit at the table, but we want to know what you have to say.

Goldsmith officially began her tenure in January but moved up early from Alabama to deliver the Christmas Eve sermon, getting married along the way.

A whirlwind few weeks, she and Davis packed their respective apartments in Alabama and Atlanta, with a stop in Piedmont Park in Atlanta, where they had a beautiful wedding at one of the parks gazebos.
NORTON, Va.  Theres a wetland at the top of a mountain in Wise County. Thats not a typo: Along a ridge of Stone Mountain, 3,000 feet above sea level, sits a boggy pond surrounded by a flat stretch of mud and low grasses, looking for all the world like a little swamp photoshopped over the forest.

Walter Wally Smith stood at the edge of the wetlands small, tea-colored pool. It was Friday, June 25, and Smith  an assistant professor of biology at the University of Virginias College at Wise  was just beginning to explain why its hard to find frogs during the day when he was interrupted by a frog.

The creature hopping over the mud at his feet was tiny, well-camouflaged and quick enough that most people would probably have missed it. But Smith, 36, is a herpetologist, a zoologist who specializes in amphibians and reptiles. In seconds, hed scooped it up and lightly pinned its fingernail-length back legs between his fingers.

That is a little, recently transformed wood frog, Smith said as he pulled a camera from his backpack with his free hand. It probably just left the pond in the last couple weeks.

The biologist added wood frog to the amphibian count hes keeping as he and Belle Romans  a 20-year-old rising senior at UVa-Wise who is working with him through a summer fellowship  combed the wetlands edge.

Frog Log Amphibian tally from June 25 visit to the Stone Mountain wetland:  20 mountain dusky salamanders  Five wood frog metamorphs (young individuals that just transformed from tadpoles)  Two eastern newts  One northern dusky salamander  One mud salamander  Total amphibians: 29

The site is one of six high-altitude wetlands across about 30 miles of Southwest Virginia that Smith and Romans are routinely visiting this summer and early fall, all to answer a simple question: What frogs and salamanders live there?

As far as Smith can tell, nobody else has asked it, and the initial results have already upended scientific knowledge about a particular salamander species. Smith said he hopes thats just the start.

I think itll help rewrite our understanding of these wetlands, Smith said. Were finding really unique species.

Herpspeak Herpetologists are zoologists who focus on reptiles and amphibians, and like any group of people obsessed with something, they have their own lingo. Here are the most common terms Smith said he and other amphibian expertsalong with amateur enthusiastsuse to describe their field.*  Herp (noun): A catch-all term for amphibian and reptile species. Derived from herpe-tofauna, the formal scientific term for reptiles and amphibians. Pl. herps.  Herp (verb): To go looking for amphibians. Herped, herping, herps. Anyone can herp, Smith said, from kids in their backyards to tenured researchers like himself.  Herper (noun): One who herps.  Frog logger: A digital recorder used to record frog calls.  Mander: Short for salamander. This ones actually specific to Smith. Thats kind of my personal, just growing-up-in-the-South slang term, said Smith, who hails from northeast Georgia. Its kind of a term of endearment, I guess, that I use when I find one. *If all of this makes you think of herpes, you arent the first to do so. I had a guy a few years ago who called me up at the college, and he wondered if I could come give a presentation on my herpes to his group, Smith said, laughing. I was like, Im sorry?  Oh, yeah, hes talking about herps.

More than a mud pit

A wetland, as the name implies, is an area of land thats either regularly covered by or saturated with water. The best-known types are found along coasts, river floodplains and other low-lying areas.

But the wetlands dotting the upper slopes of the Appalachians dont even have a firm definition, Smith said. For the amphibian survey, he and Romans have decided to define them as any wetlands higher than about 2,700 feet.

The wetlands origins are hazy, but Smith said that some of the studys sites seem to have formed in little depressions on mountain ridges  places without any nearby streams for rainfall and snowmelt to escape into.

Several of the other sites sit atop something he called a hanging valley  a flat, treeless expanse containing a wetland, often at the headwaters of a stream. Glacier movements carved hanging valleys in other mountain ranges, Smith said. Not the ones in the Appalachians.

This is just more the way the landscape is formed, he said. Its so neat, because its not created by humans in any way, but youll be walking through the forest and all of a sudden break out [into] bright sunlight  this big wetland where its just too wet to have that forest canopy growth, Smith said.

The wetlands arent connected to streams, which means no fish to gobble up frog and salamander eggs, Smith said. If youre an amphibian looking for good real estate in these mountains, you cant do much better than a fishless wetland.

While Appalachias high-altitude wetlands are extremely rare, Smith said most people either dont know that they exist or dont realize what they are.

Were losing a lot of these [high-altitude] wetlands, because so many people see them and they think, Oh, its just a big mud pit, Smith said.

The spots can easily wind up drained or otherwise destroyed in the process of land development and timber harvesting, or just disturbed by human activity, Smith said.

Weve got, in the area, a very big motorized trail boom thats happening right now, said Smith, who is also a member of the Clinch Coalition, a community group that advocates for environmental protections in Southwest Virginia. Thats obviously a fun place to come if youve got, you know, an ATV or a truck or a Jeep, but unfortunately then, that churns up a lot of the herp.

Herp: herpetology slang for amphibians and reptiles. Herping, Smith explained, is simply the act of looking for those animals, and a herper, is one who herps. He said the terms can apply to anyone and everyone, from a 6-year-old poking around in a backyard to a pair of researchers herping in high-altitude wetlands where no herpers have herped before.

Smith said that recording what frogs and manders, as he sometimes calls salamanders, live in these unique wetlands is as necessary a research question as it is basic. Its hard to know how to protect an ecosystem, or notice how it might be changing, if you dont know whats in it to begin with, he said.

Hes confident that all of that data will culminate in a peer-reviewed scientific article: an impressive notch in Romans belt, he said, since its rare for undergraduates to publish research.

Beyond [that], were basically going to hand all of our data off to the [U.S.] Forest Service ... because these wetlands are on Forest Service land, Smith said. So theyll know what species are here, what habitat features those species need. ... If theyre going to log around this [spot] or do a prescribed burn or something in the future, [the data] can help them better inform their management.

In the heights UVa-Wise associate professor of biology Walter Wally Smith and Belle Romans, a rising UVa-Wise senior working with Smith through a research fellowship, are spending their summer trekking to six high-altitude wetlands in Southwest Virginia. The goal: figure out what amphibians live in these unique, under-studied ecosystems. While theyre still doing the fieldwork, here are all the species their visits have uncovered so far:  Wood frog  Green frog  American bullfrog  Pickerel frog  Spring peeper  American toad  Fowlers toad  Copes Gray treefrog  Spotted salamander  Northern dusky salamander  Seal salamander  Mountain dusky salamander  Long-tailed salamander  Eastern newt  Cumberland Plateau salamander  Southern ravine salamander  Mud salamander

An out-of-place salamander

The herps at the Stone Mountain wetland seemed cooperative that Friday morning. Within minutes of starting to search the site, Smith plucked two mountain dusky salamanders from under a piece of old cloth tarp. (Of course [these two are] under junk instead of natural cover, he said ironically.)

Smith said the species  which belongs to the dusky salamander genus  is extremely common. The pair draped over his palm werent the same shade of brown: One had a distinctly yellower hue than the other. The nuance that gave their identity away, he said, was the pale stripe on either side of their heads.

Smith said the species he really hoped to find that morning, a mud salamander, didnt require any such nuance to identify. Its a bright, tomato red with black spots.

A mud salamander sparked the entire survey, Smith said. In 2019, during some previous field work, he encountered one at a much higher altitude than he expected to see it.

[The mud salamander] is known from the area, an Appalachian species we have here, but its only really supposed to live, according to the field guides, down in big, bottomland-type wetlands that you find along a major river, Smith said. I think it actually says in one of the field guides, Absent from the higher elevations of the Appalachians or something.

But Smith said that since starting the survey in mid-May, he and Romans have spotted the species twice more at high-altitude wetlands: once at a site in Grayson County, once here.

He wasnt expecting to see one this morning, though.

Thats like the first rule of herping: All the critters disappear as soon as you talk about them, Smith said. Our mud salamander, Ill be shocked if we see that because Im hyping it up so hard.

Slogging through forests and frog call recordings

The team slowly worked their way around the water, turning over every log and stone within a roughly 30-foot band. Eventually, once their mental tally of critters grew unwieldy, Smith would pull out his notebook and start jotting it all down. But the first 20 minutes or so were easy: nothing but mountain duskies  five, then seven, nine, into double digits.

Its crazy that were seeing that many here, Smith said. ...Were probably seeing just a fraction of whats actually here.

Their abundance was a good sign for the general area: Smith said that amphibians form a key link in the mountains food chain, snapping up energy and nutrients from invertebrates and transferring it to the birds, fish and reptiles that then eat them. If you put all of the salamanders and other amphibians here on a giant scale, they would actually outweigh everything bigger than them, he said.

They really dominate the vertebrate biomass, the stuff with a backbone, that we have around here, he said. Amphibians  it sounds so depressing to say this  theyre really important, ecologically, because they get eaten a lot.

The only piece of equipment Smith brought beyond his field camera was a frog logger, a small digital recorder connected to a mic couched in a cone-shaped plastic amplifier. Smith  by now on the far side of the wetland  strung the mic around the trunk of a mountain laurel, put the recorder in a Tupperware container beneath it and planted a little orange flag to mark the spot.

[The recorder is] a really good way to inventory the frogs, because even ... if we were to come out here at night and walk down to the pond, most of the frogs would quit calling when the word got out that we were here, Smith said. Belles going to have probably about 54 hours, after this, of frog calls to listen to.

Besides patience, the research requires stamina. Smith said that most of the high-altitude wetlands he and Romans are surveying require a 2- to 2.5-mile hike and 500 feet of elevation gain, one way. Romans  who sought out the research fellowship after taking two courses with Smith  said she loves it.

Belle has been a beast, Smith said of her. Weve hiked more than 30 miles in the past month.

Kind of like nerd Christmas

Smith finished sweeping the Stone Mountain wetland alone that morning, though Romans had to duck out early for her other summer gig, at a womens clothing boutique in Norton. As the biologist neared the end of his circle around the pond, his now-written tally included a heap of mountain duskies, several more wood frogs and a northern dusky salamander.

Hah hah! he said, scooping up one of the mud salamanders hed been trying not to hope for.

This one was more orange than red, and a dull orange at that. But for the amphibian survey, that was even better: Smith said the drab color, plus the salamanders small size, meant this one was young  maybe 2 or 3 years old.

The other one, if its out [here], is a big, big adult, probably 10, 12 years old maybe, Smith said. This is a good sign, because it shows that we dont just have a couple old adults who arent reproductive anymore  theres actually reproduction happening here, which is really good for the population.

Smith snapped a few photos of the animal, set it back down and turned his attention to the next log.

Its honestly like being a kid, he said of the work. You just never know what youre going to find. Its kind of like nerd Christmas, in a way.
Teaching students to think critically about race is not the same thing as critical race theory taught to much older students. General efforts to improve diversity or create equity are not part of the critical race theory framework.

Although it isnt taught in K-12 schools, academics often use it to explain inequality in education.

Discrimination against white people?

This is one of the most common charges leveled by critics.

The concept doesnt try to explain individual actions and isnt meant to make members of any group feel guilt, but rather to explain why systemic racism exists.

Its looking at systemic inequities, Nolan Cabrera, an education professor at the University of Arizona, said on a call with reporters last month. If you and your actions are supporting that, then you might feel bad about it, but theres nothing inherent that says white people need to feel bad and that white guilt is a central component of this in any way, shape or form.

Learning about systemic inequities can make people more aware of their own biases, and that self-reflection can feel uncomfortable.
Trump wanted America to rebuild its economic power after China and other low-wage countries siphoned off many American jobs. That view had resonated earlier with disgruntled voters who were attracted to a newcomer to politics, billionaire Ross Perot, who ran for president in 1992 and captured 19% of the vote.

Biden took a political risk, in my view, by reversing Trumps policies on NATO and the European Union. He underestimated the allure of the America First theme that criticized Europes contribution to security in the Middle East and North Africa, leaving those strategic areas to Washington to handle. The Europeans chose instead to concentrate on Russias pressures in Eastern Europe, specifically in Ukraine and the Baltic States. Many Americans didnt agree with Europes failure to help in the Middle East, specifically in Syria and Iraq.

Despite their differing priorities, Biden was convinced America needed Europes economic and political support to help him confront China in East Asia, Iran in the Persian Gulf, and Russia in the Baltic Sea. His international goal was highlighted in a June 23 Washington Post story titled, Blinken back in Europe as U.S. seeks to reestablish global leadership role.
In his book of rambling essays titled Orthodoxy, G. K. Chesterton described the theory of evolution as an assault upon the mind, upon rational thought itself. A pretty startling observation, but I believe he was right, and more prophetic than he knew. All living cells contain microscopic bio-motors; and the DNA molecules in every living cell process information thousands of times faster than a silicon mega chip. You can believe if you want that this miracle of design emerged from a series of blind chemical accidents in the primordial ooze. If you close your eyes tight and believe hard enough, you can. But as Chesterton said, you must first suspend logic and rational thought.

Then having left rational thought behind, you can go on to believe human sexuality, with its genders of male and female, just evolved by blind chance too. And if God did not create humankind as male and female (as a certain old-fashioned religious book says he did) then God cannot object if we humans arrange things to suit ourselves. We can ignore science and 6,000 years of human history and every major religion on earth and say we all have the right to choose our own gender. And, hey, lets make them interchangeable and fluid. A biological female can claim her gender identity to be a girl one day and a boy the next, depending on her (his?) inner feelings. And what right do her (his?) parents or school teachers have to object or interfere?
Lee Kwan Young, 53, deputy head of South Korean Association in central Vietnam, Seo Young Jin, 48, director of Han In Hue Co. Ltd and Song Hong Sub, 49, owner of Khan Vina Co. Ltd, have been detained for organizing illegal entry to Vietnam.

According to investigators, each has lived and worked in the central city of Da Nang for a while.

Taking advantage of Vietnam's policy to let in foreign experts during the pandemic after the nation had closed its border, Lee and Seo organized the immigration of South Koreans from Incheon International Airport to Da Nang.

Song took charge of advertising the service online and collecting information about South Koreans who want to enter Vietnam.

Lee and Seo took care of the paperwork to have companies in Vietnam use their legal status to sponsor South Koreans to enter Vietnam as foreign experts or investors.

The group had taken in South Koreans via this method four different times in December last year, and then in January, February and March this year.

Initial investigations show the South Koreans entering Vietnam via this ring were neither experts nor investors, nor included in the list of priority for entry during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The three men had admitted to have benefited from the service.

Vietnam closed its borders and canceled all international commercial flights on March 25, 2020 and has since only allowed Vietnamese repatriates and foreign experts, diplomats, investors and highly-skilled workers along with their parents, spouses and children to enter with stringent conditions related to Covid-19 testing and quarantine.

On May 9, Da Nang launched a criminal investigation into a ring that brought foreigners into Vietnam illegally under the cover of experts. The probe began after local police detected two cases where 20 foreigners entered the country on "expert visas" but did not know their guarantors businesses.

Da Nang police in June had launched investigations into four directors of four companies that had signed papers to sponsor illegal South Korean entries as experts.

So far, eight Vietnamese and one Chinese involved in the ring have also been arrested.
Nevertheless, Trump has turned to the courts in a lawsuit that charges censorship violations of his First Amendment rights by the tech giants, even though the First Amendment specifically protects speech from interference by government but not by private-sector companies.

To get around that important technicality, Trump, as the lead plaintiff in a class-action lawsuit he filed Wednesday in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District in Florida, makes the far-fetched argument that the tech companies are state actors, which the Constitution describes as a person acting on behalf of a government body. Similar arguments have failed in the past, legal scholars say, which is not surprising, since Facebook appears to be acting on behalf of itself, not a government body.

In other words, the First Amendment cuts both ways. It protects free speech and free press, including efforts to force your speech or press onto somebody elses tech company against their wishes.

Yet, I begin to argue with myself when I am troubled by the concentration of power that allows the big three tech firms to have such outsized power in determining who and how many can participate in the internets public square.
 New Urban Instititute report reviews "Implementation of the First Step Act: The Risk and Needs Assessment System" | Main | Lots more notable weekend reading 

July 10, 2021

"Are There Stories Prosecutors Shouldn't Tell?: The Duty to Avoid Racialized Trial Narratives"

The title of this post is the title of this notable new paper authored by Olwyn Conway now available via SSRN. Here's the abstract:

The purportedly race-neutral actions of courts and prosecutors protect and perpetuate the myth of colorblindness and the legacy of white supremacy that define the American criminal system. This insulates the criminal systems racially disparate outcomes from scrutiny, thereby precluding reform. Yet prosecutors remain accountable to the electorate. In recent years, activists and community organizers have mobilized communities to support and elect prosecutors who have pledged to address the racial inequities of the criminal system. After a summer of protests for racial justice and growing acceptance for the demands of the Movement for Black Lives, we find ourselves in a moment that demands and necessitates transformative proposals that call on prosecutors to reject the myth of colorblindness and adopt a race-conscious approach to criminal prosecution. This creates an opportunity  and need  to generate and articulate specific and innovative frameworks to change the culture of prosecution. This Article seeks to provide one such framework by examining the ethical duties of American prosecutors in the underexplored area of prosecutorial storytelling. This Article focuses on trial narratives as a lens through which to view the ethical duties of the prosecutor writ large, arguing that trial narratives that advance or invoke a racialized stereotype or stock story violate the prosecutors duty to justice. A race-neutral or colorblind approach to prosecution ignores the ethical violations inherent in racialized prosecutorial storytelling. By contrast, a color-conscious approach offers prosecutors a path to address the systemic racism that pervades every aspect of the American criminal systemincluding the stories that prosecutors tell.

July 10, 2021 at 08:42 PM | Permalink

Comments

Post a comment
A video recorded by Jonathan Tan from the National Parks Board showed a group of hatchlings walking into the waves.

"We were alerted to the hatching of about 100 Hawksbill turtle hatchlings at East Coast Park yesterday evening. Our officers promptly arrived on site to monitor the hatching and guided the turtle hatchlings into the sea safely," National Parks Board said.

The Hawksbill Turtle is a protected species in Singapore, under the Wildlife Act and it is not permitted to collect the Hawksbill turtles' hatchlings or eggs. They are qualified critically endangered on the Red List of International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
(Getty Images)

A 90-year-old woman in Belgium was infected with two different variants of the Covid-19 virus at the same time, researchers have found, in what is one of the first documented cases of its kind.

The unvaccinated woman was admitted to hospital in the Belgian city of Aalst on 3 March of this year following a number of falls and was confirmed as being Covid positive on the same day.

Despite showing no initial signs of respiratory distress, she soon deteriorated and died five days after her admission.

When the patients respiratory sample was processed for genomic sequencing, researchers discovered that she had been infected by the Alpha and Beta variants, which first emerged in the UK and South Africa respectively.

This is one of the first documented cases of co-infection with two Sars-CoV-2 variants of concern, said molecular biologist Dr Anne Vankeerberghen, who helped write a study on the woman.

Both these variants were circulating in Belgium at the time, so it is likely that the lady was co-infected with different viruses from two different people. Unfortunately, we dont know how she became infected.

Dr Vankeerberghen said it was difficult to say whether the dual infection had played a role in the patients fast deterioration following her admission to hospital.

Other cases, like the one seen in Aalst, have been reported across the globe.

In January 2021, scientists in Brazil reported that two people had been simultaneously infected with two different coronavirus variants, though research into these cases has yet to be published in a scientific journal.

Up to now, there have been no other published cases, said Dr Vankeerberghen, who is set to present her findings to the European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases.

However, the global occurrence of this phenomenon is probably underestimated due to limited testing for variants of concern and the lack of a simple way to identify co-infections with whole genome sequencing.

Story continues

Rowland Kao, a professor of veterinary epidemiology and data science at the University of Edinburgh, said it was very difficult to make general conclusions from a single case.

Its worth noting that, with the millions of cases of Covid-19 around the world, there will be at least some individuals who will have been exposed to more than one variant of the virus close enough in time that any immune response due to the first exposure will have little influence on the probability of infection with the second, once exposed, he said.

Dual infections can lead to the phenomenon of recombination, whereby two Sars-CoV-2 viruses come together in the same cell of a human host and exchange segments of their genome.

Unlike regular genetic mutation, which sees changes to the virus coding take place one step at a time, recombination can produce wholesale changes to a coronavirus genome in a single swoop.

As a result, the newly combined virus can acquire a different host of characteristics which make it more transmissible or better suited to evading certain elements of the bodys immune response.

It could also be the case that this heavily mutated hybrid is stripped of the advantageous features which were unique to the two variants that had initially infected the host cell.

Emma Thomson, a professor in infectious diseases at Glasgow Universitys Centre for Virus Research, said there has been reports of recombination events in relation to Sars-CoV-2.

You have to have two infections at the same time and within the same cell, she told The Independent. It has happened, but it hasnt happened in such a way that it's caused, as far as Im aware, a major advantage to the virus.

But its something that could happen on a larger scale. We need to be very aware of that and look out for it with the sequencing.

Professor Lawrence Young, a virologist at Warwick University, said that in those instances of dual infection it is the variants with increased fitness that dominate within the host cell.

Read More

NOTEBOOK: For English fan, Euro 2020 offers a sliver of hope

Belgium urgently recalls envoy in Seoul after wifes second fight

Merkel's likely heir favors her centrist path for Germany
SOUTH SIOUX CITY -- The challenges Siouxland businesses currently face while trying to fill job openings are expected to fill much of the agenda for Monday's 17th Tri-State Governors' Conference.

"The biggest portion is on workforce. We're hearing from all our local employers how tough it is to find and hire people," said Barbara Sloniker, executive vice president of the Siouxland Chamber of Commerce.

Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds, Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts and South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem, all Republicans, will hear those challenges and other issues at the conference, which begins at 11:45 a.m. at the South Sioux City Marriott Riverfront. The Chamber of Commerce, which coordinates the conference, expects 240 people to attend the event, which is not open to the public.

It will be the final governors' conference for Ricketts, whose second term will end after the 2022 election. Term limits prohibit him from running for a third term.

Support Local Journalism Your membership makes our reporting possible. {{featured_button_text}}

Since the inaugural conference in 1988, the governors of the three adjoining states have met almost every other year to exchange ideas on topics of regional importance. The chamber hosts the event, rotating it among the three states in metro Sioux City.
Its stalled and we absolutely need it to take action, Medea-Peters said. We need them to do something. We need them to take action now so that in two years we are not in a worse position. ... If the VOCA Fix Act does not go through, it will be absolutely catastrophic for programs across the state of Iowa. Theres no way around that.

Grassley and other senators sent a June 23 letter to members of the U.S. Senate Committee on Appropriations urging support for funding of programs offered by the Violence Against Women Act in the Fiscal Year 2022 appropriations process to ensure that crimes collection money allocated for the Crime Victims Fund will be devoted exclusively to assisting victims of crime to keep programs running in the meantime.

Meanwhile, programs like DVIP are scrambling to secure other means of funding.

Just more than half of DVIPs funding comes from state and federal money. The rest comes from private grants and donations from individuals and businesses.

In addition to closing offices to meet the shortfall, DVIP has expanded its community engagement in an effort to reach more donors and explore additional grant opportunities.
We offer very comprehensive services, Alvizar said.

One parent, Jessica Valles, said she only had good things to say about the program.

Weve had nothing but good experiences with the program, she said. The children are well taken care of.  They dont just provide services for children, but they also do provide services for parents.

Valles said shes taken advantage of those services, which include parent meetings. Since she is a student herself and her husband works in welding for an ag business, she said MSHS has been really helpful over the past three years that her son Elias Gonzales has been a part of it.

It serves the whole family as a whole, she said.

Valles heard about the center through family advocate Yuleth Vera, who works at the Scottsbluff center. Vera said the program is a good opportunity to provide guidance to families in need.

We can help families grow, she said. We can set goals and help the family in need, and we just guide them to wherever their direction where theyre heading.
HELSINKI (AP)  The European Unions border agency is pledging to significantly step up its support to Lithuania in the coming days due to the growing migratory pressure at Lithuanias border with Belarus that the Baltic nation is trying to contain.

The decision by Frontex, the agency responsible for coordinating border control between EU member states and third countries, was announced late Saturday following a video call between Frontexs Executive Director Fabrice Leggeri and Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda.

Lithuanias border is our common external border and Frontex stands ready to help where needed, Leggeri said in a statement. We are ready to strengthen our level of support and deploy more European standing corps officers and equipment to Lithuania, an EU and NATO member of 2.8 million.

Frontex's operation, which started earlier this month with the deployment of a dozen officers and patrol cars, will more than double next week, the agency said.
Christopher Rufo, founder and director of Battlefront, a public policy research center, explains, An equity-based form of government would mean the end not only of private property, but also of individual rights, equality under the law, federalism, and freedom of speech. In effect, it would mean a totalitarian government.

Wokeness effectively tears down any semblance of our true history and revises it according to the current progressive ideology. Only then can they transform America. A major hurdle in this quest is canceling any reminder of our Judeo-Christian foundation as outlined in the U. S. Constitution, Declaration of Independence, and the Bill of Rights.

ANTIFAs purpose for destroying statues of past heroes was to erase our history. If you dont know your history, you will believe anything, including that America is a systemically racist country. People arent streaming to get out of America because it is an unjust country.

We are seeing a ruling class emerge from this woke culture. This class warfare has its intended effect, silencing those who dont agree that America is systemically racist. Soon dissent will be met with prosecution by law enforcement agencies at all levels.
For more than 30 years, the governors from Iowa, Nebraska and South Dakota have been meeting in metro Sioux City to discuss issues of mutual interest.

Over the years, theyve tackled everything from education to transportation and found ways to work together to foster quality of life changes.

While the individuals participating have changed, the mission has not. The Tri-State Governors Conference, coordinated by the Siouxland Chamber of Commerce, has served as a template for other elected officials to work together and find common ground.

On Monday, Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds, South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem and Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts will gather in South Sioux City to hear reports about economic growth, affordable housing, medical malpractice and the future of the 185th Air Refueling Wing.

While the discussions may not provide immediate results, they will plant seeds for the future, setting the stage for growth in Siouxland and fostering cooperation in the three states.

When the first conference was held in 1988, Govs. Terry Branstad of Iowa, Kay Orr of Nebraska and George Mickelson of South Dakota pledged to support and promote Siouxland projects and address differences.
How to Do It is Slates sex advice column. Have a question? Send it to Stoya and Rich here. Its anonymous!

Dear How to Do It,

I recently caught my wife reading stories about father-daughter incest, allegedly by women who had enjoyed this. I had gotten odd vibes regarding my wife and her father, but I figured that I didnt really understand father-daughter relationships in general. Now Im not so sure. It may have just been a fantasy for her, but there are young relatives who could be at risk if her father really is that kind of person. If we have children ourselves, that will always be in the back of my mindthere is perhaps even the risk that my wife will be inappropriate with her offspring if she regards such relationships as positive. Frankly, this makes me never want to have children. Is there any good way to ask my wife about this?

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Just a Fantasy?

Dear J.F.,

Fantasies, by their nature, are not reality. Theyre sometimes a way of us getting closer to things that will never or can never be a reality but that are nonetheless exciting and/or stimulating. Incest fantasies are not uncommonin Justin Lehmillers survey of 4,000+ Americans, the results of which were published in his 2019 book Tell Me What You Want, about 20 percent of respondents said theyd fantasized about incest at some point, he told me by phone recently.

I put this in front of you in the hopes of influencing your mindset if and when you broach this subject with your wife. People are capable of all sorts of thoughts theyd never act on or even admit to; your wifes just happen to have been externalized in her reading material. I dont mean to second guess your intuition, which could very well be spot on, but from an outsider perspective, odd vibes and some leisure reading are hardly evidence of actual incest, so you should approach any discussion on the matter with an open mind. Ask questions, dont point fingers. Inquire, dont accuse. Anything bothering you so much to warrant a reevaluation of your life path is worth discussing, but be prepared to receive some anger or scrutiny over how you uncovered your wifes reading material in the first place. (Were you snooping?) The act of making people answer for things can provoke its own questions.

Advertisement

Get the How to Do It Newsletter Sex advice from Rich and Stoya, plus exclusive letter follow-ups, delivered weekly. We encountered an issue signing you up. Please try again. Please enable javascript to use form. Email address: Send me updates about Slate special offers. By signing up, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms Sign Up Thanks for signing up! You can manage your newsletter subscriptions at any time.

Dear How to Do It,

I am in need of some help processing my situation. My girlfriend and I are in lovethat much I am sure of. She has two kids who I adore, and everything is great. She works at a massage parlor. I recently received screenshots of conversations between her and a potential client, and it was pretty sexually damning. I didnt know the sender and number was never available again, so I decided to arrange that a friend make contact and see if he can arrange something similar with her. This was confirmed, but never executed. The excuse when I confronted her was that her personal phone is used as a common go-to point within the rooms, since she is the manager. Which basically means she says someone else was responsible for that dialogue. This places MASSIVE doubt in my mind. Need advice on a way forward to help process this, because my mind has now totally run away from me.

Advertisement

Seeking the Truth

Dear S.T.,

Im with you. This seems like a weak excuse. At least, from my Western perspective it doespeople dont usually share cellphones in these parts, especially not a group of work colleagues. One would expect, in fact, the need for personal cellphones in the kind of establishment that you suspect your girlfriend is working in, as people theoretically develop a client base. She could have meant that her phone is the hub through which clients come in and are assigned, making her effectively the parlors madam, but she was not specific enough in your retelling to make that clear. Were you surprised to learn that this parlor offers such services? Did you express that surprise to her and did she explain why she had failed to mention it? If you were aware that such activity does take place where she works but assumed she was an exception, well, clearly you were eager to be fooled.

Advertisement

Advertisement

As shocking as the potential that you are dating a sex worker is to you, there are much worse thingsunfortunately, dating a liar is one of them. The only way you can move forward is if she comes clean and explains herself. If she is content to keep up what seems surely to be a charade, youll have evidence that you cant trust her. And you cant be in a relationship with someone that you cant trust, at least not for very long. Maybe understanding the gravity of the situation will prompt her to be more forthcoming. If not, consider moving on.

Help us keep giving the advice you crave every week. Sign up for Slate Plus now.

Advertisement

Dear How to Do It,

My husband and I are in our mid-40s, weve been married for 10 years, and we have two kids. I have a strong libido, and one of the main reasons that I married him was because our sex was amazing. Hes well-endowed, and we would go at it two or three times daily. Within the last two years, his desire has plummeted. He says that he doesnt feel aroused at all anymore. On the rare occasion that we do have sex, its because Ive been complaining about it, but he cant get it up. Even if he could, pity sex feels so awful. We end up doing oral (he is flaccid the entire time) but thats not enough for me. I so very much miss the feeling of being filled up by a well-endowed man. My husband has talked to his doctor, who has prescribed the two main ED pills, but they dont work. He wont talk with his doctor about it anymore because he just doesnt care. We have been sleeping in separate bedrooms for the last four months, I have an arsenal of vibrators and dildos, but they are losing their appeal. I want a man. Ive literally gained 40 pounds over the last six months, due to emotional eating and lack of physical intimacy, which I believe compounds the problem. Hes attracted to thin women. I absolutely refuse to tear our family apart because I want to go out and get some D, but Im depressed, feeling unwanted, unfulfilled and embarrassed, and to top it all off, now Im fat, and ashamed of myself. I know that my husband will not want to see a couples therapist. What should I do?

Advertisement

Advertisement

Desperate for the D

Dear D.D.,

E.D. medication doesnt really work on libido; rather, it allows the dick to synchronize with said libido. I wonder if your husband had his testosterone checked, as low T can erode ones sex drive. I understand that he wont talk to his doctor anymore because he doesnt care, but he should care because you care and his job as your partner is to care about the things that you care about. Not all the things, mind you, but if something is important to you, it at least indirectly affects him and should prompt his concern. In this case, it directly does, as the continuation of an active sex life is a reasonable thing to expect in a relationship. It doesnt always pan out, but sexual connection generally warrants a conversation, if not strategizing.

Advertisement

If he wont work with you, you have a few options. Since you state that you dont want to tear your family apart, lets table divorce for now and consider an open marriage. This would allow you to stay together and chase big dick elsewhere. Why not propose it and see what he says? Even if hes against the idea, at least youll get more data on the consideration he has for you and his willingness to negotiate. You should also consider therapy yourself, as this situation is affecting your self-esteem. Your embarrassment suggests that youre blaming yourself for your husbands lack of sexual interest. Youre hardly the only person to gain weight during lockdown, so dont blame yourself for that either. Also, I know its of little consolation but it sounds like your husbands lack of desire is unrelated to your appearance. From what you wrote, I dont think that you can tone yourself back into a sex life with himits going to be a lot more complicated than that and require transparency and effort on his part. If he cant provide those things, you have to wonder how good of a partner he actually is.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Did you write this or another letter we answered? Tell us what happened at howtodoit@slate.com.

Dear How to Do It,

Theres a boy Ive been close friends with for three years. I hooked up with him in our freshman year of college (were now juniors) at his birthday party. The sex was average, and it only happened once, and our relationships been platonic ever since. A few weeks ago, I went over to his place to hang out with him and his roommates (one of whom is my best friend). I got extremely drunk, and only remember the night in disjointed snapshots. I remember talking with the whole group in their living room, and then him telling me to take my shirt off in his bedroom so he could suck on my breasts. The next thing I remember is him fingering me and performing oral sex on me while choking me (he knows its a kink of mine but we hadnt done it before and he caught me by surprise). I woke up on the futon in their living room the next morning, still so drunk I had difficulty calling myself an Uber home. I learned the next day that hed been completely sober the entire time, and I dont know how to talk to him about it, but I dont feel great about it. I dont know if he knows just how drunk I was, and also dont know if we did anything else aside from what I remember. I dont want him to think that he can accept the consent of a girl as drunk as I was that night in the future, especially if hes sober on top of everything, but I dont know how to bring this up without making him think Im accusing him of rape and damaging our friendship. Do you have any advice on how to approach this?

Advertisement

Advertisement

Unsure

Dear Unsure,

Speaking to be heard is crucial but this guy isnt entitled to your patience, so if you arent feeling patient, youre not obligated to pantomime it for his sake. The fact is that he should already know that he cant accept consent from someone who is incapacitated to the point of blacking out, and its infuriating that he should have to be taught. In fact, its my sneaking suspicion that he is well-aware of this, and that he was well-aware of how inebriated you were, and yet he did what he did regardless. I dont love that your best friend declined to intervene, but since you dont seem perturbed about this (perhaps that person was drunk as well?), Im not going to dictate your emotions. (Though its worth noting that those emotions and your understanding of what happened here and what you want to do about it could change over time, and that is OK too!) You feel what you feel right now, and if you leave this situation not feeling great but not particularly traumatized, well, that could be a good thing. Not carrying around trauma is preferable to being burdened by it.

Advertisement

Advertisement

In my view, youre not the one who has to worry about damaging the relationship with this dudehe already did that. But since you want to be neutral, be neutral. Tell him youre having a hard time remembering the night, and you cant figure out how you ended up on his futon. Have him recap. If he leaves out anything that you remember, you know what youre dealing with. Then jog his memory and ask him whether he considers what happened rape. Assuming the confrontation continues to feel safe for you, make him defend his thesis. I have a feeling hes going to fail. Try not to go easy on your grading.

Rich

More How to Do It

Advertisement

Late 30s woman here, and my boyfriend is in his late 30s as well. We have a great relationship and I love him dearly, but our sex life isnt as great as it could be, because he cant last more than a few minutesoften its less than a minute of sex before he ejaculates. He pleases me in other ways and we use toys, but Id really like to have sex with him for a longer duration. He seems pretty healthy and has discussed the issue with his doctor, who gave him some Viagra to try, but it didnt really do anything. (Getting an erection isnt the problem anyway.) He isnt circumcisedcould that be a factor? Hes also mentioned some shame he experienced in a past relationship that have affected his attitudes toward sex. Were considering a delay cream/spray, and Ive also suggested he masturbate more and delay release, but he hasnt been actively doing that yet. I love him and see myself spending my life with him, but I dont think I can be satisfied if things keep going this way. Do you have any advice for us?
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez slammed Rep. Lauren Boebert for a portion of her address at the Conservative Political Action Conference in Dallas that went viral. Boebert, a Colorado lawmaker who was one of several conservatives loyal to former President Donald Trump to speak at the conference, spoke up against government assistance programs. Were here to tell government, we dont want your benefits, we dont want your welfare. Dont come knockin on my door with your Fauci ouchie, you leave us the hell alone, Boebert said Saturday at CPAC, referring to Anthony Fauci and the governments door-to-door effort to get people vaccinated.

Advertisement

Boeberts remarks quickly went viral and caught the eye of Ocasio-Cortez, who seemed to take pleasure in the way that the Colorado lawmaker expressed her opposition to the benefits that so many Americans rely on. Tell em loud and proud girl! Ocasio-Cortez responded to Boebert in a tweet Saturday evening. GOP will strip your unemployment protections and dismantle any semblance of a public safety net we have left! Then make working people pay way more for everything on low wages while Wall St gets a meal ticket! The New York lawmaker added: Good ol conservative values baby!

Advertisement

Advertisement

Congress approved a relief package in March that offers additional unemployment benefits until September. Several Republican governors have decided to end those extra benefits early because, as they see it, the additional cash is making it more difficult for businesses to find workers.

Advertisement

Boebert has repeatedly targeted Ocasio-Cortez, even before winning her election. When she was campaigning, Boebert said she was running against Ocasio-Cortezs values. I am ready to be the one that steps up for conservative values and takes on AOC, she said. Boebert is a divisive figure even within the Republican Party. So much so that a prominent fundraising group for GOP women decided to withhold campaign donations from her along with fellow freshman lawmaker, Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia. The work of Congress is not a joke or reality show. Our women have fought too hard for too long to be respected and taken seriously as legislators, policy makers and thought leaders. We cannot let this work be erased by individuals who chose to be shameless self-promoters and carnival barkers, Julie Conway, executive director of the Value In Electing Women Political Action Committee, told Insider in an email. I think that they would rather draw attention to themselves, and really Marjorie Taylor Greene more than Boebert, but theyre cut from the same cloth.
Billionaire Richard Branson managed to be first after all. The British 70-year-old who founded Virgin Atlantic Airways traveled to space Sunday, ushering in what is likely to be a new era of space tourism for the ultra wealthy. Branson, along with five others from his Virgin Galactic space-tourism company, reached an altitude of 53.5 miles over the New Mexico desert aboard a small rocket. It was enough for everyone aboard to experience between three to four minutes of weightlessness aboard the white space plane named Unity. The whole thing, it was just magical, Branson said.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Branson characterized it as an experience of a lifetime during a live broadcast of the flight. It was a long time coming. Branson founded Virgin Galactic in 2004 and he had predicted commercial flights to space would begin by 2007 but it was not to be. Since then, he had been saying the flights were right around the corner but delays kept piling up. Still, that didnt prevent the approximately 600 people who doled out at least $200,000 for tickets to space at an unspecified time. Branson himself wasnt scheduled to make the flight until later this summer but he decided to take an earlier flight after his richer rival Jeff Bezos announced his plans to make a similar trip to space in nine days. Ive been itching to go, and they said they wanted somebody to properly test the astronaut experience, Branson said in a recent interview with the Washington Post. And I was damned if I was going to let anyone take that seat.

Advertisement

I was once a child with a dream looking up to the stars. Now I'm an adult in a spaceship looking down to our beautiful Earth. To the next generation of dreamers: if we can do this, just imagine what you can do https://t.co/Wyzj0nOBgX #Unity22 @virgingalactic pic.twitter.com/03EJmKiH8V  Richard Branson (@richardbranson) July 11, 2021

Advertisement

Cant wait to join the club! Bezos wrote in an Instagram post in which he congratulated Branson and the rest of the crew. Bezos put on a happy face Sunday but his Blue Origin company took to Twitter a few days ago to lay out why its rides to space will be better than those offered by Virgin. Chief among them is that Blue Origin plans to take people past the so-called Karman line that is 62 miles above earth and is internationally recognized as the boundary to space. NASA, the Federal Aviation Administration, and other experts, however, say the boundary with space begins at 50 miles.

Advertisement

Bransons long-awaited journey to space began at 8:40 a.m., when a carrier aircraft with the V.S.S. Unity tucked underneath took off from New Mexico to an altitude of some 45,000 feet. Thats where the Unity was released, its motor ignited and started going upward to the edge of space. Branson was joined by pilots Dave Mackay and Michael Masucci and three employees of Virgin Galactic: Chief astronaut instructor Beth Moses, lead operations engineer Colin Bennett and government affairs vice president Sirisha Bandla. The company plans to carry out several more test flights before beginning commercial operations next year.

Advertisement

Advertisement

For Virgin Galactic, the launch was accompanied by a party-like atmosphere as the company seemed determined to differentiate itself from the traditional NASA launch. The event included a musical guest, Khalid, who even debuted a new song for the occasion. Comedian and late-night host Stephen Colbert hosted the live broadcast. The other big-name billionaire with space dreams, Elon Musk, was also in New Mexico to witness the whole thing and congratulated Branson for a beautiful flight. Asked afterward if he had any plans for future feats, Branson said he will definitely give it a rest for the time being because Im not sure it would be fair to put my family through another one.
Benjis Best, next-to-last at the half, outclosed Babes Dig Me and Sugartown in a three-across-the-wire finish to take the $16.000 claiming handicap pacing feature in 1:50.3 Saturday afternoon at The Downs at Mohegan Sun Pocono

After a contested early pace of :26.3 and :54.2. Sugartown led the advancing backstretch outer tier, with Babes Dig Me and Benjis Best in the next two positions behind him. Sugartown cleared to the lead at the 1:22.2 three-quarters, with the other two contenders positioned for a good stretch fight, and the trio battled on to the wire, with Benjis Best getting a head ahead of Babes Dig Me right on the money under Marcus Miller's urging; Sugartown was another nose back in third.

This was the fourth straight win for Benjis Best and the third since he was claimed for $12,500 at The Meadows by Rags To Riches Of PA LLC  he's now earned $21,400 since the claim. Travis Alexander trains the in-form Roll With Joe gelding.

A $15,700 high-level trot was won by the Cash Hall gelding Chin Chin Hall, who went to the lead under the wire the first time then powered home in :55.4 - 27.2 to win easily in 1:52. Jason Bartlett drove the winner of $603,339 for trainer Nifty Norman and the partnership of Oldford Racing LLC and David Mc Duffee.

The track's perennial leading driver, George Napolitano Jr., won seven races on the day, including a victory with the sharp Busboy Hanover, who posted the fastest mile of the day, 1:49.1, at the second-highest claiming level, and one with Atta Boy Dan, the 12-year-old who was the 2019 Pacer of the Year locally and Saturday recorded his 80th career triumph in 1:51.3.

Sunday's card, which begins at 5:00 p.m., features three $35,000 divisions of a Pennsylvania All-Stars race for two-year-old pacing colts; among the entrants is Wearinmysixshooter, a son of Captaintteacherous who paced in 1:53 in his lifetime debut at The Meadows.

(PHHA / Pocono)
Odds-on choice Ivana Flybye N left little doubt by posting a confident gate-to-wire score in the $13,000 Fillies & Mares Preferred 2 Pace on Saturday (July 10) at Georgian Downs.

Driver J. R. Plante pushed the 1-9 shot to the point from post 5 while pylon-starter So Frisky floated into the pocket moving to a :27.1 first quarter. The 7-year-old mare by American Ideal continued on the point to a :55.4 half and tried to snag a breather into the backstretch, prompting Manhattan Night to launch first over from third. By three-quarters in 1:24, Ivana Flybye N turned away Manhattan Night around the final turn and accelerated to a 1 3/4-length win in 1:52.1 win over Saulsbrook Jessie, the longest shot on the board at 45-1. So Frisky finished third.

Owned by MT Stables Ontario Inc., Ivana Flybye N won her fifth race from 13 starts this season and her 18th from 58 overall, earning $222,445. Carmen Auciello conditions the $2.10 winner.

To view Saturday's harness racing results, click on the following link: Saturday Results - Georgian Downs.
Two races and two wins; that's the tally for veteran trotter Nebraska Jack after Ontario's second Racing Under Saddle event of 2021 was contested on Saturday (July 10) at Hiawatha Horse Park.

A field of six trotters was reduced to five with a scratch, and the betting public was firmly behind Nebraska Jack to the tune of 2/5 support. Rider Karoline Nielsen waited patiently behing temposetter Waikiki Hanover (Marielle Enberg) through panels of :29.4, :59.4 and 1:30.2 before making a bid heading around the final turn.

As Waikiki Hanover found another to repel that challenge, Nielsen bravened up Nebraska Jack with a tuck back in behind around that bend and then angled back out in midstretch for another run at the leader. That effort would prove sufficient, as Nebraska Jack said aloha to Waikiki Hanover and trotted home a length and a half to the good in a time of 2:01.2. Waikiki Hanover was a clear runner-up, with All Out Henry (Pam Forgie) all out to finish third another 10 lengths in arrears.

Managed by Nielsen under a racing lease, 26-time career winner Nebraska Jack (Cantab Hall - Enjoy N My Lady) boasts two wins in five starts this year, with both of those wins coming in RUS competition.

To view the full results for Saturday's card of harness racing in Sarnia, click the following link: Saturday Results - Hiawatha Horse Park.
Northfield Park hosted a total of nine $40,000 divisions of Ohio Sires Stakes (OHSS) for 2-year-old pacing colts and fillies on Saturday night (July 10) at Northfield Park, with multiple national seasons records broken and set.

Secret Side Piece began the night with a bang, winning the first OHSS division for fillies in 1:53.3, a national seasons record for driver Mike Wilder. The daughter of Downbytheseaside is conditioned by Todd Luther for Black Magic Racing and upped her earnings to $57,500 with the victory, the second of her brief career. Secret Side Piece, at 1-9 odds, bested 10-1 second place finisher Fear Our Fayth with 25-1 shot Sleepwithoneyeopen notching third place honours.

Bred by Spring Haven Farm, Secret Side Piece is the third foal out of the unraced Rock N Roll Heaven mare Brazilian and is a half sister to Brazen Brazilian (by Thinking Out Loud) (3, 1:55.1h [$58,797]) and to Loud Brazilian (by Thinking Out Loud) (p, 3, 1:57.1h [$11,995]).

Cape Cod Hanover took the second OHSS filly division, duplicating the national seasons mark of 1:53.3 set a few races earlier by Secret Side Piece. Driven by Chris Page at 2-1 odds for trainer Ron Burke, the daughter of Downbytheseason cruised to a front-stepping victory for Burke Racing, Weaver Bruscemi, Rich Lombardo and Ras Racing. The victory was the second in as many tries in her career and upped her earnings to $23,400. Cape Cod Hanover bested Mermaid By the Sea, with Fear The Smoothie third.

Cape Cod Hanover is the 11th foal out of the Artsplace mare Clouding Over (p, 3, 1:57f [$20,417]), and has half-siblings in: Artsy Princess (by Western Hanover) (p, 4, 1:52f [$294,973]); Clear View Hanover (by Western Ideal) (p, 5, 1:50.2 [$251,647]); Climate Hanover (by Western Ideal) (p, 6, 1:51.3f [$240,011]); Clouseau Hanover (by Western Ideal) (p, 4, 1:49.2f [$197,291]); Cluster Hanover (by Badlands Hanover) (p, 3, 1:52.4s [$177,288]); etc.

Cold Hearted Gypsy flew to a national seasons record of 1:53.1 in the third OHSS division for freshman pacing fillies with Chris Lems driving for owner-trainer Herman Hagerman of Millersburg, Ohio. This homebred Racing Hill filly was making her pari-mutuel debut and left the gate at 8-5 odds. Finishing second was longshot Suge (Josh Sutton) with 6-5 Targaryen Empress (Ronnie Wrenn, Jr.) third.

Cold Hearted Gypsy is the second foal out of the Badlands Hanover mare Blueridge Adalia (p, 3, 1:53Z [$113,378]), and is a half-sister to the McArdle gelding Adalias McMoney (p, 2, 2:00.1h [$27,299]).

Dragons Revenge stormed as the 3-5 favourite to a 1:54.1 clocking in the fourth OHSS contest for pacing fillies. Driven by Danny Noble for trainer Christi Noble, the brown daughter by Fear The Dragon picked up her first victory for Tim Homan, Jim Burnett and Norman Rae Racing. Dragon Lady was second with Ginger Again finishing third with Ryan Stahl at the lines.

Dragons Revenge is the first foal out of the Jeremes Jet mare My Hare Lady (p, 7, 1:53.1f [$169,687]).

Sea Silk, the 1-9 favourite, romped to a 1:53.3 clocking for driver Chris Page and trainer Ronnie Burke in the fifth and final OHSS contest for 2-year-old pacing fillies. The daughter of Downbytheseaside notched her second straight victory, having captured the $150,000 Next Generation Pace on July 3 at Scioto Downs. Owned by Burke Racing, Weaver Bruscemi, Knox Services and the Hatfield Stables, Sea Silk defeated runner-up Allnight Micki with Sloopy finishing third.

Sea Silk is the third foal out of the Bettors Delight mare Silk Purse (p, 3, 1:53.2s [$112,336]), making her a half-sister to Odds On Greenville (by Yankee Cruiser) (p, 2, 1:54.1s [$51,623]) and Lima Spartan (by Art Major) (p, 3, 1:53.4 [$47,151]).

Sling Shock left no doubt he was much the best, capturing the first OHSS division for pacing colts in a blistering 1:52just three-fifths off the track recordand a national seasons mark. Driven by Dan Noble for trainer Christi Noble, the son of Downbytheseaside notched his second victory in as many tries and now has $95,000 in career earnings for owner Michael Cimaglio, William Richardson, William Salmeri, and Rhonda Gilmartin. The bay colt, who left the gate as the 1-9 choice, bested Rose Run Xplosion by more than seven lengths, with another longshot, Seaside Way, third.

Sling Shock is the second and only foal to race out of the Art Major mare Shocking Beauty (p, 3, Q1:58s [$18,926]). He was bred by Billy Walters, Joe McLead and Rtk Racing.

Gulf Shores notched his maiden victory in the second OHSS event for 2-year-old pacing colts, stopping the clock in 1:52.4 for owners Country Club Acres, Diamond Creek Racing and Wingfield Brothers. The son of Downbytheseaside was reined by Ronnie Wrenn, Jr. as the 3-5 choice for trainer Brian Brown, besting longshot Velocity Chaps and Pearl Snaps.

Gulf Shores is the third foal out of the Dragon Again mare Western Drag (p, 3, 1:53.3f [$107,831]) and is a half brother to Captain Western (by Captaintreacherous) (p, 2, 1:57.1f [$9,532]).

Mr Nuttin Nice lighted the tote board as the 23-1 winner in the third OHSS division for colts, stopping the clock in 1:55.1. Driven by Ronnie Gilespie for trainer Roshun Trigg and owner Charles E. Hurst of Houston, Texas, the bay son of Racing Hill used the passing lane to get by the leaders in the final stride and score his third consecutive victory. Chris Page steered The Fear Is Real to a second-place finish, with The Mad King getting third-place honours.

Bred by Chester Miller of Ohio, Mr Nuttin Nice is the sixth foal out of the Western Ideal mare Baia Hanover (p, 2, 1:55.4f [$30,851]) and has half-siblings in: Baias Delight (by Bettors Delight) (p, 4, 1:54f [$69,371]); Cloud Diva (by Somebeachsomewhere) (p, 3, 1:52.2s [$65,624]); Ive Got Hootspa (by Sportswriter) (p, 5, 1:52.4s [$34,545]); etc.

Buckeye Seaside took advantage of a leading breaker to take the final OHSS division in 1:53.4. Driven by Kayne Kauffman for trainer Mike Polhamus and owners Aws Stables, Constance Polhamus and Mary Beth Walters. It was the first win for the son of Downbytheseaside, who was bred b Larry R. Miller. Risenshine Seaside was second at 3-1 with Vintage Cowboy third at 3-1 odds.

Buckeye Seaside is the sixth foal out of the McArdle mare McGrin N McBare It (p, 3, Q1:58f [$4,165]) and is a half-brother to Rocktavius (by Rocknroll Hanover) (p, 7, 1:50.1f [$271,601]); Flash A Smile (by Bettors Delight) (p, 5, 1:53.1f [$75,711]); and Sharp Razor (by Well Said) (p, 3, 1:54.4f [$49,605]); etc.

(Ohio Sires Stakes)
There was no lack of action on Saturday (July 10) at Miami Fair as the card of harness racing featured two stakes races, two open pacing events, a Pick-4 carryover, and an extra special return.

The first stake race of the day was the first leg of the Silk Lace Stake for 3-year-old Manitoba-sired fillies. As expected, Millies Million ($2.10) easily handled her three rivals in the $5,748 event for driver Mitchel Rey and trainer-owner Richard Rey with a wire-to-wire win by more than eight lengths in a lifetime-best 2:02.1.

The Pick 4 was kicked off by a 2-year-old pace and the field of six did not disappoint. Fall Out Girl ($40.90) made her second start and picked up her first win in 2:05.1. The following race was the $2,450 Open Pace and Read The Proposal ($3.20) was on top at every call for driver Tyler Grundy to win in 1:58.1. A son of Bettors Delight-Hornby Lucky, Read The Proposal picked up his third-straight win for trainer-owner Trevor Williams and co-owner Adam Mace.

The win for Williams was one of four training wins on the day. After winning earlier on the card with Buck Rogers, Williams success continued into the Fillies & Mares Open, where Pure Addition ($4.90) got her first win of 2021 with a win in 2:00.

The whole day was overshadowed by the return of driver Daryl Thiessen. Not only was this his return to Manitoba, but his return to the sulky since his accident suffered in mid May at Century Downs. Thiessen was teamed with Dawns Night Owl for trainer Williams in the first leg of the Golden Boy Stakes for his first drive, and there was no rust evident. Thiessen guided Dawns Night Owl to victory in a career-best 2:01.1 for his second win in three starts.

The Pick 4 paid $60 and ended the carryover at the fair track.

Next Saturday (July 17), Miami Fair goes to post at 3:00 p.m (CDT) / 4:00 p.m. (EDT).

To view the results from Saturday, click the following link: Saturday Results - Miami Fair.

(A Trot Insider Exclusive by Trey Colbeck)
Three divisions of the Maine Standardbred Breeders Stakes (MSBS) went postward on Saturday (July 10) at Cumberland, with series leader Call Me Maverick maintaining his dominance in front of a big summer weekend crowd.

Winning his $9,918 division, Call Me Maverick got every call as driver Mike Stevenson led the successful son of Western Maverick through comfortable fractions, which allowed the three-year-old pacing gelding to scoot down the homestretch in :28.3 to win in 1:59.1 by 2-1/4 lengths.

Never beaten at his home track, the heavy favourite paid $2.60 to win, and now has three wins in four MSBS legs this season. Upland Farm homebred Call Me Maverick competes for trainer Gordon Corey.

American Maverick (Kevin Switzer Jr./Marc Tardif) finished second; Brady To Gronk (Ron Cushing/Heidi Gibbs) was third.

Another favourite that won his $9,918 MSBS division was A Sweet Bidda Luck, also in 1:59.1, also from post one, also wire-to-wire. Ron Cushing drove the Lynn-Marie Plouffe-bred son of Western Maverick to his second win of the MSBS season for trainer Heidi Gibbs and owner Scott McKenzie. He paid $3.20 to win.

Barely a whisker could separate Lord Magnetic (Matt Athearn/Gretchen Athearn), who finished second by a half length, from the dead heat for third between Hollywood Skeeter (Aaron Hall/Mike Graffam) and Whatawinwillie (Kevin Switzer Jr./Mark Tardiff).

In the third division, Paxxton locked bridles with Edelman heading to the three-quarters and proceeded to battle for the final three-eighths of a mile with the former besting his rival by a half length in 1:59.2.

Paxxton, driven by Heath Campbell for trainer Valerie Grondin, left alertly from post five and grabbed the lead into a swift :28.1 opening panel. When the field hit the half in :59.3, Ron Cushing, driving Edelman, sensed the slow :31.2 second stanza and pulled the son of Western Maverick from the three-hole. Heading through the third turn, those two locked eyes and never gave one another an inch until the wire, where Paxxton prevailed by a short half length. Whiskey Maverick (Aaron Hall/Michael Graffam), locked in on the pylons sat third through the final half and finished in that position.

Paxxton, a son of Western Maverick, is owned by Valerie Grondin and Rhoda Underhill and was bred by Warren and Joan Harp. He paid $4.60 to win.

The glamour boys return to town July 20, when First Tracks Cumberland welcomes the fifth leg of the Maine Standardbred Breeders Stakes (MSBS) for three-year-old pacing colts and geldings, which culminates with an $80,000 added final on Oct. 16 at Bangor.

During week seven of the Maine Amateur Driving Club (MADC) series, sponsored by Blue Seal Feeds, current point leader Joe Burke put some distance on the rest of the club drivers by winning his third MADC race in a row.

During the first half of the race, Todd Whitney, driving Major Plans, cut the mile and had things pretty much his own way. But Big Joe Burke had other plans as he pulled the pocket going down the backside into a 1:30.1 third panel and continued to gain ground to win in 2:01 with his own Meetmeatthedance by 1-1/2 lengths.

Trained by Robert Marston, the five-year-old son of A Rocknroll Dance lit up the tote board, paying $27.80 to win. Charles Butch Eaton closed swiftly with Hoboken Hanover to be second, who is also second in the point standings. Trainer/driver David Crochere finished third, with Todd Whitney (third in points) and Major Plans hanging on to be fourth.

Returning, once again, to Cumberland to make the presentations to the winning amateur connections was Melanie Locke, store manager for both local Blue Seal feed stores.

There will be just one more week for drivers to earn additional points toward the $7,500 final on July 24, with the top seven point earners advancing to the finale.

The Maine Harness Horsemens Association and First Tracks Cumberland, in collaboration with Love To Race author Amber Sawyer, gave out several dozen signed copies of the childrens book to kids under 12 that were in attendance on Saturday.

Live harness racing from Cumberland is presented each Tuesday and Saturday through July 31 at 2:30 p.m., and on Aug. 4 and 5 at 11 a.m. For more information, go to firsttrackscumberland.com.

(First Tracks Cumberland)
A pair of big-time Hambletonian contenders  Dancinginthedark M and Venerate  bounced back from poor performances when they made breaks with impressive victories Saturday night (July 10) in the W.N. Reynolds Memorial for three-year-old trotting colts and geldings at The Meadowlands.

Dancinginthedark M ($3.20 as the 3-5 favourite) was moved to the front of the line in his $42,550 split by driver Tim Tetrick before the half and held sway from there as heavy rains fell to record a 1 1/4-length victory over Take All Comers in a lifetime-best 1:51.4. The Marcus Melander trainee is a son of Readly Express-Leila and is now six-for-11 lifetime.

Venerate (Love You-Peaceful Kemp) had to overcome post 9 and a brutal parked-out trip to get his mojo back in the other $43,050 division for males. The winter-book Hambletonian favourite floated away from the gate from post 9 and was handled with care by driver Andy Miller around the first turn. Racing first-over, he steadily advanced on leader Sonofamistery, the even-money public choice, down the backstretch but lost a little ground off the far turn into the stretch.

After they straightened up for the wire, Venerate began a steady gain once again and kicked into another gear at the sixteenth pole. Nearing the wire, Sonofamistery went off stride, but it likely would not have mattered as the Julie Miller-trained Venerate ($8.80 as the third betting choice) scored by a half-length in 1:52.1 after a mile that saw him never see the rail. After a brief judges inquiry, no action was taken against second-place finisher Sonofamistery.

New Jersey Sire Stakes champion Beltassima ($6.40 as the 2-1 second choice) won the $49,050 first of two Reynolds splits for 3-year-old trotting fillies as the daughter of Trixton-Beltane Hanover gunned down Lady Chaos by three-quarter lengths in a lifetime-best 1:52.3 for driver Andy McCarthy and trainer Tony Alagna.

Piper Hanover ($4.80 as the 7-5 favorite) rallied from off the pace to score by 1 3/4 lengths over Darlene Hanover in 1:53 in the other division for fillies, this one for a purse of $49,550. The Father Patrick-Personal Style miss made it four wins in five seasonal starts for the team of McCarthy and Alagna.

A LITTLE MORE: McCarthy had the hot hand among the drivers, recording four winners on the card. Ron Burke trained four to victory lane.

All-source handle totaled $3,524,173.

Racing resumes Friday (July 16) at 6:20 p.m. (EDT).

(The Meadowlands)

The Reynolds Memorial was part of an action-packed night at the Meadowlands that also included the Meadowlands Pace eliminations and Graduate Series finals.
Mayles led the local chamber office for two years ending in 2019 and it was during this time that he thought about running for office.

One of the parts I really enjoyed was being able to advocate for businesses, hear the communitys needs. I want to get back into that public role to help the community, he said.

Mayles and his wife both worked through the pandemic, reporting daily to physical workplaces, while their son attended school virtually and in-person at school and with Kid Central. He started his job with McClain a week before government announced the COVID-19 shutdown in March of 2020.

Support Local Journalism Your subscription makes our reporting possible. {{featured_button_text}}

Theyre coming to me as the HR professional, Wes, what do we do? I said, I honestly dont know because HR has never seen anything like this, he said.

It was more about providing PPE and shifting some meetings to phone or virtual: We adjusted, but it didnt really cause a large disruption in business  we were able to function, he said.

Mayles said his HR experience would benefit him as a town councilman in that he has the ability to work with people, and different personalities, while taking time to think through the issues and opportunities.
In a letter to the editor in Wednesdays Star-Exponent, A counter-suggestion to Johnstons column on Native Americans, Frank Sardina suggested that Donnie Johnston activate a GoFundMe account for the Crazy Horse Memorial in the Black Hills of South Dakota. It isnt a bad idea, but I think Mr. Sardina needs to be updated, as his visit to the monument was nearly fifty years ago.

In 1939, Chief Henry Standing Bear of the Oglala Lakota approached the Polish sculptor, Korczak Ziolkowski (who had worked on Mt. Rushmore with Gutzon Borglum) to build a monument to their heroCrazy Horse.

A mountain on Indian lands was donated for the purpose, but I doubt that even the chief imagined that Korczak would turn the entire mountain into the sculpture; however, thats the plan that Korczak conceived.

It is sculpture by dynamite. Today, his children and grandchildren continue the work. The head and face, nine stories tall, is completed, and visitors can stand on the 65-foot outstretched arm for a view over the Black Hills.
Poor John Pelham.

Hes had a rough time in Culpeper recently. A controversy erupted when the town council voted to rename a local lake named for the Confederate commander. But, there has been no follow-up on this impulse, and the matter has fallen in limbo.

Pelham was a light artillery officer in Robert E. Lees army. He was an effective killing machine responsible for the deaths of more United State Army soldiers than Osama bin Laden. In the mid 20th Century, long after the Civil War ended, the lake was named in his honor, in a town contest we know little about.

But does he deserve the honor ?

Pelham was killed on March 17, 1863 at Kellys Ford. His death here is his sole connection to the county. Hundreds of other soldiers were killed here during the war, but none are memorialized like him.

Pelham was educated at West Point at American taxpayers expense. Shortly before graduation he returned to Alabama to join the insurrection. So in addition to being a traitor, he was also an ingrate.

Striking Pelhams name from the lake would not damage local history. Just visit the Culpeper museum or Culpeper library. They have vast stores of information on Virginia and local history.
Ricketts said he doesnt believe that the State Board of Education can fix the standards, but they need to be totally scrapped.

The topics were talking about are best left up to parents and local school boards to decide how to be addressed within the schools, he said. In fact, there is no requirement that the state board of education create sex ed standards.

Advocacy groups, such as OutNebraska, were involved in the process of drafting the standards, but according to Ricketts, parents were not. He cited the states chief medical officer as among the persons he says should have been involved in drafting the standards, but was not. A listing of persons involved in consulting on the standards is listed on the Nebraska Department of Educations website.

Ricketts said he urges parents to read the standards for themselves and talk to their local school boards, as well as contact their State Board of Education member and email the State Department of Education.
I had had the idea of, 'What if there was a changeling woman in an agricultural community for a while.' Then, COVID was kind of the cherry on top and I said, OK, what if I run with this and she is home because of COVID? she said. It all fell together and suddenly, I had a book.

Working through the writing process, the story continued to unfold on the page, until Pugsley reached the end.

I had writers block until I went to Arizona to go see my grandparents, she said. I didnt know what to do about the ending  I was sitting there watching TV with my step-grandmother and I picked up the pen and it all fell out.

While she does not normally work this fast on a story, Pugsley said she wanted to get the novel published due to its timeliness with the current state of the world.

I was thinking, We all just got out of COVID. I just got my second vaccine. People are going to stop being interested in this.

To expedite the process, she elected for self-publishing. However, publishing a book in a year had several challenges.
Historically Black Colleges & Universities are increasingly the preferred choice of students today. AcademicInfluence.com ranks the 30 most influential HBCUs for you to consider
You must be logged in to react.

Click any reaction to login.

Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0
Along with the love, the Copfers work to build a foundation for their child. As active church members, Leigh said their Christian faith plays a large role in that, but working with their child from an 11-year-old until now has provided examples of healthy relationships in their childs life was one of the first steps.One of the things that we have found with fostering children is the simple foundation that the majority of parents lay down for their children at a young age is not usually done when they go into foster care, Leigh said. Thats to be expected with the trauma a child has faced in their young lives, but an important first step none the less, Leigh said. Those are really the big obstacles that we have found that we come up against is because theyre in such a survival mode for so long in their life that its hard to kind of let those guards down and be willing to trust and learn the things that they need to learn to be able to go out into the world and be successful.
They asked if we were interested in helping crew members on the freighters, and our response is  our goal is to give as many vaccines out to people as possible, wherever they come from, Dale said.

Susan Wendel, Community Health Partners medical health care advocate, said it can also be expensive and difficult for crew members to get shore leave to attend an off-site clinic, which is why weve offered to take the nurses onto the ship.

Support Local Journalism Your membership makes our reporting possible. {{featured_button_text}}

Kate Mickelson, executive director of the Columbia River Steamship Operators Association, said Washington and Oregon state government, as well as county officials along the Columbia River have been incredibly supportive and have worked tirelessly to ensure that clinics, staff, vaccines and other resources were available to seafarers.

Throughout the pandemic, crew with visas were detained on board and were unable to leave to get vaccinated, Mickelson said. This was generally the case worldwide. Thanks to the hard work of so many, and with the support of our federal partners, especially our local U.S. Coast Guard and U.S. Customs and Border Protection, vessel agents have been able to bring vaccination teams aboard ships to vaccinate crew members.
An interim manager is leading RiverCities Transit as the buses begin the trip back to full capacity rides.

RiverCities General Manager Amy Asher left the local transit provider Tuesday to accept a job leading the Mason Transit Authority near Spokane. Operations manager Jim Seeks was named as the interim director for the short term.

Seeks said Asher turned down previous offers from larger transit agencies and that he was happy for his former boss.

I was looking for the day when she would do that, because she has the potential to do a lot for transit, Seeks said.

Support Local Journalism Your membership makes our reporting possible. {{featured_button_text}}

The change in leadership was not the only difference that RiverCities Transit saw recently. The end of Washingtons coronavirus capacity restrictions June 30 allowed the buses to remove limits on passenger use. The Transportation Safety Administration still requires face masks be worn on all public transit, including buses, through Sept. 13.

Seeks said there has not been a major spike in passengers in the week since the buses returned to full capacity. He expected ridership would keep increasing slowly as people became aware of the change.
The recent news about Northwest Innovations Works Kalama methanol plant was frustrating and disappointing to say the least.

The Longview/Kelso Building and Construction Trades Council will continue to advocate for and support a fair and predictable permitting process to avoid other projects such as the methanol plant becoming missed opportunities for our state and community.

With that said, we are ready to redirect our focus to attracting new projects and jobs that look to building the infrastructure needed to meet Washington states new clean energy mandates.

As we look ahead to future job-creating projects for Longview and southwest Washington, I am proud to be a union construction worker. Our skills are critical in implementing solutions for Americas clean energy needs. Also, many of these necessary projects will be built in rural communities, and Longview is well suited for elements of Washingtons green energy future.
Late Texas A&M professor Jim Earle and his widowed wife Theresas collection of Western firearms and other items from Wild West lawmen and outlaws will be sold at an auction through Bonhams on Aug. 27.

Earle died in 2019 at the age of 86 and the Earle family has since decided to sell the collection. He served as an engineering professor at A&M from the late 1950s until retiring in 1995 and was well-known for his cartoon character, Cadet Slouch, which ran in The Battalion until 1985.

The collection features over 300 lots and has a total value estimated between $4-6 million, according to Catherine Williamson who serves as Bonhams director of books and manuscripts. A full catalogue of the collections items will be available on the Bonhams website by the second week of July.

Williamson said the Earles approached their collection like historians, adding different items that were important pieces to the Western history puzzle.
HOUSTON (AP)  A man who opened fire at a married couple, killing one of them and wounding the other before fatally shooting himself inside a popular Houston seafood restaurant, had a history of mental illness and did not know the people he shot, police said Friday.

The couple was finishing dinner in the bar of the Downtown Aquarium Restaurant shortly after 8 p.m. Thursday when the man approached them, pulled out a gun and immediately started firing rounds at them, Houston police Executive Assistant Chief Matt Slinkard said.

According to witnesses and security video from the restaurant, the man had been sitting at the other end of the bar before the shooting, police said. The 28-year-old husband died at the scene while his 24-year-old wife was shot at least once in the leg.

Police said Friday that the woman told investigators she and her husband did not know the man who shot them. Slinkard said it appeared the suspect had very little or even no interaction with the couple before the shooting occurred.

This was a tragic, isolated incident, with no relationship between the victims and the suspect," Houston Police Chief Troy Finner said in a statement Friday.
Where do I sign?

For the most part, Im happy to ignore online petitions.

Rarely do they have a chance to really make a change, and usually they are about some niche topic that really wont affect anyones life.

But that has all changed, thanks to our neighbors to the north.

Heinz Ketchup Canada started an online petition to make hot dogs and buns come in equal packs.

This is change I can believe in.

The company produced a video lamenting the fact that hot dogs often come in packs of 10 while hot dog buns regularly come in packs of eight.

Im not sure who is doubling up hot dogs in two buns per pack, but Im guessing your doctor will not approve.

Getting bun-sized hot dogs or other variations that come in eight can solve the issue. But that leads me onto the complaint of why all hot dogs arent bun-sized?

I dont recall ever eating a hot dog or sandwich (lets not go down the haunting discussion about whether a hot dog is a sandwich) and thinking, Gee, I wish there was more bread in the bread-to-non-bread ratio of that food item.
If you didnt hear the winds howling in Grand Island and the surrounding communities Friday night, youre one of but a few.

Winds gusted to a peak 84 mph at the Central Nebraska Regional Airport in Grand Island, according to the National Weather Service in Hastings.

Despite the winds, reported damage in Grand Island proper was significantly less than surrounding areas, some of which saw structures severely damaged. Interstate 80 traffic was reported to have come to a halt Friday night near the Aurora exit as high winds rushed across the well-traveled road.

What may have caught the most attention were the widespread power outages in the area, covering parts of Hall, Hamilton and Merrick counties.

Power companies still were battling outages as of 6:30 Saturday evening. Some of those remaining spots were located in communities like Aurora and Kearney, according to NPPDs outage map.
Don Plotz, a Navy sailor, immediately wrote to Benchley: I couldnt put it down until I had finished it. For I have rather a personal interest in sharks.

In vivid detail, Plotz recounted his experiences on a search and rescue mission in the Bahamas, where a hurricane had sunk the USS Warrington on Sept. 13, 1944. Of the original crew of 321, only 73 survived.

We picked up two survivors who had been in the water twenty-four hours, and fighting off sharks, Plotz wrote. Then we spent all day picking up the carcasses of those we could find, identifying them and burying. Sometime only rib cages  an arm or leg or a hip. Sharks were all around the ship.

Benchleys novel paid little attention to World War II, but the war anchored one of the movies most memorable moments. In the haunting, penultimate scene, one of the shark hunters, Quint, quietly reveals that he is a survivor of the USS Indianapolis disaster.
After the isolation of COVID-19, special events have intensified meaning. Last year, CountryHouse had its fourth annual Wedding Days show in a small room, with just six residents permitted in at a time. Wedding cake and punch were served, but the event was a mere shadow of the tradition it has become.

Now, thanks to vaccines, CountryHouse still requires masks, but family members can go into the rooms of their loves ones and take them out of the building.

Everything has a greater meaning now, Harmon said. Things we felt like we would always have, like a hug, seeing our families, getting out and about. Now we see them as a gift, one we cherish to the fullest.

Smiles for all

For Theesen, The rewarding part of the day was seeing the residents smiling faces and hearing them say how pretty everyone looked. I know they really enjoyed the day. It was also rewarding to have so many of the staff participate and watch them interact with each other, and have fun showing the residents their dresses.

Harmon said the Wedding Days event has become an anticipated tradition. You never can never have too many days with the one you love so dearly, so sitting and reminiscing about that time dear to your heart is always special, she said.
Paris, TX (75460)

Today

Sunshine and clouds mixed. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 92F. Winds SW at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Variably cloudy with scattered thunderstorms. Low 72F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 50%.
With that, Penn raises his hand and points toward where his daughter, Dylan Penn, is sitting. Dylan, 30, is the star of Flag Day. She has dabbled before in acting but its easily her biggest role yet. In the film, adapted from Jennifer Vogels 2005 memoir Flim-Flam Man: The True Story of My Fathers Counterfeit Life, she plays Jennifer Vogel, the journalist daughter of a swindler and counterfeiter (played by Penn).

Her fathers confidence isnt misplaced. Dylan is natural, poised and captivating. She looks a veteran, already, which might be expected of the child of Penn and Robin Wright. And those critics? Variety said the film reveals Dylan Penn to be a major actor.

But for a long time, Dylan never wanted the spotlight.

Growing up, being surrounded by actors and being on set, it was really something that didnt interest me at all, Dylan says. I always thought, and still think, my passion lies in working behind the camera. But as soon as I expressed wanting to do that kind of thing, both of my parents said separately: You wont be a good director if you dont know what its like to be in the actors shoes.
Arzuaga, who was seen on the ground on top of Perez to cover her body, was then wounded in the head by a gunman in a white tank top, the video showed, from what Deenihan described as execution-style shots.

Lorenzi, who authorities believe fled to San Diego the morning after the shooting, was arrested by U.S. marshals officers without incident Friday evening at a parking lot outside an apartment complex. He has seven felony convictions, Brown said. His home address is listed as in Humboldt Park, records show.

Though Lorenzi alone was responsible for Arzuagas death, Deenihan said, there is an unspecified number of other suspects who are being sought.

Theres nowhere to run, Brown said. Theres nowhere to hide. We will find you and bring you to justice, and we will go to great lengths to make sure that happens.

Arzuaga died of his injuries the night of the shooting while Perez died a few days later. Police said Arzuaga was wounded in the head, left thigh, left hip, lower back and right shoulder, and Perez suffered a through-and-through gunshot wound to the neck.

The couple was among 14 people shot within blocks of parade festivities over that weekend. Of those 14, three others also were killed.
Ward plans to study plant hormones to determine if THC production can be arrested as CBD production increases. Researchers believe this could help reduce the number of plants per acre, as well as control when CBD is produced. The study will include Hurricane Hemp  Florence and a hybrid variety.

After this year, well know more on a molecular level of whats going on with the production levels of CBD and THC, Ward said. Once we know this, we can start writing a production guide for growing hemp in South Carolina.

South Carolina hemp facts

Industrial hemp was first grown in South Carolina in 2018 when the South Carolina Department of Agriculture gave permits to 20 farmers to grow the crop as part of a pilot project. In 2021, 213 permits were issued in South Carolina. In 2020, the S.C. Department of Agricultures Hemp Farming State Plan received approval from the United States Department of Agriculture. The state Department of Agriculture works with the Clemson Cooperative Extension Service and Clemson Department of Pesticide Regulation to provide information for industrial hemp growers.
The left wing of the Democratic Party is hardly more supportive, viewing the GOP as morally flawed enemies who will never negotiate sincerely. Biden acknowledged -- and rebuked -- this sentiment after reaching the infrastructure deal, saying: "I know there are some in my party who discouraged me from seeking agreement with our Republican colleagues -- who said that we should go bigger and go alone. To them, I say this: I've already shown in my young presidency I'm prepared to move the country forward. ... We can find common ground."

Common ground. Now there's a concept. And the best place to start looking for it is infrastructure spending. After all, Republicans also drive on bumpy roads, drink from rusty pipes and desire better broadband connections in rural areas.

Moreover, as a Georgetown University study showed, almost 90% of the construction jobs created by the legislation would go to workers without a college degree, and those workers form a growing segment of the Republican base. Trump actually edged out Biden among voters with only a high school diploma, while Biden won college grads by 12 points.
Thank God our generation was taught to love America, to salute and pledge allegiance to the flag, and to sing The Star-Spangled Banner with patriotic fervor. We were taught to be thankful we were born and raised in the land of the free and the home of the brave. Our parents, grandparents, and ancestors fought, sacrificed and died so that we could enjoy all the rights God has given us and the Constitution has guaranteed to protect.

Somewhere along the line, ungodliness crept into our schools, and younger generations have bought the lies that religion is opium for the people and that God has not blessed America but damned America for her sins, if there even is a god.

Americas history of struggle and sacrifice to become the freest, most powerful and prosperous nation the world has ever known has been exchanged for lies about our founders, and rewritten to undermine our domestic peace and prosperity. Why would anyone perpetrate such lies? Why would any American who has benefited from all America has to offer want to sow discord and division among us?
This subscription will allow existing subscribers of The World to access all of our online content, including the E-Editions area.

NOTE: To claim your access to the site, you will need to enter the Last Name and First Name that is tied to your subscription in this format: SMITH, JOHN

If you need help with exactly how your specific name needs be entered, please email us at admin@countrymedia.net or call us at 1-541 266 6047.
Every year people put forward new business items, and Ill tell you there are some that get in there that are absolutely kind of crazy, you know, and theres others that are really out there to try and make sure that were doing whats best for all of our students across the country, Andrews explained.

He added that by adopting the item, the union is promising to support teachers who choose to teach about structural racism, including critical race theory. But it will not force those lessons on educators.

What does that statement mean for Wyoming schools?

Because local officials have final control over a districts curriculum, Andrews said the national position doesnt really affect Wyoming much.

The districts board of trustees votes to approve all curriculum, which is developed by local educators and vetted by the boards academic steering committee throughout the process.

What I would say is I believe critical race theory is very academia kind of language and to really understand what it is and what its not ... youd almost have to do a (literature) review on it, Andrews said. Ultimately, what I believe is that were just wanting to make sure that history is taught, all of it. The good and the bad.
At all hours of the day, Nicole Wagon gets calls, texts, emails and Facebook messages.

Sometimes its an 11 a.m. text from a family member of someone whos gone missing. Other times its a phone call at midnight from someone who lost a loved one. Occasionally, its a reporter calling and asking for an interview.

Nicole, who is Northern Arapaho, has become an advocate within the missing and murdered Indigenous persons movement in Wyoming. She attends marches, communicates with victims families and participates in the growing effort in the Equality State to address what has been a long concerning issue, even if it was only in the past few years that many outside the Wind River Reservation began taking note.

The issue is a personal one for Nicole. She lost her two oldest daughters over the past two years.

On Jan. 5, 2019, Jocelyn Watt  her eldest  and Watts partner Rudy Perez were murdered at their Riverton home. More than two years later, the case remains unsolved despite numerous interviews, video surveillance and investigations by multiple agencies on the Wind River Reservation.

A year later, tragedy struck again. Jade Wagon was found dead nearly a month after Nicole reported her missing. At the time, investigators ruled the death as accidental, but Nicole was skeptical. That skepticism proved to be correct. According to Nicole, a warrant was issued for a suspect in Jades case in February of this year. But so far, no one has been arrested.

Now, Nicoles purpose is threefold. From her home in Riverton, she has become a pillar of support within the states missing and murdered Indigenous persons movement. She continues to pursue justice for Jocelyn and Jade. And she remains the matriarch of her family, double and triple-checking on her three remaining daughters.

She instilled love, solidarity, and a mixture of Indigenous practices and Catholic beliefs in all five of her daughters. Now and more than ever, shes determined to keep her family together while remaining relentless in seeking justice for her daughters.

I know my daughters live with me; they live in my heart, Nicole said. I gave them life ... but its not easy. You get back up, and you keep going.

***

In Wyoming, Indigenous people make up 3% of the states population. But they account for 14% of missing persons and 21% of total homicide victims in the state, according to a January report by the Wyoming Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons Task Force.

This report was really eye-opening, but I think it confirmed what a lot of us knew already that was happening out there, Sen. Affie Ellis  a Cheyenne Republican, citizen of the Navajo Nation and co-chair of the Legislatures Select Committee on Tribal Affairs  said at the time.

The issue is recognized in Indian Country, but for a long time received little attention away from it. That changed a few years ago when movements began to spring up in multiple states.

In July 2019, Gov. Mark Gordon formed the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples Task Force. At the time, it was not known how many Indigenous people were missing in the state.

A pair of bills followed in March 2020 that improved data collection of missing and murdered people by requiring law enforcement agencies to include biographical information on the affected individual, and for the Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho  the two tribes who live on the Wind River Reservation  to implement their own Amber Alert system.

Many on the Wind River Reservation are critical with how the Bureau of Indian Affairs has handled the issue, arguing the agency lacks communication and transparency. A Congressional subcommittee hearing from 2019 revealed two major flaws: the agency had only filled half of the positions available, and there was a severe lack of funding.

And historically, the federal government hasnt kept its end of the bargain when it comes to treaties. The lack of funding, data collection and coordination between different agencies has had dire effects on Indian Country.

The January report also cited negative news coverage as an impediment. Only 30% of Indigenous homicide victims receive media coverage compared with 51% of white homicide victims.

When a Native American woman goes missing, the solution should be to find her, said Jordan Dresser, chairman of the Northern Arapaho Business Council. Instead, the disappearance gets turned into a substance abuse issue, or even worse, the missing woman brought it upon herself.

Support Local Journalism Your membership makes our reporting possible. {{featured_button_text}}

Rather than saying, Hey, somebodys missing, they should be home by now, he said. They deserve the respect to be found, but the fact that Native People are viewed as less than, we get less than services, less than attention, less than humanity, and in a sense, less than empathy.

Dresser is the youngest of four children, with three older sisters. He was raised with a strong female support system and has witnessed the disrespect Native American women often face.

Many fail to recognize that missing and murdered Indigenous people have been an issue since first contact. When history books and Disney movies portray Sacagawea or Pocahontas lives as joyful love stories filled with expedition, it gives air to the belief that Indigenous lives dont matter, Dresser points out.

But if you ask Dresser whats the biggest hindrance is when it comes to addressing the number of missing and murdered Indigenous people, hell point to funding.

People need to remember, we have 2.1 million acres (on the Wind River Reservation), he said. Were one of the largest reservations, so its difficult for everybody to be everywhere. Its difficult for everybody to have their eyes in all places at once. Its really hard.

***

Jocelyn Watt and Jade Wagon were adventurous and loved the outdoors. Jocelyn was a determined problem solver and a go-getter. Jade was the free-spirit who was always laughing and dead set on having a good time. They inherited a deep admiration of their community and a respect for their elders.

What makes you beautiful? Nicole used to ask her daughters when they had a bad attitude or were upset. They always responded with the same answer. Your heart.

Nicole has become extra vigilant in the wake of their deaths. She reaches out regularly to her three remaining girls. Are you OK? she asks them.

If you ever knew my oldest daughter (Jocelyn), Nicole said. She was so protective of her family. Nothing would stop her. If this happened to me, my daughter would have stopped at nothing to make sure there was justice for her mom; thats what keeps me going. I cant give up on my daughters.

Nicoles support system is extensive. She has friends, family and advocates she can call any time, day or night. When she sees tribal members succumb to vices and fall into a downward spiral of depression, thats when things get tough for her. She wants to be able to help everyone who reaches out, but her plate is full.

Yes, Ive lost two, she said. But Im marching, Im advocating, I meet with many different political figures, leaders of my tribe, and pushing for victims advocate positions.

As they approach the same age as their sisters were when they died, her daughters have wondered whether they will survive. And Nicole has to remind them, Dont question yourself that way, she said. Be the best auntie and spoil your (niece and nephew), and love that baby unconditionally.

Still, from time to time, Nicole asks herself: Where did she go wrong? Why did the creator choose her for this movement? But then she thinks about justice for her daughters, the healing that will coincide, and her current life with her remaining daughters and grandchildren.

And while justice hasnt been served, Nicole continues to be a rock for her family and the shoulder to lean on for those seeking help. Shell continue to be the loudest voice in the room.

Im very vocal and very outspoken, Nicole said. I dont mind standing up and speaking out alone.

When Nicole and two of her daughters showed up to march for missing and murdered Indigenous people in Riverton back in May, a significant chunk of the crowd there knew who she was. Heads turned, and eyes darted across the parking lot where people were gathering. Most in the crowd wore red.

With the help of her two daughters, Nicole took her time and carefully assembled one of the marchs most prominent posters. It featured photos of Jocelyn, Rudy and Jade.

In a sea of marchers, Nicole and her family found their way to the front. Now, everyone would see Jocelyns and Jades faces.

Im going to keep putting their faces out there, Nicole said. Youre going to look. They had a face, they had a life, and you had no right to take it.

Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0

Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy.
On the flip side, the governor is working with the federal government on a different energy issue. Last month, he announced that the state would work with Bill Gates TerraPower, the U.S. Department of Energy and Rocky Mountain Power on siting a nuclear reactor inside a coal-fired power plant.

One could make the argument that these decisions align because they all have Wyomings best interest in mind. But Gordons decision to assist at the border challenges that argument. Critics say Wyoming does not have that kind of expendable money (if the state ends up paying for it), is not a border state, nor is it home to a large population of undocumented immigrants.

None of this is to say that Gordons relationship with the federal government has to be consistent, but it will be interesting to watch how public opinion on the competing decisions grow and change in the coming months.

With the 2022 election coming up, the moves Gordon is making on issues of importance to the right could benefit him, but will his pragmatic balancing act end up back firing? When Gordon is on the campaign trail, he will have a number of accomplishments he can cite, such as the nuclear plant. But his opponents will also have low hanging fruit to pick  that Gordon, the governor of the Trumpiest state, is too cozy with Biden.

It remains to be seen whether that will move the needle come next years Republican primary.

Follow state politics reporter Victoria Eavis on Twitter @Victoria_Eavis

Love 3 Funny 2 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0

Get Government & Politics updates in your inbox! Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy.
But the biggest issue driving prices, Watts and Magagna said, is the distances that hay has to be shipped around the state.

Watts said he is already bringing in hay from as far as 400 miles, and Magagna said these distances are increasing prices because of the lingering coronavirus issues in the trucking industry.

The other factor, when youre bringing in hay, is that trucking is an issue, Magagna said. (With) the demand and lack of truck drivers and everything, freight is higher as well. So hay in Wyoming is no doubt going to be very high. Its going to be almost for sure higher priced, and if you have to bring hay in from other areas, then the freight becomes an issue.

The increased hay prices are already affecting the pocketbooks of stockgrowers in the county and the state, which may ultimately affect whether stockgrowers are able to maintain their herds.

Magagna said the impacts are slightly less for those producers who pasture cattle for the summer before selling them to feed lots, because some of those producers were able to make the determination early this season not to move as many animals as they normally would to pasture.

But those who run cow-calf operations may not be so lucky.
Wyomings civics and U.S. History education standards are among the worst in the nation, according to a new report from a national education group.

The states top education official is hoping the grim analysis will serve as a call to action.

The conservative-leaning Thomas Fordham Institute in June published rankings of each states standards in civics and U.S. history. It recommended a complete revision for Wyoming.

Why we failed

Wyomings biggest flaw is that it doesnt have course-specific standards for either civics or U.S. history, and its one of a few states that doesnt require either for a student to graduate.

The Fordham Institute describes the standards as inadequate, failing to offer even a basic outline of essential content.

Indeed, one of the most significant differences between Wyomings standards and the few states that earned top marks was a lack of specifics.

Because of the broad, vague language Wyoming employs in its benchmarks, there is almost no sense of scope, and its impossible to say how content is meant to be sequenced, the report continues.
For a long time, the Wyoming Legislature had a reputation for pragmatism. The lawmakers who inhabited it tended to be largely conservative, but they focused more on solving practical issues and less on fighting ideological battles that have little actual impact in Wyoming. Yes, there were always a few who sought to push polarizing bills that werent needed  a Casper lawmaker sought a ban on sharia law some years back  but leadership usually batted down such time wasters.

Thats changed over the past few years. The Legislature has pulled farther to the right, to be sure, but the real change has been its increasing focus on responding to national issues that might not be relevant to our state. In the last session, for example, we saw bills on voting security in a state with only four voting fraud convictions during the past 40 years. There was a time once when local politicians blanched at the idea of people from outside the state telling us what issues should be important to Wyoming. Now, many embrace such a brand of politics.
Editor:

Wow! What a situation the GOP finds itself in regarding Rep. Liz Cheney.

It has me to do a lot of introspection given the fact that I am a Republican, voted for Liz and have been a long time supporter of she and her father, Dick.

I am also a supporter of Donald Trump and have appreciated the direction that our country was headed during his time in office. The lack of support by the never-Trumper's, RINO's in the party and the constant negative drumbeat of the Democrats and the news media are a testament to the fighting strength and the intestinal fortitude of the man.

While Donald is unquestionably a very coarse fighter and some would even call him a Cretan. Contrasting him with President Biden, Hunter and the whole litany of Democratic leadership from Nancy on, I will continue to support Donald, but I cannot say the same for Liz.
[G]razing is an exception to normal wilderness protections, wrote Gary Macfarlane, a board member of Wilderness Watch. It is a use that, by definition and practice, degrades Wilderness. The Wilderness Act does not grant special privileges to those that graze their cattle or sheep in Wilderness

One of four allotments that make up the Elk Ridge Complex covers a wilderness basin that is a special place, a backcountry horseman told the federal agency. There are some areas which I think would be better off left alone, Ernie Wampler Jr. wrote.

The Tosi Creek area has the greater amount of pristine alpine country in it than the other three [Elk Ridge Complex] allotments, Wampler wrote. I have probably spent as much time in that area as anyone since the sheep left, so I know of what I speak.

Theres also debate regarding whether expanding the grazing area would benefit or harm habitat.

Spreading existing grazing use across a broader landscape can allow some traditionally highly used areas to recuperate and generally lessen impacts across the larger area, Wyoming Game and Fish Department Deputy Director Angi Bruce wrote. But the agency doesnt back adding more cattle to the area. Instead, it supports current stocking rates, her letter reads.
THE University of the West Indies (The UWI) has started planning for a new financial culture under Covid-19s harsh economic climate.

The university stated in a release on Wednesday that its executive management team embarked on a planning retreat in order to roll out a new operational plan to deal with the financial challenges facing the institution, as a result of shortfalls in expected revenues.
For whatever reason, that song, Cyah Take Dat, has been playing in my head constantly since midnight on Tuesday.

I clearly remember the moment I received the message that the Great Griot had passed. I was watching When Sharks Attack on the National Geographic channel. There was shock, disbelief and my body got frighteningly cold as I tried to process what I had just been told.
Almost 700 Venezuelans voluntarily left Trinidad and Tobago early yesterday on a repatriation trip from the Port of Port of Spain.

The trip was organised by the Venezuelan Embassy in Port of Spain for citizens of that country who wanted to return home.

The Venezuelan nationals assembled outside the Cruise Ship Complex from as early as 6 a.m.
Many lives and our economic survival depend on the availability of vaccines in sufficient numbers to vaccinate 70 per cent or greater of the adult population.

We are reopening for business before the 70 per cent target is achieved and before more is known about the Delta variant, described as relentless. That is a significant risk, but I do acknowledge movement in a safer direction with the reported arrival last week of enough doses of Sinopharm vaccine for 400,000 people and the Prime Minister being pictured taking it.
It is an indication to the elected officials who make the final decision that this is an important asset to the community and we recognized it as such, she said. Without that historic landmark designation they can say no one ever thought this was important enough to make any plans for.

Agricultural activity has been a part of the Tucson area's history for 4,000 years, as the floodplains flourished from river silt.

With the backing of the federal Morrill Land-Grant Acts, the UA joined the storyline and established an agricultural college in 1885. Further federal funding from the the Hatch Act of 1887 and the Smith-Lever Act of 1914 supported the college in its devotion to teaching, research and extension. In 1909, the UA purchased land from farmer Jesus Garcia and opened the campus farm in an effort to fulfill part of its mission as a land-grant institution.

The UA is one of three active land-grant institutions of higher learning in Arizona, and the campus farms acres of green grass and scores of shady trees are reminders of that.

But its not a park, Poulos said. Rather, its a place for scientists to answer questions like How are we going to feed people in a desert environment in the future?
Since October, customs officers at ports of entry seized about 6,300 pounds of fentanyl, compared to about 800 pounds seized by Border Patrol agents in the desert and at checkpoints.

Drug-trafficking organizations often rely on ports of entry, rather than use desert areas, as the easiest and fastest way to move drugs quickly to meet the high level of demand in the United States, said long-time border researcher Gabriella Sanchez.

The vocal Republicans also present the border as a monolith, rather than a 2,000-mile long region where a variety of migration and drug-smuggling patterns unfold in different areas.

In a typical statement in recent months, House Republicans said in a June 14 tweet: In May, 934 POUNDS of fentanyl was seized at our southern border, this is a 300% INCREASE from May 2020. Bidens border crisis becomes more deadly with each passing day and Vice President Kamala Harris is still MIA.

The vast majority of that 934 pounds was seized at ports of entry in California and Arizona, rather than spread out along the length of the border.
It made news in 1914 when lessees Ira Wright and James Bell struck 1,800 pounds comprised of high grade gold ore valued at $43,000. It was marketed as the single richest gold shipment per pound received by the San Francisco mint up to that time.

The Silver City Reduction Works was built in Silver City to process the ores from the Pinos Altos Mining District. Other improvements followed with the erection of a narrow gauge railroad in 1906 that connected the nearby mines to the Silver City Smelter.

Gold production in the district decreased in the early 20th century. Zinc would later replace gold as the primary metal mined in the district. The Empire Zinc Cleveland Mine located on the west side of the range produced the metal in the 1940s. Going forward, high holding costs hindered extensive development of mines in the district.

In the 1970s, Exxon Minerals Co. drilled more than 200 diamond drill holes in the area, combined with later drilling delineating over 7 million tons of mineralization. The late 1980s through early 1990s saw limited production through in-situ leaching of copper smelter flux ore.

Today, Pinos Altos is a quiet rural community with a rich mining past and active mining claims.

William Ascarza is an archivist, historian and author of seven books available for purchase online and at select bookstores. These include his latest, In Search of Fortunes: A Look at the History of Arizona Mining, available through M.T. Publishing Co. His other books are Chiricahua Mountains: History and Nature, Southeastern Arizona Mining Towns, Zenith on the Horizon: An Encyclopedic Look at the Tucson Mountains from A to Z, Tucson Mountains, Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum with Peggy Larson and Sentinel to the North: Exploring the Tortolita Mountains. Email William Ascarza for a signed copy of his publications at AZMiningHistory@gmail.com
That means port staff will be in high demand. Lifting Title 42 at the same time could also create an increased flow of people without visas  asylum seekers as well as economic migrants, stressing both the ports and the Border Patrol, he said.

Chamberlain wants to see a phased reopening, with the ports reopening to visitors first, then other border policies loosening later.

Guadalupe Ramirez, the CBP director of field operations overseeing Arizonas ports of entry, told the exporters meeting that he could make reopening work, although many newer staff need to go through training delayed by the pandemic to be able to play all the roles required at the port. It will take work, but it can be done.

Frankly, its overdue: If American nationals can cross into Mexico despite the pandemic, then Mexican nationals with visas can cross into the U.S. Beyond that, the pandemic precautions we require are up to us, and can be customized as the situation changes.

That would start to solve the real crisis afflicting Arizonas border-town residents.

Tim Steller is an opinion columnist. A 25-year veteran of reporting and editing, he digs into issues and stories that matter in the Tucson area, reports the results and tells you his conclusions. Contact him at tsteller@tucson.com or 520-807-7789. On Twitter: @senyorreporter

Concerned about COVID-19? Sign up now to get the most recent coronavirus headlines and other important local and national news sent to your email inbox daily. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy.
"I am happy to be able to keep the Sunday appointment of the Angelus, even here from Gemelli Polyclinic," Francis said. "I thank everyone. I felt your closeness and the support of your prayers.''

"Thank you from my heart!" exclaimed the pontiff, smiling as he peered over the balcony railing to better see the faithful below.

Standing on the balcony with him were some children who are also hospitalized at Gemelli, a major Catholic teaching hospital on the outskirts of Rome. The crowd below clapped often.

Francis underwent three hours of abdominal surgery under general anesthesia on July 4, and later that night was described by the Holy See as having responded well.

Reading from prepared remarks Sunday, he kept one or both hands on a lectern for support, including when he raised an arm in blessing. The pope praised the "tenderness" of those who care for the sick, which he said was "like a caress that makes you feel better, eases the pain and picks you up."
OPINION: The new Name Image Likeness (NIL) and the impacts it will have on the PAC-12 is one subject in Letters to the Editor. What are your thoughts on NIL? Submit a Letter to the Editor at tucson.com/opinion.
Now its OK to call Leonardo DiCaprio an honorary greaser.

During a Saturday excursion to Tulsa, the Academy Award-winning actor popped in to visit the Outsiders House Museum.

DiCaprio is in Oklahoma for the making of the Martin Scorsese film Killers of the Flower Moon, which is being shot primarily in Pawhuska.

Danny OConnor, a music artist and curator of the Outsiders House Museum, posted photos of himself with DiCaprio on social media along with this message: Like I always say, you never know whos going to stop by the Outsiders House Museum. Great seeing you, my friend, after all these years.

Elaborating later, OConnor said, It has been over 20 years since we last spoke. Leo stopped by unannounced, so when I saw him walk in  despite him wearing a mask  I said something like Is that you Leo? His bodyguard said no!, but then he turned to see who was talking to him and then instantly recognized me. I credit that to Soleil Moon Fryes Kid 90 documentary that he had a hand in producing, I believe.

Frye and OConnor are longtime friends and she visited him at the Outsiders House Museum to shoot footage for the documentary.
Tulsa World's James Watts and Jimmie Tramel talk former NBA player John Starks' documentary and more

One of the few local builders of stringed instruments whose work is not featured in the exhibit Benjamin Liggett curated for 108 Contemporary is Benjamin Liggett.

Liggett has been building acoustic and electric guitars for about nine years, such as the AbstracT, a model inspired by the Fender Telecaster.

But the idea of putting one of his guitars next to the items that make up A Luthiers Tale: The Craft of Stringed Instruments made him more than a bit uncomfortable.

It would be like curating a show of Andy Warhols work, and you decide to add one of your own drawings to it, Liggett said. It just didnt seem like the right thing to do.

A Luthiers Tale collects examples of handmade acoustic and electric guitars, along with banjos, violins, violas, cellos and double-basses, which either were made by Tulsa-area luthiers, or at least have some kind of Tulsa connection.

Liggett said he learned that 108 Contemporary, the Tulsa Arts District gallery that specializes in showcasing and promoting fine craft art, was wanting to do an exhibit on the art of instrument-making and approached the gallery with his ideas.

The one thing I really wanted everyone to see in this exhibit is everything that goes into the making of a guitar or a violin, he said. These things arent just spat out of a machine. A lot of love and care has gone into the making of every one of the instruments in this show.

Most of the instruments on display are one-of-a-kind creations, such as Audrey One, an electric guitar created by a team of Japanese artists that calls itself Jersey Girl Handmade Guitar. Liggett said he included the guitar in the show because the artists who made it drew from Native American imagery to create the inlays that adorn the neck.

The bulk of the guitar is fashioned from mahogany, with rosewood and maple accents, from the settings for the guitars pickups to the covers of the tone and volume control knobs.

Tropical woods like rosewood and ebony have some unique qualities, Liggett said. If you tap a piece of rosewood, it creates this bright, bell-like chime. It just rings. On the other hand, tap a piece of walnut, and it creates a much lower pitch. The density of certain woods just have a unique resonance that really adds to a guitars character.

Some guitars in the show, on the other hand, are made from materials that have a character beyond simply how they sound.

The Cains Ballroom Guitar, created by Roger Cowan of Dog Tired Guitars in Perkins, is made from wood reclaimed from the original dance floor of Tulsas Timeless Honkytonk.

One can see the mortise and tenon joints of the floorboards along the edge of the guitar (the original wood is sandwiched around another, solid piece of wood to stabilize the instrument), and the pick guard is fashioned from an old Bob Wills vinyl record.

What I think is really cool, Liggett said, flipping the guitar over, is that you can see the imprint of the mill that made the boards for the Cains floor.

Other eye-catching instruments include William Murrells Victory Series Electric Guitar, whose body is fashioned from tiger maple and shows off the woods unique pattern; a trio of Twangcaster models by Tulsa guitar maker Lloyd A. Prins, who has created guitars for top Nashville session and touring guitarists, as well as for Oklahoma musicians including Cody Canada and Jason Boland; and Larry Hefners custom solid-body electric guitar decorated in a style reminiscent to the abstract art he creates.

In the case of the members of the violin family on display, Liggett relied a great deal on Lou Lynch, who has owned the Tulsa Violin Shop in the Tulsa Arts District for many years.

Included in the exhibit are individual violins and violas, as well as string quartet sets (two violins, viola and cello) by Guy Cole and Ken Beckmann, and bows by Tom Goering.

Lou is much more in touch with that aspect of the luthier world, and he pointed me to the right people, Liggett said.

Liggett, a Tulsa native, originally trained to be a machinist at Tulsa Technology Center, and spent a few years making parts for the oil industry.

I always liked working with my hands, and I knew that college wasnt for me, he said. But after a while I got to the point where what I was doing wasnt fun anymore. I thought I would start working in wood, because I could deal with wood splinters a lot easier than I could with metal shavings.

He went to the Roberto-Venn School of Luthiery in Phoenix, a five-month immersive course in instrument-making in which students had to build one acoustic and one electric guitar.

Liggett returned to Tulsa and went to work at Bishline Banjos, which is run by Rob Bishline, himself a graduate of the Roberto-Venn School.

Liggett acknowledged that making custom guitars isnt a path to financial riches, but the rewards the process offers cannot be beat.

That includes seeing the instruments he has selected for the show displayed on the walls of the 108 Contemporary exhibition space.

I really like the fact that these guitars are hanging on the wall as pieces of art, Liggett said. Because thats really what they are. You look at something like the scroll at the end of a cellos neck, or the fine detail most people wont ever notice, and its obvious that these instruments are also beautiful works of sculptures.

The Men Who Would Be Scene: Episode 19(tncms-asset)447cf0f0-8cc4-5439-b0ef-0fd2c3459bfc[0](/tncms-asset)

</&hrdp2>

Stay up-to-date on what's happening Receive the latest in local entertainment news in your inbox weekly! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy.
The mercury had hit 100 degrees or more for 15 days running, but thirsty Tulsans needed no excuse to stampede drugstores and restaurants in Ju
Fauci said clinical studies and laboratory data have yet to fully bear out the need for a booster to the current two-shot Pfizer and Moderna vaccines or the one-shot Johnson & Johnson regimen.

Right now, given the data and the information we have, we do not need to give people a third shot, he said. That doesnt mean we stop there. ... There are studies being done now ongoing as we speak about looking at the feasibility about if and when we should be boosting people.

He said it was quite possible in the coming months as data evolves that the government may urge a booster based on such factors as age and underlying medical conditions. "Certainly it is entirely conceivable, maybe likely at some time, we will need a boost,'' Fauci said.

Monday's planned meeting between Pfizer and U.S. health officials was first reported by The Washington Post.

Currently only about 48% of the U.S. population is fully vaccinated. Some parts of the country have far lower immunization rates, and in those places the delta variant is surging. Last week, Dr. Rochelle Walensky, the CDC director, said thats leading to two truths  highly immunized swaths of America are getting back to normal while hospitalizations are rising in other places.
Bottom lines: Oklahoma House of Representatives States Rights Committee Chairman Jay Steagall, R-Yukon, said the Biden administrations promise to go door-to-door encouraging COVID-19 vaccination will not be welcome in Oklahoma. ... House Minority Leader Emily Virgin, D-Norman, asked for an interim study on eliminating Oklahomas sales tax on groceries. ... State Sen. Nathan Dahm, R-Broken Arrow, has already prefiled legislation for next years session that would lower the minimum age for constitutional carry from 21 to 18. ... State Sen. Adam Pugh, R-Edmond, has scheduled an interim study on post-COVID learning outcomes. ... State Rep. Melissa Provenzano, D-Tulsa, was named a state director for the national Women In Government organization. ... State Rep. Todd Russ, R-Cordell, said hes concerned that state funding to community-based programs that feed senior citizens is not keeping up with demand. ... Former Oklahoma Speaker of the House and U.S. Senate Candidate T.W. Shannon recently appeared on Fox News Greg Gutfield Show.
Both parties have their moderates and their radicals. Recently, the new GOP chairman, John Bennett, backed Sen. James Lankfords challenger.

Why? Lankford is simply not conservative enough.

Hes a rebel who has dared to support public education, to suggest that the emancipation of slaves was a good thing and even to assist his constituents regardless of their party affiliation.

Worst of all, he recognizes that President Donald Trump might not have won the election this past November.

To the eyes of your typical April 1889 settler, Lankford is indeed not a good fit for Oklahoma.

But this is 2021. Its time to embrace lawmakers who are willing to serve all the people of Oklahoma rather than only the more extreme  and often deep-pocketed  elements of a party.

I want to thank Gov. Kevin Stitt and the 70-plus lawmakers who are currently supporting Lankford and who are not giving in to those politicians who believe that service to all should not be a priority.

Letters to the editor are encouraged. Send letters to tulsaworld.com/opinion/submitletter.
A cancer patient, the Vietnamese teacher Le Hoang Ngan launched the project We Can with the aim of helping others who are in the same boat.

Ngan, 32, has been forced to stop giving lectures these days to get treatment for her lung cancer.

Despite such an arduous situation, what Ngan has done becomes a source of energy for surrounding cancer patients.

Feeling pain personally

Ngan got an awful shock in 2019 when she received a diagnosis of stage 4 lung cancer. She was a teacher working at a high school in the central city of Da Nang at that time.

Ngan and her family struggled to overcome the most difficult period. The woman has learned to live with the disease and consider it as a part of her life now.

During the days of being treated at the oncology department of Da Nang Hospital, Ngan met with many cancer patients, with whom she could talk about various things.

I found out cancer patients never think negatively or shed tears in front of others, they often laugh to suppress the pain and disease, recalled Ngan.

In contrast, many healthy people think that cancer patients want to be consoled, which turns out to be counterproductive."

But as a cancer patient herself, Ngan knows they still need more warm-hearted and subtle attention. Many cancer patients must deal with the physical and emotional effects of their problem for years afterward.

She envisioned an organization that could offer cancer patients what they are genuinely in need. And project We Can was officially started by Ngan in April 2020.

Ngan initiated the project with the smallest, simplest, and most practical things. She and some volunteers opened a class, Drawing Green Dreams, for pediatric cancer patients.

She talks about psychology and emotion while providing them with knowledge and mental support as well.

We Can has fueled cancer patients with energy, confidence, and hope during the past year thanks to meaningful activities conducted by Ngan and many volunteers.

Le Hoang Ngan speaks at an event of We Can in a supplied photo.

Learning to love themselves

As a woman in Vietnam, Ngan understands the importance of appearance to anyone, especially a female cancer patient who is in a course of treatment, which has often left negative side effects on her look.

Ngan holds a series of activities named We Shine in the hope of making female patients like her feel better and confident about themselves despite the treatments effects.

Taking part in the We Shine, female cancer patients who are treated by chemotherapy have a chance to learn to love themselves. They are showing the way to have a better look.

They receive the support of skin care products made from natural materials and get pieces of advice from make-up professionals. They can meet and exchange with other cancer patients, who share with them an enthusiastic love for life.

The initiative of We Shine, which has been held both in Da Nang City and Ho Chi Minh City, has attracted many patients to partake.

The program [We Shine] has left a strong impression on me, said Le Thi Kim, a cancer patient.

I hope that other patients have opportunities to participate like me.

"As cancer patients, we all want to live, to be loved, to make ourselves as beautiful as others do; then to be more confident and live more positively."

Apart from helping the patients, We Can also has activities that are meant to support their children, who have suffered many difficulties because of their mothers' condition.

The gala We Sing is one of those activities meant to raise funds to help the poor patients children.

Along with cancer patients, both doctors and nurses in Da Nang Hospital sang many positive songs to inspire bright energy.

All the money raised from the gala was sent to a fund helping cancer patients.

The fund will help maintain activities that support the patients and contribute to a scholarship program providing aid for their offspring.

Talking about what she has done to help cancer patients, Nga rarely mentions obstacles despite running into a lot during the first days of running the We Can project.

I know that there are always difficulties and challenges in life," she said.

"But we had better not focus on them.

"We should instead try to figure out more appropriate solutions."

People pose at an event of the We Shine initiative launched by We Can in a supplied photo.

Stopping treatment, starting again

During the last days of June, Ngan was in her sixth cycle of chemotherapy. Despite her weak body struggling with the side effects of the treatment, Ngan never forgot her responsibility to We Can.

As soon as she regained her senses, Ngan grabbed her mobile phone, checked information, exchanged with other members of We Can about their scholarship grant to help keep childrens dreams alive.

Forgetting about her painful condition, she coordinates everything online actively and smoothly.

We Can is in the final stage of accepting potential applications for the scholarship. They will review, verify, and choose the children who need to be helped out of their dire situations.

The project intends to give about 20 scholarships annually to children whose parents died from cancer or those whose parents are suffering from the final stage of cancer while their families are in poverty.

With a value of VND12 million (US$523) each, the scholarship will be invaluable help to these unfortunate children.

I would like to promise to try my best to assure that We Can develop sustainably," Ngan told Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper.

"That means there are a growing number of cancer patients and their children would be supported to fight off the challenges and to move toward a better future."

Le Hoang Ngan in a supplied photo

The scholarship fund to keep childrens dreams alive has called for help from not only donors but also cancer patients. Nguyen Thi Thanh, 35, a cancer patient, decided to sell fruits on Facebook while she is taking treatment to contribute a small part to the scholarship fund. Thanh knew about We Can for the first time when she was treated at the oncology department of Da Nang Hospital. She spared an amount of VND1 million ($44) from the profit of selling fruits online to the scholarship fund.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!
Police of Ho Chi Minh City on Friday levied a VND4 million ($174) fine on a man after he was found violating many restrictions under Ho Chi Minh Citys current social distancing rule, namely outdoor exercise and mandatory face mask donning.

The fine was handed out by the Peoples Committee of An Phu Ward under Thu Duc City of Ho Chi Minh City, a source told Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper on Saturday.

The mans violations were detected by a cohort from the An Phu Peoples Committee during a patrol on Friday afternoon to ensure COVID-19 regulations were enforced in the neighborhood.

After seeing the man at a public park on Cao Duc Lan Street, the cohort asked him to put a mask on and return home. However, the man kept on exercising and did not comply until the officers put more pressure on him.

He was later fined VND4 million for violations of face mask donning and outdoor travel regulations in social distancing times, as prescribed by Decree 117 of the Vietnamese government.

Ho Chi Minh City authorities began implementing stricter social distancing restrictions under the prime ministers Directive No. 16 for 15 days on Friday.

The directive forbids public gatherings of over two, bans non-essential businesses and services, and requires people to stay home unless they go out for food, medicine, or other emergencies.

All non-essential businesses as well as public transport, including buses, taxis, and ride-hailing vehicles, are suspended.

Administrative fines for such violations range between VND1 million ($43) and VND20 million ($869).

Vietnam had documented 29,103 COVID-19 cases as of Sunday afternoon, with 9,204 recoveries and 112 deaths, according to the Ministry of Health statistics.

The country has recorded 25,615 local infections in 58 provinces and cities since the fourth wave of transmissions broke out on April 27.

Ho Chi Minh City is now the biggest epicenter with 12,658 cases.

Footage circulated on social media shows a man in Thu Duc City of Ho Chi Minh City flouting an outdoor exercise ban and ignoring a police officer on July 9, 2021.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!
Police in Vietnam have cracked down on a transnational smuggling ring, arresting the kingpin and capturing exhibits worth over US$3.4 million.

After around eight months of investigation, police officers in the Mekong Delta province of An Giang detained Nguyen Thi Kim Hanh, a 52-year-old resident in the provinces An Phu District, on July 6 on charges of gold smuggling.

Police searched her houses and 15 other locations, including gold trading establishments, in An Phu and the provinces Chau Doc City on Friday.

During the searches, police seized more than 36 kilograms of gold, $1.27 million and VND1.7 billion ($74,045), along with a lot of computers, electronic equipment, and materials relating to the rings cross-border smuggling activities.

The total value of the gold and money seized topped $3.4 million.

As soon as Hanh was arrested, her seven accomplices turned themselves in to police.

Local police had put the rings mastermind, also known as Muoi Tuong, and several others on the wanted list after they uncovered their smuggling of 51 kilograms of gold from Cambodia into Vietnam on October 30, 2020.

That day four ring members traveled from Cambodia to An Giang on a motorboat, carrying three bags containing a total of 51 kilograms of gold.

A police team stopped them after noticing their suspicious signs, as they were moving the bags of gold from the boat ashore in Chau Doc.

These smugglers aggressively resisted the team, which eventually captured one of them along with the gold.

The three others fled away but they gave themselves up to police later.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!
A man from the northern Vietnamese province of Bac Ninh was electrocuted to death as he was trying to steal power cables from a substation on Saturday afternoon.

Police in Que Vo District, Bac Ninh Province said on Saturday evening that they had initiated an investigation into the death of Vu Van L., 43.

L.s body was found on the ground near a 400kVA - 22/0,4kV substation earlier the same day.

Preliminary information showed that L. had dressed up as an electrical worker and climbed up the substation with an intention to steal power cables at around 12:30 pm.

He was then electrocuted by a 22kV current and fell from a height of four meters.

A bolt cutter and a string of cable that had been cut off were also found at the site of the incident.

Officers believed that L. had violated the safe distance from the power grid while he was committing the cable theft and ended up getting electrocuted.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!
Annabel Crabbs new ABC series Ms. Represented is a 4 part look at firsts for women in Australian parliament.

From early struggles for basic of facilities in the House, to persistent problems of harassment that plague the system to this day, Crabb speaks to those who have been at the face of change.

We cant tell the whole story of women in politics over the last 100 years. There are so many interesting women to talk to. But we frankly, couldnt afford to fly around and talk to them all, she tells TV Tonight.

Weve got about a dozen and a half interviewees. Mainly, weve chosen them on the basis that they were the first woman to do X, Y, or Z. One of the amazing things about our system is that a lot of our firsts are still alive, still in Parliament.

Weve obviously gone to Julia Gillard

Weve obviously gone to Julia Gillard, the first female prime minister. Weve also talked to Quentin Bryce, the first female Governor General, shes the only non-serving politician that we interviewed. Plus the first Defence minister, first Foreign minister, first Immigration minister to be a woman, first Indigenous woman in the Reps and in the Senate, the first Muslim woman (in Parliament), the first woman to serve in both houses.

The series hears from voices on the left, right and in between, including Bronwyn Bishop, Sarah Hanson-Young, Cheryl Kernot (the first female leader of the Democrats Janine Haines died in 2004) and Anne Aly, Julia Banks, Julie Bishop, Linda Burney, Emma Husar, Natasha Stott Despoja, Ros Kelly, Carmen Lawrence, Marise Payne, Nova Peris, Margaret Reynolds, Kate Sullivan, Judith Troeth, Amanda Vanstone & Penny Wong.

Despite varying persuasions of party, sometimes there is a shared experience.

In Episode Two, we have a montage of them all saying exactly the same thing about what happens when youre the only woman in a room in a meeting. Thats quite an amazing piece of television.

She didnt consent to be involved

But there are also profile independents who are not included, though not always by design.

We didnt ask Jackie Lambie because she was not a first in that sense, even though shes been a highly significant Senator, says Crabb.

We asked Pauline Hanson a number of times but she didnt consent to be involved. It would have been really interesting to talk to her. But we didnt have the chance.

The series also acknowledges the huge achievement by Australia to be the first independent nation in the world where women could both vote and run for Parliament (NZ was first to give women the vote; there are contentions that another territory may have been first with Parliamentary rights).

But it was a blunder in 1894 that gave women in South Australia an unexpected outcome.

Australias suffragists were really ahead of the ballgame

Nobody was campaigning for women to have the right to run for Parliament because that didnt happen anywhere in the world. Australias suffragists were really ahead of the ballgame. In South Australia, the premier at the time, Charles Kingston, agreed to undertake to give women the vote. He presented the legislation to Parliament and it needed a majority to pass. It had a series of really settled opponents, particularly one guy, Ebenezer Ward who had this idea to kill off the bill, she explains.

He said, Im going to amend the bill to give women not only the right to vote, but to run for Parliament as well. His view was, strategically, this was such a shocking idea and so repellent -not even the suffragettes were asking for that- that it would immediately kill the bill, like a poison pill. But actually, it didnt.

The vote went through, so by accident, he unintentionally managed to escalate the enfranchisement of women, rather than kill it off!

It was quite an extraordinary own-goal!

Ms. Represented airs 8pm Tuesday on ABC.
Local

centerpiece

Facing Deportation: East Texas teacher awaits fate of American Dream and Promise Act (copy)

aconejo / Ana Conejo / Tyler Morning Telegraph Bitia Saravia, DACA recipient and fifth grade bilingual teacher at J.L. Everhart Magnet Elementary at Longview ISD, interacts with her students as they attempt to solve the math equation on the board. aconejo / Ana Conejo / Tyler Morning Telegraph Bitia Saravia, Daca Recipient and fifth grade bilingual teacher at J.L. Everhart Magnet Elementary at Longview ISD, demonstrates how to solve a math equation to her summer class students. aconejo / Ana Conejo / Tyler Morning Telegraph The three forms that must be filled out by DACA recipients, Form 1-765 Worksheet, Application for Employment Authorization and Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals. {span}DACA recipients renew every two years and must pay the application fee of $495.{/span} aconejo / Ana Conejo / Tyler Morning Telegraph Bitia Saravia, Daca Recipient and fifth grade bilingual teacher at J.L. Everhart Magnet Elementary at Longview ISD, reads a book to her summer classroom students. aconejo / Ana Conejo / Tyler Morning Telegraph Bitia Saravia, Daca Recipient and fifth grade bilingual teacher at J.L. Everhart Magnet Elementary at Longview ISD, demonstrates how to solve a math equation for her summer class students. aconejo / Ana Conejo / Tyler Morning Telegraph Bitia Saravia, Daca Recipient and fifth grade bilingual teacher at J.L. Everhart Magnet Elementary at Longview ISD, interacts with her classroom students as they attempt to solve the math equation on the board. aconejo / Ana Conejo / Tyler Morning Telegraph Tyler Immigration Lawyer Ginger Young gathers up forms that must be filled out by DACA Recipients. aconejo / Ana Conejo / Tyler Morning Telegraph Tyler immigration lawyer Ginger Young explains the forms that DACA recipients have to fill out.

A respected, beloved and long-time East Texas teacher who has lived in the United States legally for most of the last 32 years is facing deportation to a country she doesnt know.

She risks never returning to America if deported. In this reality, she would leave behind her students, her classroom, her husband, her two children and her assets.

The political rollercoaster for immigration reform has gone up and down each time there is a new president. With a Democrat in office, there is hope again temporary residency would become permanent. However, a Republican Texas senator who sees the benefit of dreamers thinks there is a zero percent chance legislation will pass. In the same sentence, he says, Theyve grown up with our kids, attended the same churches, shopped in the same grocery stores, and defended our freedoms in the United States military.

Awaiting a pathway to freedom

Attempts to create a pathway to citizenship for dreamers have been made and have passed the House of Representatives multiple times without success.

Recently, after the bill was introduced to the House of Representatives on March 3, 2021. Representatives voted on to pass H.R. 6, the American Dream and Promise Act, in the House.

There were 228 representatives who voted yes, and 197 who voted no. Of the 228 who voted yes, there were 219 Democrats and nine Republicans. All 197 representatives who voted no were Republican.

There were five representatives who were classified as not voting, including East Texas Congressman Louie Gohmert, R-Tyler. A document sent to the House of Representatives from his office said he was not in attendance at the time of voting due to a death in his family.

The American Dream and Promise Act was passed and headed toward the Senate on March 18. Dreamers are hopeful and await their fate that this year, as years of struggle and limbo will be placed behind them.

A teacher in peril

This is the reality that a fifth-grade bilingual teacher at Longview ISDs J.L. Everhart Magnet Elementary School faces if H.R. 6 fails to pass the Senate once again.

Bitia Saravia arrived in the United States at the age of 2 with her family, who was escaping the war and violence of El Salvador in the late 1980s.

She grew up in Houston and until high school didnt really understand the fact that she was undocumented.

All my friends were getting drivers licenses and I couldnt. They were getting jobs and I didnt, she said.

As her friends searched for options in colleges and universities, it became a question of, Can I even go to college?

Temporary Protection Status, or TPS, became an option for Saravia because she was from El Salvador. The status is given to those who come from designated countries chosen by the Secretary of Homeland Security due to conditions in the country that temporarily prevent those who came from there, from returning safely or adequately.

Since there was war and violence in El Salvador, a country that was and still is a designated country for TPS, Saravia was granted TPS. Opportunities opened up for her.

At 17, she began working.

There was an unfortunate mix-up with Saravias attorney who handled her TPS, and the fingerprinting section of the filing did not get paid. As a result, Saravia lost her protective status over the clerical issue.

By the time she lost her status, Saravia had already enrolled at the University of Texas at Tyler and had a job as a server at a local chain restaurant. She was able to continue the path she was on as she was never asked to update her paperwork that revealed her status.

In 2009, Saravia graduated with a bachelors degree in education and interdisciplinary studies. This is usually when an individual would secure employment in their field and work toward their personal goals, but this was not the case for Saravia.

She was an undocumented immigrant in the United States after losing her protective status. She knew she couldnt move forward to the next step of her life until something was done, so she kept her job as a server, while holding her bachelors degree from UT Tyler, and got paid $2.13 an hour.

She was eventually promoted to manager, not knowing if she was ever going to be able to practice her profession or not.

From 2006 to 2012, this was her limbo.

Obviously I was very grateful I had a job, but it was very depressing working in a job that wasnt what I felt was my calling, she said. It wasnt what I wanted to do with my life. I felt very much limited and stuck. At that moment, its very frustrating. I had a bachelors degree working for $2.13 an hour.

Saravia said that she had so many talents and ways to contribute, but she felt as if she wasnt being allowed to contribute.

This is the only country Ive ever known, I got here when I was 2. This is the only country Ive ever pledged allegiance to, even though Im not a citizen of it. Ive been taught this is the American Dream, the land of opportunity, and to love a country so much that you dont feel loves you back, was just a really dark moment, Saravia said.

A flickering light

In 2012, after going through a stagnant time of her life, most worries ended for her. The Obama Administration presented the program that would once again open opportunities for her life. She was able to apply for DACA.

A year later, she was granted DACA status and was able to begin teaching. Ever since, shes been at the same school district and she loves what she does.

I honestly cant imagine not being able to be a teacher. This job has allowed me to provide for my family, Saravia said.

Saravia married a U.S. citizen, which creates a pathway for her to apply for citizenship. This route, however, would require her to return to a country she has never known.

Ive never been there since I was 2, and Im 34 now, she said.

Because Saravia lived in the United States as an undocumented immigrant for a period of time, applying for citizenship through her husband is not the preferred way to obtain citizenship. The penalty for being undocumented in the U.S. for over a year requires the individual to return to their home country for a number of years, up to 10 years. And in some instances, the individual may not have permission to ever return to the United States.

Thats why we havent wanted to explore my husband petitioning for me, because its a requirement. Im hoping that, if they create a pathway to citizenship for dreamers, it wouldnt require us to go back to our country to do that, Saravia said.

Another setback

When DACA was taken away by the Trump Administration, the family of four felt as if there wasnt another alternative, so they began to follow that path of filling through her husband for Saravia to obtain citizenship that way.

She now faces deportation to a country, one she runs the risk of never returning from.

I have my family here, this is the only place Ive ever known. We have two kids. It would greatly affect our family in a positive way if the Dream Act does get passed, Saravia said.

The 34-year-old teacher is now holding her breath, awaiting the fate of the American Dream and Promise Act.

Saravia describes DACA as a temporary band-aid that has helped her advance in life. It allowed her to get her foot in the door and be able to use her talents, contribute to the community and follow her passion at Longview ISD.

Waiting for a solution

Im about to start my ninth year teaching this fall and Ive had hundreds of students and I love them dearly. I think about, what if I never had the opportunity to never have these kids in my life, she said.

Saravia still holds DACA status and is waiting to hear the results of her husband petitioning for her to receive citizenship. If the American Dream and Promise Act was passed, she would attempt to pause the process through her husband and pursue the new law to gain her citizenship, as it most likely would not require her to return to El Salvador for a number of years.

If it did pass, I would want to be a citizen of the only country Ive ever known  the country Ive contributed to, that I feel like I help make a better place, she said.

These days, Saravia has had difficult conversations with her family.

These are the conversations I have to have with my 6-year-old daughter. I have to tell her that this is a possibility and its important for me that my daughter understand that, if I ever left this country, it wasnt by choice, that if I ever left her with her dad behind, that I wasnt choosing to abandon her, that it wasnt my choice, she said.

Saravia has never known El Salvador since she was 2. She said not knowing her country makes her even more uncomfortable about taking her family and moving them there.

It would be a separation. It would be me going to El Salvador and my husband and kids being here. Me becoming a citizen would take away that dark cloud of a possibility that I wouldnt be with my family, she said.

Saravia spoke about the ignorance of the knowledge of DACA, saying she often hears misconceptions that DACA recipients are still children. Today, a large portion of them are adults that now contribute to society and pay taxes.

They think that were here to take when were here to give, she said. We pay into a system we cant take out of. We pay taxes to a government that I cant vote in. I get no say in who represents me, but their vote affects my everyday life, so I dont get a say in that.

She also said there is a common misconception in people who come from foreign countries. She often hears they want to come to the United States to do bad things that are happening in their home countries, but in reality, those immigrating from places like such, have come to the U.S. to escape those experiences.

Like no, were fleeing to do the opposite. We want to make our communities better, we want to live a peaceful life here. Were not here to cause trouble. I feel like we give so much more to our communities than were allowed to take, Saravia said.

Saravia has won the lamplighter award twice in her career at Longview ISD in 2018 and again this year. The award is closely described as the teacher of the year, but chosen by a teachers students instead of their fellow peers.

The moment she finally gains citizenship, Saravia said she is most excited to vote and travel. The first place she would travel to is some of the safest places in her home country of El Salvador.

History

Dreamers, also known as recipients of DACA, the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, were given the opportunity in June 2012 when the Obama Administration created the program to help undocumented individuals who were brought to the United States as children, many of which have spent most of their lives living in the United States.

The Trump Administration began to make efforts to remove the program by September 2017. With about 11 million undocumented persons living in the United States and 1.6 million of those in Texas, the administration was unsuccessful in the abolishment of the program.

Lawsuits were filed against the Trump Administration and in June 2020, protection for dreamers was affirmed by the Supreme Court when they ruled the Trump Administrations decision to end the DACA program arbitrary and capricious in violation of the Administrative Procedure Act.

As a result, the Trump administration began rolling back protections for immigrants, including rejecting new and pending DACA applications.

In January 2021, the Biden administration issued an executive order calling the Secretary of Homeland Security to take all appropriate actions to preserve and fortify DACA, with regulations that would make it harder to take away in case the American Dream and Promise Act does not pass.

DACA did two things for recipients: provides a two-year period where the person cannot be deported, as long as a crime is not committed, and allows for two years of work authorization, which comes with a social security number allowing individuals to apply for their drivers license. DACA recipients renew every two years and must pay the application fee of $495.

With the American Dream and Promise Act, a solution for dreamers could be established by creating an opportunity to apply for permanent legal status and eventually become eligible for U.S. citizenship.

The American Dream and Promise Act would also cancel the removal of undocumented immigrants who have been continuously physically present in the United States for four years preceding the bills enactment, were younger than 18 when they were first brought to the United States, and have no criminal record. Eligible undocumented immigrants must be in school or have graduated, or be serving in the military, or have received an honorable discharge.

After maintaining lawful permanent resident status for five years, these dreamers would then be able to apply to become U.S. citizens.

This is the opportunity three groups of people face: those with TPS, farmworkers and dreamers.

Lawmakers weigh in

We actually have a fighting chance. Ginger Young, immigration attorney and counselor at law at Flowers Davis law firm in Tyler, said about the situation and what the future looks like for dreamers.

In advance of a recent Senate Judiciary Committee hearing, U.S. Senator John Cornyn, R-TX, spoke on the floor and criticized Democrats legislation to legalize undocumented immigrants without addressing the ongoing immigration crisis at the U.S. and Mexico border.

This legislation stands zero chance of passing the senate  zero. It combines some of the most radical proposals from the far left in one massive bill that fails to address the needs of our country, Cornyn said. Rather than discuss the humanitarian crisis at the border, our Democratic colleagues have chosen to hold a hearing on a dead-on-arrival bill, and they know it. Its a remarkable show of priorities.

Cornyn said DACA recipients are a vital part of Texas communities.

Theyve grown up with our kids, attended the same churches, shopped in the same grocery stores, and defended our freedoms in the United States Military, Cornyn said.

Cornyn said Congress cannot pass legislation to provide certainty to dreamers if Democrats and the White House insist on attaching controversial policies or ignoring the immigration crisis at the border.

Gohmert has shown support of requiring immigrants who are unlawfully present to return to their country of origin before they are eligible for citizenship.

The American Dream and Promise Act now lies in the Senate, which requires a total of 60 votes to pass.

Last time I checked, it has 56 votes, and if it doesnt, theres some talk that theyre going to possibly put in a filibuster that they could pass it with fewer votes, but that becomes politically dangerous, so if we can get the votes, that would be the best thing, Young said.

Young advises those who look to obtain citizenship through the possible avenue of the American Dream and Promise Act, to begin working toward getting DACA now.

Requirements include turning 15 years of age after 2017, being enrolled in school, having graduated, or working toward or having obtained a GED or diploma. The applicant must also have arrived before 16 years of age and under the age of 31 and must have a continual presence in the United States for every single year.

Once the Dream and Promise Act passes, DACA goes away. There is no more DACA, so you have to qualify under the Dream and Promise Act, she said.

If one qualifies for the Dream and Promise Act and they dont have DACA, additional proof is required, meaning it could take additional time, sometimes years, to finally obtain citizenship.

Theres a period of conditional, an eight-year period to meet heightened requirements. You have to show an additional two years of college, additional three years of work, one or the other, and you have to show that youre paying taxes for a certain period of time. Its a little harder to get the Dream and Promise Act than it is to get DACA, but its a safety net for people who just didnt get around to filling the DACA, Young explained.

Young added if a person has had DACA and it has been expired for less than a year, they can renew it. She also said that if one meets the requirements after the conditional year, the person can apply for the Dream and Promise Act to become a resident and eventually obtain citizenship.

You can see how important it is to get your DACA now because it saves you six to eight years to get a full residency and then its a shorter hit to your citizenship, Young said.

Young said that so far, its been a three-year path from residency to citizenship.

For example, if on July 1, 2021, a residency is obtained through the Dream and Promise Act, one can become a citizen on July 1, 2024, if the individual previously had DACA.

Young talked about her clients, and how DACA is a band-aid or a protective bubble.

Its hard to think, I want to invest $75,000 into my education, knowing I may not ever be able to work legally. I think we owe it to our society, I think we owe it to these kids to pass the Dream Act, Young said.

She also spoke about the financial impact the law would have on the country.

You have these employers that cant find employees. We have a huge pool of people, whether theyre DACA kids or immigrants, that would love to be able to do that work. Thats passing laws or regulations or something that allows us to employ. It helps the community, it helps the economy, it helps individuals, Young said.

According to an analysis by the Center for American Progress, DACA recipients who arrived as children have deep-rooted ties to their communities. In data collected from spring 2020, statistics revealed that approximately 106,090 DACA recipients live in Texas, and the average age of arrival is 7 years old.

In DACA recipients fiscal and economic contributions, which include annual tax contributions, spending power, and housing payments of household, DACA recipients in Texas paid approximately $705.2 million in federal taxes, $409.9 million in state and local taxes and contributed approximately $3.4 billion in spending power.

Young said the country cant afford as a nation to lose the workforce or lose people who are paying taxes into our system.

People get offended by immigration, theyre on one side or the other typically. There should be no sides. The side should be whats best for the United States, period, Young said, calling DACA an easy transition to the American Dream and Promise Act.

If the law passes, Young said the government and different agencies, including United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, are going to have to create forms, regulations and instructions, and must increase their workforce to be able to adjudicate.

She encourages those who plan on applying for the American Dream and Promise Act to file for DACA and get paper trails together or begin working toward the requirements to qualify.

Young is estimating about three million applications if passed into law. The date of when the American Dream and Promise Act will be voted on in the Senate is unknown and depends on the judiciary committee, where it is currently being held.

Ana Conejo contributed to this report.

Related
For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile.
Afghanistans border with Tajikistan has fallen almost completely  if not fully  under Taliban control. How and when did this happen? As Eurasianet writes, nationwide Taliban offenses surged as soon as U.S.-led forces in Afghanistan declared in May that they intended to pull out by the end of summer. The collapse of Afghan government defenses across the provinces has been rapid. The Taliban look to have focused their strategy heavily on seizing areas on the countrys periphery.

On June 22, they captured the Shir Khan Bandar crossing into Tajikistan, a location around 60 kilometers north of the Afghan city of Kunduz. This was a particularly humiliating blow as the $37 million, 700-meter bridge that replaced the ferry boats that used to ply the Pyanj River was completed in 2007 with U.S. government funding. Now, the Taliban are using the bridge to levy informal customs fees and fund their own operations.

On July 8, Anatoly Sidorov, the head of Joint Staff at the Moscow-led Collective Security Treaty Organization defense bloc, of which Tajikistan is a member, said that almost the entire Afghan-Tajik border was now in Taliban hands.

We saw that Taliban posts have already been set up on the other side, Sidorov said in an interview following a visit to the Tajik border. They have set up observation posts, checkpoints, and security posts. It is all marked with white flags, there is everything there in open view, including weapons. They are not hiding anything.

The 1,357-kilometer Afghan-Tajik border is bridged by six crossings in total  five of them are able to support automobile traffic.

The Tajik authorities are not making any comment on the situation. The Afghan Embassy in Dushanbe has likewise declined to respond to Eurasianet queries.

Is any of the unrest spilling into Tajikistan itself?

The capture of the Shir Khan Bandar crossing saw the first mass flight of defeated Afghan troops into Tajikistan. What started as a trickle became a torrent.

The number of fleeing Afghan troops that have been forced to seek haven in Tajikistan to date has reached more than 1,500. Tajik authorities say the troops were all sent back to Kabul on charter flights.

Many hundreds of civilians are also said to have sought refuge in Tajikistan. The Afghan ambassador in Dushanbe on July 9 posted images of his visit to a tent camp in the Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Regions Shughnon district. He said in a Facebook post that more than 1,000 people were in the camp.

Between COVID-19 and the unrest, ordinary travel across the border has long since been suspended. Officially, the borders are shut, and the Afghan Embassy is on paper no longer issuing visas. Anonymous sources have told Eurasianet, however, that they have still been able to get visas through illicit channels and to cross at Shir Khan Bandar.

Why would people even want to travel at this time?

It is truckers who are mainly still crossing the border. One long-distance trucker, Farrukh, told Eurasianet that he had personally returned from Shir Khan Bandar on July 8.

On the whole, it is like it was before. Just some of the border and customs staff have changed. And thats it, he said.

Tajik truckers are mostly only going as far as Shir Khan Bandar, to drop off or pick up goods, although nobody is explicitly forbidding them from going further.

Adjmal Kokar, a journalist from the Afghan city of Kunduz, told Eurasianet that there are Tajik drivers going deep into the country without trouble. So long as Tajik border officers give the green light, and they seem to be amenable, there is no issue.

What kind of trade do Afghanistan and Tajikistan do?

Legally, not a huge amount. Tajik officials assessed bilateral trade in 2020 at $70.7 million. Most of that  $69.8 million  goes from Tajikistan to Afghanistan.

The bulk of this trade is not even tangible items. Fully 65 percent of Tajik exports is electricity. There is no clear picture on how the situation is affecting those supplies. The rest is mostly cement and aluminum products. Afghanistan exports fruit and vegetables, carpets and other handicrafts.

And then there are narcotics, of course, which are not reflected in trading data. Between domestic consumption, production and export, opiates are estimated to have generated $2.1 billion in Afghanistan in 2019 alone. Large amounts of the heroin that reaches Russia first crosses Tajikistan.

Tajikistan does import some volumes of citrus fruits, bananas, potatoes and sometimes carrots from Pakistan, though. So if Afghanistan ceases to be a viable transit country for a period, it will cause some discomfort on the Tajik market, which has witnessed steeply rising food prices during the coronavirus pandemic.

What is Tajikistans official position on the Taliban?

Not clear. Tajik security services are assumed to be in deep, covert dialogue with all kinds of elements inside Afghanistan. But some hints about the governments overall posture are offered by their public pronouncements. The Taliban are no longer spoken about in state media with complete disdain.

When the State Committee for National Security, or GKNB, publishes any statements about the banned opposition Islamic Renaissance Party of Tajikistan, it refers to it as a terrorist and extremist group. The Taliban is also legally recognized as an extremist organization, but the GKNB has quietly dispensed with this descriptor in recent times, opting for the more neutral term armed group.

The compliments are mutual. The Taliban was at pains earlier this week to reassure Dushanbe that it would respect Tajik sovereignty and that it intended no harm.

A Taliban delegation on July 8 brought this same message, and more, to Russia. The group's representatives said they were determined to achieve sustainable peace  through negotiations and that they would take into account the interests of all ethnic groups [and] respect human rights, including womens rights, within the framework of Islamic norms and Afghan traditions.
Ahead of the upcoming second Russia-Africa summit, scheduled for October-November 2022 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, the Coordination Council established under the aegis of the Secretariat of the Russia-Africa Partnership Forum (RAPF), has held its third meeting in the format of a videoconference.

As Modern Diplomacy writes, during the meeting, the participants discussed preparations for the second Russia-Africa summit and its concept as well as targets and a list of events for the 2022 summit. The Coordination Council members deliberated the status of preparatory works and plans for the near future, and the most significant emerging issues necessary for enhancing the entire relations between Russia and Africa.

Ultimately, they supported most of the suggestions put forward during the meeting. Among other topics of the meeting were improving mechanisms for existing and planned projects with African partners that would use domestic and international experience, as well as developing road maps for cooperation.

Based on the results of the discussion, it was decided to approve in general the draft concept, organizational and financial scheme for the second Russia-Africa summit, as well as to finalize and approve its target indicators as soon as possible.

Vsevolod Tkachenko, Director of the Africa Department of the Russian Foreign Ministry, reminded the meeting that African partners now expect concrete deeds, maximum substantive ideas and useful proposals and show significant initiatives beyond rhetoric, so the current task is to demonstrate substantially to the African side. Over the past years, so many agreements and memoranda of understanding have been signed, so many pledges and promises have been made to African countries.

Since the basis of the summit remains the economic interaction between Russia and Africa, the ideas currently being worked out on new possible instruments to encourage Russian exports to Africa, Russian investments to the continent, such as a fund to support direct investment in Africa, all these deserve special attention, Tkachenko said.

Oleg Ozerov, Head of the Secretariat of the Russia-Africa Partnership Forum (RAPF), noted that African partners emphasize the importance of Russias participation in agricultural and industrial sectors, major infrastructure development projects (including Russias participation in the continental ten-year program of the African Union), energy development, agriculture, mining complex and digitalization.

With increasing interest in Africa, there are unprecedented number of meetings, urging stakeholders, representatives of Russian ministries and departments, leading Russian companies and business organizations for support and participation. Russian companies are keen to explore opportunities, but slow in implementing whatever agreements signed with Africa. There is also summit declaration, which is a comprehensive working document, since 2019 from Sochi, Russia.

Early June, Russia-Africa dialogue, another gathering aimed at business networking to fill some gaps, intensifying policy discussions and consultations, was held during on sideline of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum as suggested by Russian Minister of Foreign Affairs Sergey Lavrov.

During that meeting, the discussions centered on identifying pathways, the necessary groundworks for scaling-up the weak economic presence in Africa. Existing opportunities in sectors as energy, high technology, agriculture, industry and tourism questions were again talk-shopped. As a matter of routine interactions, participants spoke extensively calling for practical steps in creating fundamental mechanisms to support Russian business in Africa. Nevertheless, there is a re-awakening to the practical reality on how to build a broader economic influence in Africa.

Alexander Saltanov, former Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister and now Chairman of the Association of Economic Cooperation with African States, acknowledges that African countries no longer know as much about Russia as they did about the Soviet Union. With several years of accumulated work experience at the Foreign Ministry, he is back in the driving chair, gearing to make a notable significant change by launching a common information space project between Russia and Africa. A full-scale presentation of this project scheduled in October.

Saltanov has been advocating for business in the form of public-private partnerships in several countries or regions of Africa, and reiterated the need for state support for Russian companies as it is crucial for making a real practical breakthrough on the African continent  and in this sense, it is a useful idea creating Direct Investment Fund.

Russia has maintained an effective bilateral political dialogue, but its economic influence is weak, most them still at the planning stage, with many African countries. Rapidly growing Africa is a promising market for Russian companies too. While most of them have shown interest in business collaboration, the commonest complaints are inadequate support system  both from the state and financial institutions.

While the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has approved the draft concept for the second summit, Russian NGOs have, on their part, still pushing for a diverse set of initiatives aim at enhancing ties. Coordination Committee for Economic Cooperation with African countries, established in 2009, has now proposed, among others, the creating of a fund to support Russian business in Africa.

The conditions that are opening up for Russian business today  they are not quite the same as those for businessmen from France, the European Union, India, or China, according to Senator Igor Morozov, Member of the Committee for Economy Policy of the Federation Council of the Russian Federation and Chairman of the Coordination Committee on Economic Cooperation with Africa.

Senator Morozov has stressed the expediency to continue researching opportunities and take steps for improving Russias competitive edge and, on the other hand, to take advantage of the new window  the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

In a report issued at the end of SPIEF21, Adviser to the President of the Russian Federation Anton Kobyakov held a meeting with Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Arab Republic of Egypt to Russia Ihab Talaat Nasr in Moscow. During the meeting, both discussed, among other topics, plans for preparation for the Russia-Africa summit.

We highly appreciate Egypts contribution to the holding of the first Russia-Africa summit in 2019 chaired by the leaders of Russia and Egypt. We are already starting preparations for the next summit that is to take place in October-November 2022 in one of African countries, and in this matter we also count on Egypts friendly assistance, noted Adviser to the President of the Russian Federation Anton Kobyakov.

According to official reports, the Secretariat of the Russia-Africa Partnership Forum (RAPF) created as a new mechanism for dialoguing aspects of multifaceted cooperation between Russia and Africa. It oversees the organizational and practical preparations of new initiatives and coordinates efforts on preparing for regular summits, every three years, as part of the joint declaration, in Sochi, Russia.
Many hackers conduct cyberattacks just to show their abilities and do not think that the cyberattacks will put them behind bars.

The DDoS (Denial of Service) attack on the Voice of Vietnams (VOV) online newspaper (vov.vn) some days ago caused the newspaper to stop working temporarily and discontented the public.

The police said they have initially prosecuted one defendant in the group of attackers. Members of this group are all from Vietnam, with no foreign interference.

Lawyer Bui Dinh Ung from Bui Dinh Ung Law Office of the Hanoi Bar Association said in cyberattack cases, appropriate agencies need to clarify the motives and purposes of the subjects before deciding on how to handle them.

If the cyberattack is only intended to delay the operation of an organization or individual and does not aim to oppose the people's administration or appropriate property, the act will be handled in accordance with the Article 287 of the Penal Code on the crime of obstructing or disrupting the operation of computer networks, telecommunications networks and electronic means.

The lightest penalty for this act is imprisonment from six months to three years.

In case of intentional attacks, depending on the extent of damage in money, material and time, the violator may be sentenced to 7-12 years in prison, if his behavior causes serious consequences.

If the attacker is hired to attack or carries out the attack under the influence of other persons, the mastermind will take main responsibility before the law. The hacker will be a partner in crime.

So, in front of the law, cybercrimes can completely be criminally handled with sentences as heavy as the ones for murder and theft.

Real consequences of online jokes

There are two kinds of common cybercrimes nowadays. First, the attackers try to obtain access to computer networks or equipment of institutions and individuals. Second, cybercrimes use technology to commit fraud.

There are two kinds of common cybercrimes nowadays. First, the attackers try to obtain access to computer networks or equipment of institutions and individuals. Second, cybercrimes use technology to commit fraud.

According to the UK National Crime Agency, the average age of cyber-attackers tends to be young.

A recent report of the agency showed that cybercrimes are often committed by people around 17 years old. The average age of hackers is less than half that of drug criminals (37) and financial crimes (39).

For many young people, attacking well-known websites is a way for them to become famous and show their abilities. Not all of them understand that this is a wrongdoing which causes serious consequences to society.

According to Ung, the hackers who conduct cyberattacks with an aim to show off and dont have enmity toward their victims will have to take responsibility before the law, depending on age, behavior and consequences.

For those over 18 years old, they will have to be criminally responsible for violating the provisions of Article 287 of the Penal Code, regardless of whether the act aimed to just show off or to destroy.

Cyberattack is considered a terrorist act

Many people think that the Internet is a virtual world with loose regulations and laws dont exist. They may hack certain websites without thinking about possible consequences.

However, an act of hacking website, if placed in a specific case with a specific purpose, could be severely punished, and is even considered a terrorist act.

Lawyer Vu Quoc Toan from the HCM City Bar Association, when talking to the press after the attack on Voice of Vietnam online newspaper, said the hackers behavior may be handled in accordance with Articles 8, 18, 19 and 21 of the Law on Cybersecurity.

This is also the view of Major General Le Minh Manh, Deputy Director of the Department of Cybersecurity and High-tech Crime Prevention under the Ministry of Public Security. The act of promoting and conducting cyberattacks is clearly defined in the Law on Cybersecurity.

Article 10 of the Law on Cybersecurity stipulates that the information system belonging to the press is also seen as an important information system for national security.

The Article also clearly stipulates the acts which are strictly prohibited, including instigating, enticing and inciting other people to commit crimes and carry out cyber attacks, cyber terrorism and cybercrimes, causing offenses, or attacking, infiltrating, or hijacking an information system important to national security.

As explained by the Law on Cybersecurity, cyberattack is an act of using cyberspace, information technology (IT) or electronic means to sabotage or disrupt the operation of telecommunications networks, the Internet, computer networks and information systems.

Cyber terrorism is the use of cyberspace, IT or electronic means to commit acts of terrorism, or terrorism financing.

The Law on Cybersecurity also stipulates that, depending on the nature and seriousness of their violations, those who commit acts of violating the law on cybersecurity will be disciplined, administratively handled or face criminal prosecution. If the acts cause serious damages, they will have to compensate for the damages as stipulated by the law.

The Article 299 on crime of terrorism in the 2015 Penal Code 2015, the destruction of property of agencies, organizations and individuals in order to cause panic among the public can be subject to 10-20 year imprisonment, life imprisonment, or even death penalty.

With such specific regulations, it is unfortunate that many young people become cybercriminals simply because of mistakes. Many people get involved in crime without understanding that they are breaking the law.

Not only in Vietnam but in many countries around the world, cyberattack is a serious criminal offense. For hackers, the cyber attacks they cause may become criminal convictions that they never can wash away for a lifetime.

Trong Dat

HCM City police sets up division to crack down on cybercrime The Ho Chi Minh City Police Department, on January 12, held a ceremony to announce a decision on the establishment of its new devision for cyber security and high-tech crime prevention and control.
Stocks of technology companies are selling very well in the Vietnamese stock market.

If you regularly observe the list of world's billionaires, you will see that most of them got rich from technology and this trend has been increasing in recent years.



According to Forbes' ranking of the world's richest people, 7 of the 10 richest people on the planet are founders of technology corporations. Among the 50 richest people in the world, technology billionaires account for 32%, far ahead of other fields such as finance, food or media.



More than 10 years ago, Dr. Tran Du Lich, then a National Assembly deputy, when commenting on the Land Law, sadly said that most billionaires in Vietnam all came up from real estate, meaning they used national resources to get rich.



However, the current list of the richest individuals and businesses in Vietnam has more names in the field of technology such as Vingroup billionaire Pham Nhat Vuong, FPT head Truong Gia Binh, Mobile World head Nguyen Duc Tai









Billionaire Pham Nhat Vuong - the richest person in Vietnam with a fortune of $8.5 billion - is turning his attention to the technology field.

In Vietnam, billionaires have been taking the first steps in the field of technology. Recently, thecFLC Group of Trinh Van Quyet, or most recently, VICOSTONE. a construction materials company of Ho Xuan Nang, have announced plans to invest in smart cars.

The rapid wealth of tech billionaires reflects the attraction of technology stocks in the market.

Hot tech stocks

The explosion of IT and the 4.0 era are creating momentum for the development of tech-companies. In the top 10 stocks with the largest market capitalization in the world, technology stocks account for the six leading positions.

The most popular technology stocks today include AAPL (Apple), MSFT (Microsoft), AMZN (Amazon), FB (Facebook), GOOGL (Alphabet) and BABA (Alibaba).

The outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic has made technology companies even more attractive. Since early 2020, technology stocks have been a bright star on the US stock exchange.

While companies in other sectors have had to struggle to survive, companies in the technology sector have posted positive growth numbers amid the economic downturn caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Among the top tech stocks, Apple's stock price has grown 2.2 times in the past year. Positive parameters were also recorded with shares of Microsoft (up 1.8 times), Facebook (up 2.1 times) or Google (up 2.1 times).

This steady growth has made global investors increasingly confident in technology companies' stocks. This takes place in the context of the world facing many risks from non-traditional threats.

Vietnamese technology stocks

Shares of technology giants such as Facebook, Microsoft, and Alphabet are always sought after by many investors. The trend of digital transformation is an opportunity for Vietnamese technology firms to take on a big mission and go global.

In Vietnam, many people have not forgotten the period 2006  2007 - the golden age of FPT stock. At that time, the founders of FPT group were also the richest people on the stock exchange.

However, it is unfortunate that Vietnamese technology companies are not creating an impact as great as global technology corporations.

Among listed technology firms, there are only a few notable names such as FPT (FPT JSC), CMG (CMC Technology Corporation), ABC (VMG Media JSC), YEG (Yeah1 Group), ADG (Clever Group JSC), ICT (Post Telecommunications  IT JSC, CTIN), and MFS (MobiFone Technical Services JSC).

On the stock market, except for FPT, which has a liquidity of up to millions of units per trading session, the remaining technology stocks have average liquidity (about a few hundred thousand units traded each session).

The reason is that most stocks of technology companies are traded on UPCOM. The transparency of UPCOM is lower than that of HOSE and HNX, while the fluctuation range is much larger (15% of UPCOM compared to 7% of HOSE and 10% of HNX).

In the eyes of investors, Vietnamese technology companies are not necessarily recognized as real tech firms because the number of their technology assets (patents) is not high.

In addition, business efficiency, internal resources and sensitivity of domestic technology enterprises have not been highly appreciated. This fact has caused many investors to be cautious when investing in technology stocks.

FPT is the most successful Vietnamese technology company on the stock market with a consistently high price for its shares.

Digital transformation and Vietnam's direction

Digital technology, digital transformation, digital economy, and the digital era will be a global trend and an irreversible process. With the emergence of the industrial revolution 4.0, the world is at the breakthrough point for the digital transformation process.

According to IDC, investment in direct digital transformation will increase in the period 2020 - 2023, expected to reach $6.8 trillion as many companies are taking advantage of technology to become future digital businesses. IDC forecasted that by 2022, 65% of global GDP will come from digitization.

Vietnam has set the goal that by the end of 2022, 70% of organizations and businesses will accelerate their digital transformation, transform existing operational processes in order to enhance customer interactions, improve labor productivity, and enhance their resilience.

The Covid-19 pandemic has contributed to an increase in consumer demand for technology products and online services. Therefore, stocks of Vietnamese technology companies are becoming more attractive.

In the past year, the price of FPT shares has increased 2.1 times, from VND37,400 per share in mid-March 2020 to VND79,600 at present. The price for CMG shares of CMC technology group has risen by 1.58 times, from VND23,000 to VND36,400 per share.

Compared to other strong stocks such as VJC of Vietjet Air (up 1.37%) and VNM of Vietnam Dairy Products Joint Stock Company (up 1.33 times), technology stocks had a high growth rate in the past year.

With pressure from the National Digital Transformation Program and the self-demand of people and businesses, the development of digital transformation and solution packages is considered to be the driving force for the growth of tech firms for years to come.

In that context, stocks of tech firms in Vietnam will become more attractive in the eyes of investors.

Trong Dat

The richest banker revealed, with assets worth US$2 billion Techcombank shares (TCB) of billionaire Ho Hung Anh have been increasing in price. Forbes estimates that Anh now has $2 billion in stock assets. Other recent developments of the country's wealthy:
Vietnamese leaders have extended greetings to their Philippine counterparts on the occasion of the 45th founding anniversary of the diplomatic ties (July 12, 1976 - 2021).

State President Nguyen Xuan Phuc (L), who served as the Prime Minister at the time, joined talks with Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte on the sidelines of the 30th ASEAN Summit in the Philippines in 2017 (Photo: VNA)

State President Nguyen Xuan Phuc and Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh cabled their greetings to President of the Philippines Rodrigo Duterte.

Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son sent his greetings to Philippine Secretary of Foreign Affairs Teodoro Locsin.

The Philippines exports to Vietnam hit 1.27 billion USD and the import value was 3.64 billion USD in 2020.

Over the past five years, the two countries have also carried out an array of activities in culture and education.

Source: VNA
PM Pham Minh Chinh on July 11 requested the southern border province of Tay Ninh to take actions to prevent the COVID-19 pandemic from spreading out in the community, strictly monitor those coming from pandemic-hit areas, and control the border.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh visits Moc Bai - Tay Ninh border gate

Speaking to the provinces leading officials, the leader asked them to carry out a pandemic prevention scenario at a higher level and in a more effective manner.

He expressed his hope that local forces will strictly follow regulations to safeguard the national independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, better pandemic prevention and control work, boost economic development and exports, and maintain and consolidate the friendship and solidarity between Vietnam and Cambodia.

A representative of Tay Ninh proposed the Government further support the province in conducting quick testing and several issues related to socio-economic development in the coming time.

On July 10, the Government leader also had a working session with leading officials of Long An province, during which he emphasised that the COVID-19 fight is now the top priority in the southern locality.

He required local authorities to encourage people to strictly follow the Governments directives on pandemic prevention and control.

The PM also asked the Ministry of Health to allocate 400,000 vaccine doses needed to inoculate workers in industrial parks in Long An - the 12th largest local-level economy in Vietnam.

Source: VNA
As a farmer who could not speak Vietnamese and didn't know information technology, Tang Lien succeeded becoming a famous YouTuber with three channels, attracting foreign and Vietnamese subscribers.

YouTuber Tang Lien

It was in early July. The rain in the mountainous area soothed heat from the scorching sun. Tang Lien, born in 1984, in Na Tu hamlet, Ha Lau commune of Tien Yen district in Quang Ninh province, was busy writing down the idea for her next clip to be posted on YouTube.

She thought of a clip that would help local people better understand about Covid-19 and the way to prevent and fight the pandemic.

Tang Lien began developing her YouTube channel two years ago. At first, she just intended to share the images about her daily life at home and in the hamlet. But later, her channel became a favorite in Dao language providing information about the culture of the Dao Thanh Lien ethnic minority.

YouTuber Tang Lien has three YouTube channels  Lien Quang Ninh 1, Lien Tien Yen 2 and Lien Ha Lau 3, with more than 6,000 subscribers.

Tang Lien was born and grew up in a poor hamlet, where many children remain illiterate and IT is something unfamiliar.

Since childhood, she has loved the distinctive features of her national costume. She wears the costume not only at festivals, but also at other times, when doing heavy work (going to the forest to collect firewood, farming or herding buffalo) to prove her love for the place where she was born.

After getting married, Lien still kept the habit of participating in cultural events, where she can meet photographers and learn about cameras and camcorders.

Lien wantd to preserve the culture for posterity and introduce the culture to many people. So she spent VND3 million to buy a smartphone and learned how to use social networks.

Lien Quang Ninh 1, her first channel, has been welcomed by many people. Some clips even attracted 13,000 views within two months. Her clips show a cultural "treasure" about the daily life of the Dao Thanh Y people, from the customs, traditions, community activities, songs, festivals, to costumes. In clips, she uses Dao language, with subtitles in Vietnamese language.



Dang Thi Hoa, an aunt of Tang Lien, cooperates with her niece, composing songs in Dao language, thus enriching the cultural treasure of Dao people.

I really enjoy participating in the activities of Lien, who gives me more energy to live and love our national culture, Hoa said.

Her YouTube channel has begun bringing money, about VND3-4 million a month, something that no one else in the hamlet has done.

Lenh Thang

Young man brings pride of Vietnam to Africa Pham Quang Linh, 24, from the central province of Nghe An, has "painted" a beautiful story in Africa.
Workers forced to take unpaid leave from 15 days to below one month would receive VND1.85 million ($80.4) per person, and VND3.71 million ($161.23) if taking an unpaid leave of over one month.

Deputy Director of the Department of Labor Relations under the Vietnam General Confederation of Labor Le Dinh Quang. File photo

Deputy Director of the Department of Labor Relations under the Vietnam General Confederation of Labor Le Dinh Quang shared with The Hanoi Times his view on the Governments latest social relief package worth VND26 trillion (US$1.1 billion) to aid workers and employers cope with the pandemic.

What are the main differences between this support program compared to the last years package for people affected by the pandemic?

The resolution No.42/NQ-CP released last April is aimed at supporting those facing hardship during the pandemic, including social beneficiaries, poor and near-poor households, businesses, and laborers. This time, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh issued resolution No.68/NQ-CP focusing on workers hit by the pandemic.

Under the resolution, employers are required not to pay a premium to the Occupational Accident and Disease Insurance for 12 months, but directly to the workers.

Meanwhile, workers that are out of jobs would be entitled to financial support worth VND1 million (US$43.42), while pregnant workers would receive an additional VND1 million and a further VND1 million for workers rearing children below 6 years of age.

The resolution also provides supporting measures for children and people under Covid-19 treatment and quarantine; tour guides and people working in the field of art.

How do you expect this program would help people overcome the pandemic?

Resolution No.68 was based on experience and lessons drawn from the implementation of the social package worth VND62 trillion (US$2.3 billion) under resolution No.42. So far, only 230,000 workers with labor contracts and one million without contracts have benefited from the first package.

This time, measures in resolution No.68 have been drafted to better respond to the actual situation, in which workers forced to take unpaid leave from 15 days to below one month would receive VND1.85 million ($80.4) per person, and VND3.71 million ($161.23) if taking an unpaid leave of over one month.

Those having their contracts terminated and unqualified to receive unemployment benefits would receive VND3.71 million.

Overall, all criteria and requirements have been simplified to ensure workers and employers benefit from the support.

The Vietnam General Confederation of Labor estimates around 11 million workers would receive financial support of over VND3.5 trillion ($152.12 million).

A temporary suspension of payment obligation for pensions and death gratuity funds is expected to benefit 1.5 million workers with an amount of VND11 trillion ($478.17 million), which is in stark contrast with a similar policy in resolution No.42 with 192,000 workers receiving benefits of VND786 billion ($34.16 million).

We also expect a new policy that helps employers seek loans with preferential rates and simplified procedures, without the need for a mortgage, would provide much-needed support for the business community.

Compared to the previous one, the support policy this time provides funds for businesses to train workers to keep them on the job. What do you think about this measure?

This policy is new and demonstrates the governments support for both workers and employers during the process of organization reshuffling, making changes in corporate governance, and adapting to a new circumstance in the post-Covid-19 period.

The financial support would be VND1.5 million ($65.24) per person per month for six months.

This could be seen as a useful measure for enterprises to recover once the pandemic ends. Therefore, enterprises should propose effective training plans for workers to match their vision for development and prevent potential waste.

Source: hanoitimes
Thousands of volunteers have come to assist the northern Bac Giang province in its fight against COVID-19.

browser not support iframe.

Some have worked on the frontlines, while others have worked silently behind the scenes but have an equally important role in the battle against the pandemic, like Hitoshi Mukai, a Japanese teacher at the ICO Manpower International Joint Stock Company.

An epicentre during the latest wave of COVID-19, Bac Giang province called on local enterprises to arrange accommodation for medical workers coming from other localities to offer support in the fight against the pandemic.

Knowing that his company set aside a staff and trainee accommodation zone for nearly 150 doctors, medical workers, and students from the Thai Binh University of Medicine and Pharmacy and the Hanoi Medical College, Hitoshi was among ten ICO volunteers offering assistance to frontline workers.

Medical workers on the scene said the Japanese teacher is agile and sociable and does not mind the difficulties.

Hitoshi joins in clean-up and sanitisation efforts and providing food to medical workers every day. His days start at 5.30 am, and his breaks depend on the workload of the medical staff.

Besides contributing to helping Bac Giang overcome these tough times, what Hitoshi has done is vivid illustration of the solidarity between the Vietnamese and Japanese peoples./.

Source: VNA
The Ministry of National Defense has just sent a mobile Covid-19 testing van from the capital city of Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City in order to strengthen the testing capacity in the city.

A deserted Truong Dinh Street in District 3. HCMC started a 15-day lockdown on Friday. VNS Photo

Colonel Hoang Duc Hau, Director of Vietnam  Russia Combined Tropical Science and Technology Research Center under the Vietnam  Russia Tropical Center of the Ministry of National Defense, said that the mobile Covid-19 testing vehicle was under donation of Russia, and the Vietnam  Russia Tropical Center was assigned for receiving, managing and putting it into operation.

This is the most modern mobile lab for Covid-19 testing in Vietnam to promptly analyze the sample tests to find virus carriers in the community.

The vehicle had ever been used for SARS-CoV-2 testing in Da Nang City, the provinces of Quang Binh and Bac Giang and it isnow being operated in Ho Chi Minh City.

The vehicle has its highest capacity of analyzing up to 400 samples a day and then the results will be shown within 24 hours. It can travel in every terrain and is equipped with two generators to operate in places without power.

The mobile vehicle departed from the capital city of Hanoi at 5a.m. on July 8 and arrived in the Vietnam  Russia Tropical Center in the Southern branch at 9:30 p.m. on July 9. At 10:30 a.m. on July 10, it was ready for receiving samples testing in HCMC.

Lieutenant Dang Minh Nhat, driver of the mobile Covid-19 testing van, said that the vehicles traveled non-stop from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. He and other medical staff in the van are doing fine.

There are three testing staff working in a small lab room using negative pressure which regularly exposes loud noise but they have tried their best to give test result as soon as possible.

Dang Thi Viet Huong, a research assistant at the Vietnam  Russia Tropical Center, said that after receiving the assigned tasks, they promptly arranged work in Hanoi to depart for HCMC on July 3. Whenever the Northern region suffered from the pandemic outbreak, they all participated in sample test practice. They hope to help the countrys largest pandemic hit area this time.

Under the unification of the Military Medical Authorities, HCMC Department of Health and HCMC Center for Diseases Control (HCDC), the Vietnam  Russia Tropical Center in the Southern branch implemented the microbiological analysis to receive testing samples from HCDC at 5 p.m. on July 4.

On the first day of the working, the center received 1,203 samples and detected 30 positive ones. The Vietnam  Russia Tropical Center in the Southern branch has tested a total of over 30,500 samples and detected over 178 positive ones so far.

Source: SGGP
Larry Plemons has been herding a big brown UPS truck around Central Texas more than 30 years without an accident. But the Bosqueville High School graduate and Robinson resident once saw his spotless record flash before his eyes.

It was just before COVID-19 began its local assault, and Plemons was driving about 9 at night between Meridian and Clifton on two-lane State Highway 6. Bound for Waco, Plemons shockingly realized that coming the other direction a half-mile up the road, a pickup hauling a horse trailer was jockeying to pass an 18-wheeler. Plemons said there was neither time nor space for the pickup to complete the maneuver, that a head-on collision with his UPS truck appeared inevitable.

The 18-wheeler was not going to pull over, not going to let him by, Plemons said. So as I get over, the pickup whips over. Were practically nose-to-nose. I can see the numbers on his license plate.

Meanwhile, the unfazed big rig rumbles through the scene, its speed and proximity to the UPS truck creating a suction that pinned Plemons side mirrors against the body.
Local

Waco YMCA teams with Williamson County Y to ride out bumpy financial times

Rod Aydelotte, Tribune-Herald Sources said the city of Waco may buy the Doris Miller YMCA facilities from the financially struggling YMCA of Central Texas. Rod Aydelotte, Tribune-Herald If the city buys the Doris Miller YMCA facilities, it could mean the closure or repurposing of the Bledsoe-Miller Community Center about a mile away, seen here. Officials said there would be no loss of services, and that the Doris Miller location is more convenient to more residents in the area. Rod Aydelotte, Tribune-Herald Sources said the city of Waco may buy the Doris Miller YMCA facilities from the financially struggling YMCA of Central Texas.

The financially struggling YMCA of Central Texas and the YMCA of Greater Williamson County have joined forces to share administration, staff and other resources in an effort to help the Waco YMCA stay afloat.

To that end, the YMCA board and the city of Waco are negotiating the sale of the Doris Miller YMCA to the city, which in turn plans to close the Bledsoe-Miller Community Center, incorporate its services and staff with the Doris Miller YMCA facility and then repurpose the Bledsoe-Miller facility, according to multiple sources familiar with the negotiations.

While local officials acknowledged the management agreement between the Central Texas and Williamson County YMCAs, which sources predict will lead to an outright merger of the YMCA branches, YMCA and city officials declined to discuss the ongoing discussions for the city to buy the Doris Miller YMCA at 1020 Elm Ave.

Dexter Hall, chair of the YMCA of Central Texas board of directors, said the COVID-19 pandemic took a heavy toll on local YMCA operations and forced more than 100 YMCAs nationwide to close their doors. He said the board and staff members are working hard to try to prevent the local facilities from adding to that grim statistic.

From advocacy to youth development  and everything in between  the YMCA of Central Texas remains committed to serving our community, Hall said in a statement. We are always looking for ways to ensure we meet our mission and do what is in the best interest of our members, employees, and the Greater Waco community.

Since December, our board and staff have been engaged in a successful partnership with the YMCA of Greater Williamson County. This partnership has increased outreach and services through shared resources and services. Our top priority is to continue serving the youth and families in our community while strengthening and accomplishing our mission, Hall said.

Local YMCA President and CEO Rodney Martin resigned late last year, and at least one member left the board within the last month amid the nonprofit agencys struggle to free itself from its steep downward financial spiral and drastically declining membership rolls.

Jeff Andresen, president and CEO of the Greater Williamson County YMCA, has taken on the same role with the Waco YMCA facilities on an interim basis as part of the new management agreement.

The YMCA national organization will not let the Central Texas YMCA advertise for a new CEO until the financial train wreck gets rectified, according to a source familiar with the situation.

And the only way it gets rectified is to sell Doris Miller, the source said. The finances have to get back in order, and the determination is that the only way to get the finances in order is to cut loose Doris Miller.

Hall declined to discuss the ongoing negotiations with the city for the sale of the Doris Miller facility, as did Andresen.

I think that would be something you would need to ask your local people about, Andresen said of the proposed sale of the Doris Miller facility. That is a local thing. I dont want to speak to that because that is a local asset. But part of the answer is they were at risk to not being able to provide free and reduced services, and that is the ultimate aim for the Y, to provide services regardless of ones ability to pay. If you have to decide whether you are going to pay the light bill or help families, you are in dire need.

The YMCA of Greater Williamson Countys umbrella includes facilities in Burnet, Cedar Park, Hutto, Georgetown and Round Rock. Andresen said they agreed to help the Central Texas branches because they were the closest YMCA to Waco, except for those in Bell County, which he said primarily are oriented to military service members and their families.

He said several members of his staff drive to Waco several times a week to provide back office administrative services.

Just like so many other nonprofit agencies, especially for ones who have had a history of struggling financially, COVID was a nightmare, Andresen said. A lot of agencies came out of the pandemic struggling. And the Waco Y was particularly hard hit. They had to really cut back on staffing and a number of areas on the administration side, like all YMCAs.

We are good YMCA neighbors to the south. We are absolutely glad to help them out in any way we can to make sure their programs for families and kids continue. I will say it has been an enjoyable experience working with them. That is a dedicated group of volunteers that do absolutely wonderful work, he said.

Waco City Council Member Andrea Barefields District 1 includes the Doris Miller YMCA and the Bledsoe-Miller Community Center at 300 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Barefield declined comment on reports the city is considering buying the Doris Miller YMCA, saying she would never discuss active real estate transactions. The Doris Miller Y is on the former campus of Paul Quinn College, along with a city multi-purpose center next door and Rapoport Academy facilities.

We at the city, but especially me, are always looking for ways to enhance the Quinn campus, especially as an anchor institution for our neighborhood, Barefield said. Finding a way to bring services back into the community is a priority for me.

Waco City Manager Bradley Ford did not return phone messages seeking comment for this story.

The city of Waco owns the land on which the Doris Miller YMCA sits and has a 99-year lease with the YMCA board. If the city buys the Doris Miller facility and ultimately decides to close or repurpose the Bledsoe-Miller Recreation Center, officials say there would be no loss of services and add the Doris Miller YMCA facilities are more convenient to more area residents.
Weve set records every month weve had, Eisenschenk said. It was people trying to get outside where it was safer and practicing social distancing. They have definitely continued to come. The phone keeps ringing.

Cabin fever is not the only factor driving people to state parks, area park superintendents said. Increasingly, visitors are parking their RVs and making themselves at home for up to two weeks at a time.

A lot of families are homeschooling their kids and are able to work from home, or telework, said Chadwick, the Mother Neff superintendent. Theyre seeing the state. Several of them have come and stayed with us a week or two, and their kids have been able to play and learn and keep up with their studies.

At Fort Parker State Park, which wraps around a small lake 42 miles east of Waco near Groesbeck, park Superintendent Mike Loftice has seen similar living arrangements.

Weve always had lots of homeschool families come to the the park, and obviously since COVID, a lot more families are doing homeschool.  Part of the increase in the parks is due to that as well, Loftice said.

He said other campers and day-use visitors have just discovered Fort Parker State Park this past year.
Watercolor Society meets Wednesday

The Central Texas Watercolor Society meets Wednesday from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the Episcopal Church of the Holy Spirit, 1624 Wooded Acres.

Sharon Serrago, Richardson artist, will present an abstract watercolor demonstration. For membership information, email jvtexas66@gmail.com.

Matter of Balance class forming

Area Agency on Aging of the Heart of Texas is beginning a new fall prevent class, A Matter of Balance, on July 15. The class meets from 10 a.m. until noon at Emerald Cottages of Waco, 2412 Marketplace Dr. for eight weeks. It is free.

The program is available to people who have fallen or have a fear of falling. This free workshop emphasizes practical strategies to manage falls. It also teaches exercises that increase muscle strength, flexibility, and balance.

Call 292-1857 for more information.

Alzheimer's Association fundraiser

The Alzheimers Association of Waco is sponsoring a hot dog fundraiser Friday, July 16, Living Springs Village Memory Care, 8601 Old McGregor Road.

Serving times are 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Food plates are $5.
I think that would be something you would need to ask your local people about, Andresen said of the proposed sale of the Doris Miller facility. That is a local thing. I dont want to speak to that because that is a local asset. But part of the answer is they were at risk to not being able to provide free and reduced services, and that is the ultimate aim for the Y, to provide services regardless of ones ability to pay. If you have to decide whether you are going to pay the light bill or help families, you are in dire need.

The YMCA of Greater Williamson Countys umbrella includes facilities in Burnet, Cedar Park, Hutto, Georgetown and Round Rock. Andresen said they agreed to help the Central Texas branches because they were the closest YMCA to Waco, except for those in Bell County, which he said primarily are oriented to military service members and their families.

He said several members of his staff drive to Waco several times a week to provide back office administrative services.
The Big Lie is an avalanche of political desire over democratic fact. It introduces corrosive doubt where there is no justification. It is a virus in the body politic that may go dormant but wont be eradicated. The host body, democracy, is weakened and the infection can flare at any time, triggered by political ambition.

Historically, there have been primary sources of information and tertiary sources of doubt or refutation. For example, some believed the oil companies were sitting on a gasoline substitute that would convert water to fuel. That is a falsehood that has been spread since the internal combustion engine created a need for gasoline. It was believed by a few conspiracy theorists and laughed off by most people.

When the fax machine came into being in the mid-1970s, there were those who thought that the Saudi Arabian regime would fall because information about liberal society was getting into the country. Instead, Saudi conservatism hardened and there was no great liberalization. Today, Saudis are online and there is no uprising, no government in exile, no large expatriate community seeking change. Truth hasnt overwhelmed belief.
In an interview with Trib staff writer Carl Hoover, Forget the Alamo co-author, former Wall Street Journal reporter and Texas-reared Bryan Burrough said he expected pushback from Texas traditionalists and arch-conservatives, though he probably didnt foresee it from weak-kneed Bullock museum personnel. Ive worked all over the world for 35-plus years, Burrough told Hoover, and I had to return to Texas to get my first government censorship and actual death threats.

Patrick takes credit for the cancellation, insisting the Bullock is no place for fact-free rewriting of TX history. Our take? We would have welcomed honest debate over historical sources and interpretation. Alas, Patrick and right-wing allies fear such debates. They reveal themselves as ready employers of cancel culture. And they have done lasting damage to the Bullocks credibility. One patron insisted it should be governed by historians and facts, not politicians trying to score political points. The Alamo books co-author, Chris Tomlinson, has branded the museum a propaganda outlet.

Too many of us prostitute history to reaffirm our status, race and privilege in society. But one point of history is to contemplate the failings of those who have gone before us, and to resolve to do better in our time before we give way to other generations who will judge us. By that standard, the Bullock cancellation serves no one but politicians and insecure Anglos. Yet opportunities cry out amid our era of cancel culture. Baylor University? McLennan Community College? Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum?
Junes been hot. Ive had to check the calendar to make sure that we arent into July already. It feels like it, Bauer stated.

Catching fish when temperatures climb into the 90s is not easy as fish become less active in an attempt to conserve energy when water temperatures increase.

Bauer said that fishing reports across eastern Nebraska have been good.

Fishing pressure at Lake Wanahoo in Wahoo has been steady and bass are plentiful, said Bauer. Panfish are also being pulled out of Wanahoo in this first stretch of summer.

Bauer said that fishing at Czechland Lake near Prague and Memphis Lake near Ashland has also been strong.

It should get even better at Memphis once the catfish bite gains momentum.

Guys have good luck fishing for catfish up in Memphis and I think it will be really good this summer, said Bauer.

Bauer said that Branched Oak, near Malcolm, has an abundance of channel and flathead catfish and thinks that some big ones will be caught on the lake very soon.
Wagner and Big Rock roads will be complete closures to vehicular traffic, Hall said, as well as Burton Avenue to Airline Highway. But the rest of Burton, between Airline and West Parker, will allow for vehicular traffic going northbound only, due to the number of homes and businesses there, Hall said, and Waterloo Police Department officers will control the intersections for cross traffic.

Its necessary for us to minimize the interactions between bicycles and cars, he said. Sixteen thousand bikes is a lot of bikes.

South of West Parker, Burton Avenue will return to a complete vehicular closure, and Conger, River and Commercial will also be complete closures until midnight that night, Hall said.

The out route, when cyclists leave town Thursday, July 29, will follow Burton Avenue south from the campgrounds to Park Road, then south on Fairview Street and east on Lafayette Street until it leaves the city.

Burton, Park and Fairview will be completely closed to vehicles as will a portion of Lafayette Street from Zuma Street to the city limit line, though residents will be able to cross at intersections with the help of WPD, Hall said. Vehicular traffic will be allowed to travel westbound on Lafayette Street from Lane to Zuma streets, however.
JOHNSTON  If Donald Trump runs for president again in 2024, it will not be with former Vice President Mike Pence as his running mate, Bob Vander Plaats believes. And Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds would make a great running mate, Vander Plaats says.

Vander Plaats, president and CEO of the Christian conservative organization The Family Leader, discussed the 2024 Republican presidential primary and those Christian conservative voters Friday during taping of this weekends episode of Iowa Press on Iowa PBS.

Reynolds is expected to run for re-election in 2022, but Vander Plaats suggested she would make a strong running mate for Trump  or whichever Republican presidential candidate secures the partys nomination in 2024.

Without question. As a matter of fact, I think she would be a great presidential candidate right now, Vander Plaats said. She has a lot of stock across the country of how she has led during COVID, how she has led through the racial unrest and a lot of other things. Iowa in many ways has been a model. I watched her on Laura Ingrahams (Fox News) show with five different governors and she just stood out.

So I think Gov. Reynolds  obviously its up to her, shes not going to run for president  but she would make a very compelling VP choice.
Ranchers also have complained about a system that forces them to negotiate cattle sales with a few corporations that often don't pay them enough to make a profit, again raising issues of intense consolidation and the need to increase competition in the packing industry.

Vilsack said COVID-19 exposed a food system that was rigid, consolidated, and fragile. He said President Joe Biden is determined to shift the balance of power back to the people by investing in building better and fairer markets for producers and consumers.

The money, including the $500 million, comes from the American Rescue Plan, a $1.9 trillion aid package passed by Congress and signed by Biden in March. It will provide grants, loans, and technical assistance to help build new meat and poultry processing facilities. Vilsack said it is his hope to have projects in the works by early next year.

Vilsack said the USDA also plans to initiate a new rule that will make it easier for farmers to sue companies they contract with over unfair, discriminatory or deceptive practices, and will tighten the definition of what it means for meat to be labeled a Product of USA to exclude animals that have been raised in other countries but processed in the United States.
Is there anyone who can say what is always right and always wrong and present an unchanging standard by which all behavior can be judged?

I raise the question in light of the recent non-ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court, which declined for a second time to hear an appeal from a flower shop owner in Washington state. Barronelle Stutzman, the owner, refused to provide flowers for a same-sex couple because her religious beliefs instruct her that marriage was created by God for opposite sexes.

The U.S. Supreme Court had sent her case back to the state supreme court for further consideration. That court upheld its original ruling, forcing Stutzman to provide the flowers, or face penalties under the states anti-discrimination laws. Three conservative members of the U.S. Supreme Court wanted to hear the case. It takes four.

What confuses many people is that the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in favor of a Colorado baker who refused on the same religious grounds as Stutzman to bake a wedding cake for a same-sex couple. Why is religious belief a sufficient reason to uphold the Colorado bakers right not to bake a cake for a same-sex wedding and a violation of another states law in the flower shop case? News reports say Stutzman has provided flowers in the past to gay individuals, but not for their weddings.
My parents (Norma, 1904-2000 and Lester, 1909-2000) were white, Evangelical Christians, blue-collar workers, high school graduates and Republican. Their profile resembles the current GOP base. However, the 1801 British idiom, turn over in the grave, would apply to my parents if they knew how their beloved party of choice has changed.

Historians are already noting the most telling development of the GOP occurred Aug. 24-27, 2020, when the Republican National Convention convened without presenting a party platform. Donald Trump  not policy, principles, values or beliefs  became the GOP.

According to a recent NBC News poll, 44% of Republicans support Trump more than they support the GOP principles (April 17-20). My high school and college government teachers were in accordance with my parents by stressing that when a political party embraces personality over policy, they can no longer represent We the People.

Hundreds of U.S. Republican senators and representatives behave as if they are afraid of Trumps retaliation should they speak out against King Donald. They have also refused to investigate the Jan. 6 Capitol insurrection in fear that some of their peers may have corroborated with white supremacy groups. The GOP has lost its integrity. I can feel the earth turning at the Nevada, Iowa, municipal cemetery.
Gen. Mark Milley, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs, was even more emphatic. I consider it a moral imperative to take care of those that have served along our side, he told a congressional hearing.

But words are the easy part. At least so far, the administration seems uncertain and unprepared in dealing with those Afghan allies. The jeopardy they face was totally predictable once Biden decided to pull out. So why isnt there a better plan  any plan, really  in place already?

All we have are vague hints from the White House. Maybe the endangered employees will be airlifted to Guam, an American territory in the Western Pacific, where they can be processed under a program called Special Immigrant Visas (SIVs) that would permit them to move to the U.S. Or perhaps they will be trucked to neighboring Tajikistan, where refugees are already pouring across the border.

Either option presents a logistical nightmare, since about 18,000 Afghans, with 53,000 family members, worked for the Americans. But even if they were all somehow brought to safety, the administrations problems would just be starting.
Q: Is it rude to ask someone what pronouns they like to go by?

A: There are a lot of opinions on this question, but the majority of the advice we found said it is not rude if done in a respectful way, you are sincere in your desire to honor the persons preferences and the question comes in an environment where the person being asked feels comfortable.

Q: How does Waterloo rate in bringing in new business compared with other nearby towns?

A: Mayor Quentin Hart recently pointed to projects like the remodeling of the Waterloo Convention Center and adjacent of Best Western Plus Executive Residency, LSB at TechWorks, the Lost Island Theme Park and the city being named 2018 Iowa Small Business Community of the Year by the U.S. Small Business Administration as indicators of the citys economic development success. There was also the recent announcement that Stratacache has taken over the former Ocwen/GMAC campus, a strip mall is being proposed at Kimball Ridge Center, the former Schoitz Hospital location, and Doughy Joeys has reopened it location downtown.

Q: Why isnt President Biden being impeached for the crisis at the border?
.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........

For Starbucks fans  or even just fans of a good deal  beware of the Starbucks gift card scam that purports to celebrate the coffee chains 50th anniversary.

While it is, in fact, Starbucks 50th anniversary, the $100 gift cards making the rounds on Facebook are completely bogus, according to Scam Detector.

The post making this offer contains a link, which will direct you to a poorly designed page that asks you for your email address, Scam Detector says. Also, you will have to create a password and pay a $1.25 fee for what is referred to as a tax. To do that, you must submit your credit card information.

The poorly written page provides red flags about this fake offer and others common in many gift card scams.

ADVERTISEMENTSkip



................................................................

For one, it is poorly written and has grammatical and factual mistakes, such as noting that Starbucks is having its 60th anniversary rather than 50th.

Also, the domain has a strange jumble of characters and ends in .cn, which stands for China.

***

In a similar vein, beware the Costco raffle scam, which arrives as a text message and might include your name to appear more legitimate.

It says that a code printed from one of your past Costco receipts was chosen as a first-place winner, entitling you to a free iPad or iPhone.

The link that youre told to open is another of those character mishmashes and in no way looks like costco.com.

***

A new study reveals the interesting finding that login credentials (user name, password) are more valuable to crooks than Social Security numbers.

Digital Shadows, which provides digital risk prevention services, reports that the cost of a Social Security number on the dark web is $2, while it costs thieves as much as $120,000 for an email administrators login credentials. Email administrators monitor a business or governments electronic mail system, with access to personal information of consumers and other individuals.

Also more valuable to hackers than Social Security numbers are a hacked Gmail account ($80) and a hacked Facebook account ($65).

Login credentials are valuable to identity thieves because they can be used to hit businesses with ransomware attacks and phishing schemes that rely on poor consumer behaviors, according to the Identity Theft Resource Center.

Cyberattacks that use logins and passwords to gain access to corporate networks require less effort than traditional data breaches that rely on stealing personal information, the resource center says.

Ransomware payouts cost businesses more than $1.8 billion in 2020, according to the FBI.

Obviously, its still important to protect Social Security numbers and other personal information to protect against identity theft.

But heres how to also practice good cyber-hygiene habits, the resource center advises:

Use multifactor authentication on all accounts. This is an additional step of having to enter, for example, a code texted to your phone before you can gain access.

Use a different password for each account, making sure to use at least 12 characters so that its harder for a thief to crack. Making sure that each is unique will keep a thief from gaining entry to all accounts if one of them is attacked.

Keep software updated. Enable automatic updates on your devices so that security patches and software updates are automatically applied.

Contact Ellen Marks at emarks@abqjournal.com or 505-823-3842 if you are aware of what sounds like a scam. To report a scam to law enforcement, contact the New Mexico Consumer Protection Division toll-free at 1-888-255-9210 or file a complaint at www.nmag.gov/file-a-complaint.aspx.
.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........

Copyright  2021 Albuquerque Journal

The German term Gesamtkunstwerk describes a creative result where different art forms  and, often, portions of the artists psyche itself  are combined to create a total work of art.

Santa Fes best approximation of the edible Gesamtkunstwerk happens five nights a week atop a 24-by-48-inch Boos block in the kitchen at Paloma. In that cramped corner, Palomas executive pastry chef Jessica Brewer, 29, is turning out the most inventive, seasonal and addictive desserts in the state.

ADVERTISEMENTSkip



................................................................

You get the sweet, you get the crunch, the salt. The texture, acidity, sourness, creaminess. All of these things matter, says Brewer, describing her culinary worldview. The Clark Kent-bespectacled, sleeve-tattooed, self-professed heavy-metalhead, video-game fanatic and science nerd is a third-generation chef and proud graduate of the Santa Fe Community College Culinary Arts program. To eat her desserts  whether theyre weekly specials derived from the wild recesses of her obsessive brain, or the three stalwarts on the permanent Paloma menu  is to experience as many sensations as possible.

Think of the restaurant critic in Pixars Ratatouille when he takes a single bite of the titular dish and is utterly transported on a tide of flavors and memories. (Brewer gets a faraway look on her face while describing the influential scene. Later, she states flatly, I want to win a James Beard award someday.)

The odds  or rather, sheer virtuosity  are in her favor. Dessert groupies track Brewers movements on the Paloma Instagram, where her specials are lovingly showcased. Her recent hits all share flavor profiles with both Palomas signature Mexico-influenced entrees and Santa Fe classics. For a pavlova with passionfruit curd, mango, kiwi, roasted pineapple and vanilla Chantilly, Brewer schooled herself in the tricky, turpentine-meets-citrus taste of the herb epazote, which infuses the meringue. A blackberry blue-corn cake with buttermilk sweet-corn sherbet, honey cremeux and sesame brittle came to her in a dream about a crescent moon. Inspired by the shape, she envisioned a moody dessert that darkly crept its way around the plate.

As for Palomas popular loaded carrot cake with roasted pineapple, caramel, raisins and pecans, it first presented itself to Brewer as a problem to solve. It came from one bad piece of carrot cake I came across. I used to like the one they had at Whole Foods. It was heavy on stuff. I like my stuff to be full of other stuff, Brewer remembers.

I went back to try it again one day and it was not good. You get a craving and, if its bad, you cant get it out of your system. You crave it worse than before. I came in and told Nathan (Mayes, Paloma executive chef and partner), Listen, I need to make carrot cake. I did, and he was like, This is the best carrot cake Ive ever had. Its going on the menu. Its got stuff!

Brewer is a sterling example of homegrown talent. She trained as a regular chef at Santa Fe Community College under such local luminaries as Palace Prime chef Rocky Durham and Santa Fe School of Cooking instructor Michelle (Mica) Chavez. But, after a 2009 externship with former Santacafe pastry chef Cindy Sheptow, she became hooked on the combination of science and culinary wisdom that baking presents. At 19, she was hired to create desserts at Terra at the Four Seasons Rancho Encantado. After stints at The Compound, Eloisa and the Kakawa Chocolate House (I needed to learn more about chocolate, Brewer explains), she came to Paloma in 2019.

She says the Santa Fe restaurant scene is filled with supportive mentors who have become friends. But the swift rise to the top of her game has not always been easy. Stigmatically, all women are pastry, she says of the overwhelmingly male-dominated industry. Being a woman in the kitchen sucks if youre in the wrong place. You can walk into something already feeling inferior. If youre working on the line in the wrong place, theyll be like, Go make cakes. 

Brewer says she once interviewed for a sous chef position at a very respectable place downtown.

I walked in and the chef looked me up and down. He didnt introduce himself and just said, Have you ever even worked a grill? I was like, You called me. He didnt even entertain my existence or think I had any value at all because I was a woman.

Amidst a nurturing kitchen environment at Paloma, Brewer has found her groove. This is the first place that they let me be creative because they respect me, she says. Palomas owner Marja Martin can hand me a plate she just bought. I can put whatever the hell I want on there. She describes one source of inspiration. Say the plate is flat with sharp edges. I want to do something thats tall. White plates, I want to put something bright on there, or use the edges. I found my style here.

She describes the rest of Palomas kitchen staff as family. One literally is. Her younger brother, one of three siblings who are all culinary professionals, now assists her on the garde manger, helping to plate her creations.

Brewer leads the way to Palomas walk-in fridge to explain a work in progress, pulling out a burnt-orange edible flower. Color and beauty spark other ideas, she explains. She lays out her vision of a horchata cheesecake with blue-corn graham-cracker crust, mirror-glazed on top with an orange-colored pop of the Freshies apricots shes been obsessing over. She pulls out her phone to show another mirrored dessert. Its mesmerizing shellac is reminiscent of a candy-painted lowrider. Like all of Brewers total works of art, its inspired, ultra-local and of the moment.

It gives you this feeling that, if you eat it, it might make you happy, she grins.

Paloma

WHERE: 401 S. Guadalupe St., 505-467-8624, palomasantafe.com

HOURS: Dinner 5-9 p.m. Tuesdays-Thursdays; 5-10 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays; Sunday brunch 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.; Sunday dinner 5-9 p.m.
.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........

By DENNIS MCQUILLAN

New Mexico residents have long endured disproportionately high health and environmental risks from nuclear energy and weapons programs. It is time for the federal government to protect citizens of the state with the greatest possible level of safeguards.

Instead of performing critical site-suitability analyses for the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) and for two proposed spent nuclear fuel (SNF) storage sites near WIPP, federal agencies attempted to validate their predetermined conclusions that these sites were safe. The agencies either disregarded or rewrote siting criteria to accommodate their decisions to approve these sites.

WIPP is intended to provide deep geologic isolation of nuclear waste from the biosphere and, indeed, waste is buried 2,150 feet underground in 250-million-year-old salt beds. The following WIPP safety deficiencies, however, need resolution:

ADVERTISEMENTSkip



................................................................

 The half-life of plutonium-239 is 24,100 years, but the WIPP safety assessment period is limited to 10,000 years.

 For years, the federal government asserted that petroleum resources were minimal to nonexistent below WIPP. But, today, WIPP is surrounded by oil and gas operations in the most prolific oil patch in the United States. The risk that oil drilling may penetrate the repository, or that liquids injected during fracking, advanced recovery and produced water disposal may migrate into WIPP salt beds, must be reevaluated.

 Risks from an artesian brine aquifer, deep-seated salt dissolution and from highly pressurized brine pockets that underlie the WIPP salt beds are not fully assessed.

 The geochemical mobility of plutonium and uranium, and possible interactions with carbon dioxide generated by waste decomposition and with geologic brine, needs further analysis.

 Additional prevention is needed for such human errors as the 2014 accident where plutonium contaminated nitrate salt packed with organic kitty litter generated heat, burst a waste drum, contaminated 21 workers, and released americium and plutonium into the atmosphere.

WIPP is certified to accept only national defense waste. The federal government, after spending decades and millions of dollars, failed to establish a permanent disposal site for spent nuclear fuel from commercial reactors. SNF is highly radioactive and toxic due to fission byproducts created during power generation.

The federal government now proposes to license two commercial facilities near WIPP, one in New Mexico and one in Texas, for the storage of SNF for up to 120 years. Unlike the deep geologic isolation at WIPP, the proposed SNF storage facilities are less than 100 feet deep, in young alluvium, and in a region with shallow groundwater, as well as concerns about ground subsidence and sinkholes. These two sites are geologically unsuitable even for SNF storage and it is possible that decades of storage could morph into permanent disposal. Excavating SNF that has deteriorated underground for 120 years is a lurid scenario. Or will future engineers build a Chernobyl-style sarcophagus with the hope that it isolates the waste for 24,000 years?

The proposed storage sites for SNF could create dangers far greater than those posed by WIPP. Agricultural and petroleum industry organizations expressed concerns that the SNF facilities could damage their livelihoods. Attorney General Balderas sued the federal government to stop these ill-conceived and dangerous proposals to store SNF.

The legacy of nuclear injustice in New Mexico must end. The federal government must:

 Resolve WIPP safety deficiencies

 Disallow the reckless storage of spent nuclear fuel

 Establish one or more permanent repositories for SNF that provide geologic isolation

Geologist Dennis McQuillan lives in Santa Fe.
.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........

Its time to get up and get out.

With the pandemic diminished for the moment, Santa Fe is opening up.

While critics continue to bash Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham for restrictions imposed during the coronavirus outbreak, New Mexicos progress in bringing COVID-19 under control makes it possible for us to return to many of our cherished public events this summer.

ADVERTISEMENTSkip



................................................................

As of last Thursday, New Mexicos daily average for new COVID infections, for the most recent seven-day period, was 65, or three per day per 100,000 residents. Compare that to nationally poor-performing Arkansas, averaging 530 new cases per day or 18 per 100,000 residents.

New Mexicos average of 0.05 deaths per day per 100,000 residents also ranks well nationally. On Wednesday, only 14 new COVID cases were reported in Santa Fe County.

Those numbers mean we can go to such events as the International Folk Art Market with little concern. IFAM got started on Thursday and will run through next weekend. Its a special COVID-era version of the spectacular market  organizers are allowing 200 visitors entry every two hours on market days, which this week are Thursday-Sunday on Museum Hills Milner Plaza. Masks are mandatory and the artists from around the world are tested for COVID-19 before entering.

This time around, you probably wont see the colorful, crowded, festive mob scene we all know so well from previous markets. And the $30 entry fee is higher than in years past, understandable for organizers staging a global event with a limited crowd. There probably could have been looser rules and restrictions for IFAM had organizers known that New Mexico would be faring so well at this point in the pandemic. The Albuquerque Isotopes, after all, stuffed more than 13,000 people into their ballpark recently.

But IFAM is on, bringing the world to Santa Fe. If you need another nudge, shake off the pandemic and get out to the market (check times and ticket availability online first), and remember that IFAM and the sales that take place there provide crucial financial support to the folk artists whose work is on display.

Also returning this month is Santa Fes series of free music concerts at the Railyard, on the Plaza and at the Southsides SWAN Park. Thanks to the well-honed skills of the folks at AMP Concerts and Outside In Productions, the free Santa Fe shows surely have been among the best curated in the country in recent years, always presenting a diverse schedule of local and touring performers whose only common trait is musical talent.

Who in Santa Fe knew there was Peruvian surf music, and that it was great, until AMP gave us a dose of it in the Railyard? AMP is also taking on the Plaza and SWAN Park concerts this year. So, there will be no shortage of opportunities to enjoy music en plein air, as there typically will be five or so shows a week through early September. Ampconcerts.org has the full schedule.

Neal Copperman, AMPs executive director, says the fundraising necessary to stage the concerts has been successful. Local businesses have been crucial in supporting the music series over the years. We surpassed our goals and found that community support is really strong, Copperman told the Journals Adrian Gomez.

One date to circle on your calendar should be July 27, when the Grammy-winning, multi-cultural dance-funk band Ozomatli performs on the Plaza. The group filled the Railyards concert space to overflowing at a previous free show that had hundreds dancing jubilantly, or at least as best they could while crammed cheek to jowl.

So, yes, Santa Fe and northern New Mexico, its time to revisit the real world and have some fun. Weve earned it by treating the coronavirus with the seriousness and caution it required.
.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........

Copyright  2021 Albuquerque Journal

Homebound residents in Santa Fe County are getting a shot at the COVID-19 vaccine thanks to a Santa Fe County Fire Department program.

In partnership with the New Mexico Health Department, the county uses its Med 30 ambulance to get to homebound residents and give them their COVID-19 vaccinations. Since the program started May 7, it has vaccinated 10 county residents.

ADVERTISEMENTSkip



................................................................

Most homebound patients are over 80 years old and received the one-shot Johnson & Johnson vaccine, volunteer firefighter paramedic Adam Stively said.

We truly did see that these people were homebound, Stively said. Some of them were actually bedridden, and some of them very functional, but could not leave the house because they were the caregiver for the bedridden person.

The vaccination program is run primarily by fire department volunteers, Stively said, so career staff are available for 911 calls. The Med 30 paramedics must wait at the residence 15 to 30 minutes after the vaccination in case of a reaction.

He said the health department lets them know whos in need of the vaccine. On the health departments vaccination registration website, people can indicate if theyre homebound due to transportation, health or a disability.

So, this is a new niche because its a problem that we identified and theres not a team that goes out to do home (vaccinations), Stively said.

Stively said the department can do the vaccinations without an added cost or staff because Med 30 runs as a volunteer ambulance. He said doing the vaccination program is rewarding because firefighters dont get to see the homebound population every day and theyve developed an appreciation for this group of people.

Jackie Lindsey, Santa Fe County Fire Department chief, said the Med 30 program gives volunteers a consistent schedule to work, a chance to get to know one another and supplements the departments career team.

Like we say in emergency management, you dont want to be handing off a business card at the disaster, you need to get to know each other before the emergency, Lindsey said.

She said the ambulance doesnt have specialty freezers to store vaccines long term, but transports doses to people as needed. The ambulance has vaccinated people from Edgewood to Espanola in a single day.

But Med 30 isnt the countys only vaccination vehicle.

Martin Vigil, assistant fire chief, said he repurposed a mobile health van for vaccination events throughout the county. The van has been operational for several months since its debut at a vaccination event at the Santa Fe Place Mall.

On its own, the van can set up a full vaccination drive-through or a walk-up event. It also has barricades to help direct traffic, and a conventional freezer and two refrigerators to store vaccines temporarily.

Having the freezers and refrigerators extends the operational window of the vaccines. This means the van can travel to rural areas to distribute vaccines, Vigil said. The van also has internet connectivity and other medical equipment, including trauma packs, oxygen and even an active shooter kit, he said.

Santa Fe County  its 2,000 square miles, he said. We knew that accessibility was going to need to be part of the plan. Not everybody was going to be able to come in for the mass events that weve had around the state.
.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........

Albuquerque residents weary of in-your-face crime got some good news last week when Attorney General Hector Balderas, Mayor Tim Keller and Police Chief Harold Medina announced a new initiative to crack down on organized retail crime in which thieves and gangs of thieves target big box stores and other retailers.

Its not your grandmothers version of shoplifting we are talking about here. Its brazen, its often orchestrated and it can become dangerous when store clerks or security personnel (or even an outraged bystander) attempt to confront someone who is hauling his or her ill-gotten merchandise out the front door.

One man, for example, earlier this year displayed a firearm and said, Im going to start blasting people, as he was confronted for switching price tags at a self-checkout. The same man and a woman accomplice allegedly fired a weapon at employees of a Sams Club on Coors Bypass a month later.

Dangerous stuff.

ADVERTISEMENTSkip



................................................................

Balderas put all this in the proper perspective at a news conference where he was joined by the mayor, chief and a top executive from Home Depot.

This is about a very profitable industry that is now funneling and fueling other criminal activity, like human trafficking and gang activity, Balderas said. The most violent criminals in the country now understand this can be a very profitable business to invest in other criminal activity in New Mexico.

State laws lack the necessary teeth. Medina pointed out that it is a misdemeanor to shoplift under $500 and says it would help if the Legislature would make it possible to file felony charges if a perpetrator steals from multiple stores or as part of a group.

Sometimes they may not hit that one felony at that one location, Medina said. We have to look at their group activity and be able to prosecute it.

Balderas also said the Legislature needs to pass an organized retail crime statute  something Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham should put on her priority list  and the mayor should be willing to step up and say he will personally lobby the Legislature, where he served in the Senate, on these issues.

The public defender and criminal defense lawyers organization essentially say we have enough laws on the books already, and that the vast majority of shoplifting cases are individuals driven by drug addiction.

Thats not much consolation to store clerks or customers who line up to pay for their purchases and watch other people simply walk out the door with whatever they pulled off the shelves.

Or to the Home Depot executive who says we arent talking about somebody stealing a $100 drill. Were talking about these thieves that scheme, that are in big organized groups that fund larger things, he said.

Its important to do what can be done in the absence of new laws, and there were some specific proposals set out at last weeks news conference to do just that.

Keller says APD will use new technology that includes live streaming video from retailers to the Real Time Crime Center to aid in investigating and prosecuting the crimes. Medina mentioned putting license plate readers in retail parking lots to alert officers if a stolen vehicle has entered the premises.

Were not always going to have officers who get there in time to be able to take an individual into custody, a lot of times these individuals are going to dart out the front door and be gone, Medina said. Were hoping that we get more evidence because we have better access to the technology.

Balderas said his office is putting our best prosecutors on these types of cases.

Make no mistake. This is dangerous stuff and the response by police and prosecutors  and lawmakers  needs to be quick and decisive.

We see this over and over again in the shoplifting industry where security goes to take an individual into custody and it becomes a violent conflict or altercation, Medina said. This is where we need enhanced penalties  to give our prosecutors and law enforcement officers the tools to hold those individuals accountable.

And if we dont do that, we essentially resign ourselves to the idea that we are OK with living in a lawless city where thieves can boldly and shamelessly take whatever they want with little fear of the consequences.

This editorial first appeared in the Albuquerque Journal. It was written by members of the editorial board and is unsigned as it represents the opinion of the newspaper rather than the writers.
.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M.  The year 1492 is, of course, remembered for Christopher Columbus first Atlantic voyage under the Spanish flag. That same year also marked a meeting between Spains Queen Isabella I and Antonio de Nebrija, bishop of Avila. Thats intriguing because the bishop presented the queen a copy of his book Gramatica de la lengua castellana, the first grammar book of Spanish or in any European tongue. Isabella purportedly asked why she needed the book since she spoke the language. De Nebrija allegedly replied, Your majesty, language is the perfect instrument of empire.

Their encounter, part of the folklore of the Spanish language, is presented in the introduction of the newly published book Lenguaje: A Cultural History of the Spanish Language of New Mexico by Albuquerque author Richard J. Griego.

Griego said de Nebrijas grammar book, and the point he raised with Isabella, make de Nebrija an important historical figure. He standardized the grammar of the language and essentially set the stage for the globalization of the Spanish language through the conquest of the Americas, Griego said in a phone interview.

Hence, he said, it solidified Spanish as a dominating colonial force under the rule of the Reyes Catolicos (Queen Isabella I and King Ferdinand II) and in much of the Western Hemisphere.

In Griegos hands, language is a tool for understanding cultural history. Lenguaje details the conquering armies of the Iberian Peninsula over centuries that helped shape the Spanish language in todays New Mexico.

ADVERTISEMENTSkip



................................................................

Classical Latin and later Vulgar Latin, Griego writes, gave Spanish its basic grammatical and pronunciation framework. Latin was the language of the Roman Empire, which occupied Spain for some 700 years.

The Visigoths ousted the Romans and ruled Hispania for some 300 years.

Visigoth words were grafted onto early Spanish, words like guerra (war) and espuelas (spurs), for example. Visigoth rule ended in the early 8th century when the moros (Moors or Muslims) invaded the peninsula and remained a political power until the Reconquest ultimately booted the Moors from Granada in southern Spain in 1492.

The Moors language, Arabic, heavily influenced Spanish. Indeed, Griego writes, 15% of todays Spanish derives from Arabic. Place names such as Abu al-Qurq translate into Spanish as Albuquerque, and likely meaning land of the cork trees. Sindi is Arabic for sandia or watermelon. Another Arabic word is quhwah, cafe in Spanish, coffee in English.

Spanish incorporated words of the subjugated indigenous Taino people of the Caribbean  e.g. batata, patata in Spanish, potato in English; from the Taino iwana comes iguana. Spanish borrowed words from Nahuatl, the language of the Aztecs, such as chilli (chile); ahuacamolli (guacamole); and tecolotl, in Spanish tecolote, and in English owl, according to Griego.

English, he writes, began infiltrating New Mexican Spanish after the Santa Fe Trail opened to trade with the United States in the 1820s.

Lenguaje lists some English verbs that were combined with Spanish verb endings. So that the English to dump became dompear or dompiar in New Mexican Spanish. And to eat lunch becomes lonchar or lonchear. Griego finds the creativity of New Mexicans in their Spanish vocabulary.

For example, mano or mana in gender-divided Spanish are shortened forms of hermano and hermana, which translate as brother and sister.

Griego said his books target audience is New Mexico Hispanics. I want them to understand this very complex place we live in. There are many actors in our history. So its difficult to untangle, he said in a phone interview.

Griego cited two of the social myths in the states cultural history.

One is the myth of the three cultures  Spanish, Native, Anglo  getting along. Underlying it, he argued, is an assumption of white supremacy.

Another he said, is the deep-seated Spanish fantasy myth. People have characterized themselves as Spanish, not Mexicans. It seems that every Nuevomexicano family has a grandfather or great-grandfather who comes from Spain, Griego said. Some characterize themselves as Spanish. I characterize them as Nuevomexicanos.

However, he noted, DNA testing reveals the average Hispanic New Mexican is about 30% Native American. We were conquistadores but became conquistados (conquered). That adds a wrinkle to our identity, Griego said.

The 82-year-old Griego said that by focusing on language, one can more easily see the panorama of cultural influences including colonialism, another way of saying conquest.

His book, he said, is the culmination of a lot of his thinking about New Mexico. Griego grew up in the Old Town area when it was semi-rural and later moved to the ethnically mixed working-class South Broadway neighborhood.

Griego is professor emeritus of mathematics at the University of New Mexico. In 1968 he established UNMs College Enrichment Program and later was director of the universitys Chicano Studies Program.

Copies of Lenguaje are available at amazon.com.
.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........

The Marriage of Figaro could be more accurately called The Marriage of Susanna.

Thats according to soprano Ying Fang, who plays the Santa Fe Opera role this summer.

She is the driving force of this opera, Fang said in a telephone interview. Figaro is clueless that the Count is coming after me.

ADVERTISEMENTSkip



................................................................

The opera takes place in the palace of Count Almaviva near Seville, Spain. Rosina is the countess; Dr. Bartolo seeks revenge against Figaro for thwarting his plans to marry Rosina; Count Almaviva has degenerated from the romantic youth of Barber, a tenor, into a scheming, bullying, skirt-chasing baritone.

Having gratefully given Figaro a job as head of his servant-staff, he is now persistently trying to exercise his droit du seigneur  his right to bed a servant girl on her wedding night  with Figaros bride-to-be, Susanna, who is the countesss maid.

The story takes place before the French Revolution, when women were considered little more than chattel.

Shes just a servant, Fang said. To stand up for herself  its incredible.

The New York-based Fang grew up in China, where a school music teacher first spotted her talent.

She said, Wow, you have a voice,  Fang said. I was 13, 12. My parents were very enthusiastic. I was very quick at picking up tunes on the radio when I was a kid.

From private voice lessons, she moved on to the Shanghai Conservatory of Music, then to New York and the Juilliard School. Today she is a principal soprano for the Metropolitan Opera.

It all came very naturally to me, Fang said. The most special thing is to work with someone who can inspire you. Thats what music does. It brings the most out of you; it brings out the sparkle.

Singing Susanna, one of the most demanding roles in opera literature, is a challenge, Fang said.

This role is complex, she said. Its the longest role written for soprano voice. She is almost always on stage for this four-hour opera. Its quite a challenge for me, stamina-wise. I have to pace it well.

Widely considered one of the greatest operas ever written, The Marriage of Figaro is a cornerstone of the repertoire and appears consistently on the Operabase list of the most frequently performed shows.

Fang next travels to the Lyric Opera of Chicago to play Pamina in The Magic Flute. After that, she will repeat the role of Susanna at the Paris Opera.

This marks Fangs New Mexico debut.

Who would think youd have an opera house in the middle of the desert? she said. But the acoustics are wonderful  and the view is just incredible.

The Santa Fe Opera is requiring masks for patrons.
.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M.  Music teacher Miguel Jaramillo didnt set out to become a social media influencer when he joined TikTok.

He just wanted to join in on the latest trend and have some fun.

Less than a year later, he has thousands of followers from around the world.

TikTok is an app that allows users to upload short videos, including dance skits, comedy pieces, cute animal videos and bizarre trends. The platform is sometimes even used as a tool for political grassroots movements. It also has a group of people, who are experts in their field, posting educational content.

Jaramillo, 30, who is a choir teacher at Rio Rancho and Eagle Ridge middle schools, said he downloaded the app during the pandemic when he was bored and had little to do. He initially tried the comedy approach.

ADVERTISEMENTSkip



................................................................

Honestly my original intent on TikTok was to join the crowd and try to be funny, he said. It wasnt taking off. I said This is really hurting my self-esteem. I guess Im not that funny. Then I discovered the teacher TikTok community.

He saw the way others were using the app as an educational tool. He posted his first rhythm lesson  which featured him holding flashcards with four notes and music  in November of 2020. Then he immediately left to a staff meeting, thinking nothing of it.

My smartwatch kept going off with notifications and I was thinking What is this?  he said. I looked and the video had 500,000 views. It went crazy.

So crazy it became a viral video and currently has 2.9 million views. Jaramillos followers have grown to 45,000 since then on his account @haunterhunter91.

In 2019, the New Mexico Music Educators Association named Jaramillo the New & Emerging Teacher of the Year. Kurt Schmidt, executive director of fine arts for the school district, said Jaramillo is a great teacher who knows how to connect with his students.

They gravitate toward him, Schmidt said. Hes well orchestrated. He has good humor and is an all around wonderful teacher.

Jaramillo himself was once a student in the Rio Rancho school district and it was a guitar teacher that encouraged him to go into teaching.

Initially, Jaramillo didnt use his TikTok lessons in his class and didnt tell his students he had joined.

But they found him.

The first email rolled in: Mr. J, is that you on TikTok?

The momentum grew. During the pandemic, he would hold online office hours and he had one student he hadnt heard from all year.

She showed up to those Google office hours, he said. She said she had been waiting all night to talk to me and find out if that was really me on TikTok.

He said the two spoke for a long time, with the student asking questions and telling him about a recent vacation she took with her family.

He does have a rule, though. He allows his students to follow him on TikTok but he does not return the follow in order to keep the relationship professional. People who follow each other are able to send private messages. He also does not interact with his students on other social media platforms.

He said he has teachers as far away as Qatar using his short video lessons and he has student followers from far away, too.

I have learned to say hello in so many different languages, he said.

Schmidt knew Jaramillo as a student.

One thing I love about Miguel is he chose to come back to the district that raised him, Schmidt said. Its a testament to the support for arts and great teachers we have here.
.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M.  The Albuquerque Police Department is investigating its second homicide of the day after a man was fatally shot Saturday afternoon in Southeast Albuquerque.

APD spokesman Gilbert Gallegos said officers responded around 5 p.m. to a shooting at the Las Brisas Apartments, near Gibson and San Pedro SE.

Police found a man who had been shot and he later died at the hospital.

Homicide detectives are responding to the scene to start an investigation, Gallegos said.

It was the second homicide of the day.

Early Saturday morning officers were called to Downtown Albuquerque after a spray of bullets killed one man, critically injured another and injured an APD officer when his windshield was struck by the gunfire.

No arrests have been made in either incident.

ADVERTISEMENTSkip



................................................................
.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........

Copyright  2021 Albuquerque Journal

Judges in Alamogordo have scheduled 276 felony jury trials in a four-week period through July 20, which defense attorneys say makes it difficult, if not impossible, to represent their clients effectively.

A backlog of criminal trials resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, combined with aggressive scheduling practices, has led to a crisis in the 12th Judicial District Court, the Law Offices of the Public Defender contends.

ADVERTISEMENTSkip



................................................................

Its not really possible to effectively prepare for that many cases, Bennett Baur, New Mexicos chief public defender, said in an interview Thursday.

With up to 24 felony trials scheduled on several days this month, the vast majority of those trials will be dismissed or postponed, Baur said. But attorneys dont know which cases will come to trial in a given day, meaning they have to be prepared for all of them.

The volume of trials scheduled and the uncertainty it causes has made the court a bit of a circus, he said.

When everything is kind of thrown together, you can imagine the mad scramble for everybody, Baur said. It sort of becomes a criminal processing system rather than a criminal justice system.

Matthew Chavez, chief defender in the 12th Judicial District, described a chaotic scene outside the Otero County Courthouse on days when a large number of jury trials are scheduled.

Potentially hundreds of witnesses, defendants, victims, attorneys and others with an interest in the cases wait in their cars until mid-morning to learn which case will go to trial that day, Chavez said.

Everyone just has to wait to find out whats going to go to trial, Chavez said. It is literally a large number of people waiting outside the courthouse every day to find out what happens.

Effective use of courts time

Judge Angie Schneider, chief judge of the 12th Judicial District, called the defense attorneys claims a misrepresentation because many of the cases listed on the original docket are no longer on the courts calendar by the day of trial.

Schneider provided a copy of her calendar for Friday, which listed four jury trials, not the 24 trials on a June 25 trailing docket. Most of the 24 trials listed on the earlier docket had been postponed.

Schneider said in a written response that the 12th district employs a time-honored practice used by many other judicial districts called a trailing docket that lists a number of jury trials at the same time.

It has been our experience in the (12th district) that most, if not all, of the jury trials set on a trailing docket will be resolved or continued  leaving only a handful of cases on any given day of trial, Schneider said in her statement.

Scheduling multiple trials on the same day helps guarantee an effective use of the courts time on trial days, she said. Schneider also said she has spoken with Baur and Chavez about their concerns.

Not rocket science

In addition to court scheduling practices, defense attorneys say the District Attorneys Office files an extraordinary number of criminal cases and is reluctant to offer plea deals acceptable to defendants and their attorneys, contributing to a glut of felony trials.

Scot D. Key, district attorney for the 12th Judicial District, said prosecutors operate under the same constraints as defense attorneys and manage to cope with the large caseloads.

We, like the (Law Offices of the Public Defender), respond by filing motions, getting ready for trial, in some cases moving for continuances, Key said. Its not rocket science. Get prepared, and that goes for both sides.

Key also rejected the suggestion that he files too many criminal charges and fails to offer acceptable plea deals.

Communities have their own standards, he said. We want accountability for people who violate the laws. Im not going to apologize for having certain plea policies that (Law Offices of the Public Defender) may not appreciate or like.

Each judicial district operates differently based on community expectations, Key said.

What we do in conservative south-central New Mexico may be entirely different from what is done in liberal northern New Mexico, he said.

Baur sent a pair of letters to Schneider earlier this year raising concerns about the courts scheduling practices.

The COVID pandemic has created a backlog of cases that is unprecedented, Baur wrote in a Feb. 22 letter.

Lawyers with 120 to 220 pending felony cases simply cannot be simultaneously prepared for dozens of jury trials over a four- or five-week period, he wrote. This crisis is made worse when our attorneys are required to spend long periods of time in their cars outside the courthouse on some mornings, waiting to learn if and when they will be called in for trial.

Baur said none of the states 12 other judicial districts schedules large numbers of trials in the same manner as the 12th district.

Public defenders represent defendants in at least 80% of felony criminal cases filed in the 12th district and statewide, Baur said.

A 12th district court calendar provided by public defenders shows that 272 jury trials were scheduled in Schneiders court from June 28 to July 20. Four other jury trials were scheduled in other 12th district courts during that period.

An additional 183 felony jury trials are scheduled from Aug. 2-20 in the court of 12th District Judge Steven Blankenship, according to a court calendar.

The 12th Judicial District includes Otero and Lincoln counties in south-central New Mexico.

Schneider and Blankenship preside over most of the criminal felonies in the 12th District in alternating four-week periods, Chavez said. Felony trials that are not resolved on the day they are scheduled are rolled over to future dockets, he said.

In the meantime, a person charged may remain in jail until the case comes to trial, Chavez said. Many choose to plead guilty simply because they want to resolve the case and get out of jail, he said.

Do innocent people get convicted? Absolutely, he said. They cant watch their life fall apart when their case gets bumped for another trial.

District Attorney Key rejected the suggestion that people plead guilty to crimes they didnt commit.

We have no interest whatsoever in convicting innocent people, Key said. I dont believe for a minute that people would plead to things they didnt do.
.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........

USS Flight Mission Specialists

Beth Moses, Chief Astronaut Instructor at Virgin Galactic. Moses obtained bachelors and masters degrees in aeronautical and astronautical engineering from Purdue University. She worked for NASAs Johnson Space Center as the extravehicular activity system manager for the International Space Station. She was the first woman to make a spaceflight on a commercially launched vehicle, Virgin Galactics VSS Unity VF-01 flight on Feb. 22, 2019.

Colin Bennett, Lead Operations Engineer at Virgin Galactic. Bennett obtained a masters in aerospace engineering at the University of Liverpool and worked as a flight physics engineer for QinetiQ. He later worked as a performance engineer and a flight operations engineer at Virgin Atlantic Airways before joining Virgin Galactic in 2015.

Sirisha Bandla, Vice President of Government Affairs and Research Operations at Virgin Galactic. Born in Guntur, Andhra Pradesh state, India, Bandla obtained a bachelors degree in aerospace engineering from Purdue University and a masters of business administration from George Washington University. She worked as associate director of the Commercial Spaceflight Federation before joining Virgin Galactic in 2015.

ADVERTISEMENTSkip



................................................................

Sir Richard Branson, 70, founder of Virgin Galactic. Branson is an entrepreneur who in the 1970s founded Virgin Group, a conglomerate that owns stakes in Virgin-branded companies in a wide variety of industries. In 1972, he founded Virgin Records, a chain of record stores. He founded Virgin Atlantic Airways in 1981, and in 2004 announced the formation of his space tourism company, Virgin Galactic. He was knighted at Buckingham Palace in 2000. Forbes this year estimated his net worth at $5.6 billion. He and his wife, Joan, have two children, Holly and Sam.

USS Unity Pilots

Dave Mackay is the chief pilot of Virgin Galactic. A retired Royal Air Force test pilot, he joined Virgin Atlantic Airlines as a pilot in 1995 before joining Virgin Galactic in 2009.

Retired U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Michael Sooch Masucci has 30 years of civilian and military flight experience. He joined Virgin Galactic in 2013.

VMS Eve Pilots

CJ Sturckow, a former NASA astronaut, was in the cockpit during Virgin Galactics first flight to space in December 2018. He completed four flights to the International Space Station while at NASA.

Retired U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Kelly Latimer is a former combat and commander of the 418th Flight Test Squadron. She was the first woman to serve as a research pilot at the NASA Armstrong Flight Research Center.
.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........

In Las Vegas, Nevada, the New Mexico contingent at UFC 264 had a disappointing Saturday night at T-Mobile Arena.

Albuquerque welterweight Carlos Condit lost by unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 30-27) to Max Griffin of Sacramento, California.

Condit is 32-14, Griffin 18-8.

Santa Fe flyweight Jerome Rivera lost by first-round submission (standing guillotine choke) to Kazakhstans Zhalgas Zhumagulov. Rivera is 10-6 but is 0-4 in UFC competition. Zhumagulov is 14-5.

Condit got a slow start against the shorter, more muscular Griffin, absorbing multiple leg kicks and going down from a Griffin combination with just over a minute left in the first round. Condit took some punishment on the ground before Griffin elected to stand up.

Two of the judges favored Condit in a competitive second round, as the Albuquerque fighter seemed to find his rhythm  landing shots with either hand to the head and to the body.

ADVERTISEMENTSkip



................................................................

Griffin fought with more energy in the third round and appeared to cement his victory with the fights only takedown 55 seconds before the final horn.

The loss ended a two-fight Condit win streak that followed a five-fight losing streak. Given his fan appeal and the respect he commands as a former UFC interim champion, he likely has a continued future with the UFC if he so desires at age 37.

Rivera got off to a good start against Zhumagulov, using his reach advantage to good effect against his much shorter opponent. But a minute-and-a-half into the first round, Rivera went down from a left hand. As he scrambled to his feet, he exposed his neck. Zhumagulov took full advantage, securing the choke hold and forcing the tap-out at the 2:02 mark.

With his fourth UFC loss in as many fights, Riveras future with MMAs most powerful organization is very much in doubt.
.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........

Copyright  2021 Albuquerque Journal

The largest unmanned satellite ever shot into orbit was shut down earlier this summer and left to float hundreds of miles above Earth, bringing an end to a nearly 20-year, $170 million project to study radiation in space from Kirtland Air Force Base in Albuquerque.

The entire effort was undertaken by the Air Force Research Labs Space Vehicles Directorate at KAFB, where the team of scientists who worked to collect the data celebrated the mission as a success.

ADVERTISEMENTSkip



................................................................

Rachel Delaney, deputy program manager for AFRLs Demonstration and Science Experiments, or DSX, satellite project, said the project started back in 2003 and the satellite reached a critical design milestone in 2008. The entire project lasted about 18 years and cost about $172 million, she said.

Its one of our longstanding experiments, Delaney said. And its exciting to be part of seeing it conclude and seeing what sort of data is going to come from it.

The satellite was launched into medium Earth orbit in the summer of 2019 by the Space X Falcon Heavy Launch vehicle, which ferried the 80-by-16-meter satellite to an orbit of about 3,750 to 7,500 miles above Earth, said Robert Johnson, principal investigator on the project.

The satellite, which was designed and built at KAFB, was used in experiments in space for 706 days.

At that altitude, the satellite was able to perform experiments using very low frequency radio waves, or VLFs, on the Van Allen radiation belt.

The purpose of the mission was to validate what the physicist told us would happen in space with low-frequency radio waves. What they had hypothesized was that VLFs would cause radiation to degrade much faster than it would naturally, said Air Force Col. Eric Felt, commander of the Space Vehicles Directorate. We had to put an experiment up in space. Thats where the idea of DSX came from.

The Department of Defense was interested in being able to use low frequency radio waves to mitigate the effects of a nuclear bomb being detonated in space, which could destroy satellites and other space vehicles, Felt said.

It is a real threat because North Korea has threatened to do that exact thing, Felt said.

The goal would be to create a technology that would deter such an action from taking place.

Our real hope with the technology is deterrence, Felt said. If a country knows they arent going to get a big advantage from doing a super horrible thing that the world is going to hate them for, then maybe they wont do it in the first place.
Instagram Celebrity

The 'After Earth' actor launches a new earbud line, which is described as the 'first-ever true wireless earphones that mold to the unique shape of your ears.'

Jul 11, 2021

AceShowbiz - Jaden Smith has launched a new line of moldable earbuds as part of a collaboration with bosses at Ultimate Ears.

The actor, rapper and influencer's UE FITS You accessories are the "first-ever true wireless earphones that mold to the unique shape of your ears."

Ultimate Ears experts claim the customisation process takes less than a minute, giving listeners the best fit - and therefore the best sound.

A new campaign video features Jaden showing off the earbuds, and the "Endless Summer" hitmaker admits he has been a fan of the brand for years, using Ultimate Ears earbuds onstage and in the studio.

"From my very first live performance to this day I have always relied on Ultimate Ears as a go-to tool," he says. "They allow me to concentrate on my craft and not worry about anything else getting in the way."

The son of Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith was recently announced as a UCLA special honoree. He will be lauded as an environmental champion by the University of California, Los Angeles in October.

In 2012, the star co-founded the brand Just Water, which uses plant-based packaging and sustainably sourced water. Through his 501CTHREE nonprofit, he has made mobile water-filtration systems available to lower-income minority communities in the U.S, including Flint, Michigan, which has long struggled with lead contamination in its water supply.

Jaden also gave back to community by feeding homeless in Los Angeles. He recently opened a restaurant and charged those who could afford it a higher price to help provide free food for the unfortunate.
Americans have lacked trust in the federal government since the 1970s. From the late 1950s until the Watergate scandal, a majority of Americans said they trusted the federal government to do the right thing most of the time. But since then, it's been a minority (with the exception of the period after the 9/11 attacks).

This lack of general trust is now hurting our Covid-19 vaccination effort. Trust in the government to give accurate information about the coronavirus is one of the most predictive variables over whether a person is vaccinated.

We can see how much trust matters in Axios/Ipsos polling. Their most recent poll shows that 17% of Americans have a great deal of trust in the federal government information to give accurate information about the virus. An additional 38% have a fair amount of trust.

This combined 56% (rounded) is close to the 59% of adults who are currently fully vaccinated against the virus.

Breaking it down further, we see that 91% of adults fully vaccinated have a great deal of trust in the federal government to give accurate information about the coronavirus. The percentage fully vaccinated drops to 78% among those who have a fair amount of trust, 57% among those who have not very much trust and 35% who have no trust at all.

It might be tempting to think that this trust factor is merely due to partisanship -- one might think that because the federal government is run by Democrats currently, naturally Republicans might be mistrusting.

But when you drill down to trust in state governments (many of which are run by Republicans) to provide accurate coronavirus information, trust remains paramount.

A very high 86% of adults with a great deal of trust in state governments to give accurate information on the coronavirus have been vaccinated. Only 41% who have no trust at all in state governments have been vaccinated.

These gaps in vaccination rates among those who have a great deal of trust and none at all is larger than the partisan gap in this poll of 27 points between the percentage of Democrats and Republicans fully vaccinated.

You can see that within partisan groups how important trust in the information the federal government is giving is to vaccination rates.

Among Democrats, about 90% who have a great or fair amount of trust in the information the federal government is giving about the coronavirus are vaccinated. That drops to about 40% among those who have not very much or no trust at all.

Among Republicans, 70% who have a great or fair amount of trust in the federal government's information on the coronavirus have been fully vaccinated. That drops to about 45% among Republicans who have not very much or not trust at all.

The lack of trust in the federal government makes President Joe Biden's administration's efforts to convince unvaccinated people to get the vaccine difficult. This is especially the case among unvaccinated Republicans.

Just 4% of non-fully vaccinated Republicans have a great deal of trust in the federal government to give accurate coronavirus information. An additional 16% have a fair amount. The vast majority (80%) have little to none at all.

It's not just Ipsos' polling that indicates lack of trust in the federal government hurts the vaccine effort.

A recent Kaiser Family Foundation poll showed that 32% of unvaccinated adults said they didn't trust Biden to provide reliable information about the Covid-19 vaccines. This drops to 15% among those who say they will definitely not be vaccinated. For Dr. Anthony Fauci, the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, a mere 27% of the unvaccinated trust him. Among those who definitely won't get vaccinated, just 8% do.

A better bet than relying on the federal government to be communicators on the vaccine is local doctors. A majority of all unvaccinated adults, 69%, and those who claim they definitely will not get the vaccine, 60%, say they trust their own doctor for information on the vaccines.

These numbers make it clear that the Biden administration's effort to put the vaccines into local doctor's offices is a smart move.

The-CNN-Wire

 &  2021 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved.
As an acute asthma sufferer, who is also on medication to control hypertension, I have been ultra-careful since Covid-19 first hit South Africa early last year.

I'm also among those fortunate who have been able to continue to earn a living working from home. I seldom go out, unlike the hundreds of thousands of South African taxi and other public transport users who face a heightened risk of contracting the virus.

But early in June, I had no choice: I needed to interview several people for a corruption investigation that I was working on, and my sources would only speak to me in person.

I felt the risk was low as I'd been vaccinated with the one-shot Johnson & Johnson vaccination six weeks earlier -- enough time to build up immunity to the virus. Nevertheless, I set out well-prepared with a small bottle of hand sanitizer in my pocket. I also wore two tight-fitting masks, each with additional, replaceable filter material inserted in a special pocket, as I normally do on the rare occasions when I go out in public.

At a time when the Delta variant is surging across the globe, someone like me who is vaccinated may be lulled into a false sense of safety, but in South Africa, where vaccinations rates have largely lagged, the threat remains quite high -- and until vaccinations rates increase -- extra precautions are needed.

Arriving for my meeting in Hout Bay Harbour in Cape Town, I found myself in a small room with two other people, neither of them wearing a mask. I was able to position myself about 2 meters -- more than 6 feet -- from them but, as the interview began, several other people, none of them wearing masks, entered the room.

Feeling very uncomfortable I asked, after less than five minutes, if we could continue outside. But it was too late. In those few minutes, despite all my precautions, I now believe I had been infected.

About two weeks later I developed a barking, dry cough and sore throat, and I was sneezing non-stop. I was also breathing with difficulty -- but, because of the vaccination and all my precautions, I convinced myself that it was a bout of flu and decided that all I needed was paracetamol and bed rest.

By the following day, my body was aching as if I'd gone through a few rounds with a professional boxer, and I was literally gasping for breath. My doctor, after a phone consultation, said I should go for a Covid test. He also prescribed cortisone and a very strong antibiotic.

The test was quick and easy, and early the next morning my doctor called to say that I had tested positive. He prescribed additional medication and a variety of vitamins to boost my immune system. He also suggested I purchase an inexpensive battery-operated pulse oximeter to monitor my blood oxygen levels.

Should my breathing get worse, or if my oxygen levels dropped below 94, I should go directly to my closest emergency room as I may need oxygen, or even hospital admission, he said.

Almost miraculously, by the next morning my oxygen levels had improved, and I was able to breathe more easily. I was still feeling unwell, but there was a marked improvement in my condition. I'm now almost fully recovered, although I'm still left with some lingering after-effects of Covid, including fatigue and muddled thinking if I overexert myself.

Nevertheless, I had dodged a bullet with my name on it thanks to the fact that I had been vaccinated. I joined a growing number of people who were infected with Covid-19 despite having been vaccinated. In fact, my doctor said that I was the third of his patients who had been vaccinated and later had tested positive: I and another person had contracted "mild" Covid, and a third who was hospitalized briefly and has since made a full recovery. My doctor believes that the vaccine protected us from the worst of the virus and hastened our recovery.

Once I was feeling better, I posted on Facebook about my experience, intending it as a warning to friends not to let their guards down and to carry on wearing masks even if they have been vaccinated.

What followed surprised me: while many people wished me well, others -- either anti-vaxxers or the vaccination hesitant -- took my experience as proof that Covid vaccinations don't work, rather than having minimized my illness and helped speed up my recovery.

Others messaged me off of Facebook and suggested I take ivermectin -- a drug often used to treat parasites -- which they claimed they, or others they knew of, had used to "sort out" Covid, despite the fact that there is no proof yet that it has any benefit against the virus.

Did I get the Delta variant? It's hard to say for sure, but the highly contagious variant, which has now been detected in at least 85 countries, is rapidly becoming dominant in many parts of the world, including in the United States, where, as of July 3, it was responsible for 51.7% of all new cases of Covid-19, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In South Africa, the official death toll from Covid-19 is now more than 63,000.

By July 7, the Gauteng province accounted for 34.5% of South Africa's total recorded 2,112,336 infections. Delta is now the dominant strain in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal, north and east of Cape Town, where I live, and is increasing rapidly in other regions of the country. The Western Cape, the province in which Cape Town is situated, is now "firmly in a third wave," according to Premier Alan Winde.

This deadly third wave has left health services buckling and has led to a new level four lockdown, which includes a total ban on the sale of alcohol, a prohibition of all social, political and religious gatherings, a ban on leisure travel to and from Gauteng and a 9 p.m. to 4 a.m. curfew. It has also seen hospitals in Gauteng rapidly filling up. By the week of July 4, over 90% of private and public hospital beds were full.

On Sunday night, President Cyril Ramaphosa said in an address to the nation that 4,200 people had died from Covid in the past two weeks and warned that by next week "daily hospital levels are likely to reach the peaks of the first and second waves." He also announced the extension of most of South Africa's level four lockdown for a further two weeks.

The South African government has faced growing criticism over a lack of preparedness to handle a wave driven by the highly infectious Delta variant. But some experts say it was scientists who got it wrong for not foreseeing that Delta could become the dominant strain.

The South African government has also faced been criticized for its slow vaccine rollout compared to neighboring Botswana and Zimbabwe. An analysis of data by the Daily Maverick shows that by the end of May, only 2.5 vaccines had been delivered per 100 people on the continent. A dismal number to say the least. And still, compared to the rest of the continent, South Africa's vaccination rate was lower than its neighbors' rate.

"Whereas South Africa has delivered only 1.6 vaccines per 100 people, Namibia has delivered twice this rate, and Botswana and Zimbabwe more than three times this rate. South Africa accounts for 43% of confirmed Covid-19 deaths but only 3% of vaccinations in Africa," reported the Daily Maverick.

As of July 9, the vaccination rate in South Africa had improved to seven vaccinations per 100 people, according to a CNN barometer tracking worldwide vaccinations. Nevertheless, it still lags behind Botswana -- 11 per 100 -- and cash strapped Zimbabwe -- nine per 100.

The South African health authorities first began with vaccinating health workers, then people over 60, followed by those aged 50 to 59. Acting Health Minister MmaMoloko Kubayi announced on July 9 that it would soon include people in the 35 to 49 age group.

Ramaphosa also told South Africans Sunday that more than 17 million J&J doses would be delivered to Africa starting in late July and that the company had made a commitment for vaccines to be produced under license in South Africa.

But it is too late to help with the third wave of Covid infections, hospitalizations and deaths that has South Africa by the throat.

At a press conference in late June, World Health Organization's regional director for Africa, Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, said that "We need a sprint, not a saunter, to rapidly protect those facing the biggest risks. Cases are outpacing vaccinations, leaving more and more dangerously exposed."

This is partially because of vaccine inequality. An Oxfam analysis last September found that "wealthy nations representing just 13% of the world's population have already cornered more than half (51%) of the promised doses of leading Covid-19 vaccine candidates," then still in phase 3 clinical trials.

Without a doubt, the key to saving more South Africans -- and other Africans -- from dying from this deadly virus is getting vaccines to the people at a faster rate. And the US and countries with surplus should send their excess vaccine, as President Joe Biden announced he is doing to Indonesia, also in the throes of a Covid surge.

For me, having previously reported and read widely on Covid, I believed this before, but after my own experience, I'm even more certain.

The-CNN-Wire

 &  2021 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved.
CALIFORNIA - Power users in the state of California are being asked to conserve energy on Saturday between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m. to help "alleviate stress on the power grid."

A rapidly growing wildfire in Southern Oregon is threatening power lines used to import energy to California. According to CAL ISO, that and the extreme heat are together putting "new stresses on the electric grid."

They said on Saturday, the need to conserve energy throughout the state is "critical."

A flex alert was issued for Friday, causing a challenge for power managers in the state. Some generating capacity was not available during the triple-digit temperatures.

ISO data shows that electricity demand dropped once Friday's Flex Alert was in effect. But conditions, they said, deteriorated quickly as the Bootleg Fire continued to grow and pose an "imminent threat to transmission lines leading into the California Oregon Intertie (COI).

The COI is used to import electricity from the Pacific Northwest to the electric grid managed by the ISO and imports power into other grid balancing authorities and Nevada.

The Bootleg Fire started Tuesday in Klamath County due to a lightning strike. It was driven by wind forcing evacuations. It doubled in size Thursday night and doubled again on Friday night. On Saturday morning it had burned more than 76,000 acres.

On Friday the ISO issued a formal "grid warning." That was canceled at 10:00 p.m. on Friday state when electricity demand is typically low but could be reinstated on Saturday if conditions warrant.

All California residents are asked to set their thermostats to 78 degrees or higher, avoid using major appliances, and turn off unnecessary lights.

There are suggestions to use fans for cooling when possible and to unplug electrical items that you are not using.
Alton, IL (62002)

Today

A mix of clouds and sun. High 83F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

A few passing clouds, otherwise generally clear. Low near 65F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph.
By Cathy Jameson

One morning a little over a month ago, I was catching up on some posts in an online group. While sipping my coffee, I scrolled to the newest message. The commenter said that people who choose not to vaccinate should thank the rest of us for taking public health seriously." All of us "should do our part to bring normal back to everyone." Not finished with all that she had to say, the poster shared that shed gotten the vaccine. Wanting some sort of recognition for that, she continued more curtly, "You're welcome, unvaccinated folks."

This woman stayed on her soapbox a little bit longer and requested that the unvaccinated stop spreading misinformation. I was unsure why she asked that because previous comments left by others included vaccine data directly from government agencies that oversee the vaccine program. Maybe she didnt like that some of that data was of documented vaccine injuries. Far from done replying to the very polite responses people were leaving her, regardless of where their data was being cited, she had one more thing to say. She insisted that, The vaccine is helping you. How? Whether it's in your arm or not, the vaccine is the public good working for everyone."

What a message to wake up to!

I wanted to reply, and had I known the people in this group a little bit better, I would have. But I chose not to. Ive been replying to that kind of irrational, hateful speech for years. This woman, who Ive yet to meet in person, worked herself up into a tizzy and by the time I caught up, she didnt need my input. Plus, others had already graciously chimed in. Other parents had responded to the indignant comments and requests before I even had a chance to even open the thread. Who were those other people? Several of them had previously stated that they were pro-vaccine. They were just not pro-vaccine for one of the COVID vaccines, which was the topic of that particular thread.

I am vaccinated, but I will not get the new one. I wont allow my children to get it either, several shared. I appreciated that I wasnt the only one who had the same thought. I walk into some message boards thinking Im the lone anti-vaxxer. On this particular board, there were quite a few of us. And, dang, did they let this woman have it.

Thank you? For you getting the shot? I didnt ask you to do that. You did that on your own.

Nothing about this vaccine is normal.

If this was really about public health, we wouldnt be forced into experimental shots.

Do my part? I am, by not falling for the hype.

For not being in the anti-vaxxer movement for as long as I have been, the responses I was reading were pretty good. I sat back and read some more.
Although it too is dry, the U.S. northern durum crop area in North Dakota and Montana has benefited from a few more rains than the spring wheat region, and because of that it is not as attached to other wheat markets.

With durum, the market is a little more isolated than the other wheat markets, maybe a little less connection to corn, said Jim Peterson, market director for the North Dakota Wheat Commission. This growing season, for the most part, where most of the durum is grown (that region) has benefitted from some rain. Although the region is still dry and has had some hot temperatures, the crop was planted a little later and theyve been a little more favored with some of the June rains.

Nonetheless, as we hit the end of June, we are starting to see a little more buyer concern with some hot, dry conditions moving into the Canadian crop, as well as hot temperatures in the North Dakota and Montana durum crops and a little setback in crop condition ratings, he added.

On top of that, USDA came out with updated planted acreage estimates the end of June for both Canada and the U.S. Peterson felt it was a bit surprising to end users that acres went down from March intentions.

End users felt that $7-$7.50 was an attractive price for producers, but it certainly paled in comparison to what they could get in other markets, he said. The lack of really strong new crop bids probably discouraged additional durum plantings.

According to the planted acreage report, total U.S. durum plantings were down 60,000 acres from the March estimate and now stand at 1.48 million acres, a decline of 12 percent from a year ago. Where the decline took place was in Montana where they were expected to plant 710,000 acres in March, which would have been slightly higher than the 2020 crop of 690,000. Instead, only 650,000 acres were planted this year.
Ruby Anne Murphy is only 3 months old and has spent most of that time in Phoenix Childrens 
https://www.aish.com/tp/i/sacks/Leader-as-Teacher.html

It was one of the great moments of personal transformation, and it changed not only Moses but our very conception of leadership itself.

By the end of the book of Bamidbar, Moses career as a leader would seem to be ending. He had appointed his successor, Joshua, and it would be Joshua, not Moses, who would lead the people across the Jordan into the Promised Land. Moses seemed to have now achieved everything he was destined to achieve. For him there would be no more battles to fight, no more miracles to perform, no more prayers to make on behalf of the people.

It is what Moses did next that bears the mark of greatness. For the final month of his life he stood before the assembled people, and delivered the series of addresses we know as the book of Deuteronomy or Devarim, literally words. In these addresses, he reviewed the peoples past and foresaw their future. He gave them laws. Some he had given them before but in a different form. Others were new; he had delayed announcing them until the people were about to enter the land. Linking all these details of law and history into a single overarching vision, he taught the people to see themselves as an am kadosh, a holy people, the only people whose sovereign and lawgiver was God Himself.

If someone who knew nothing about Judaism and the Jewish people were to ask you for a single book that would explain both who Jews are and why they do what they do, the best answer would be Devarim. No other book so encapsulates and dramatises all the key elements of Judaism as a faith and way of life.

In a much-watched TED talk, and a book with the same name,1 Simon Sinek says that the transformative leaders are those who Start with Why. More poetically, Antoine de Saint-Exupery said, If you want to build a ship, dont drum up people together to collect wood and dont assign them tasks and work, but rather teach them to long for the endless immensity of the sea.

Through the addresses we read in the book of Devarim, Moses gave the people their Why. They are Gods people, the nation on whom He has set His love, the people He rescued from slavery and gave, in the form of the commandments, the constitution of liberty. They may be small but they are unique. They are the people who, in themselves, testify to something beyond themselves. They are the people whose fate will defy the normal laws of history. Other nations, says Moses, will recognise the miraculous nature of the Jewish story  and so, from Blaise Pascal to Nikolai Berdyaev and beyond, they did.

In the last month of his life Moses ceased to be the liberator, the miracle-worker, the redeemer, and became instead Moshe Rabbeinu, Moses, our teacher. He was the first example in history of the leadership type in which Jews have excelled: the leader as teacher.

Moses surely knew that some of his greatest achievements would not last forever. The people he had rescued would one day suffer exile and persecution again. The next time, though, they would not have a Moses to do miracles. So he planted a vision in their minds, hope in their hearts, a discipline in their deeds and a strength in their souls that would never fade. When leaders become educators they change lives.

In a powerful essay, Who is fit to lead the Jewish people? Rabbi Joseph Soloveitchik contrasted the Jewish attitude to kings and teachers as leadership types.2 The Torah places severe limits on the power of kings. They must not multiply gold, or wives, or horses. A king is commanded not to consider himself better than his fellow Israelites, nor turn from the law to the right or to the left (Deut. 17:20).

A king was only to be appointed at the request of the people. According to Ibn Ezra, the appointment of a king was a permitted, but not an obligation. Abarbanel held that it was a concession to human frailty. Rabbeinu Bachya regarded the existence of a king as a punishment, not a reward.3 In short, Judaism is at best ambivalent about monarchy - that is to say, about leadership as power.

On the other hand, its regard for teachers is almost unlimited. Let the fear of your teacher be as the fear of heaven, says the Talmud.4 Respect and reverence for your teacher should be greater even than respect and reverence for your parents, rules Rambam, because parents bring you into this world, while teachers give you entrance to the World to Come.5

When someone exercises power over us, they diminish us, but when someone teaches us, they help us grow. That is why Judaism, with its acute concern for human dignity, favours leadership as education over leadership as power. And it began with Moses, at the end of his life.

For twenty-two years, as a Chief Rabbi, I carried with me the following quotation from one of the greatest leaders of the Zionist movement, Israels first Prime Minister, David Ben-Gurion. Although he was a secular Jew, he was enough of a historian and Bible scholar to understand this dimension of leadership, and said so in eloquent words:

Whether you hold humble office in a municipality or in a small union or high office in a national government, the principles are the same: you must know what you want to achieve, be certain of your aims, and have these goals constantly in mind. You must fix your priorities. You must educate your party and must educate the wider public. You must have confidence in your people  often greater than they have in themselves, for the true political leader knows instinctively the measure of mans capacities and can rouse him to exert them in times of crisis. You must know when to fight your political opponents, and when to mark time. You must never compromise on matters of principle. You must always be conscious of the element of timing, and this demands a constant awareness of what is going on around you  in your region if you are a local leader, in your country and in the world if you are a national leader. And since the world never stops for a moment, and the pattern of power changes its elements like the movement of a kaleidoscope, you must constantly reassess chosen policies towards the achievement of your aims. A political leader must spend a lot of time thinking. And he must spend a lot of time educating the public, and educating them anew.6

The poet Shelley once said that poets are the unacknowledged legislators of the world.7 Whether this is true or false, I do not know, but this I know: that there is all the difference between giving people what they want and teaching them what to want.

Teachers are the unacknowledged builders of the future, and if a leader seeks to make lasting change, they must follow in the footsteps of Moses and become an educator. The leader as teacher, using influence not power, spiritual and intellectual authority rather coercive force, was one the greatest contributions Judaism ever made to the moral horizons of humankind and it can be seen most clearly in the Book of Devarim, when Moses for the last month of his life summoned the next generation and taught them laws and lessons that would survive, and inspire, as long as there are human beings on earth.

QUESTIONS (AROUND THE SHABBAT TABLE)

How did Moses leadership style change over the years, from the day he stood at the Burning Bush until his final days in the Book of Devarim? Why is being a teacher the highest honour for Judaism? Do you think this is reflected in the wider society? How can a teacher make an impact that will last long after they have stopped teaching the student? How did Moses do this?

NOTES

Simon Sinek, Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action, Portfolio, 2011. The lecture can be seen at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qp0HIF3SfI4. Abraham R. Besdin, Reflections of the Rav, World Zionist Organisation, 1979, 127-139. In their commentaries to Deut. 17:15. Rabbenu Bachyas point is that the people should in principle have needed no other king than God Himself. In support of his view, he quotes Hosea: They set up kings without My consent; they choose princes without My approval (8:4); and So in My anger I gave you a king, and in My wrath I took him away (13:11). Pesachim 108b. Mishneh Torah, Hilchot Talmud Torah 5:1. Moshe Pearlman, Ben Gurion Looks Back in Talks with Moshe Pearlman, Weidenfeld and Nicolson, New York, 1965, 52. I owe this quotation to Jonathan (now Lord) Kestenbaum, Executive Director of the Office of the Chief Rabbi, 1991-1996. Percy Bysshe Shelley, A Defence of Poetry: An Essay (ReadHowYouWant, 2006), 53.

CONNECT WITH THE CHIEF RABBI

Download the Chief Rabbis new iPhone and iPad app via www.chiefrabbi.org for mobile access to his video study sessions as well as his articles and speeches. Alternatively, search for Chief Rabbi in the App Store on your iPhone.



SUBSCRIBE TO COVENANT & CONVERSATION

To receive Covenant & Conversation and other news from the Office of the Chief Rabbi direct to your inbox each week, please subscribe at www.chiefrabbi.org.
News

featured top story urgent

Gun violence 'priority' Dougherty County DA says

File Photo Greg Edwards

ALBANY  In 1988 Dougherty County earned the dubious distinction as the murder capital of the nation, with nearly 30 homicides for the year.

An FBI report listed the murder rate at 24.5 persons per 100,000 in population, ahead of New York Citys rate of 22.7 per 100,000. The federal agency counted 27 deaths in the city and two in unincorporated Dougherty County, with the Albany Police Department disputing that number, claiming there were only 24 deaths in the city.

Things have calmed down since then, but a spike in gun violence last year caught the attention of the community, with the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce and elected officials weighing in on the impact of violence on the community.

In 2020 there were 19 deaths from gun violence, Dougherty County Coroner Michael Fowler said. The number is running at a similar pace for this year, with nine gun deaths so far.

Seeing the trend, Dougherty County District Attorney Greg Edwards said his office is formulating a plan to help reduce the bloodshed.

We are working on addressing the gun violence in Dougherty County, he said. We are making direct efforts on the part of the DAs office and the judges. We are doing something.

With the COVID-19 pandemic closing courthouses for more than a year, prosecutors were unable to convene grand juries to issue indictments or hold jury trials.

In Dougherty County, just as criminal trials were set to get underway, flooding in the Dougherty County Judicial building caused by a faulty water hose on the third floor further delayed trial calendars.

We are moving toward trials, and we are moving toward trials in the near future, Edwards said. As part of that, we are working on gun murders. We are focusing on how we can both address gun violence and our cases that need to be tried.

The district attorney said he also will be announcing new initiatives.

Last year he attributed many of the shootings to a beef between two rival street gangs that stretches back for years. After a lull in gun violence early during the pandemic lockdown, there was a spike in shootings that followed in ensuing months.

During the lockdown, even though people were not out on the streets as frequently, the two gangs used social media to keep the feud going, Edwards said.

Its a mountain, he said of the issue. If we have to move it one shovelful at a time, we still have to move the mountain. We will be taking some definitive steps toward addressing our gun violence. This is our priority, and we are working to address this.

One suggestion offered by Dougherty County Commission Chairman Chris Cohilas is for agencies to work more closely together. There are a number of law enforcement agencies whose responsibilities include violence and the illicit drug trade, which can be a source of friction between rival gangs.

The individual agencies should be less protective of their turf and looking to claim credit and work collectively, said Cohlias, who worked as a prosecutor for seven years.

I think we need an aggressive, hard-hitting approach, he said. Somebody needs to write down on a sheet of paper who the most dangerous people are and round them up.

They can set up special operations and get them off the streets. Thats the kind of focus Im looking for.

Cohilas said he is not criticizing local law enforcement, but that a coordinated effort is needed.

I just want to see our law enforcement and DA  we have great leadership  but I want to see aggressive approaches being used by law enforcement (that are) proactive, not just reactive, getting out there and serving search warrants, he said. We need to arrest the bad guys and get them off the streets.
On June 26, 2018, Oklahoma voters approved State Question 788, the Medical Marijuana Legalization Initiative, legalizing the licensed use, sale, and growth of marijuana in Oklahoma for medicinal purposes.

The state question was written to allow anyone to claim just about any medical need for a card. The ease of access to medical weed made Oklahoma virtually unique among states with similar laws. Politico noted that Oklahoma is now the biggest medical marijuana market in the country on a per capita basis.

Head Shops on Every Corner

The dispensaries proliferated rapidly, sometimes more than one on a single block, more than 100 in one ZIP code. The Politico article cited Ardmore with a population of 25,000 and 36 dispensariesone for every 700 residents.

Oklahomans like to boast that our state is a good place to raise a family, OCPA distinguished fellow Andrew Spiropoulos wrote on January 23, 2019. But would you have chosen to settle in the heart of Oklahoma City if you knew that NW 23rd Street would be planted thick from N. Portland Avenue to N. Broadway with head shops? The monotony of signs advertising marijuana products is only occasionally broken by ads for the lottery or a local casino. We better save some money to help the addicts and broken families were about to help create.

Mark Woodward, spokesman for the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs (OBNDD), said Oklahomas medical marijuana law has unintentionally made the state a national center of illegal growing operations.

We are taking down two or three (grow operations) a week, he said. I just came from one in Rush Springs where we found 20 Chinese laborers who were the victims of human trafficking. The owner had them working his grow operation and they had no idea where they were.

Both legal and illegal growers from other states saw Oklahoma open for marijuana business and compared the costs here with those in their home states and began flocking here in 2020, Woodward said.

Part of it may have been Covid, but cost is a factor, he said. Since last fall we have had a tremendous influx of both legal and criminal organizations setting up grow operations. They are paying three times or more what pieces of land are worth and still coming out ahead.

A grower who was paying tens of thousands for a license in California, and hundreds of thousands for land, can get an Oklahoma license for $3,000, which is the cheapest in the nation, Woodward said. Oklahomas regulations are also looser. That attracts both legal and illegal growers, and some legal ones are actually ghost operators with a local front person and actual ownership in China or through a Mexican cartel.

On March 30, 2021, a group of 50 Republican state representatives, led by state Rep. Anthony Moore, R-Clinton, and House Speaker Charles McCall, R-Atoka, sent a letter to Oklahoma Attorney General Mike Hunter expressing their support for his efforts to work with local and statewide law enforcement to track reported transactions by aliens or foreign entities who acquire title to real property in Oklahoma with an underlying criminal purpose.

OBNDD gets frequent complaints, Woodward said, from landowners in rural Oklahoma who are concerned with how their property values will be impacted by growers arriving and paying $80,000 for a $20,000 plot of land. There are also worries about the water-hungry plants lowering water tables, and even with power brownouts from greenhouse equipment siphoning from the local power grid.

Woodward said OBNDD agents watched after California legalized medical marijuana in 1996. Advocates of legal drugs had long claimed that once the criminal stigma was removed, the black market would dry up. In fact, Woodward said, the same thing happened there as we are seeing in Oklahoma. Black market drugs are always going to be cheaper with unlimited supplies.

Woodward said most dispensary operators are trying to do what is right, but they are being undercut by black market distributors who are benefiting from the large number of both legal and illegal growing facilities.

Dispensary owners are telling us they cant compete, Woodward said.

Woodward said the lax provisions of Oklahomas medical marijuana law have effectively given the state legal recreational marijuana, since almost any adult can qualify for a card. He said he is concerned that so many people have bought into the myth that marijuana is a wonder drug, when in fact it has limited and still debatable efficacy for only a small number of medical conditions in some patients.

We hear from people who have been diagnosed with cancer who read in some obscure magazine that marijuana caused a tumor to shrink in rats, he said. So they put their hopes in a drug that cannot help them.

He said he also worries about the young people who are using the drug recreationally on a frequent basis, despite research that shows the risk of permanent brain damage for those in their age range.

Compounding that concern is the fact that unlike actual prescribed medications, there is no way to regulate the dosage and quality of a given batch of weed. A law passed in 2019 to impose seed to consumer monitoring of the product has been stalled by lawsuits from distributors.

Marijuana Use Disorder

And the question remains, is marijuana uniquely harmless among other previously illegal drugs, as many of its backers assert, or is it simply another intoxicating drug with the potential for overuse and addiction?

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) and every reputable source in the addiction field recognizes a condition called marijuana use disorder, the symptoms of which closely parallel addiction to other substances like alcohol. NIDA projects that 30 percent or more of users will exhibit some degree of the disorder, and if they start using it before age 18 (which almost all do) their chances of developing full-blown dependency increase from four to seven times.

Most worrisome, multiple studies have shown that heavy marijuana use before age 25 poses an elevated risk of permanently altering brain function, including early onset of psychosis.

According to the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (ODMHSAS), marijuana consistently ranks third, behind only methamphetamine and alcohol, when those being admitted for addiction treatment are asked what is their primary drug of abuse. A report by the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics cited data showing that 14 percent of all addiction treatment admissions in 2015 were due primarily to marijuana habits.

ODMHSAS spokesman Jeffrey Dismukes said that according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, approximately one in 10 people who use marijuana will become addicted. When they start before age 18, the rate of addiction rises to 1 in 6.

Dismukes noted that todays marijuana  including that grown for alleged medical uses  contains far more tetrahydrocannabinol (THC, the psychoactive ingredient in the plants) than in previous decades.

The higher the THC amount, the stronger the effects on the brain  likely contributing to increased rates of marijuana-related emergency room visits and other adverse effects, Dismukes said. Clinicians are also concerned about how THC might interact with prescribed medications, especially medications like antidepressants.

That is a concern shared by Dr. Jedidiah Perdue, medical director of the Arcadia Trails addiction treatment center in Edmond and a specialist in addiction medicine.

I have seen many people who need residential treatment for an addiction to cannabis, and we have also seen an increase in people seeking treatment in the past year, he said. These were individuals who put themselves at risk of developing an addiction through regular and sustained use of marijuana.

Dr. Perdue said the cannabis-addicted population has recently shifted from primarily young people to include patients as old as their 40s, many of whom likely acquired the drug through the medical marijuana program.

I think this is just the tip of the iceberg, the physician said. I think we will see more people having trouble with cannabis. We know that between one in eight and one in 10 people who use any addictive drug will develop addiction to it over time. He suggested that the greater availability of marijuana since legalization will only swell those numbers.

Dr. Perdue said he is also concerned with the proliferation of dispensaries with little or no regulation.

We limit certain forms of advertising for liquor, he said, noting that most residents would be concerned with a liquor store on every corner as is often the case with marijuana dispensaries.

The Covid-19 pandemic has also played a role in the upsurge in people seeking treatment for their marijuana addiction, he speculated, noting that the increased availability of marijuana coincided with pandemic lockdowns and stress. Many people used substances as a way to cope, he said.

Dr. Perdue said he agrees that there are a limited number of potential uses for THC in medicine, but noted that there are minimal ways to measure dosages in most of the products being sold through dispensaries. Risks from those highly potent forms of THC include psychiatric issues.

I just recently saw a patient who was suffering from a psychiatric disorder as a result of his heavy marijuana use, he noted.

There are also dangers to children who are far too young to qualify for a medical marijuana card, but who may ingest some of the edible forms of the drug purchased by parents.

Lynn Casey of the communications and marketing office at Tulsas St. Francis Health System said their pediatric emergency room has seen a startling amount of children who consumed marijuana gummies or other enticing products. Saint Francis even issued a warning to member physicians noting that in addition to the more common dizziness, sedation, and hallucinations, (children) can also experience suppressed breathing that can in more serious cases require the use of a ventilator.

According to a white paper from the National Institute on Drug Abuse, the Food and Drug Administration has approved prescription medications derived from THC to treat nausea experienced by cancer patients receiving chemotherapy. There are also some THC-based products being tested to relieve muscle spasms associated with multiple sclerosis, and for controlling symptoms in forms of childhood epilepsy. These are not raw marijuana; they are legally tested and processed medications to be prescribed by physicians and dispensed from normal pharmacies.

Actual marijuana plants, and even edible products containing them, may contain hundreds of unknown, active chemicals, the white paper said, and it can be difficult to develop a product with accurate and consistent doses of these chemicals. Use of marijuana as medicine also poses other problems such as the adverse health effects of smoking and THC-induced cognitive impairment.

(Ed. note: OCPA is a conservative nonprofit with a mission of affecting public policy issues in Oklahoma.)
Cyber Ninjas, the cybersecurity consulting firm hired by Arizona Senate Republicans to oversee a partisan review of the 2020 election, is pushing a false narrative that Maricopa County received thousands of mail-in ballots that had no record of being sent out to voters.
Lake Charles, Louisiana (70615)

Today

Partly cloudy skies this morning. Thunderstorms likely during the afternoon. High 89F. Winds SSE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 60%..

Tonight

Partly cloudy skies. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 77F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph.
Do we really want a nationwide federal police force accountable solely to a small number of legislators, not subject to FOIA and other citizen protections applicable to the executive branch? The Acting Chief of the U.S. Capitol Police has recently announced the expansion of their federal force into Florida and California. Two new field offices will be opening in Tampa and San Francisco, due to claims from Acting Chief Yogananda Pittman that the number of threats against sitting Congressmen has doubled in the last year.

A Capitol police officer with an automatic weapon

Photographed July 28, 2011, by Edward Kimmel CC BY-SA 2.0 license

However, this isnt D.C.s first effort to implement a new national police force. Just last June, House Democrats voted to pass H.R. 7120, an attempt to nationalize state and local police departments across the entire country, disguised as legislation for defunding the police.

Is it hypocritical that the same lawmakers who have been calling for a total overhaul of law enforcement since the death of George Floyd in police custody last May, now want their personal police force expanded nationwide? Absolutely, but thats never stopped a politician before.

However, the USCP is a completely different beast. Unlike any other law enforcement agencies, including federal ones like the FBI, the Capitol Police fall under the legislative branch and therefore remain exempt from being subjected to oversight like the Freedom of Information Act.

Which explains why there has been so little effort and information surrounding Ashli Babbitt's untimely end. Shrouded in secrecy, the USCP does not answer to the people of America. Only an oversight committee run by a few select members of Congress; the same ones that reap the benefits from this total lack of transparency.

While some leftists may celebrate the killing of one of our veterans and the absence of accountability for her murderer, that is truly self-defeating. One day it will be the same leftists that want to air their grievances against Congress and they too will be met with gunfire. Jesse Kelly recently tweeted, Despite all of human history telling them otherwise, these people still think the monster theyre feeding wont ever turn on them.

I asked Tayler Hansen, who was present when Capitol Police opened fire and struck Ashli Babbitt, his thoughts on nationalizing the perpetrators. His response was chilling:

The Capitol Police Force opening field offices in California and Florida is a tragedy. They have already done so much to ruin ordinary Americans lives, but it seems theyve only gotten started. I pray for the residents of these states, hopefully they dont meet the same ends as Ashli Babbitt and others did on January 6th.

Currently, the USCP is able to arrest individuals on Capitol grounds and areas around D.C. like Union Square courtesy of an agreement with the city. This means granting them jurisdiction nationwide would simultaneously install the first nationalized police force with no input from the citizens of this country.

While that is terrifying, it also raises questions on whether it is legal under the U.S. Constitution. The 10th Amendment limits the power of the federal government while granting all other responsibilities to the individual states. A nationalized police force could overstep the federal governments authority and infringe on the rights that are granted to the states. Frankly, expanding the USCP is just too much power for the legislative branch of our government. And we can look at historical examples to know that such actions have been tried before and always lead to autocratic leadership. States rights have been our bastion of democracy and they shouldnt be tossed to the dogs because Congressmen were frightened to be confronted by their own constituents.

The new field offices also highlight other federal forces' inadequacy. The FBI, US Marshals, and Secret Service all currently respond to threats against politicians, so this new overlap with the USCP means that lawmakers are not confident in these establishments abilities to handle this responsibility.

And that may be a legitimate concern. To date, over 500 individuals have been arrested for their appearance at the Capitol building on January 6th and the FBI is still looking for 300 more. Missing from the lineup of grandmothers and vegans in fur hats is the individual who placed pipe bombs at the DNC and RNC the night prior. That brand of incompetence is emblematic of federal bureaucrats. But the answer definitely isnt to spawn a new police force nationwide under the full control of a handful of politicians thousands of miles away.

While lawmakers may be using January 6th as a public reason to expand this private police force, expanding the USCP has been on the agenda for a while. Just last year, Congress increased the Capitol Polices annual budget to just over half a billion dollars.

Then, in May, the House increased USCP funding by over 350% when they passed a $1.9 billion Capitol Police budget (by only one vote) - that breaks down to $3.5 million per Congress member. If that doesnt sound ridiculous enough, consider that several million are being spent on two new support dogs, named Lila and Filip, [who] will join the force to spread the message of wellness.

With the media and tech companies under pressure to continue the fear-mongering regarding January 6th, it's no wonder that the average Democratic voter sees the arrests of their own countrymen as a justification to continue irrationally hating their political opposition and encouraging the further expansion of D.C.s authoritarian powers. Democrats get to point to the seditionists and say, "Republicans are so corrupt that they are arrested by the trainload!"

I almost pity them and their inability to recognize the redefined role of the federal forces, like legislators granting themselves the broad powers to be their own judicial review via a nationalized Capitol Police force. Democrats celebrate the death of Ashli Babbitt as well as the rifle-drawn arrests of political adversaries while happily regurgitating propaganda that those challenging the seats of power are insurrectionists and that should terrify us all.

Tayler Hansen went on to say, With a Nancy Pelosi commission, I can only imagine what a politically weaponized police force will do. Unfortunately, we dont have to use our imaginations. The Nazi Party came into power in Germany in January of 1933. By the following summer, it was illegal to belong to any other political party. Without the newly nationalized German police force, it wouldnt have been possible.

You can reach Taylor Day on Twitter @TheTaylorDay

To comment, you can find the MeWe post for this article here.
America must be a colorblind nation, one that does not obsess about skin color or use it as the measure for judging a person. Only in that way can we survive as a unified people. Unfortunately, after fifty years of elevating a colorblind nation, Democrats are again insisting that we must judge people solely by their skin color. Even worse, many now believe that hatred and violence are warranted against others based on color differences. This trend is extremely dangerous to our future.

Aside from race hustlers at home, Americas enemies  e.g., China, Iran, and Russia  are the only ones benefiting from this new tribalism. If Americans are fighting each other, they have little time, energy, and effort to fight against geopolitical foes. We must hope that the lefts identity politics do not prove that both Lincoln and Khrushchev were correct when each predicted that, if America were to fall, it would fall from within.

After World War II, people of faith, the same people who had once been on the abolition frontlines, refocused their energy on the sin of racism. Dr. Billy Graham preached that racism is a sin against God. For him, segregation was antithetical in Gods church. Famously, in 1952, while in Jackson, Mississippi, he pulled down the ropes himself that separated the White Christians from the Black Christians at his revival.

Beginning in the 1960s, and with a powerful effect, Dr. Martin Luther King famously used his faith as both sword and shield as he fought against racial injustice. As did Dr. Graham, he understood that judging people by race is a sin against both God and man. He did not want to be treated better or give more rights, just equal rights. His famous dream that his children should not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character became the clarion call for a color-blind society in America.

Both King and Graham were guided by Revelations 5:9, which states that Christ came for people from every tribe and language and people and nation. The message from these men affected Americans more than fifty years ago and, since that time  and. indeed, until quite recently -- Americans have been guided by that message, and have constantly worked to judge people by their words and actions, not their skin color.

Today, though, when Dr. Kings words calling for a color-blind America are considered racist, we have surely lost our way. This is both frightening and destructive.

The Democrats divisions, of course, go deeper than race, with people divided by sex, sexuality, and disability, among other things. This too is dangerous. Over one hundred years ago, in 1915, Teddy Roosevelt stated that America cannot become a hyphenated nation: There is no room in this country for a hyphenated Americanism.

While Roosevelt was speaking then of those claiming to be Irish-American, Italian-American, or Catholic-American, he saw how dangerous it was for Americans to categorize themselves by race, ethnicity, religion, and color. Add in gender and sexuality and the divisions begin to run very deep.

Many in America recognize the dangers attendant on having Americans first sense of identification hewing to ethnicity, race, color, religion, or language, rather than country. Indeed, the country in which they live almost becomes an after-thought to those other external factors.

Yugoslavia was once an apparently unified country under the Communist dictator Josip Tito. After Titos death, when his iron fist was removed, Yugoslavia violently separated itself by skin color, ethnicity, language, and religion, with ethnic cleansing, genocide and, predictably, millions of deaths. Eventually, peace came in the form of six little countries. Other than oppression, the people had no common denominator, no common cause, no common value system. Thus, the term Balkanization.

Looking at where the left is taking this country, many Americans rightly fear Balkanization here. The call for one culture, one flag, one country is being drowned out or aggressively silenced as leftists demand separate identities, pigmentations, and people. Moreover, in true totalitarian fashion, leftists encourage those in thrall to them to engage in violent retribution and to demand reparations.

The following list sets out ideas, values, beliefs, and facts about America that can all simultaneously be true. They speak to our greatness and our errors, but most importantly to our shared values, values the left despises:

America is an exceptional country.

America is the best country that has ever existed on earth. Ever.

America is not a perfect country.

America has made big mistakes and errors in her past.

America was founded according to the Bibles Judeo-Christian value system.

America has not always lived up to those Biblical values.

The Founding Fathers were exceptional men who did great and noble things.

The Founding Fathers were imperfect men and made serious mistakes.

Slaves arrived in the New World in 1619, but America did not begin as an independent country until 1776. America began in 1776, not 1619.

At one time, America accepted the tyranny of slavery within her borders.

America has often used her might to save millions of people throughout the world -- and at home -- from tyranny and slavery.

Before the 1960s, when Americans viewed skin color as an actual value that defined peoples worth, that was very, very wrong.

Now, in 2020, when Americans view skin color as an actual value that defines peoples worth, it is still very, very wrong.

Those who trade in race-baiting and who profit from Americas newfound tribalism are leading us down a very dangerous path. As all revolutionaries have discovered, events quickly spin out of control and revolutions have a habit of eating their own.

If we go in the opposite direction of a revolution -- if we pull together as one -- we can accomplish so much. The leftists foolish divide and conquer strategy means we are almost certainly destined for the ash heap of history.

We must not let Lincolns warning or Khrushchevs boast prove correct. While some Americans may be Lenins famous useful idiots, our enemies are no fools. They profit from, and therefore help foment, our dissension. A divided nation falls more easily than a unified one and a democracy must die when it breaks into fighting tribal factions. Our enemies know this. Meanwhile...Dr. King and Dr. Graham weep.

IMAGE: Martin Luther King, 1963. National Archives; public domain.

To comment, you can find the MeWe post for this article here.
The world is a dangerous place, and one of the most hazardous, and potentially destabilizing, spots is Russias border with Ukraine and the Black Sea into which Russia has introduced considerable military forces, including three nuclear submarines, one of which is thought to have nuclear missiles. Since Catherine the Great annexed the Crimea in 1793, thus achieving a warm water port navigable all year round, Russia has been an important player in the region, though challenged at different times by the Ottoman Empire, its successor Turkey, and Western countries. During the regime of the Soviet Union, the Black Sea was regarded as a Soviet lake. As the result of a number of agreements, Russia was given the right to lease the Ukrainian port of Sevastopol as the base of the Russian Black Sea fleet.

Putins Russia sees the Black Sea as vital to its geo-economic strategy, its influence in the Mediterranean, and its economic and trade links, especially on oil and gas, with European markets. Control of the Black Sea enables Russia to expand its influence, to establish a buffer security zone from the volatile south, to cement its annexation of Crimea, and to try to isolate Kiev, capital of Ukraine, thus preventing neighboring states from joining NATO as Bulgaria and Romania have done.

Russia regards the Black Sea as its own province, though it is bordered by five other countries, three of which are members of NATO. Putin has argued that western operations in the Black Sea are a violation of Moscows own sphere of influence, and his intent is to block foreign naval ships from certain parts of the Black Sea. Putin has assembled more than 100,000 troops on the border with Ukraine, grabbed Crimea, backed pro-Russian secessionists in the Donbas region, and threatened to block the Kerch Strait, cutting off foreign warships from the Black Sea.

The western response has been to express support for Ukraine, which wants full NATO membership, and to condemn Russia's threats. On the basis of the principle of freedom of navigation, western countries have a right to patrol the sea and carry out the annual maritime drill, the Sea Breeze exercise, aimed at improving collaboration and strengthening maritime security in the region. This year it involved about 5,000 NATO military personnel, about 30 ships and 40 aircraft, and 18 special operations teams Russia held its own military exercises in the area.

Russias Black Sea fleet has been based at the Crimean city of Sevastopol since the late 18th century, and most Crimean citizens are ethnic Russian, not Ukrainians. NATO warships routinely operate in the Black Sea, consistent with international law, though Putin holds the area is within Russias sphere of influence. Western participation helps to strengthen Ukraines capacity to protect its territorial waters after it had lost about 70% of its naval fleet to Russia in 2014. But Russia counters that threats from the Black Sea region have grown, as has the deployment of the NATO missile defense system in Romania. Russia has reacted aggressively to U.S. naval and air patrols. It is both a question of projecting power in the region and of protecting its economic assets.

Russia accused a British vessel of illegally breaching its territorial waters near Crimea when in June 2021 the destroyer HMS Defender, part of the UKs carrier strike group, took the most direct route across the Black Sea from Odessa, Ukraine to Georgia. The problem is that it passed just a few miles from the Crimean peninsula, internationally recognized as part of Ukraine but annexed by Russia in 2014. Russia regarded it as aggressive provocation.

It was a demonstration that the West supports Ukraines sovereignty and territorial integrity and does not accept the annexation of Crimea or the Russian claim to Crimean waters or the Russian argument that the ship was in Russian territorial waters.

Russia threatened to bomb British naval vessels if there were more actions by the Royal Navy off Crimea. Russia did practice bombing simulated enemy ships in the Black Sea using a range of bombers and fighter-bombers. On June 23, 2021, a Russian warship fired warning shots, and a warplane dropped bombs in the path of the HMS Defender to force it away from Crimea.

Putin claimed that the Defender and U.S. reconnaissance aircraft operating from Crete in concert with the British ship were a provocation. He said, on June 30, 2021, that Russia could have sunk the Defender that had illegally entered its territorial waters and could thus have started World War III. Putin boasted that the westerners who were conducting the provocation knew they could not emerge as victors from such a war.

The uneasy reality is that Odessa has become Ukraines main naval base, often used by NATO ships, while Russia has made Crimea into a fortress and controlled the Azov Sea.

The ultimate aims and objectives of Russia remain in doubt, but it is noticeable and relevant that on July 1, 2021, a law was passed that bans comparing as similar the behavior of the Soviet army and Joseph Stalin during World War II to the actions of the Nazi Germany military and Adolf Hitler. The law insists that the Soviet army was a liberator and therefore a benefactor of Europe

Forgotten in this self-exaltation is the nonaggression Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact signed in Moscow on August 23, 1939, enabling the two powers to partition Poland between them, and giving Hitler a free hand to attack Poland. The Soviet Union collaborated with Hitler until the Nazis invaded the Soviet Union on June 22, 1941. Inevitably, this reminder of the role of Stalin, one of the most ruthless individuals in recent history, and his 29-year regime and the law banning derogatory statements about his activities, occasions comparisons with present-day Putin as the heir to Stalin, eager to recover territory lost after the end of the Soviet Union, and as a decisive leader, an adversary of the West.

In view of recent Russian aggression in the Black Sea, inducing concerns about Putins intentions, it is disconcerting that a new poll of Russians by the independent Levada Center found that 39% of respondents had a positive opinion of Stalin, a proportion that has been increasing. Stalins image had been removed from Red Square in Moscow, and the city named after him had been changed to Volgograd, but for Putin, he still lives. The West may ponder whether Putin is and will continue to be an heir to the model of the strong, aggressive ruler, and ruthless suppression of enemies, that has started with the seizure of Crimea from Ukraine.

It is ominous that the question has been raised that the dismantling of the statue of Felix Dzerzhinsky, Iron Felix, head of Cheka, the first secret police in the Soviet Union, after a failed coup by Communist hard-liners against Mikhail Gorbachev, in August 1991 outside FSB headquarters in Lubyanka Square in central Moscow was illegal and should be reinstated. Putin on March 1, 2018, said the collapse of the Soviet Union was the greatest political catastrophe of the 20th century.

Rehabilitation of Stalin and the dozens of new monuments to him, ignoring or forgetting the terror of the past, justifies caution about Putin. Paranoia about the U.S. and the West persists, as does espionage, fake news, and cyberwarfare. Putin may not be a clone of Stalin, but he is a tough authoritarian, with his own secret police, a strong nationalist, with a proclivity to blame the U.S. for the ills of his nation. The West is right to have a robust strategy towards Russia, particularly in the Black Sea.

Image: NASA Marshall Center

To comment, you can find the MeWe post for this article here.
Before I get to the bad news, let me start with some good news. Christopher F. Rufo tweets that the revulsion against Critical Race Theory being taught in schools is showing results. Nine states have already banned it: Arizona, Texas, Tennessee, Florida, Arkansas, Oklahoma, New Hampshire, Iowa, and Idaho. As more people realize this effort to divide us into what Scott Adams calls losers and assholes I expect we will see more states banning the teaching of this perfidious, noxious, baseless nonsense. On the other hand, there seems no backing off of it in the military, where it can do nothing but weaken our defense capabilities.

Other good news is that courts are rejecting efforts to scrap voter reform. Voter Reform is winning, and its what the voters want:

Voters want reform. Just the News reported, "A strong, 62% majority of registered voters believe that Americans should have to provide photo identification when submitting a mail-in ballot, according to a new Just the News Daily Poll with Scott Rasmussen. "Just 23% of respondents said voters should not be required to include their photo ID with mail-in ballots. "Responses in favor of a photo ID requirement include 78% of Republicans, 50% of Democrats, and 60% of independents. An equal number of white and Hispanic respondents favored the rule, as did 51% of black voters." Clyburn and Stacey Abrams now falsely claim they always supported voter ID. Do not be discouraged because the media narrative of Jim Crow! Jim Crow! Jim Crow! is failing, failing, failing. Jim Crow died more than a half-century ago thanks to civil rights legislation that Republicans made possible. LBJ needed 23 Republican votes in the Senate to overcome a filibuster. Everett Dirksen delivered 27. The leader of that ill-fated filibuster, Bobby Byrd, later became the Senate Democrat leader. The Democrat Party, which had passed actual Jim Crow laws now is losing in its attempt to reverse good policy by crying racism.

One more piece of good news, a Freedom of Information Act suit by Judicial Watch has confirmed what weve suspected -- Dr. Anthony Faucis National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) was deeply involved in the Wuhan Labs work on developing coronavirus and surely knew or had reason to know the source of COVID-19. He can hardly keep denying his collaboration in the development of the virus and efforts to obscure its source.

These new records reveal that NIAID gave nine China-related grants to EcoHealth Alliance to research coronavirus emergence in bats and was the National Institute of Healths (NIH) top issuer of grants to the Wuhan lab itself. These records also include an email from the Vice Director of the Wuhan Lab asking an NIH official for help finding disinfectants for decontamination of airtight suits and indoor surfaces. Additionally, a World Health Day announcement lists successful activities of the US-China collaboration that included detailed surveillance throughout China and in other countries on the emergence of coronaviruses and NIHs receipt of influenza samples from China to assess risks associated with emerging variants for pandemic and zoonotic threat. The records further show that, in 2018, Dr. Ping Chen, the NIAID Representative in China, learned of a type of new flu vaccine using nano-technology from Chinas Wuhan Institute of Virology and discovered that the Chinese had blocked all Internet links to reports on the new technology. This led Chen to write an urgent night note to US Government officials. The note said, The intranasal nano-vaccine can target broad-spectrum flu viruses and induces robust immune responses. The documents also include a picture of the Wuhan facility building taken by Dr. Chen.

The bad news this week, is that the media is still feeding us baloney, the surveillance state is growing and we now have -- with judicial acquiescence -- a group of political prisoners in D.C. and a lunatic FBI dragnet against everyone who was anywhere near the Capitol on January 6.

More Media Lying

Most of us have not the perseverance, wit, or time to dissect the news. Dr. Randy Bock, a Facebook friend, does and he analyses a widely distributed AP story on the Northwestern heatwave by AP science writer Seth Borenstein, whose background is a BS degree in journalism from Boston University. Bock reveals the lack of independent investigation of sources and an exaggeration of the results of studies which align with the media agenda.

The article which appeared in hundreds of papers under different headers (the Omaha World Heralds is Northwest heat wave impossible without climate change) purportedly is based on a study by an outfit called World Weather Attribution. Bock never heard of it, and neither have I. The Borenstein article describes the group as An international team of 27 scientists" and says it calculated that climate change increased chances of the extreme heat occurring by at least 150 times, but likely much more.

The World Weather Attribution website does not list its source of funding, and if Borenstein asked, he didnt say. Their mission only discusses the possible influence of climate change on extreme weather conditions. If we knew the funders we might possibly find out whether they included billionaire investors in green technology who would profit from such scaremongering. And scaremongering it is. As Bock notes, On February 10, 1933 the temperature in Pendleton, Oregon hit 119 degrees. The CO2 concentration then was 309 ppm, one hundred ppm less than the worldwide CO2 concentration today. It is with good reason that as Rasmussen reports 58% of U.S. voters at least somewhat agree that the media are "the enemy of the people."

Another Unaccountable Intelligence Agency was Just Created

In a press release, the Capitol Police, a largely patronage operation designed to protect the Capitol, just received a large boost in its already substantial budget to build regional offices in California and Florida and then in other regions to investigate threats to members of Congress.

Reason shares my concern about yet another spying operation:

The department does not need to become yet another unaccountable intelligence agency involved in the dubious and often nakedly political project of conducting widespread surveillance on the American people. Opening field agencies and monitoring "threats to members of Congress" are actions that dilute the Capitol Police's very clear mandate to guard the Capitol building. The FBI, National Security Agency (NSA), Department of Homeland Security, and CIA are already empowered to investigate threats to political leaders; the federal government does not need to hire additional spymasters for this purpose, especially given that the agencies burdened with doing so have tended to violate the rights of innocent Americans. But make no mistake: The Capitol Police has every intention of becoming just like the FBI and the NSA.

Even worse, as the Capitol Police force is considered part of Congress, it is not covered by the Freedom of Information Act which means its operations are not transparent or accountable. Thats what has so far kept it from having to divulge the name of the officer who shot Ashli Babbitt.

Neither the Capitol Police nor the FBI has made publicly available the thousands of hours of videos of the January 6 Capitol riot which by now only the most deranged, ill-informed, or partisan continue to claim was an armed insurrection or one that resulted in the death of an officer.

Still, the media and Pelosi fantasy descriptions seem to have influenced the local courts to keep in jail pending trial without bail, some hundreds of participants on what are largely misdemeanor charges. And the circumstances under which they are being held are appalling as one judge finally took notice.

I cant allow someone to sit in prison for this long without access to material, Judge Randolph Moss said at a court hearing on Thursday, saying the delay in evidence was utterly unacceptable and not consistent with due process. [snip] Randolph ordered prosecutors to work with the jail to grant the defendant access to the evidence against him by the end of Thursday, reported CNN. If Mink doesnt gain access to the documents soon, the judge said, his detention may be reconsidered. There have been other reports of Jan. 6 defendants not being able to gain access to evidence against them, essentially denying them due process under the Constitutions Fifth Amendment. Prosecutors have suggested that due to the sheer number of arrests related to the incident, there have been delays. So far, more than 500 defendants across nearly every U.S. state have been charged over the past six months over the Jan. 6 breach, according to the Department of Justice in early July. It comes as lawyers earlier this month said that dozens of people in federal custody following the Jan. 6 incident are currently being held in solitary confinement, denied access to legal counsel, and are being denied medical care. There are about 50 plus or minus that are being detained, that have been in prison for months and will likely remain in prison for many more months until their day in court, attorney John Pierce told EpochTVs The Nation Speaks.

See how this works: Roundup hundreds of people nationwide, most of whom did nothing illegal or at best misdemeanors, hold them in the worst possible conditions for months with no access to medical care, employment income, family visits, and the evidence against them in the hope theyll plead to something and then argue in court you cant do a better job of protecting their rights because there are so many of them. Nice trick. Lets see how much longer the D.C. courts fall for it.

To comment, you can find the MeWe post for this article here.
Nick Vujicic, a motivational speaker, was born without arms or legs. However, after struggling with depression, he chose not to let that limit him. Imbued with a strong Christian faith, he travels the world reminding people that they can overcome the difficulties life throws at them. Now, in addition to his ministry, Vujicic is getting into the banking business. He did so because his bank kicked him. More conservatives need to start banks as too many American financial institutions have shown a willingness to close accounts or shut down credit card access for individuals or businesses.

If you havent seen Vujicic before, you must see him. Hes extraordinary:

The Epoch Times explains Vujicics decision to get into the banking business:

Nick Vujicic, a motivational speaker who traveled the world through his organization to speak to millions about his Christian faith, became a co-founder of a pro-life bank after he was kicked out of his bank, a false article was published about him, and a grenade was thrown into his house. Vujicic, the founder, president, and CEO of the Ministry of Life Without Limbs, met with the board of his organization and was suggested to speak for the pro-life cause. Vujicic agreed, but before he even started speaking he faced all kinds of harassment. I got kicked out of a bank, with no warning, it froze my credit cards, froze my debit cards  they did a review of me as a client and they dont want anything to do with me, Vujicic said in a recent interview on EpochTVs Crossroads program. Vujicic learned from the co-founder of his pro-life bank that most banks give philanthropically under social responsibility to give to causes that provide [to] the biggest abortion clinics in America. Vujicic said that his new bank, Pro-life Bank, will be a religious for-profit entity and will not fund abortion.

This story piqued my interest for two reasons. First, Im seeing an increasing number of stories about banks making financial decisions for their customers based upon disagreements with their customers conservative values. For example, following the kerfuffle on January 6 (for it was no more than that compared to what leftists have done without consequences), Bank of America freely handed over to the FBI individuals banking information:

Customers are calling for a boycott of Bank of America, after a report that the bank handed over the account information of hundreds of innocent people in connection with the Jan. 6 deadly riots at the Capitol. At the request of the FBI, the countrys second-largest bank allegedly snooped through information of anyone making certain purchases in and around Washington before and after the riots, and handed over the information of 211 people, according to Fox News Tucker Carlson.

Also as a result of events on January 6, several banks refused to do business with Donald Trump, spontaneously closing out his accounts. In 2019, Chase Bank, without explanation, closed the accounts of several conservative activists.

With leftists increasingly trying to freeze conservatives out of the ability to function in modern society (no social media, no bank accounts, no credit cards, no access to school or work without vaccinations, etc.), its time for conservatives to insulate themselves from trouble. And that leads me to the second reason Vujicis story piqued my interest. Years ago, a savvy lawyer friend told me that setting up a private bank is a good deal for a wealthy person. Ill never find out whether my friend was correct but there are wealthy conservatives who should investigate it  and then, like Vujicic, they should set up banks that do not discriminate against people who believe in the Bill of Rights.

IMAGE: Nick Vujicic, principled banker (cropped). YouTube screen grab.

To comment, you can find the MeWe post for this article here.
The New York Times fired Lauren Wolfe, one of its editors when she tweeted before Joe Bidens inauguration that his plane landing at Joint Base Andrews gave her chills. She had failed the papers impartiality test. Wolfe is back now, not at the Times, but in the Washington Monthly, arguing that she ought to be able to show her bias  and I couldnt agree more. Of the many destructive things about Americas media, one of the worst is the self-created myth that its journalists objectively purvey the days news.

When I lived in England, I was introduced to the concept of openly biased newspapers: The Guardian represented the Labour Partys interests; The Telegraph was for the Tories; while the venerable Times represented some mythical slightly right-of-center party (mostly, to my young eyes, old people). For someone raised believing that a national media should be objective and impartial, I found the British system refreshing. Its much easier to parse the facts and analyze a story if you understand going in that the author is biased.

In America, however, the myth of media objectivity has long corrupted how political information and social issues get broadcast to society. For decades, unless they were very astute, Americans assumed that they were hearing the truth.

When Walter Cronkite took his glasses off after our military sustained a huge victory in 1968s Tet offensive, and announced that America had suffered a defeat, ordinary Americans (like my parents) accepted that as true. Support for the war, already shaky, tanked, even as the Viet Cong was destroyed militarily. Cronkite was just another lying leftist but his false statement had incredible power thanks to that carefully cultivated illusion of objectivity.

Even now, many Americans who arent politically engaged continue to believe that the mainstream media are honest. They know, because media talking heads have told them so, that Fox News is right-wing, but theyre not told that theres a corollary left-wing. Instead, they believe that the mainstream media represent the sane center. Because Americans like the idea of a sane center, they lap up the medias lies. If the media were honest about its biases, as it is in England, political and social issue discourse in America would be much better.

This brings me to Lauren Wolfe. The Washington Monthly republished Wolves substack essay entitled Im a Biased Journalist and Im Okay With That. In it, Wolfe, a graduate of Columbia's journalism school, which seems to crank out leftists, argues that being honest about her bias makes her coverage fairer.

The problem, as she sees it, is that Americans just dont get the difference between magazine-style features writing and actual news reporting:

Very few Americans, however, seem to understand the distinction between different types of stories, even though its not subtle. In news, your opinion stays out of it. Your bias stays hiddenespecially in political reporting. You are as objective as you can beyou are, in fact, not you, but the paper itselfand there is an entire system in place to make sure that your final copy achieves this.

I would argue that they dont get it because journalists have blurred the lines, but thats just me. Where I agree with Wolfe is that she believes it would be better if journalists, at least occasionally, tipped off Americans that there was an element of bias creeping into a report:

My job as a journalist, as I see it, is to gather information, translate it for my audience and communicate it clearly and effectively. Sometimes that is best done by giving your own perspective along with your sources. And often, the most powerful way of doing that is by writing in first person. As journalists, we can all use what appears to be a neutral voice, but that doesnt mean our implicit bias isnt guiding our choice of sources, or even what stories we decide to cover.

Indeed, I dont think Wolfe goes far enough. Just as a newspaper will occasionally insert a paragraph alerting readers to a possible interest the paper has in a story (Mr. Smith, whos been charged with doing dirty deeds with sheep, is one of our papers main shareholders), I think every journalist should state his biases upfront regarding the subject of his report.

When some 20-something writer oozes disdain about the claim that there was massive election fraud thanks to unconstitutional laws allowing mail-in voting and delayed counting, it would be helpful if that same writer would state clearly, I supported Joe Biden or I despise Donald Trump. Those of us who are tuned in to politics will already have figured that out but Wolfe is right: There are enough people in America who havent figured out that our journalists are Democrat party activists, which is something they really should have spelled out to them before they draw any conclusions about the veracity of an article or TV segment.

IMAGE: The New York Times newsroom in 1942. Library of Congress. Public domain.

To comment, you can find the MeWe post for this article here.
Yesterday, I wrote that it looks like Pennsylvania Dems are panicking over the audit of the 2020 election announced by State Senator Doug Mastriano, chair of the state senates Intergovernmental Operations Committee. Two days after the announcement of the audit, President Biden suddenly was scheduled for a trip to the Keystone State "to deliver remarks on actions to protect the sacred constitutional right to vote." Bringing the The Big Guy to pressure officials to obstruct access to the data which the state senate has an absolute right to examine.

But that was just half the story.

An unelected statewide official, the acting Secretary of State, acted quickly, even before Bidens trip was announced, to illegally obstruct the audit by commanding local officials to deny access to evidence. Sundance of The Conservative Treehouse, who is on top of this story, writes:

[T]he Acting Secretary of State in Pennsylvania, Veronica W. Degraffenreid, has issued a state-wide directive seeking to block any Pennsylvania legislative attempt to audit the 2020 election results [pdf LINK].

As Senator Mastriano noted when announcing the audit, his committee has the absolute legal right to this data.

As set forth in Pennsylvania Senate Rule 14 (d), each standing committee is empowered with the authority to inspect and investigate the books, records, papers, documents, data, operation, and physical plant of any public agency in this Commonwealth, including county boards of elections.

The United States Constitution Article 1, Section 4, Clause 1 invests the power over federal elections in state legislatures:

The Times, Places and Manner of holding Elections for Senators and Representatives, shall be prescribed in each State by the Legislature thereof; but the Congress may at any time by Law make or alter such Regulations, except as to the Places of chusing Senators.

So, the timeline is:

July 7: Senator Mastriano announces his audit.

July 8: Acting Secretary of State Degraffenreid orders local officials to obstruct access to the evidence.

July 9: President Bidens handlers schedule a trip to Pennsylvania, obviously to weigh in and force local officials to participate in the cover-up of evidence.

Senator Mastriano is not intimidated:

As Sundance notes:

The law is on the side of the legislature. The PA Senate has the power and legal authority, but Governor Wolf, Secretary of State Degraffenreid and State Attorney General Josh Shapiro just dont care. They can, and will, lose every court battle and still they will not comply.

Like vampires, they fear sunlight.

To comment, you can find the MeWe post for this article here.
No doubt there is much "told you so" satisfaction among Democrats in the wake of the McBroom Report, which debunked the notion of widespread improprieties and fraud in Michigan with regard to the 2020 presidential election. It was a double-blow to conservative Republicans coming from a Republican-dominated state Senate and Oversight Committee. We are told that scores of documents were reviewed and public testimony elicited with a deep dive into the election process.

The Michigan Senate Oversight Committee might be more properly referred to as the "Sightless" Committee. What did they fail to see or address? Let's examine just three areas.

In Antrim County, they dismissed the need for a full forensic audit and noted that a risk-limited audit had already been completed that had demonstrated no widespread irregularities or fraud. Were they aware that Professor Phillip Stark, who created the risk-limited audit as the gold standard for audits, resigned from Verified Voting because of concerns that this type of audit was inadequate in the evaluation of an election? A risk-limited audit can pretty accurately determine if vote tallies are legitimate. But conclusions based on such audits presumes that paper ballots are an accurate reflection of the voters' wishes. As Professor Stark said, "[b]ecause there is software between the voter and paper, what the paper shows might not be what the voter did or saw." There is no evidence that Professor Stark was interviewed or his opinions examined by the Michigan Senate Oversight Committee.

Matt DePerno, who is the attorney pursuing the request for a full forensic audit in Antrim County, was not interviewed by the committee. Neither was the forensic team (Allied Security Operations Group, AKA ASOG) who performed the original preliminary investigation. The fair-minded approach would be to address each point in the forensic report and allow DePerno and team to express their viewpoints in a hearing with opposing analysis from the other side. This level of detailed examination should then be made available to the public to honor the spirit of transparency.

Cleaning up of the registration rolls is the second area of concern. Apparently, the committee was not impressed with the claims that there were deceased or non-resident voters in the election to any significant extent. Secretary of state Benson, prior to the Nov 2020 election, acknowledged that 500,000 names needed to be removed from the rolls because of persons being deceased or having moved. However, because it was within 90 days of the election, by Michigan law, it could not be done. Why wasn't this voter roll maintenance performed sooner? Seems a bit convenient to wait until the window of action was closed. After the election, in a show of election integrity grandstanding, she removed 177,000. What happened to the other 323,000? For those concerned about election security, it is a red flag to have thousands of ghost names on the registration rolls to which fraudulent absentee ballots could be tied by bad actors and then run through election tabulators. But, says the committee report, there is no evidence that ineligible persons from the voter registration rolls actually voted, based on 200 names provided to them. Who provided the names? Democrat officials from the City of Detroit? We are to believe that there was no cherry-picking of the names presented to the committee? Stretches the bounds of credulity.

A third area of concern is the TCF Center in Detroit. The debacle at TCF on Election Day will long live in the memories of patriots and conservatives in Michigan for years to come. Scores of affidavits were filed by Republican poll challengers relating the abuse, harassment, and dismissal of election laws and procedures. The other side released their affidavits in response. Reminds one of the parent with the dilemma of two children fighting with each other. If you don't want to dive into who is the culprit and who is innocent, you punish both of them and send them to bed. Among the Republican poll challengers were those known to many of us, on a personal basis, as honest, upright citizens. We would trust our car keys to them and access to our homes. There was no moral equivalence in the actions of the opposing groups at TCF. Democrats were clearly the ones in violation of all standards of decency and rule of law. It is disheartening to see state Republican legislators throw their own party members under the bus.

At the very least, election officials should be held responsible for allowing an environment to exist in which so many citizens felt that they were unable to do their legally defined duties without obstruction. COVID was the convenient cover for inappropriate behavior. Funny how the concern about COVID and the need for social distancing didn't apply to BLM or Antifa in their "take down racist America" marches last summer. But the McBroom Report called for no investigation by Attorney General Nessel, just more training for poll challengers! This is laughable! How about enforcement of the existing statutes and laws and holding people accountable for their actions or the lack of action on the part of officials?

And so, on it goes. The McBroom Report left unanswered so many other questions as well. As noted in the ASOG Antrim forensics report, why were all the server security logs prior to 11:03 P.M. on November 4, 2020, missing? Server logs prior to November 4 were present. These logs are important to establish an audit trail. Why were adjudication log entries all missing for the November 2020 election when they had been present in previous years? Why was software changed after the election?

When security is breached, no explanation of the final results of an election can be accepted as trustworthy.

The McBroom Report does not pass the smell test in the minds of fair-minded, thoughtful individuals. As the old adage goes, there are none so blind as those who will not see. In the words of George Washington, "truth will ultimately prevail where there is pains to bring it to light" (Letter to Charles M. Thruston, Aug 10, 1794). Those of us in Michigan will remember the Republican-dominated Senate Oversight Committee come midterm elections.

Image: Ken Lund via Flickr (cropped).

To comment, you can find the MeWe post for this article here.
Now that Neiman-Marcus has been openly looted, Target has cut its hours to stave shoplifting losses, and Walgreens can't take it anymore and has shut 17 stores, what does San Francisco's pro-criminal far-left district attorney, Chesa Boudin have to say for himself?

Everyone else is at fault. Oh, and he's got a good record, too.

San Francisco District Attorney Chesa Boudin took aim Thursday at recall campaigns targeting him and other progressive leaders, saying theyre not about removing bad actors from office but instead about changing the outcome of elections. In his first in-person discussion with an audience since the pandemic restrictions forbade gatherings, the progressive district attorney fielded questions at Mannys, a cafe in the Mission District, from friend and venue owner Manny Yekutiel about his first 18 months in office.

Which is kind of ironic in itself, given that Manny's joint just got slammed with another round of anti-Semitic graffiti on that very same day, according to a separate story in the San Francisco Chronicle; unpunished, of course. I wrote about the previous anti-Semitic attacks on Manny's place in 2018. The Chronicle says there have been a series of them since.

So now Chesa says that voters who can't stand his performance as district attorney are people who don't like elections. Shouldn't he be permitted to turn the city into Caracas as he's planned? He learned at Hugo's knee, not what not to do in turning a city into a hellhole, but a how-to to recreate the Caracas model. Such are the questions that come to mind, given his sense of entitlement to office without regard for performance, and more to the point, hostility to recalls, which are as valid as elections.

It's also a flat-out gaslight lie. The momentum to recall Boudin got a swift upsurge from the public when stories started rolling out around the first of the year regarding his bad decisions letting criminals, creeps, and convicts out, and the assaults, larcenies, and burglaries started. By March, the deed was finished. I wrote about that here.

Here's another idiocy coming out from him: That anyone who opposes him or criticizes his record is a flat-out Trumpster. Here's what he said at his Manny's meeting on Friday:

Boudin compared the recall movement with the Big Lie spread by former President Donald Trump, in which Trump and his supporters falsely claimed that his election was stolen. These local and county leaders, are being recalled not because of high crimes and misdemeanors, not because of things that would lead anyone to be impeached at a federal level, Boudin said. Its happening because people dont like the outcome of elections.

Had enough? It gets worse. Anyone who has a problem with how Chesa is failing to do his job is actually a full-hooded Klansman, according to his hard-faced comrade and top aide.

According to SFGate:

Kate Chatfield, the senior director of legislation and policy in the office of San Francisco District Attorney Chesa Boudin, locked her Twitter account hours after comparing political opponents to "The Birth of a Nation," a highly controversial 1915 film that depicts Ku Klux Klan members as heroes. Chatfield was responding to a tweet from Michelle Tandler, a self-described "Moderate Dem" who has been vocal on Twitter in her criticisms of Boudin, a progressive prosecutor who has become one of the most polarizing local politicians in the country.

First time being trolled by a San Francisco public official.



(Kate is a Senior Director at the SF DA's office.)



Guess something I'm saying is hitting a nerve. pic.twitter.com/Vu7a2MR0rZ  Michelle Tandler  (@michelletandler) July 5, 2021

the wildest thing about san francisco is not even the crime, it's the way our government will straight up publicly ridicule you if you complain about the crime. this woman works in the district attorney's office. https://t.co/iLKm1uzOYv  Mike Solana (@micsolana) July 5, 2021

Nasty piece of work. And no, she's not fired. But the issues at hand are live ones. Less than two weeks ago, this survey came out:

40% of San Francisco residents plan to leave due to quality of life: Poll

People can't stand it. And Chesa's best response to it is to declare them Trump voters. One hopes that some of them take young Chesa up on it and start looking to Trump now that they're called that, whether they like it or not. As Florentine philosopher Francesco Guicciardini once noted: Suspicion justifies deceit. The gaslight burns brightly.

Here's another thing: Chesa tells us all he's doing a good job, so ignore your lying eyes, that video of Neiman-Marcus being looted, and anything else you've read about because he's "working hard."

Citing police statistics, Boudin said overall crime was actually down by approximately 20% in 2020  a trend he attributed not to his offices policies, but a pandemic that threw the world into disarray. While this included most types of violent crimes, certain categories of property crimes like commercial and home burglaries rose, Boudin acknowledged. These types of crimes are personal, he said, and paired with San Franciscos social crises exacerbated by the pandemic, can make residents feel unsafe. The thing that keeps me up at night is figuring out how we can continue to make it a safer city; and also how to make sure that everybody feels safe, he said.

It's crap. Crimes are not being reported, and cops are rarely bringing cases, knowing they'll be ignored. Yet he gaslights with this:

Its been 18 months  Ive been able to go to my office for two of them, he said. And they want to recall me now, when crime rates have fallen by 20%?

In one passage of one of his defensive videos, he claims that he prosecutes the "vast majority" of crimes brought to him, but according to the San Francisco Examiner in a just-out report, he's lying just a tad:

As videos of brazen retail thefts in San Francisco draw national attention, The Examiner has obtained new data showing that District Attorney Chesa Boudin is prosecuting far fewer shoplifting cases than his predecessor. The numbers show the prosecution rate for shoplifting cases involving a misdemeanor petty theft charge for a loss of $950 or less fell under Boudin, from 70 percent under former District Attorney George Gascon in 2019 to 44 percent in 2020 and 50 percent as of mid-June 2021. Prosecutors filed charges in 116 of 266 cases presented by police involving petty theft in 2020, compared to 450 of 647 cases in 2019, according to the data provided by the District Attorneys Office. On the other hand, the prosecution rate for certain organized retail theft cases remained between 81 and 84 percent under both Gascon and Boudin between 2019 and 2021. The office charged 35 of the 43 organized retail theft cases presented in 2020, compared to 21 of the 25 cases in 2019.

That this can be called a good job is preposterous. But it doesn't stop the gaslighting and smears of anyone who questions his record. Like any gaslighter, he acknowledges that he can "do better."

I mean, theres room for improvement, Im aware, he said. And we are working tirelessly to find ways to do better.

But everyone who knows him knows that the only thing he's working tirelessly on is prosecuting cops, yelling about gun control, and emptying prisons. That's his record and now crime has flourished. He's going to the bathroom down San Franciscans' legs and telling them it's raining.

It goes to show just how unfit this creep is for any post whatsoever anywhere in San Francisco. He first fails to do his job. He then smears his critics. He lies about crime stats against all evidence and then says he's doing a good job. The gaslights burn brightly with this clown, son of terrorists, and man of Caracas, who took crime in that miserable city as his how-to guide.

Image: Twitter screen shot

To comment, you can find the MeWe post for this article here.
Amid a bevy of science fiction novelists warning of perilous aliens, a sly masterpiece, The Invasion of the Body Snatchers, hit U.S. movie theaters in 1956.

Told through the eyes of protagonist Psychiatrist Hill, the film noir thriller chronicles the invasion, in a small Californian town, of intergalactic pods filled with predators fleeing a faraway dying planet. To survive, the invaders steal the bodies of sleeping humans, whose bodies turn to ashes when their emotionless doppelgangers are fully formed. The good doctor knows something is afoot when multiple townsfolk report that their family members aren't themselves, seemingly transformed overnight into emotionless, affectless husks of themselves.

President Biden, who ran as a middle-of-the-road Democrat, won the presidency by lying low in an underground bunker, while his lawless, power-hungry party blew up extant election laws under the cover of COVID-induced hysteria. Once elected, he has emerged as an extreme leftist, hell-bent on smashing America's successes implemented by his predecessor, the much-maligned, slandered, defamed, and groundlessly prosecuted President Trump.

Now his alt-left Democrat party is chomping through our Constitution and Bill of Rights, eviscerating the United States' hard-won energy independence, and cynically undermining the transformation of a soft Middle East accord into a clawback of anti-Israeli allegiances. Joe and the Democrats have reimagined prejudice by exchanging their odious Jim Crow laws that thwarted the advances of black American successes in the South for an amorphous attack on all Caucasians, who by the color of their skin are unfairly and irrationally deemed genetically and irredeemably greedy racists who must be scorned and punished. They have raised mediocrity as morally superior to excellence and busted open illegal access on our southern border, thereby ensuring another generation of inner-city black Americans who will be living as urban sharecroppers, suffering the indignities of low wages, inadequate education, and job scarcity.

Alternating between a dim-witted whispering dolt reading from cue cards and a pontificating holier-than-thou bureaucrat propounding that he and his power-mad bureaucrat minions know what's best, President Biden is chipping away at the pillars of American exceptionalism as they begin to crumble with predictable consequences.

Tribal warfare has been evilly set upon us as black Americans are pitted against Caucasians, anti-Semitic rhetoric has infiltrated all areas of American society, and police understandably are reluctant to enforce the law.

The "it's for the children" educational cabal has been exposed as power-mad and anti-American, disdaining the Americans who toil to pay their wages and testing their children as pawns.

COVID pulled back the curtain on this blasphemy. We have the answer. Vote out the school boards. Pull your kids out of schools. Don't send your kids to colleges that are prejudiced. Stand up to injustice and bullying. It works.

Image: Gage Skidmore via Flickr, CC BY-SA 2.0.

To comment, you can find the MeWe post for this article here.
In the current hothouse political debates about the course of the future of the United States, the shorthand phrase of Democrat Blue States vs. Republican Red States is in shorthand vogue.

The 2021 Virginia governors election is by many measures an extremely important test for the direction America will take going into the 2022 midterms and even the 2024 presidential race.

The Republican candidate, Glenn Youngkin, is today's equivalent of the best attributes of a modern Cincinnatus, a Roman citizen who left his farm to help Rome in a time of peril.

Youngkin is most definitely not a career politician as opposed to his opponent, Terry McAuliffe -- yes, that one -- a card-carrying member of the Clinton Inc. crime family.

The Virginia race can turn on many issues, including perhaps the Democrat embrace of Critical Race Theory, where a school board in Loudoun county ordered the arrest of fellow citizens exercising their First Amendment freedom of speech.

Or perhaps election integrity will burn bright, especially when a former CIA bureaucrat and current sitting member of Congress won reelection in VA-7 with magic beans, oops, I mean votes.

As a Virginia high school graduate from the famous historic peninsula of Hampton Roads that includes Jamestown, Williamsburg, and Yorktown, and who entered the military in 1965 at the dawn of the Vietnam War, and left active USMC service in 1975, at the end of the Vietnam war, the issue of war and peace touched my generation. The famous Oliver Wendell Holmes analogy about the U.S. Civil War comes to mind:

We have shared the incommunicable experience of war, we have felt, we still feel, the passion of life to its top. In our youth, our hearts were touched with fire.

However, few baby boomers, as my generation was known, actually served. Of about the 52 million boomers, 2.7 million received the Vietnam service medal. Tragically, approximately only 30% of us are still alive.

American wars went on since 1975, with Desert Storm, then Iraq, and now the soon-to-end Afghan War. Consequently, it is doubtful a current war will impact Virginias governors race.

However, in one critical respect, the issue of future war and peace is center square for military families, especially those Virginia voting families with loved ones currently serving especially on military bases in Virginia. From the Pentagon in Arlington County, to Quantico, the crossroads of the Marine Corps, to the largest Naval base in the world -- Naval Station Norfolk -- to the historic USAF, Langley Field, and the Army at Fort Eustis, the issue of preparing for combat is always present.

This is why Terry as his campaign now styles him, should go down in ignoble defeat in November 2021.

Even center-left honest Democrats accept that the Pacific may boil over with the Peoples Republic of China triggering armed conflict and even war in the Pacific. China puts the PLA, the party Army, the Peoples' Liberation Army, in front of their naval plan and air forces PLAAF first, sounding a ready now war alert which is very real in Chinas leaderships own words

In his first order of the new year to the countrys armed forces, Chinese President Xi Jinping stressed the need for full-time combat readiness and said the Peoples Liberation Armymust use frontline frictions to polish troop capabilities. Xi, who also chairs Chinas Central Military Commission (CMC), the top command body, said the PLA must be ready to act at any second as the countrys armed forces kicked off the years military training and exercises on Monday.

To our soldiers, sailors, air force personnel, and Marines preparing for war is not an abstract cubicle commando debate. The question is, why does this resonate today in Virginia?

It is simple: Because the Clinton administration lusted for illegal Chinese money to win re-election in 1996. That's why 21st century state-of-the-art modern PLA weapons and combat technologies date from that year of their greedy perfidy.

In addition to strategic weapons, quoted below, the PLA, thanks to Clinton Inc. has had the most successful military modernization and mobilization actions is history:

The People's Republic of China (PRC) has stolen design information on the United States' most advanced thermonuclear weapons. The Select Committee judges that the PRC's next generation of thermonuclear weapons, currently under development, will exploit elements of stolen U.S. design information. PRC penetration of our national nuclear weapons laboratories spans at least the past several decades and almost certainly continues today. The PRC has stolen or otherwise illegally obtained U.S. missile and space technology that improves PRC military and intelligence capabilities.

So when Terry tries to stand on his previous record as Virginia governor, all Virginia voters, but especially military and veteran families, should factor in his self-serving cozy greed with taking PRC money:

A federal law enforcement official said the inquiry included $120,000 in contributions that a New Jersey construction firm controlled by Mr. Wang made to Mr. McAuliffes 2013 campaign and inaugural committee. That official and a second law enforcement official, both of whom asked for anonymity to discuss the matter, said it was a preliminary inquiry of Mr. McAuliffes campaign donations, and they provided no detail about the nature and scope of any potential violations being scrutinized.

Of course, since The Year Of The Rat moved forward beginning in 1996, the fix is always in for Clinton, Inc. and their inner circle crimes to be officially covered up:

However, with the power of democracy and the individual empowerment of all voting citizens a message to China can be sent. As a word of caution, there is nothing wrong with transparent legitimate trade with China, just ask our Midwest farmers.

However, there is now a major opportunity in Virginia, in the year 2021, for my fellow citizens to send a message not just to Terry personally who is most definitely a validated Clinton running dog, but also to todays PRC leadership: You lose because pernicious illegal money influence as a weapon of war can be soon seen as a huge liability for American pols.

Image: Ed Timperlake

To comment, you can find the MeWe post for this article here.
The Hejaz railway that ran from Damascus to Medina, through the Hejaz region of Saudi Arabia, was one of the principal railroads of the Ottoman Turkish Empire and a vital route across the desert. The railway was built in 1900 at the behest of the Ottoman Sultan Abdul Hamid II and was supposed to extend all the way to Mecca in order to facilitate pilgrimage to the Holy city. But its primary motive was to strengthen the empires control over the most distant provinces of the empire.

The railway reached only as far as Medina, some 400 kilometers short of its destination, when the First World War broke out and all construction works came to a grinding halt. When the Arabs, led by the strategic British officer T.E. Lawrence, better known as the Lawrence of Arabia, rose up in revolt against Turkish domination, the railway became the principal target. Today, large sections of the railway lie abandoned in the desert with tracks swallowed up by the sand, and carriages and engines toppled over and overgrown with shrubs.

Photo credit: devillp/Flickr

Even before World War, the Bedouins of the adjacent desert areas frequently attacked the railway because it challenged their control over the pilgrims route to the holy places. For centuries, the old Arab tribes had guided and guarded the pilgrims across the harsh desert. Travelling on caravans and on camels back, the journey took from forty days to up to two months to complete. When the railway opened in 1908, the arduous two-month journey was reduced to a comfortable and cheaper four-day trip. As word spread, thousands of pilgrims from Russia, Central Asia, Iran and Iraq converged on Damascus to take the train. By the year 1912 the railway was transporting 30,000 pilgrims a year, which swelled to 300,000 passengers by 1914.

Meanwhile, attacks on the railway became more and more frequent, and it wasnt long before the train journey became more perilous than the two-month trek across the hot and scorching desert.

The railways final undoing came during the Arab Revolt of 1916-18, when the Turkish army began to use the railway as its chief mode of transport for troops and supplies. This gave the Arabs an opportunity to turn their vengeance on the railway. Guerrilla forces commanded by British officers successfully blew up large sections of the tracks including a moving locomotive for the first time in history. Later T.E. Lawrence joined in on the attack and destroyed countless bridges.

After the First World War, the railway was abandoned although several attempts were made to revive. In fact, some parts of the Hejaz Railway are still functioning, such as the line from Amman, in Jordan, to Damascus, in Syria. Another set of tracks operate from phosphate mines near Ma'an to the Gulf of Aqaba. Fascinatingly, the railway uses many of the original carriages and locomotives running on steam and coal. The oldest locomotive still in service was built in Germany in 1898!

The disused section of the Hejaz Railway lies south of Amman in Saudi Arabia, where railway enthusiasts will find a number of abandoned stations, round houses and rusting locomotives and cars.

Photo credit: Richard Desomme/Panoramio

Photo credit: Thomas Ritter/Panoramio

Photo credit: project.scta.gov.sa/Panoramio

Abandoned railway station. Photo credit: Hamadraza/Panoramio

Photo credit: Angus Hamilton Haywood/Flickr

Photo credit: unknown/Wikimedia

Photo credit: Alex Brey/Flickr

Construction of the Hejaz Railroad. Ballasting the Rail Tracks. 1906. Photo credit: Library of Congress

Ottoman military conscripts building the roof of Muazzam station, taken in 1908. Photo credit: The British Museum

Sources: Wikipedia / The British Museum / nabataea.net / Britannica
Purchase an online subscription to our website for $7.99 a month with automatic renewal. Each online subscription gives you full access to all of our newspaper websites and mobile applications. To cancel you may contact Customer Service @ 256-235-9253 or email JPAYNE@ANNISTONSTAR.COM



For a limited time, for NEW SUBSCRIBERS ONLY a NEW ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTION is just $59.99 for the first year. Existing customers do not qualify for the specials!



After the first year, well automatically renew your subscription to continue your access at the regular price of $69.99 per year. Please note *Your Subscription will Automatically Renew unless you contact Customer Service To Cancel*


Callum Brankin was high when he collided with Barbara Bragg's car in October 2019. (Essex Police)

A 23-year-old drug driver has been jailed after killing an elderly woman in a road collision.

Callum Brankin was driving a blue Mini Cooper along the A121 Mount Hill in Essex when he crashed into another car at about 11am on 12 October 2019.

Branking lost control of the car as he drove around a slight left-bend, Essex Police said.

As he tried to regain control of the car he veered into the opposite lane hitting a green Nissan Micra.

The car was being driven by 87-year-old Barbara Bragg.

The elderly woman was rushed to hospital where she died the following evening.

Essex Police said officers who attended the scene found evidence of recent cannabis use in the

Footwell and door pockets of Brankins car.

Tests also showed that he was above the drug driving limit at the time of the collision.

Investigators also found that one of his front brakes and one of his rear brakes were worn down and a recent MOT had advised that they should be replaced.

Meanwhile, new replacement brake parts were also found in his car, suggesting Brankin had known the cars brakes were badly worn.

Watch: Father of girl killed by dangerous driver says 'no justice' in current sentencings

The 23-year-old admitted to causing death by careless driving while over the drug driving limit at Ipswich Crown Court last month.

Brankin was jailed for two years and one month at the same court on Friday.

He was also banned from driving for three years and will have to take an extended re-test.

During sentencing, the judge stated the fact Brankin, 23, had failed to maintain his brakes was an aggravating factor.

Sergeant Steve Holmes, from the Serious Collision Investigation Unit, called Brankins actions wholly irresponsible.

Holms said: He got behind the wheel of a car he knew had defective brakes whilst also over the drug driving limit.

He caused Barbaras death and he will have to live with that on his conscience for the rest of his life.

This case also highlights the tragic dangers of drug driving. Drugs affect your ability behind the wheel  they affect your judgement and your reaction speed.

Drugs can stay in your system for days after you last had them and even if you dont feel impaired, you still can be and you can still test positive for them, Holmes added.

If youre caught drug driving you could lose your licence which could mean you lose your job. If you lose your job, you might not be able to pay your bills, so you could lose your home.

Even worse, as this case shows, the consequences can be fatal and you could kill yourself or someone else."

Watch: Teenager hit 180mph as he led police on half-hour motorbike chase
Two newlyweds are hoping Gareth Southgate and the England team can make their wedding day even more special with a win on Sunday evening.

Mike and Kitty McGonigle started the day by finally tying the knot after two years of the pandemic postponing their wedding.

The couple, from south-east London, said their I dos in Richmond before arriving at Vinegar Yard, London Bridge, ahead of the match, where they were greeted with applause.

Speaking to the PA news agency, Mr McGonigle said: To be honest Im on cloud nine so far.

Mike and Kitty McGonigle from Forest Hill, were cheered by fans (Kieran Cleeves/PA)

We were meant to get married last year and obviously with everything that happened we had to postpone it.

We had to rebook it about a month and a half ago.

But while they knew they were getting married on Sunday, it was not until the Three Lions triumphed over Denmark on Wednesday that they were sure there was to be another big event on the same day.

Mr McGonigle, 34, added: When Kane scored the penalty we thought oh my god, our weddings going to be on the same day as the final.

Mike and Kitty McGonigle went straight from their wedding to watch the match (Kieran Cleeves/PA)

The newlyweds, who have been together eight years, are at Vinegar Yard to watch the Euros final, along with friends.

Asked if an England victory would be the perfect wedding present, Mr McGonigle said: Absolutely, if they do pull that off Gareth should be knighted.

He praised the England manager, who he said had come out swinging during the tournament.
Englands hopes for Euro 2020 glory got off to a flying start with a goal just two minutes into the match, with Prince George among the ecstatic fans cheering the Three Lions at Wembley.

Roars reverberated around the London stadium as Luke Shaw hit the back of the net shortly after kick-off in the historic game.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge clapped after the lightning-fast goal, while George beamed with delight.

To view this content, you'll need to update your privacy settings. Please click here to do so.

The game, which is also being watched by Prime Minister Boris Johnson and his wife Carrie, began after an RAF flypast and performance by the Coldstream Guards band as part of a tournament closing ceremony.

There were chaotic scenes in central London ahead of the match, with some fans even trying to force their way into Wembley Stadium as excitement at Englands historic Euro 2020 final reached fever pitch.

The Metropolitan Police said the force had been working with Wembleys security staff.

Earlier this afternoon there was a breach of security at Wembley Stadium, which resulted in a small number of people getting into the stadium without a ticket, the force said.

A worker clears rubbish left by fans at Leicester Square (PA)

Officers worked closely with security officials to prevent any further breaches.

We will also support action by Wembley Stadium officials to identify those without tickets and eject them.

Earlier, Wembley officials confirmed there had been an incident at the outer security perimeter area, after footage showed a crowd of supporters making a mad dash to get inside.

A spokesman for Wembley Stadium had earlier said there had been no security breaches of people getting in without tickets.

Fans in Leicester Square were seen throwing bottles and cones and the area was left littered with rubbish.

Supporters have been urged to stay safe and look after each other, with police saying there had been people jumping off street lamps or hoardings and warned this could easily end in injury.

Huge crowds of people have been in party mode outside the stadium and across London throughout the day, proudly sporting the team colours and draped in England flags.

Some boisterous supporters even climbed on top of a bus outside Wembley, while others outside Kings Cross station in the capital let off red and white smoke during the build-up.

To view this content, you'll need to update your privacy settings. Please click here to do so.

British Transport Police said there had been multiple cases of flares being set off within the vicinity of railway stations in London and warned that these incidents are offences and will be investigated.

One man had to be taken to hospital after he was hit by a bus in High Road Wembley, the Metropolitan Police said, but he is in a non life-threatening condition.

Police also said some people without tickets were attempting to enter the Trafalgar Square fan zone, and urged them to disperse.

The force tweeted: A large crowd of fans have gathered near to the fan zone in Trafalgar Square attempting to push in without tickets.

There are no more tickets or seats available in the fan zone. Were engaging with this crowd and telling them to disperse.
WASHINGTON (AP)  Pfizer says it plans to meet with top U.S. health officials Monday to discuss the drugmakers request for federal authorization of a third dose of its COVID-19 vaccine as President Joe Bidens chief medical adviser acknowledged that "it is entirely conceivable, maybe likely that booster shots will be needed.

The company said it was scheduled to have the meeting with the Food and Drug Administration and other officials Monday, days after Pfizer asserted that booster shots would be needed within 12 months.

Pfizers Dr. Mikael Dolsten told The Associated Press last week that early data from the companys booster study suggests peoples antibody levels jump five- to 10-fold after a third dose, compared to their second dose months earlier  evidence it believes supports the need for a booster.

On Sunday, Dr. Anthony Fauci didn't rule out the possibility but said it was too soon for the government to recommend another shot. He said the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the FDA did the right thing last week by pushing back against Pfizer's assertion with their statement that they did not view booster shots as necessary at this time.

Fauci said clinical studies and laboratory data have yet to fully bear out the need for a booster to the current two-shot Pfizer and Moderna vaccines or the one-shot Johnson & Johnson regimen.

Right now, given the data and the information we have, we do not need to give people a third shot, he said. That doesnt mean we stop there. ... There are studies being done now ongoing as we speak about looking at the feasibility about if and when we should be boosting people.

He said it was quite possible in the coming months as data evolves that the government may urge a booster based on such factors as age and underlying medical conditions. "Certainly it is entirely conceivable, maybe likely at some time, we will need a boost,'' Fauci said.

Monday's planned meeting between Pfizer and U.S. health officials was first reported by The Washington Post.

Currently only about 48% of the U.S. population is fully vaccinated. Some parts of the country have far lower immunization rates, and in those places the delta variant is surging. Last week, Dr. Rochelle Walensky, the CDC director, said thats leading to two truths  highly immunized swaths of America are getting back to normal while hospitalizations are rising in other places.

Fauci said it was inexplicable that some Americans are so resistant to getting a vaccine when scientific data show how effective it is in staving off COVID-19 infections and hospitalizations, and he was dismayed by efforts to block making vaccinations more accessible, such as Biden's suggestion of door-to-door outreach.

Gov. Asa Hutchinson, R-Ark., agreed Sunday that there is a vaccine resistance in Southern and rural states like his because you have that more conservative approach, skepticism about government."

Describing his efforts to boost vaccinations in his state, which is seeing rising infections, Hutchinson said no one wants an agent knocking on a door," but "we do want those that do not have access otherwise to make sure they know about it.

The grassroots component of the federal vaccination campaign has been in operation since April, when supplies of shots began outpacing demand. It was outlined and funded by Congress in the $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief bill passed in March and overwhelmingly is carried out by local officials and private sector workers and volunteers.

Rep. Adam Kinzinger, R-Ill., blasted opposition to vaccination efforts from some GOP lawmakers as absolute insanity." He said House Republican leader Kevin McCarthy of California and others in the party need to speak out against these absolute clown politicians playing on your vaccine fears for their own selfish gain.

Fauci appeared on CNN's State of the Union, ABC's This Week and CBS' "Face the Nation"; Hutchinson spoke on ABC, and Kinzinger was on CNN.
PORT-AU-PRINCE (AP)  The hospitalized wife of Haiti's assassinated President Jovenel Moise has given her first public statement since being wounded in the attack that killed him, accusing enemies of wanting to kill his dream, his vision, his ideology.

Martine Moise issued the recorded statement in Creole from the Miami hospital where she was being treated for wounds suffered in the attack early Wednesday, and also posted a version on her Twitter account Saturday.

I'm alive, thanks to God, she said in the recording, which also played on local radio stations. But I love my husband Jovenel. We fought together for more than 25 years. During all these years, love radiated within the home. But suddenly, the mercenaries came and pelted my husband with bullets.

Related video: First lady of Haiti receives medical care in Miami

You have to be a notorious criminal without guts to assassinate a president like Jovenel Moise with impunity without giving him the chance to speak, she added. You knew who the president was fighting against.

"These people hired mercenaries to kill the president and his family because of the projects of roads, electricity, drinking water supply, organization of the referendum and elections ...

The mercenaries who assassinated the president are currently behind bars, she added, "but other mercenaries currently want to kill his dream, his vision, his ideology.

Police say they have arrested more than a dozen people  most of them retired Colombian soldiers  and are searching for more, but it remained unclear who had hired team that attacked the president's house, or why.
WILMINGTON, Del. (Reuters) -A team of U.S. security and law enforcement experts is traveling to Haiti to determine what assistance Washington can provide following the assassination of the Haitian president last week, the Pentagon said on Sunday.

"Today, an inter-agency team largely from the Department of Homeland Security and the FBI are heading down to Haiti right now to see what we can to do help in the investigative process," Pentagon spokesman John Kirby told "Fox News Sunday."

"That's really where our energies are best applied right now - in helping them get their arms around investigating this incident and figuring out who's culpable ... and how best to hold them accountable," Kirby said in the interview.

President Joe Biden will be briefed by the team when it returns and "then make decisions about the way forward," a senior Biden administration official told Reuters separately.

Haiti has sought U.S. aid in securing the country and investigating the attack that killed President Jovenel Moise on Wednesday at his Port-au-Prince home and plunged the impoverished island nation further into turmoil. Haitian authorities have said two Haitian Americans were among the suspected assassins.

It was not immediately clear how long the U.S. team would remain in Haiti. The administration official said on Sunday that Washington would also consult with its regional partners and the United Nations.

The United States has so far rebuffed Haiti's request for troops, while the United Nations would need Security Council authorization to send armed forces.

Kirby said: "We're analyzing it just like we would any other request for assistance at the Pentagon. It's going through a review."

(Reporting by Andrea Shalal and Susan Heavey; Editing by Daniel Wallis and Peter Cooney)
Online Access for Print Subscribers. Do you have a print subscription with the Argus-Press? If yes, then click here to enjoy complimentary access to our Online Content!
We're always interested in hearing about news in our community. Let us know what's going on!

Submit
Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup.
This comes a day after the J&K government sacked its eleven employees on charges of being involved in anti-India activities

SRINAGAR: National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Sunday conducted raids at multiple locations across Kashmir Valley and arrested six persons including head of an Islamic seminary in connection with a jihadi terrorism case.

The agency said that the case was registered by it on June 29 this year under various sections of the Indian Penal Code and Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 in connection with the conspiracy of the ISIS (Islamic State) to radicalize and recruit impressionable youth in the country to wage violent jihad against the Indian state.

This comes a day after the J&K government sacked its eleven employees including two sons of Hizb-ul-Mujahideen chief Muhammad Yusuf Shah alias Syed Salahuddin on charges of being involved in anti-India activities. The Hizb chief's sons were fired based on the investigations done by the NIA in an alleged terror funding case, the government had said.

The NIA sources said that its teams assisted by J&K police and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) raided 'Siraj-ul- Uloom seminary in Srinagar's Dalal Mohalla, Nawab Bazaar area and seized some office records and a laptop and also took its chairman Adnaan Ahmad Nadvi into custody. The institution is reportedly affiliated with an Islamic seminary of Uttar Pradesh. Soon raids were conducted in Pushroo, Sunsooma, and Achabal villages of Anantnag and five persons identified as Javaid Ahamad Mir, Umar Bhat, Ovais Ahmad Bhat, Tanveer Ahmad Bhat and Zeeshan Ameen Malik were detained.

The NIA in a statement here said the searches were conducted at seven locations in Anantnag and Srinagar districts in ISIS voice of Hind case registered by it in New Delhi under sections 124A, 153A, and 153 B of IPC and sections 17, 18, 18B, 38, 39 and 40 of UA(P) Act 1967.

In order to execute its nefarious plan, an organized campaign has been launched over the cyber space which is supplemented by on ground (militant) financing activities, it said.

The statement read, ISIS operating from various conflict zones along with ISIS cadres in India, by assuming pseudo- online identities, have created a network wherein ISIS related propaganda material is disseminated for radicalizing and recruiting members to the fold of ISIS. It added, In this connection an India-centric online propaganda magazine the Voice of Hind (VOH) is published on monthly basis with an aim to incite and radicalize impressionable youth by projecting a skewed narrative of imagined injustices in India to arouse a feeling of alienation and communal hatred.

The NIA claimed that the searches led to recovery and seizure of a large number of incriminating documents and digital devices such as mobile phones, tablets, laptop, hard disks and T-Shirts having ISIS logo.
A special aircraft of the Indian Air Force was sent on Saturday to bring back the Indian diplomats, officials and other staff members

People's uprising loyal to Ata Mohammad Noor, chief of Jamiat-e-Islami and a powerful northern warlord, stand guard at their office in Mazar-e-Sharif north of Kabul, Afghanistan. (AP)

New Delhi: India has pulled out around 50 diplomats and security personnel from its consulate in Kandahar in Afghanistan in view of the deteriorating security situation and the Taliban gaining control of new areas around the southern Afghan city, people familiar with the development said on Sunday.

A special aircraft of the Indian Air Force was sent on Saturday to bring back the Indian diplomats, officials and other staff members including a group of Indo-Tibetan Border Police personnel, they said.

India's move to temporarily shut the consulate in Kandahar came in view of Taliban fighters rapidly seizing control of a number of key areas in the region as well as in western Afghanistan triggering huge security concerns.

On Tuesday, the Indian embassy in Kabul said there was no plan to close the embassy and the consulates in Kandahar and Mazar-e-Sharif.

Two days back, the Ministry of External said India was carefully monitoring the deteriorating security situation in Afghanistan and its implications on the safety and security of Indian nationals.

"Our response will be calibrated accordingly," External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said at a media briefing on Thursday.

Afghanistan witnessed a series of terror attacks in the last few weeks as the US looked to complete the withdrawal of its forces from Afghanistan by August-end, ending a nearly two-decade of its military presence in the war-ravaged country.

There were reports that at least two foreign missions in Mazar-e-Sharif, the capital of northern Balkh province, have closed their operation in view of escalating violence in the region.

Amid growing concerns in India over the deteriorating situation in Afghanistan, Afghan Ambassador Farid Mamundzay on Tuesday briefed Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla on the situation in Afghanistan.

The Indian embassy last week asked all Indians visiting, staying and working in Afghanistan to exercise the utmost caution with regard to their security and avoid all types of non-essential travel in view of rising incidents of violence in various parts of the country.

In an advisory, the embassy said the security situation in Afghanistan remains "dangerous" and that terror groups have carried out a series of complex attacks including targeting civilians, adding Indian nationals additionally face a "serious threat" of kidnapping.

India has been a major stakeholder in the peace and stability of Afghanistan. It has already invested nearly USD three billion in aid and reconstruction activities in the country.

India has been supporting a national peace and reconciliation process which is Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled.

In March, Afghan Foreign Minister Mohammad Haneef Atmar visited India during which Jaishankar conveyed to him India's long-term commitment towards a peaceful, sovereign and stable Afghanistan.
Stay up to date on COVID-19

Get Breaking News

Sign up now to get our FREE breaking news coverage delivered right to your inbox.
Brought to prominence by Steve McQueen, the XKSS used to retail in the ballpark of 2,500 when it was brand-spanking new. A period-correct example currently goes for approximately 10 million ($14 million), which is why replica cars are the most affordable way of joining the XKSS club.Dressed in riveted aluminum by Shapecraft and completed by Phil and Oliver Cottrell of Classic Jaguar Replicas, chassis number 115797DN is one of those recreations. Offered with 2,540 miles (4,088 kilometers) on the Smiths odometer, the incredible-looking roadster features a mohair roof, fixed side windows, and performance internals for the 4.2-liter XK engine.Augmented with Mahle competition pistons, wide-blade connecting rods, a Fosseway high-torque starter, enlarged intake and exhaust ports, and semi-competition camshafts from Rob Beere Racing, the XKSS featured on Bring a Trailer breathes in through a trio of Weber 45 DCOE carburetors.Currently sitting on a high bid of $160,000 with nine days left, the British interloper sweetens the deal with a lightened flywheel, ProAlloy aluminum radiator, a factory-inspired header tank, automatic electric fan, and 12-gallon fuel tank. In true XKSS fashion, the row-your-own transmission comes in the guise of a Moss four-speed box that differs from the original through a quick-engage electric overdrive unit. The hydraulic clutch, Denis Welch Motorsport release bearing, and narrowed 3.31:1 rear end are worth mentioning too, along with adjustable coilovers as well as polyurethane bushings.Last serviced last year with fresh fluids, the XKSS is offered with a clean California title listing it as a 1962 Jaguar. As for the chassis plate that reads 115797DN, that corresponds to a right-hand-drive 1963 Jaguar MKII sedan.
SUV

AWD

Back a couple of years ago, when this futuristic sedan hadn't come out yet, rumors talked about a Sonata wagon being introduced. The idea was that it would replace a similarly-sized European model called the i40. And that could have easily received an "Allroad" makeover.However, it didn't pan out. Sister company Kia tested the waters with the old Optima Sportswagon and it didn't work out because the Europeans are simply as much into crossovers as everybody else. However, the Russians love a good four-door car and even require for it to be lifted, which is why Kolesa made this rendering.Hyundai is one of the most popular foreign brands over there with its Solaris sedan. That indirectly competes with the Dacia/Renault Logan, which is available with a Stepway soft-road package. And that could be where the inspiration for this Sonata Allroad design came from.Of course, it's way more sophisticated than a Dacia, as the silver and black trim has a real shine to them. Fitted with large diameter wheels, this feels more like a fashion statement than a real off-roader. Think of it like a man bun ur stubble, but in an "I don't want to drive an" package.Parallels can be drawn with not only the Audi A6 Allroad, but also the VW Passat Alltrack. However, as a sedan, there's only one real production equivalent, and that's the Volvo S60 Cross Country , production of which only lasted between 2015 and 2018.While we do understand a lifted Sonata won't sell, if Hyundai does decide to make one, we expect to have a few features. First, the 2.5-liter turbo needs to be available. If matched to some nice, it would be a nice rival to the Acura TLX. Second, the interior must have some Easter Eggs, like a WRC rally stage on the rubber floor mats or desert-themed Alcantara seats. Also, optional roof lights and tow hooks would be nice.
It took 17 years for this historic moment to finally happen. Virgin Galatic took off from Spaceport America, New Mexico today, July 11th, with its founder Richard Brandson on board and his crew, the first passengers of the first commercial space flight. Let the space race begin!

10 photos
This 1969 Chevrolet Chevelle Malibu COPO L72 427/425 4-speed example thats dressed up in Matador Red with a white vinyl roof and a matching white interior is currently on dealer consignment out of Anaheim, California. According to the description provided by the seller, which goes by the trendy CorvetteMike username on Bring a Trailer, it currently looks so good because it has undergone a tasty refurbishment under previous ownership.Unfortunately, this isnt one of those thoroughly documented survivors, which is quite sad considering the collector potential . When it was refinished, it gained the new paintjob and interior hue, but one cant be exactly sure of other modifications because it only comes with partial service records. Allegedly, the car was first sold new back in the summer of 69 by the Westminster Motor Company in Maryland. Little other details are known about its whereabouts until it landed in the possession of the dealer just recently, in May 2021.Still, its a very enticing proposition, considering the very low production quota, as well as other particular details for this car. One would be the low mileage, with just 30k miles (a little over 40,000 km) shown, but theyre of the nasty TMU (total mileage unknown) variety. It does come packing the cool 427ci L72 Big Block V8 , a four-speed Muncie tranny, a Positraction 12-bolt rear axle, as well as 14-inch Super Sport wheels, and even an SS hood.While the history is a bit shady, this unit does come with a COPO Vehicle Verification certificate from The Copo Connection and a clean Arizona title, so it may be worth checking out. Especially since theres a little bit of time left on the auction clock and the current highest bid hasnt exactly gone through the roof...
Copyright  2020 by Mountain Times Publications. Digital or printed dissemination of this content without prior written consent is a violation of federal law and may be subject to legal action.
Palmdale, CA (93550)

Today

A mix of clouds and sun. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 99F. Winds SW at 10 to 20 mph..

Tonight

Some clouds. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low around 75F. Winds SW at 10 to 20 mph.
Palmdale, CA (93550)

Today

A mix of clouds and sun. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 99F. Winds SW at 10 to 20 mph..

Tonight

Some clouds. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low near 75F. Winds SW at 10 to 20 mph.
Long-standing corruption in Latin America has hindered vaccination campaigns and health care responses.

The big picture: These scandals include inflated prices for unusable ventilators purchased by Bolivia, price gouging for N95 masks in Argentina, and a botched acquisition of emergency field hospitals that took over six months to be operational in Honduras.

Peru, Chile, Ecuador and Argentina were also roiled by Vaccine-gate, in which politicians and their families and friends were given hush-hush early access to the first shots.

More recent uproars include the possible impeachment of Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro for apparent bribery for contracts to purchase two vaccines, and a murky and unfulfilled deal in Guatemala to buy millions of Sputnik V doses that were paid for but never delivered, leading to protests and calls for President Alejandro Giammattei's resignation.

Between the lines: Public hospitals were already severely underfunded, lacking equipment and medicine, when COVID-19 hit. With the pandemic, they are overwhelmed.
Wildfires were burning across more than 768,000 acres of land in 12 western U.S. states, and over 500,000 acres in Canada on Sunday amid another searing heat wave.

Driving the news: Many of the wildfires started when a severe heat wave erupted in June and lasted into July, first hitting southwestern British Columbia before migrating eastward.

The severity of the extreme weather event has been pinned on human-caused global warming, and climate change is also heightening the risk of wildfires in the U.S..

The typical heart of the Canadian wildfire season doesn't arrive until August, when vegetation is at its driest, but the heat has sped that process along.

By the numbers: Firefighters were battling 55 large fires across the U.S. on Sunday  including 11 in Arizona, 10 in Idaho, nine in Montana, six in California and five in Oregon, according to the National Interagency Fire Center.

In Canada, firefighters were responding to more than 300 active wildfires, including 60 new ones, per the CBC.

What's happening: Evacuation orders and warnings were issued in states including California, Oregon, Idaho and Montana, as well as British Columbia. Smoke from the fires was bringing hazy skies to large parts of the western and central U.S.

The biggest wildfire to hit the U.S. so far this year, the Beckwourth Complex fire, near California's border with Nevada, forced the temporary closure of U.S. Highway 395 late Saturday.

The blaze, the combination of two fires sparked by lightning in the Plumas National Forest, expanded by a third to 134 square miles Sunday  though firefighters working in heat topping 100F managed to increase containment to 20%, AP notes.

The Bootleg fire that's burning out of control across 143,600 acres in Oregon knocked out transmission lines that supply California with power over the weekend.

In Arizona, two firefighters died on Saturday when their aircraft crashed while responding to a wildfire in Mohave County, per a Bureau of Land Management statement.

Of note: Canada's Interagency Forest Fire Center elevated its readiness level to 5  the top of its scale, noting "active agencies may take emergency measures to sustain incident operations."

The move reflects the enormity of the firefighting challenges facing the heavily forested nation, with dozens of fires burning from temperate rainforests to the boreal region ringing the Arctic.

Editor's note: This article has been updated with new details throughout.
Bakersfield, CA (93308)

Today

Sunshine and clouds mixed. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 103F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low around 80F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph.
Bakersfield, CA (93308)

Today

A mix of clouds and sun. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 103F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low near 80F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph.
NEW YORK (AP)  Deep in the ocean, surrounded by sharks, Tiffany Haddish stayed cool. She drew on her land-based survival skills.

I was as frightened around them as I am around like a pack of pit bull dogs, she said in an interview. I feel like animals pick up on your energy. If youre in there being scared, theyre like, Well, what you got? Why are you scared? It's like being in the hood.

Haddish is among the celebrities signed on for this year's Shark Week, with a record 45 hours of programming on the Discovery Channel and streaming on discovery+ between July 11-18.

Joining Haddish are Brad Paisley, William Shatner, Eric Bana, Snoop Dogg, Eli Roth, Robert Irwin, Ian Ziering, Tara Reid and cast members from Jackass. For Shark Week's 33rd year, there are documentaries, many specials and even a reality series for shark fans to sink their teeth into.

Howard Swartz, a senior vice president at Discovery Channel, said Shark Week was born as a counterpoint for those who developed a fear of sharks and a desire to eradicate them after seeing Jaws.

What has evolved over the last three plus decades is to show that theyre not these mindless killing machines, that sharks are amazingly intelligent animals, Swartz said. Equally important is how critical they are to the ecosystem, how critically important they are to the health of the oceans and therefore to life on our planet.

Star Trek star Shatner boldly went where he really didn't want to go  diving with sharks. He suffers from galeophobia, a persistent fear of sharks, but he overcame it in Expedition Unknown: Shark Trek.

I think its very healthy to be afraid of an animal that has an 18-inch jaw with three sets of teeth, he said in an interview. Its designed to eat, not you necessarily, but to eat. And if youre mistaken to be part of its food chain, thats your problem.

Eli Roth, the horror filmmaker behind the bloody classic Hostel, joined the documentary Fin to explain why millions of sharks have died to feed the continued demand for shark fin soup and other dishes. Bana narrates the doc Envoy: Shark Cull, which focuses on official controversial shark control programs used in Australia.

Noah Schnapp from the sci-fi series Stranger Things suits up to search for the strangest sharks in the ocean, while Irwin comes face-to-face with a Great White for the rst time. Even the online television and video star known as Dr. Pimple Popper is getting in on the act: Dr. Sandra Lee will explore the world of shark skin and see if it can help human skin issues.

Paisley puts his musical talents to the test to see how sound can attract or repel sharks, and Snoop Dogg narrates crazy shark moves  like the beasts making eye-popping leaps out of the water, prompting the rapper to call them thirsty as hell  in Sharkadelic Summer 2.

For Haddish, her special about the reproduction of sharks  did you know female sharks have two uteruses?  will hopefully show how important to the planet sharks really are.

We all need each other. Its like The Lion King  the circle of life. We keep each other alive, she said. No one on this planet for no reason.

Swartz says inviting celebrities onto Shark Week is a bit like when Sesame Street has on famous guest stars  they help attract a wider, intergenerational audience.

At the end of the day, what the celebrities do for us is to bring people into the tent who might not normally come to Shark Week, he said. Having said that, I will say you might be surprised at how many celebrities are fans of Shark Week.

Dr. James Sulikowski, a professor at Arizona State University, has been on Shark Week before but this time does something no one has ever done  perform an ultrasound on a wild tiger shark.

It was necessary since scientists are still trying to pinpoint where in the Bahamas tiger sharks give birth and how humans can protect the area. But first they needed to find a pregnant shark and that's where Sulikowski came in, calmly pushing his sonogram onto a shark's belly at the bottom of the ocean while dozens of her friends came to inspect.

It was so many emotions all at once, he said in an interview. Its chaos. Its terrifying. Its exhilarating. Youre doing something that no one has ever done before. Youre pushing the envelope. And right in the back of your mind its like, You know what? I could be eaten.

Mothersharker  Sulikowski's wonderfully titled show  reveals another side to the often misunderstood animals. These sharks are moms, he said. These are animals that are nurturing their young, theyre carrying them, theyre protecting them. Its an aspect that most people dont realize.

Other shows include a special about an attempt to tag the last known South African Great White breeder and another that attempts to answer why in 2017 an entire Great White population disappeared overnight around South Africa's Seal Island. If you've ever wanted to see a submersible mechanical shark in action, you're in luck with MechaShark.

Discovery is also marking the debut of its first Shark Week series. In Shark Academy, eight men and women begin a six-week crash course to secure a crew spot on a shark expedition. And it wouldn't be Shark Week without a scientific look at Sharknado  Ian Ziering and Tara Reid explore whether a shark tornado is really possible.

Discovery's Shark Week has a rival  its programming coincides with National Geographics SharkFest, which has 21 hours of new content and 60 hours of enhanced and archival footage over six weeks, with Chris Hemsworth the biggest draw.

Both ventures share a common theme: To tease out at least a grudging respect for sharks. Or, as Shatner said, These animals require our respect and an intelligent fear, but not the panic.

___

Mark Kennedy is at http://twitter.com/KennedyTwits
The Beaumont Police Department has identified a man killed early Sunday morning.

Tyler Womack, 29 of Beaumont, was found just before 1:30 a.m. Sunday with multiple gunshot wounds on the porch of a home in the 4300 block of Woodlawn, according to Beaumont police.

Officers located a blood trail that tracked back to a nearby residence where they found evidence that the shooting had occurred there, BPD stated in a release.

The homicide remains under investigation, BPD said.

Detectives are asking anyone with information about this crime to contact Beaumont Police at 409-832-1234 or Southeast Texas Crime Stoppers at 409-833-TIPS (8477). You can also download the P3 Tips app on your smartphone to submit tips anonymously.

meagan.ellsworth@beaumontenterprise.com

twitter.com/megzmagpie
Burial 35 was a young enslaved woman who walked with a limp and was missing a front tooth. She was in her 30s when she died, perhaps in childbirth. Her infant son, who died a few months later, was buried in a tiny coffin on top of her.

When the experts re-created her weary face, they gave her a headscarf, something she might have worn in the grimy Maryland industrial settlement where she lived.

Burial 15 was a teenager who had been laid to rest with care and what may have been sprigs of sassafras. The herniated discs in his back from overwork could not be reflected in his face, and the sculptor gave him a look of innocence.

The two re-created faces, unveiled for the first time last month, represent the culmination of an eight-year study that used genetics and other cutting-edge technology to examine remains of people enslaved in the late 1700s and early 1800s at Catoctin Furnace, a historic iron forge in Frederick County, Md.

The study offered a rare look of the enslaved at an industrial site, as opposed to the farms or plantations where most captive Black people were forced to labor.

Researchers said they were struck by the number of teenagers in the cemetery and wondered if the harsh furnace work played a role in their early deaths.

Experts from the Harvard laboratory of geneticist David Reich extracted DNA from the bones of 29 people exhumed from the cemetery more than 40 years ago for a road project and identified five, maybe six, family groups.

"I called them the invisible people," said Sharon Burnston, the retired archaeologist who directed the exhumation. "In the cultural climate of the '80s, nobody even cared."

DNA helped reveal mothers and their children, and individuals who were potential siblings.

It suggested racial backgrounds. The baby buried with his enslaved Black mother, for example, had a White father, experts said.

And it revealed intriguing burial patterns.

In one case, two baby boys - one a newborn, the other about 2 months old - were buried on either side of their mother, who was about 22 when she died. Some distance away, another relative of hers, a boy, was buried. But their exact relationship is unclear.

Smithsonian anthropologists, who helped direct the study, found evidence of childhood diseases and congenital deformities.

Craniostenosis, an abnormality of the skull, was found in an unusually high number of the deceased.

The woman whose face was re-created had it. So did her infant son, who may have been killed by it.

Her little brother, who was buried not far away, also had it, Smithsonian anthropologist Kari Bruwelheide said.

In addition, the woman had a painful left-hip condition, where one bone rubbed against another and caused her to limp. The malady usually begins in childhood, Bruwelheide said.

"That means she lived with this pain . . . for virtually her entire life," she said.

Indications of sickle cell disease, an inherited blood disorder that mainly affects African Americans, were found. A little boy, about 4, and his 2-year-old sister, who was buried nearby, both showed it.

Signs of the toxic and backbreaking work the enslaved had to do at the primitive ironmaking site emerged.

One older man's back was so severely bent that it had to be broken to get him into his grave, experts said.

Another man's bones had extremely high levels of zinc, probably from having to clean deposits from the inside of the furnace and suggesting he may have had "fume fever" as a result, the experts said.

The project was a major scientific advance, as well as a vivid portrait of the misery of enslaved life at the furnace.

"I never thought that I would see . . . in my 40 years of doing this . . . the ability to go into a cemetery and actually through genetic means be able to identify relationships," Smithsonian anthropologist Douglas Owsley, who helped lead the project, said at the June 24 unveiling in Frederick.

Maryland archaeologist Elizabeth A. Comer, secretary of the Catoctin Furnace Historical Society, which launched the project, said of the deceased: "These people deserve what we're now able to do."

The two reconstructed faces, which are based on copies of the original skulls held at the Smithsonian, went on display Saturday at the new Museum of the Ironworker in Catoctin Furnace, about 60 miles northwest of Washington.

The faces were created in 2019 at StudioEIS, a leading sculpture and design firm in Brooklyn known for making figures for museums and other institutions around the country. (The unveiling was delayed a year by the coronavirus pandemic.)

"It's easier to tell a story if you're looking into a face," Comer said.

And people involved in the overall enterprise hope it might lead to long-lost descendants of the furnace workers. None of those from the cemetery have been identified.

"We don't know what [their] names were," Comer said. "And we don't know in many cases what their jobs were. . . . These are people, their memory has been lost, their descendants have been lost . . . a legacy has been lost."

The project began when Comer, who grew up on a farm near Catoctin, suggested to the Smithsonian that it reexamine the cemetery bones that had come to the National Museum of Natural History 40 years earlier.

Under the direction of Burnston, the remains were carefully removed from the cemetery in 1979 and 1980 when nearby Route 15 was being expanded. The graves were thought by some locals to be Native American. More than half the graves had to be removed. Dozens more are still there.

They were turned over to the museum and were studied in detail by the late Smithsonian anthropologist J. Lawrence Angel.

But there had been great scientific progress in 40 years and the Smithsonian agreed to revisit the bones.

Catoctin Furnace was in operation from about 1776 until 1903, Comer said.

Large deposits of iron ore had been discovered close by and the furnace was built to process the ore into pig iron. It was one of 65 ironworks in Maryland and Virginia, which usually used about 70 enslaved and free workers.

The work was hard and dirty. The ore had to be dug out, washed and transported in carts to the furnace.

Huge numbers of trees had to be cut down and burned in specially built mounds by "colliers" to make charcoal, which was hauled to the furnace for fuel.

Catoctin required roughly an acre of hardwood for every 24 hours of operation, according to the book "Catoctin Furnace: Portrait of an Iron-Making Village" by Elizabeth Yourtee Anderson.

Limestone also had to be acquired to reduce impurities during the process. The ore, charcoal and limestone were all dumped into the top of the furnace "stack" and heated with the aid of a water-powered bellows until the ore became molten and could be tapped.

Once in operation, the furnace could run nonstop for months, at night casting an eerie glow over the landscape.

Three generations of people were enslaved there, Comer said. Some may have been brought there because of ironmaking skills learned in Africa.

Sometimes they managed to escape. In 1782, a newspaper printed an ad offering a reward for two men who had fled. Both were "much pitted" by smallpox, the ad said. The furnace owner offered a reward of three pounds each for their recapture.

Catoctin used an enslaved workforce until the 1830s or '40s, when European immigrants began to supplant them, Comer said.

"By the 1840s, the Catoctin Furnace African community is nonexistent," Owsley, of the Smithsonian, said. "What happened to these folks? . . . Where did they go? Were they sold out of the community? Were they sold down river?"

When Catoctin's enslaved disappeared, they left behind their dead, simple field stones to mark their graves and the poisonous bloodroot flower in the cemetery underbrush.

On a visit with Comer last year, the spot was overgrown. Traffic on busy Route 15 rumbled by. Furnace brick and slag remnants were still to be found in the dirt.

And not far from the cemetery sat a large hole in the ground filled with water.

It was an old ore pit, Comer said. So an enslaved laborer might walk into the pit to work every day, she said, with the cemetery looming as a backdrop.

- - -

The Washington Post's Katherine Frey contributed to this report.
Greg Lovett/AP

STUART, Fla. (AP)  More manatees have died already this year than in any other year in Florida's recorded history, primarily from starvation due to the loss of seagrass beds, state officials said.

The Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission reported that 841 manatee deaths were recorded between Jan. 1 and July 2, breaking the previous record of 830 that died in 2013 because of an outbreak of toxic red tide.
While the western United States suffers under scorching heat and persistent drought with no apparent relief in sight, Southeast Texans might well worry about what seems like never-ending rainfall.

The region got a bit of a break this past weekend, but more rain is expected Monday and will continue throughout most of next week, a forecaster with the National Weather Service's Lake Charles said Friday.

Look for a 50% rain chance each day next week, said forecaster Donald Jones.

The overcast weather was expected to return as a central Canadian "cold front," cold in name only, pushes toward the Gulf of Mexico, he said.

We're getting this front because of the heat dome currently clamped on tight over the Pacific Northwest, the West Coast and inland deserts.

Jones referred to it as a "death ridge," which is what meteorologists call the ridge of high-pressure air that has a hold over the western U.S.

That causes low pressure to flow over the Midwest and Great Plains and toward the Gulf Coast, Jones said.

But the rain comes from a low-pressure area in South Texas, which if it was over the Gulf would probably be a tropical system, he said.

The "death ridge" in the west will continue to sit there until something dislodges it. And as long as it sits there Southeast Texas is expected to be forced to continue to endure low pressure, clouds and more rain, he said.

From July 1 through Friday, the Beaumont area has logged a half-inch of rain. In June, 11.6 inches of rain fell  3 inches above normal.

Year-to-date, Beaumont is almost 7 inches above normal at more than 36 inches of rain since Jan. 1.

Farther upland as of Friday, Lake Sam Rayburn was at 170.6 feet, or more than 6 feet above the flood pool, said Scott Hall, executive director of the Lower Neches Valley Authority.

Rayburn reached a record water level of 175.3 feet in late May or early June, Hall said.

"That was an all-time record," he said.

At 176 feet, the water goes over the spillway, he said.

"Rayburn has never had that," Hall said.

But it got close, he said. At that water level, waves sent water over the top, but not in any substantial volume.

At 6 feet below the spillway, the lake has plenty of flood-control capacity, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which manages the reservoir, will release water only when it is certain that it won't cause flooding in the Neches River at Evadale.

"Over the last month, the Corps of Engineers is releasing about 16,000 cubic feet of water per second, or about 32,000 acre-feet a day. At that rate, it can drop (the lake level) about a foot every five days," he said.

It's quite a comparison to weather a decade ago when drought gripped Texas and Rayburn dropped to its lowest level since the lake was first filled in the mid- to late-1960s.

In 2011, Rayburn's level dropped to 150 feet  a 20-foot difference compared with current conditions.

Even before persistent rain started drenching Southeast Texas in May and June, the reservoir was in good shape going into summer, Hall said.

The LNVA and local governments in the Neches River basin already have started a flood control study ordered by the Texas Water Development Board after the 2019 legislative session. That should produce an initial plan to be sent to the state board by year's end, Hall said.

Also, state and federal partners are working with environmental groups such as the Nature Conservancy to study "beneficial flows" of flood control releases from structures like Rayburn to gauge the effect on downstream rivers and lakes.

Toledo Bend Reservoir, straddling Texas and Louisiana, is not a flood-control structure. Toledo Bend aims to maintain a water elevation of 172 feet and makes releases consistent with that goal regardless of the amount of water in the Sabine River.

Dan Wallach is a freelance writer.
AUSTIN, Texas  New data from the Electric Reliability Council of Texas, or ERCOT, confirms that issues with thermal energy sources, including coal and natural gas, were largely responsible for the smaller-than-expected generation capacity on the grid that led to supply concerns in June.

Information about which power plants had unplanned outages in June, rattling public confidence in the Texas power grid, was released Wednesday by ERCOT. There were more than 1,200 unplanned outages at generation facilities during the month, including 224 June 14-18, when the grid operator urged Texans to conserve energy because of higher demand and less available power than expected.

The report came a week after the Public Utility Commission of Texas ordered ERCOT to post information about maintenance-level outages and forced outages within three days after they happen. Previously, the grid operator had 60 days to post those reports.

Many Texans worry that the mid-June conservation period may be a warning for whats to come later in the summer as temperatures rise.

The mid-June conservation notice was issued because of a combination of unplanned outages, low wind and a heat wave with temperatures in the high 90s that led to more air conditioner use and a greater draw of electricity.

ERCOT reported unplanned, or forced, outages on June 14 of about 12,000 megawatts at generating plants, enough to power more than 2 million homes. About 9,000 of those lost megawatts were from thermal power sources fueled by natural gas, coal or nuclear power.

Daniel Cohan, an associate professor of civil and environmental engineering at Rice University, said many of the plants that had issues during the February winter storm also had outages in April, when ERCOT said grid conditions were tight, and again in mid-June. Cohan said thermal generation has been the primary source of unplanned outages.

I think this really brings into question the assumption that we can count on 95% output from these aging gas, coal and nuclear plants, Cohan said. Of the thermal capacity in ERCOT, 30% of it is more than 40 years old.

Cohan explained that with age comes an increased need for maintenance and a higher likelihood that a plant will be down for repair at any given moment, reducing reliability.

Beyond greater-than-usual outages the week of the conservation notice in June, Cohan said, the new ERCOT data shows that thermal plants were consistently down more often than the grid operator says they should be.

In its summer assessment of resource adequacy, ERCOT said its 64,000-megawatt thermal fleet should be operating at 95% of capacity at any given moment. Cohan said the data shows its usually operating at 85% to 90%.

A late-June report by Wood Mackenzie, a global energy consulting firm, identified four of the major generation outages that led to that months conservation notice, including the fire-caused shutdown of one of the Comanche Peak nuclear power plants two units, which removed about 1,200 megawatts. When both units are operating under normal conditions, they produce enough energy to power 1.15 million homes.

The report also correctly identified outages at two large coal-fired power plants.

During the conservation period, there were outages at the Limestone coal-fired generation facility in Jewett. That plant, owned by Houston-based NRG Energy, has a capacity of 1,660 megawatts. Another NRG-owned coal-fired facility, the W.A. Parish plant in Thompsons, near Houston, also had outages in mid-June. It has a capacity of 1,120 megawatts.

Talens Barney Davis natural gas-fired facility in the refining and chemical hub of Corpus Christi was transmitting just a fraction of its 933-megawatt capacity in the days leading up to the heat wave.

The ERCOT data also revealed several significant outages not identified in the Wood Mackenzie report. Martin Lake, a coal plant in Tatum owned by Luminant, a Vistra subsidiary, appeared to have outages during the week of tight grid conditions. Sandy Creek, a McLennan County coal plant, also had outages.

Built in 2013, Sandy Creek is Texas newest coal-fired power plant. Cohan said the outages there and at W.A. Parish are interesting because they dont fit his theory about older plants that need maintenance being the source of the unplanned outages.

With coal, most of the units were built in the 1970s and early 80s, Cohan said. But even the few that were built in the 2010s were having outages.

Although Cohan blames thermal resources, which make up the bulk of Texas installed generating capacity, for most of the unplanned outages, he acknowledged the role of wind in mid-Junes tight grid conditions. At the lowest output during that week, only 179 megawatts  out of 25,121 megawatts of installed wind capacity  were being produced.

Cohan said one other thing the data makes clear is that solar kept the lights on.

Bob Whittmeyer, a consultant for ReSolved Energy, has another theory about why the unplanned outages are happening now. He said unplanned outages are typical after the planned outages generation facilities undergo in the spring.

Its been my experience that forced outages are often a direct function of coming back from a planned outage, where something was missed  like if somebody left a rag in an oil cooler, Whittmeyer said. They took the equipment apart, they put it back together, and something got missed that will lead to a forced outage, and theyre generally short.

What was different this spring, Whittmeyer said, was the probably higher-than-usual number of planned outages happening at once after delayed maintenance during the pandemic.

So you would have seen, in my opinion, a likely higher number of planned outages in the spring of 2021, which would naturally lead to a higher number of forced outages immediately following, he said.

Whittmeyer said unplanned outages that follow planned outages usually dont happen long after maintenance. If his theory holds up, hes hopeful that unplanned maintenance will taper off as the summer continues.


CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP)  West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice called on Saturday for the resignation of a state lawmaker who posted a sexually explicit TikTok video to his public account.

State Del. Joe Jeffries was stripped of a committee assignment on Friday after word spread of the social media posting, according to a statement from House Speaker Roger Hanshaw, who called his fellow Republican an embarrassment.

On Saturday, the state's Republican governor issued a statement calling Jeffries' behavior sad" and childish."

Not only did he yell graphic comments about me to a group of senators during the recent Legislative Session, but now we find that his not-so-secret TikTok is full of disgustingly vulgar videos, which are especially insulting to women, Justice's statement read. This is the behavior of an immature child, not a 39-year-old father and elected official.

The governor said he had expected to hear an apology from Jeffries by Saturday morning, but all he has done is hide from the media and the criticism.

Jeffries did not immediately respond on Saturday afternoon to a phone message left at his office or an email from The Associated Press.

Jeffries, whose district includes a group of counties near the state capital of Charleston, posted the video on Thursday. His account was set to private on Friday afternoon.

Belinda Biafore, chair of the West Virginia Democratic Party, said Jeffries has a slew of inappropriate and vulgar videos with his own sexually explicit commentary on a social media app aimed at youth.
HELENA Mont. (AP)  A grizzly bear pulled a woman from her tent in a small Montana town in the middle of the night and killed her before fellow campers could use bear spray to force the bruin out of the area, wildlife officials said Wednesday.

Leah Davis Lokan, 65, of Chico, California, was on a long-distance bicycling trip and had stopped in the western Montana town of Ovando when she was killed early Tuesday, said Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks officials as they provided more details about the attack.

Lokan was killed on the bear's second visit to the site where she and two fellow bicyclists were camping near the post office, officials said.

The approximately 400-pound (181 kilogram) grizzly first awakened the campers about 3 a.m., officials said. They took food out of their tents, secured it and went back to sleep, they said.

Surveillance video from a business in town showed the bear about a block from the post office about 15 minutes later, wildlife officials said.

About 4:15 a.m., the sheriff's office received a 911 call after two people in a tent near the victims were awakened by sounds of the attack, Powell County Sheriff Gavin Roselles said. They discharged their bear spray, and the bear ran away.

The bear is also believed to have entered a chicken coop in town that night, killing and eating several chickens.

Officials searched by helicopter for the grizzly again Wednesday but couldn't find it.

At this point, our best chance for catching this bear will be culvert traps set in the area near the chicken coop where the bear killed and ate several chickens, said Randy Arnold, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks regional supervisor in Missoula.

The bear will be killed if it is found, said Greg Lemon, a spokesperson for Fish, Wildlife and Parks.

Investigators have obtained DNA from the bear at the scene of the attack and will be able to compare it with any bruin they are able to trap, the agency said.

Lokan, a registered nurse who had worked at a hospital in Chico, had looked forward to the Montana bike trip for months, said Mary Flowers, a friend of the victims from Chico. Lokan had taken previous long-distance bike trips and on this one was accompanied by her sister and a friend, Flowers said.

She loved these kind of adventures. A woman in her 60s, and she's dong this kind of stuff - she had a passion for life that was out of the ordinary, Flowers said.

Grizzly bears have run into increasing conflict with humans in the Northern Rockies over the past decade as the federally protected animals expanded into new areas and the number of people living and recreating in the region grew. That has spurred calls from elected officials in Montana and neighboring Wyoming and Idaho to lift protections so the animals could be hunted.

Ovando, about 60 miles (97 kilometers) northwest of Helena, is a community of fewer than 100 people at the edge of the sprawling Bob Marshall wilderness.

North of Ovando lies an expanse of forests and mountains, including Glacier National Park that stretches to Canada and is home to an estimated 1,000 grizzlies. It's the largest concentration of the bruins in the contiguous U.S.

Fatal attacks are rare in the region. There have been three in the last 20 years, including Tuesdays mauling, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

In 2001, a hunter was killed by a grizzly with two cubs while he was gutting an elk at a wildlife management area west of Ovando. The three animals were shot and killed by wildlife officials days later.

Over the past 20 years, there have been eight fatal maulings of people by grizzlies from a separate population of about 700 bears in and around Yellowstone National Park. In April, a backcountry guide was killed by a grizzly bear while fishing along the park's border in southwestern Montana.

Bears that attack people are not always killed if the mauling resulted from a surprise encounter or the bear was defending its young. But the bear involved in Lokan's death is considered a public safety threat because of the circumstances of the attack, Lemon said.

___

Brown reported from Billings.
Southeast Texans would never ignore the plight of other residents in this state, but its time like this that we are grateful we are on a different power grid than the rest of Texas. A typical Texas summer is just getting started, but already there are fears that the states main power grid wont be able to provide enough electricity to keep homes and businesses air-conditioned. Thats concerning enough, but some of the solutions ordered by Gov. Greg Abbott wont help the problem.

Abbott has ordered the Public Utility Commission to make substantial changes to ensure the reliability of the Texas power grid, but he wants to rely more on the same power sources that fell short in the February freeze as well as a heat spell in early June.

Abbott wants incentives for traditional power plants fueled by coal or natural gas as well as penalties for renewable power sources such as wind or solar. He wants renewable energy generators to pay additional costs for periods when they dont provide power to the grid and establish a maintenance schedule for them to supposedly prevent mechanical failures.

Those moves are political, not practical. Abbott, faced with two hard-right challengers for the Republican nomination next year, doesnt want to be seen as soft on oil or gas  or too friendly to wind or solar power.

Theres no operational justification for these orders, and they ignore the ironic fact that oil-friendly Texas produces more wind power than any other state  23% of our states total and 28% of all wind power in the nation. The states wind power is half of the largest power source  46% from natural gas  but growing every year. Coal produces only 18% of the states power, along with 11% from solar plants and 2% from the states two nuclear plants.

Abbott and every governor in the nation should encourage more use of non-polluting wind and solar power. Fossil fuels still make up a big part of power production in Texas and most other states, but that probably wont be true in 20 or 30 years. The worldwide shift toward renewable power is clear, and it can even be less expensive for consumers if developed properly.

In the meantime, if Abbott wants Texas to get through this summer without brownouts, he should be doing all he can to bolster all power providers regardless of their source.

What we need for reliable electricity isnt picking winners and losers, said Daniel Cohan, associate professor of civil and environmental engineering at Rice University, but figuring out better ways for all of these power sources to work together as a better functioning team.

Another glaring point is that the recent regular session of the Legislature that ended May 31 was supposed to fix this very problem. The February freeze occurred when House and Senate members were gathered in Austin, and they got an earful from angry constituents who didnt have electricity for days at a time. Abbott himself even proclaimed on June 8, Everything that needed to be done was done to fix the power grid in Texas. But a brief heat spell in early June brought back the same capacity problems that occurred in the winter.

Most of the Texas power grid is governed by the (ironically named) Electric Reliability Council of Texas  ERCOT. Southeast Texas operates under a separate grid, the Midcontinent Independent System Operator or MISO. But even though the two power systems are not directly connected, what happens in the rest of Texas can affect our region. We endured brief power blackouts in February instead of multi-day outages, and while that was bearable it was hardly ideal.

State officials shouldnt play political games with our power supply. We need more of it, and more reliability from it. This summer, consumers wont care whether it comes from a natural gas plant or a wind farm, and neither should politicans.
This magical tale set in Latin America includes new music from Lin-Manuel Miranda and capybaras.

Disney/Pixar has been celebrating diverse cultures with their animated movies in recent years  Moana, Raya and the Last Dragon, Coco, Luca, Soul. Encanto continues that trend. Its about a family filled with folks with amazing powers that lives in a hidden city in the mountains of Colombia.

Did I mention the capybaras? Because there are capybaras. Take a look

Disney has very much taken advantage of ownership of Pixar over the years. Theyve developed a lush, colorful style that works perfectly for the rainforest of Colombia where this story of a magical family is set. Gorgeous animation aside, theres a meditation of capybaras in this movie. More movies need giant, super chill rodents  Im down with this.

Walt Disney Animation Studios Encanto, is the tale of an extraordinary family, the Madrigals, who live hidden in the mountains of Colombia in a magical house, in a vibrant town, in a wondrous, charmed place called an Encanto. The all-new original film features the voice of Stephanie Beatriz as Mirabel, an ordinary 15-year-old whos struggling to find her place in her family.

Mirabel is a really funny, loving character who also deeply yearns for something more, says Beatriz. Shes also not afraid to stand up for what she knows is rightsomething I love and relate to very much.



The voice cast includes Stephanie Beatriz (Brooklyn 99, The Lego Movie), Diane Guerrero, Wilmer Valderrama, Angie Cepeda, Rhenzy Feliz, Carolina Gaitan, and Maria Cecilia Botero. The directing team also had a hand in Moana, Zootopia, and Raya the Last Dragon; and new music from Lin-Manuel Miranda (who has another animated movie, Vivo, coming to Netflix this year).

Encanto arrives in theaters this November.
Bennington, VT (05201)

Today

A few showers early then thundershowers this afternoon. High 73F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 70%..

Tonight

Rain likely. Low 63F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 80%. Rainfall near a half an inch.
Amanda Burke covers Pittsfield City Hall for The Berkshire Eagle. An Ithaca, New York native, she previously worked at The Herald News of Fall River and the Fitchburg Sentinel & Enterprise.
Funded by a grant from the Town of Stockbridge and another from the National Park Service, the Stockbridge-Munsee Community hired Morton Archa
The Outlook is today's look ahead at the week's weather, its impact on the Berkshires and beyond. Clarence Fanto can be reached at cfanto@yahoo.com.
Education

Critical race theory a hot topic at the state, county and local level
In the first extensive interview after his prison release, Bill Cosby implored his detractors to read the seven-page Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruling that overturned his conviction in an effort to avoid having mainstream media dictate falsehoods.

He said in an interview posted Wednesday (July 7) at Black Press of America that he believes the ruling serves as vindication against all the accusations of sexual assault against him. The ruling, however, does not address vindication, reports say.

Theres a big smile on my face, Cosby told the news outlet. A big smile on my face because I was there.

RELATED: Bill Cosby Accusers Speak Out In Joint TV Interview

Cosby, 83, claims no one wanted to believe in his innocence.

Youre sitting in a room trying to explain something, and there is a knock on the door, he told Black Press, trying to use humor to illustrate his point. You say, who is it? [The response is], It is the truth. So, people start jumping out of the window.

According to Penn Live, the Supreme Court overturned the conviction on a legal technicality but did not vindicate Cosby from guilt. Cosby was released because a prosecutors office violated its previous agreement not to file charges when Cosby gave incriminating testimony in a civil case filed by Andrea Constand, whom he was charged with drugging and violating at his Philadelphia-area home in 2004, the report says. So his civil suit testimony should not have been used in his criminal trial.

Cosby, however, disagrees. The courts decision was not a technicality, he said. These people sound like they havent read what the judges have written. Its not a technicality. These [detractors] dont want to know anything. Its like the woman who said she knows five women that I drugged and raped. Well, where are they?

Cosby served more than two years of a three-to-10-year sentence at Philadelphia-area state prison. Previously, Cosby vowed to serve all 10 years rather than acknowledge remorse over the 2004 encounter with Constand. In late 2015, he was charged when a prosecutor presented newly unsealed evidence.

The Pennsylvania Supreme Court said that testimony tainted the trial, even though a lower appeals court had found it appropriate to show a signature pattern of drugging and molesting women. He was released on June 30.

Read the full interview here.
Officials in Charlottesville, Virginia, on Saturday (July 10) removed statues honoring two Confederate generals nearly four years after neo-Nazi and white supremacist groups stormed the city in a deadly rally.

Charlottesville Mayor Nikuyah Walker told reporters and observers that the removal of the bronze statues depicting Generals Robert E. Lee and Stonewall Jackson "is one small step closer to the goal of helping Charlottesville and America grapple with the sin of being willing to destroy Black people for economic gain," according to NBC News.

Around 200 residents, spectators and Black Lives Matter supporters came out on Saturday morning to see the statues come down.

RELATED: Robert E. Lees Descendant Supports The Removal Of Confederate Statue In North Carolina

This monument symbolizes a lot of things to our community," Niya Bates, 31, of Charlottesville, said, according to NBC News. "So to see that baggage, literal baggage  all of the racism, the history of enslavement, the inequities in our community  picked up, put on a truck and taken out, was good.

Both statues have been up since the 1920s, and will be stored until the City Council decides what to do with them, the report says.

In August 2017, white supremacist and neo-Nazi groups descended on Charlottesville for a violent "Unite the Right" rally to protest the removal of Confererate statues.

The protests turned deadly after James Alex Fields Jr. killed 32-year-old paralegal and civil rights activist Heather Heyer by hitting her with his vehicle.
s2021

|

Interview

Reverend Al Sharpton explains how Donald Trump's presidency exposed the under-legislated aspects of our society and how Kamala Harris can honor the sacrifices of those who paved the way.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer on Sunday called on the Justice Department to investigate the National Rifle Association for bankruptcy fraud, saying the financially stable gun-rights group abused the system when it sought bankruptcy protection in the wake of a New York lawsuit seeking to put it out of business
WAHA - According to a Sunday morning (July 11) update from the Idaho Department of Lands, the Snake River Complex fires burning in the Waha area approximately 20 miles south of Lewiston is now estimated at 54,407 acres with 0% containment. On Saturday morning, the fires were reported at an estimated 39,000 acres, which suggests the fire burnt approximately 15,000 acres throughout the day. The Snake River Complex is comprised of the Hoover Ridge fire, and the Captain John and Shovel Creek fires which have now joined together.

Current Status

On Saturday, fire activity was high and firefighters, heavy equipment, and aviation operations worked to establish control lines around the north end of the Shovel fire and Hoover Ridge fire to prevent fire spread toward the community of Waha and Forest. Dozers are working to secure an Eastern perimeter, where the fire remains around 4 miles from Forest, and approximately 14 miles from Winchester.

Winds have also created spot fires which were fought by aviation assets. Night operations began last night, involving active firefighting and structure protection in Waha and Redbird areas.

There was increased fire activity yesterday afternoon near the Zaza road and new evacuation orders were issued by the Lewis County Sheriffs Office. Crews worked to secure the east flank of the Hoover Ridge fire, as well as point protection along the Snake River. Resources are slowly becoming available.

The Snake River Complex Fire is now a Priority One Fire with 86 personnel assigned to fighting it. With numerous fires in our region, lack of resources is a concern and we could see increased fire growth as the temperature rises and personnel continues to be stretched thin across many miles of fire line, said Sheriff Scrimsher. Waha is in good hands with the fire personnel right now and they are relentless in their work to get this fire under control. Deputies, fire fighters, and community members have stepped up to help stop this fire, continued Sheriff Scrimsher. The fire is still holding strong in the ravines but strides have been made with fire lines near the top. I am hopeful the progress made overnight will pay off today when the temperature rises.

Throughout the last 24 hours, the support from the community has been overwhelming, says Sheriff Scrimsher. The community has stepped up in a big way and supported all first responders throughout this incident and we couldnt be more thankful. Volunteers willing to jump into action with helping evacuations, manning road signs, or simply handing out water to fire workers as they came through the area. Without the help from the community, we would have had more setbacks. Thank you, continued Sheriff Scrimsher.

Planned Actions

Firefighters and heavy equipment will continue to work on high priority areas and point protection, focusing on the northern fire perimeter and along the Snake River as the fire moves north, and in the Wapshilla Creek area. Today will be hot and dry with a dry cold front moving through the area in the afternoon, potentially shifting winds from the west to the northwest, pushing the smoke to the south and allowing increased air operation activity. The fire is anticipated to be active throughout the day with possible runs through light fuels at lower elevations where wind and slope align and spotting in heavy timber.

This fire is under the command of Type 2 Northern Rockies Incident Management Team 4, Rick Connell, I.C. There are 86 personnel assigned to the blaze.

Challenges

Lack of firefighting personnel and equipment is the main hindrance to achieving control. Resources are stretched to the maximum across the NW. Continued dry and hot weather with a lack of humidity recovery overnight also promotes fire growth.

Public Meeting

A public meeting to provide further information will be held tonight, Sunday July 11, at 7:00pm at the Normal Hill Campus (old Lewiston high school) at 1114 9th Ave in Lewiston.

Evacuations and Closures

Nez Perce County

Evacuation orders have been issued for homes along the Snake River and for residents on Zaza road north of Soldier Meadow and west of Waha road, including Redbird and Waha Lake, as well as for residents of the Deer Creek area, the community of Forest, and north of Hoover Ridge.

Lewis County

On Saturday, July 10, Level 3 "GO" Evacuation Orders were issued for the community of Forest and the area north of the oxbow of the Salmon River, east to Willow Creek Road, Haas Ranch Road, North Road, to Morrowtown Road, and north of Soldier Meadow Road to the county line, and West Fork Malone County Road.

The Red Cross has a shelter at the Echo Hills Church in Lewiston, ID (3215 Echo Hills Dr). Sign up for alerts at: https://public.alertsense.com/SignUp/public.aspx

Road access is restricted to residents only on Zaza Road at Deer Creek and from Redbird road South in Nez Perce County and Deer Creek road to Soldier Meadow in Lewis County. If you do not live in the evacuated areas, please keep the roadways cleared for emergency personnel and essential traffic. Current evacuation and closure information is on Lewis and Nez Perce County Sheriffs Offices webpages.

River Recreation

To facilitate safe air operations, please avoid the Lower Snake River between Heller Bar and Sandal Gulch. If you are on the river, it is advised to take out at Heller Bar to allow aircraft to work safely. Please do not disrupt the aircraft operation and avoid upstream jetboat travel into the area.

Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFR)

There is a TFR in place for air space over the Snake River Complex (1-6770) to lesson impacts to local aviation operators. Remember that temporary flight restrictions also apply to unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) or drones.

Cooperating Agencies

Idaho Department of Lands, BLM, Idaho Department of Fish & Game, Nez Perce County, Lewis County, Nez Perce Tribe, USFS, Winchester Volunteer Fire Department.
This article is part of Business Buzz, a series designed to feature small businesses that make a big impact on the community. Participants featured will include the locally-owned businesses that make up the fabric of Big Rapids and the surrounding area.

BIG RAPIDS  When it comes to jewelry, there are few names in and around Mecosta County that can match the quality and care found at Rogers Jewelers.

Since opening for business in 1948, the folks at Rogers have made it their mission to ensure that every customer is a satisfied one by the time they leave the store.

In a field that requires a great deal of knowledge and trust, current owners John and Susan Miedema pride themselves in carrying on the Rogers legacy.

Miedema began working for the Rogers family back in 1987 and spent the next two decades learning and fine-tuning his craft.

I started here in high school as a helper, doing odds and ends  it was when they were moving into this location, so I helped move a lot of the stuff, Miedema said.

After the many hours of hard work and dedication, he decided to take a leap of faith when an opportunity arose.

That opportunity came in 2007, when the store went up for sale by the daughter of its original owner.

I liked it, liked the business, and just kind of stuck with it and ended up buying the store, Miedema said. Im kind of like the third owner.

The current location of Rogers Jewelers on South Michigan Avenue in downtown Big Rapids is the third one in its storied history.

Weve progressively moved into larger buildings over the years, Miedema said.

Over the years, the Miedemas said they have come to appreciate the continued support they have gotten from the community over the years.

I look at it as: were problem-solvers, Miedema said. People come (to) see me and either need something fixed, or an opinion on it, or theyre looking for a wedding or anniversary present. Were here to help them out.

With a customer base spanning multiple generations, the Miedemas said they are always happy to help with whatever an individual might need.

Whatever the occasion might be, Miedema said their loyal customers always seem to make it back to Rogers from time-to-time.

Were thankful for all of our loyal customers, Miedema said. We know its a luxury business; people dont need jewelry to survive, so were very thankful.

Location

114 S. Michigan Ave, Big Rapids

Contact

231-796-7743

Hours

Monday to Friday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Closed on Saturday and Sunday.
Watch the latest video at FoxNews.com By Bill O'Reilly It is curious, to say the least, that General Powell has become such an ardent supporter of President Obama. On paper it would seem that the General and the President are total opposites. Mr. Obama the champion of the entitlement state, of social justice, of big government providing for those who don't have very much with very few strings attached. Colin Powell, a self-reliant guy, rising from poverty in the South Bronx to the powerful position of Secretary of State and Powell did it the old fashioned way, he earned it. While attending City College in New York City he joined the ROTC, was eventually send to Vietnam, won the Bronze Star there. He came back a respected Army officer. He then went to Washington as a White House fellow during the Nixon administration. From there General Powell rose through the ranks, becoming national security advisor to President Reagan, the first black American to ever hold that post. He continued in the administrations of Bush the elder and the younger. General Powell presents himself as a rather conservative individual, a traditional man. But his politics are mixed. He is pro-choice, for example. However, up until 2008, he was always a staunch Republican. And now that has changed as the General voted for Barack Obama twice. In the process, Powell has been very critical of the Republican Party as it stands today. He's also made some comments about race and the GOP. (BEGIN VIDEO CLIP) POWELL: They still sort of look down on minorities. How can I evidence that? When I see a former governor say that the President is "shucking and jiving," that's a racial era slave term. (END VIDEO CLIP) O'REILLY: General Powell referring to Sarah Palin who used that term criticizing President Obama for not being forthcoming about the Libyan disaster. Now, having known General Powell for a while, I wanted to understand why his politics have changed. He is a well-respected man in America and the why of the story is very important. So, last night the General and I finally commiserated. (BEGIN VIDEOTAPE) O'REILLY: So General, I'd like you to be very specific and I'd like you to be very brutal tonight about the Republican Party. What is it that you object to mostly that caused you to vote for President Obama twice? POWELL: I voted for the President twice because, first and foremost, I didn't think that the economic plans put forward by the campaign in 2008 or 2012 really were suited for the times we were in. So I had an economic reason to do that. Secondly, I became a Republican officially in 1995 after I decided not to run. And I have voted previously seven straight times for Republican candidates. I've spoken at the 1996 convention, the 2000 convention. I worked for Reagan. I worked for Weinberger. I worked for Nixon as a White House fellow. So I think my credentials are fine. But in the last several years I have been troubled by the right-shift of the Republican Party, too far to the right. And I've said this on a number of occasions. And so in 2008 I found that as an American the best choice for America at that time, and continuing in 2012, was Senator Obama and then now President Obama, re-elected. O'REILLY: Ok. Now here's what perplexes me. You're an analytical man would you say that's correct? POWELL: Yes, well, I try to be. O'REILLY: All right. President Obama's economic plan hasn't worked among African-Americans. When you voted for him, 12.7 unemployment. December 2012, a month after you voted for him again, 14 percent unemployment, up. Ok. Hasn't worked. Income, black income $32,000 compared to white, 55,000. Gone down under President Obama, hasn't worked. So you basically said to yourself, I'm still going to support the guy even though his economic policies haven't worked for African-Americans and pretty much anyone else? POWELL: Why are you only seeing me as an African-American, Bill? That troubles me. I -- O'REILLY: Because you did cite, you did cite it. (CROSSTALK) POWELL: I'm an American. O'REILLY: No, I know that. But you cited it in some of your criticisms. You said, and correct me if I'm wrong, that the disengagement of the Republican Party from the minority community, blacks and Hispanics, troubled you. POWELL: The economic situation in the country has improved, but not enough. And -- (CROSSTALK) O'REILLY: Not for African-Americans. POWELL: I'm not speaking -- O'REILLY: -- not for minorities. POWELL: I'm not speaking as an African-American. I'll come to the minority part of my criticism in a moment. But we have seen a doubling of the stock market. The financial system has stabilized. The economy is starting to improve. I want to see it improve even faster and in a broader sense so that those who are at the lower end of the economic scale, including African-Americans, Latino- Americans and others, can start to come up. Ultimately those numbers that you just cited are going to be fixed by an improving economy and an economy that's spread out more. And more and more African-Americans will benefit and Latino Americans, if they also get the education needed for the more demanding jobs. O'REILLY: You seem to be voting again on hope in `12 because we haven't seen an economic improvement in this country very much. And in addition, the big spending policies of the Democratic Party and the President have driven the debt, as you know, to close to $17 trillion. And he's the biggest spending president in history. But you said something very interesting. The education, we spend more per capita on education than any other country in the world except Switzerland, all right? So it isn't the money. But the money continues to flow. It's the discipline. It's the disintegration of the family structure, all of the things that the Republican Party and the conservative movement are emphasizing. Yet you have drifted away from them. And I'm saying to you, it's not about money and education, am I wrong? POWELL: It is money and education, but it's more fundamental than that. Now with respect to some of the things that I've been saying that have been critical of the party, is that I don't think the party recognizes the fundamental demographic changes that are taking place in the country. In one more generation, African-Americans, Asian-Americans, and Latino/Hispanic Americans will be the majority of the country. And we have to educate those youngsters for the positions of leadership that they are going to occupy. O'REILLY: You don't think that's being done now? POWELL: And I don't -- I don't think it's being done adequately. And the important point I've been making is we have to understand that if you want these people to come to the Republican side, you can't have immigration policies that affect them in a negative way. (CROSSTALK) O'REILLY: Ok. But -- do you believe in amnesty. (CROSSTALK) POWELL: One more point. One more point. One more point. O'REILLY: all right. Go ahead, go ahead. POWELL: You can't have policies that try to make it harder for minorities to vote. I think one of the most terrible things that happened in the past election season is when we had a number of states that were going out of their way, claiming there was outright fraud, when there really wasn't any fraud to be of concern to us. But we were doing things to -- making it more difficult for those people to vote. O'REILLY: I want to get very micro on this. (CROSSTALK) POWELL: Well, but you're -- O'REILLY: Voter ID -- wait, wait, wait. POWELL: Go ahead. O'REILLY: The voter ID, you object to showing an identification card when you vote? POWELL: No. Of course not. O'REILLY: Well, that's all the Republican Party wanted. That's all they wanted is the voter ID. POWELL: I object to putting in place additional levels of voter ID that -- O'REILLY: One, show one. POWELL: -- disenfranchise, disenfranchise those of our fellow citizens. I want to see a Republican Party that, rather than trying to make it more difficult to vote and restricting the number of days and hours you can vote, a Republican Party that says we want everybody to vote and we're going to give you a reason to vote for us. (CROSSTALK) O'REILLY: All right. But I don't -- (CROSSTALK) O'REILLY: I don't know if asking for an ID is trying to restrict the vote -- I mean, I'm sorry. You should be able to prove who you are before you cast a ballot. POWELL: No, you should be able to prove who you are when you register to vote. And when you make the proper registration and identify yourself, you shouldn't have to go to some higher level which is going to restrict some. O'REILLY: But surely you know how fraud is committed. I mean Boston, in Chicago, you register and then you show up and it's not you. POWELL: I have not seen any study that says fraud is a problem of such significance that these kinds of procedures were in place. And I'm glad to see that Governor Scott in Florida has recently said he is turning this back over to his -- his local communities to handle. O'REILLY: All right. I just think showing an ID to vote is the bare minimum. (END VIDEOTAPE) O'REILLY: All right, when we come back, we'll talk with General Powell about Sarah Palin and other Republicans he finds objectionable. That in just a few moments.  You can catch Bill O'Reilly's "Talking Points Memo" weeknights at 8 and 11 p.m. ET on the Fox News Channel and any time on foxnews.com/oreilly. Send your comments to: oreilly@foxnews.com. Transcript Show Name: O'Reilly Factor Transcript Special Guests: Gen. Colin Powell
Watch the latest video at video.foxnews.com Accusations are mounting that, while secretary of state, Hillary Clinton used her position to enrich the Clinton Foundation by doing favors for foreign governments and corporations. If true, that would likely eliminate Mrs. Clinton from the presidential race. If true. Right now the evidence is circumstantial, not vetted, and the subject of wild speculation by anti-Clinton forces. But as we reported last night, when a corporation like General Electric says it will not make public emails sent to it by the State Department during a period of time when GE secured a big contract from the Algerian government while donating generously to the Clinton Foundation, there is something very wrong. GE CEO Jeffrey Immelt must know that there is an appearance of impropriety here, and he has an obligation to the shareholders of GE to avoid any taint of scandal. Thus, Immelt should release those emails immediately. If he does not, the Justice Department should begin an investigation. A welcome greeting to the new Attorney General Loretta Lynch, who we believe is a person of integrity. In addition, there are charges that the State Department under Mrs. Clinton signed off on a deal that allowed the Russian atomic energy agency Rosatom to acquire a huge Canadian Uranium company called Uranium One. Uranium One's chairman, a man named Ian Telfer, donated almost $2.5 million to the Clinton Foundation, much of it while the negotiations were taking place. Shortly before the deal was done, Bill Clinton received $500,000 for a speech he gave in Moscow. Again, the appearance of impropriety is staggering here. And the defense is paltry to say the least: HOWARD DEAN, FORMER VERMONT GOVERNOR: The way its talked about is as if the Clintons took this money for themselves. This money all went to charitable causes. ((EDIT)) DEAN: This was originally unearthed in this cash book or whatever its called by a guy whos a president of something called the General Accountability Institute, which is funded by opponents which   JOE SCARBOROUGH, MSNBC Host: So this is a Clinton tactic. Youre not talking about the fact, but you attack the man. DEAN: The fact that this guy is employed, is the president of an operation funded by people who support Ted Cruz. Talking Points believes there is enough evidence of major money flowing to the Clinton Foundation and to the Clinton's themselves (through lecture fees) that an official investigation has to be launched. But I want to make it very clear that the Clintons are to be given the presumption of innocence. As one who has been dishonestly smeared, I loathe political hit jobs. But there are major questions here and they must be answered. No government official should benefit financially while serving the people. Once again, the investigation should start with General Electric, which admits it has emails from State but is keeping them secret. All GE stockholders should demand an honest accounting. Now. And that's the memo.
Donald Trump gave a national security speech in Philadelphia today, concentrating on how he would bolster the military and pay for it by cutting back on civilian federal employees, among other things.

As we reported last night, Mr. Trump is making gains across the country - primarily because Hillary Clinton is getting pounded by scandal.

Day after day it's more reporting about the Clinton Foundation and the destroyed emails when she was secretary of state.

That has taken pressure off Mr. Trump, who is now getting more specific about what he would do as president.

So with two months left in the presidential campaign, it is a very close race.

Enter the strategy of hate.

On the Democratic side, the beat goes on - portraying Donald Trump as a bigot and hate inciter.

Here's what columnist Timothy Egan recently wrote in The New York Times:

"In the hate speech that Donald Trump gave on immigration in Phoenix on Wednesday night, he all but deported the Statue of Liberty, laying out one of the darkest visions of the American experience that any major-party nominee has ever given."

Now this is not boosterism for Donald Trump, but Mr. Egan's analysis is unfair and inaccurate.

In Arizona, Mr. Trump re-stated that he would build a wall on the Mexican border to stem the flow of narcotics and illegal aliens.

He also said he would crack down on alien criminals who commit violence in the USA.

Is that hate speech? Is that deporting the Statue of Liberty?

I mean, think about it. Trump believes the nation is not secure when hard drugs and undocumented people can freely flow into the USA.

Is that a hateful position?

Talking Points believes this demonization by the left of anyone -- including me, your humble correspondent -- who disagrees with their uber-liberal policies will fail.

The fact is that Donald Trump's Arizona speech helped him, as the new polls show.

Americans are tired of far-left media people accusing people of racism, bigotry and hate.

That is a cheap tactic and it should be rejected by all fair-minded people.

That same thing is true to a much lesser extent on the right.

Demonizing Hillary Clinton is foolish. Let the facts speak for themselves.

Secretary Clinton denies any wrongdoing in the email and Foundation controversies.

But there are plenty of facts in play, so you can easily decide whether her denials have credibility.

Also, it is quite clear that Secretary Clinton believes Barack Obama has done a heck of a job.

Again, facts are clear. Reality stares us in the face.

So it is not difficult to make a decision about either candidate.

We don't need despicable and hateful branding.

We need clarity.

And that's the memo.
Watch the latest video at video.foxnews.com At the height of the Iraq War, the vilification of President Bush the younger was off the chart. The left in America accused him and Vice President Cheney of lying to get us into the war, of sacrificing American military people so Halliburton could make money, and a variety of other vile allegations. Having seen President Clinton go through impeachment, I thought President Bush got it even worse with the smearing. Enter President Obama, who is also loathed by some Americans: CHRIS MATTHEWS, MSNBC ANCHOR: You want to know about that fight among Republicans running for president is all about? Whats it all about? Its about who can hate President Obama the most? ((EDIT)) CHRIS MATTHEWS, MSNBC ANCHOR: Let me finish with the contest of hate that is going on among Republican candidates for president. Who can hate Obama the most? ((EDIT)) CHRIS MATTHEWS, MSNBC ANCHOR: Let me finish tonight with this contest of hate were watching among the Republican candidates for president. How much do you, how much can you, hate President Obama? Did somebody say hate? Now there is no question that Barack Obama's policies are controversial. He is a big tax and spend guy, has increased the power of the federal government, has ordered a quasi-amnesty for some illegal aliens, has withdrawn completely from Iraq leading to chaos, and imposed a healthcare system that many people despise. So as far as policy goes, there is much angst directed at the president. On the personal front Mr. Obama gets it, too. Here's a letter from Tom who lives in Florida: "It's time to impeach Obama and the Islamistration. This guy is clearly sabotaging our country" Islamistration? And this from Liz who lives in New Mexico: "Obama is a Muslim, and many Muslims do not care about Christians. This president fights this crisis all over the world with politics and love for his Muslims." Talking Points laments the haters on both sides. Smearing anyone should be unacceptable. In the upcoming presidential campaign, the Republican candidates surely will point out where they differ with President Obama and by proxy Hillary Clinton. One of Mrs. Clinton's challenges is deciding whether to repudiate some of Mr. Obama's policies. Is she going to do that? Interesting dilemma. If she doesn't, the Republicans certainly have an opportunity to put Hillary Clinton on the defensive. But any Republican candidate who says personal things about either the president or Mrs. Clinton will be making a tremendous mistake. The haters on both the left and the right make a lot of noise and get some attention. But most Americans don't like that kind of stuff. Once in a while a takedown is necessary. But to make a living out of gutter sniping is a ticket to defeat. Right now America is in a bad place. We are weak overseas and the economy is still mainly rewarding the wealthy. President Obama has had six years to improve that situation and in my opinion he has failed to do so. That's an objective analysis based upon facts, not a personal attack. And here's a final fact. I've had discussions with both George w. Bush and Barack Obama. They see the world differently but they both have absorbed tremendous punishment in order to serve their country. I respect that and hope that the upcoming presidential campaign will not be a smear-fest. There's too much at stake for that to happen. And that's the memo.
Watch the latest video at video.foxnews.com As I've said before, debate and discussion about the immigration problem in America rarely changes opinion. Many liberal folks want open borders, sympathizing with poor people who have come to America for a better life. Some other Americans see the illegal alien invasion as an intrusion, resulting in America changing dramatically in many ways. Both sides are dug in and mostly un-persuadable. So Talking Points believes the president of the United States should be the focus of the debate. There is no question that by unilaterally giving legal status to millions of undocumented people the president is challenging the Constitution. It was only one hour before the president's speech last night -- one hour -- that the Justice Department put forth a statement saying the president's action was legal. In the past, the president himself said it would be illegal for him to grant millions of undocumented folks the right to stay in America. The Wall Street Journal, very sympathetic to immigration, editorialized this way. "Mr. Obama is issuing his order amid furious political opposition and after his own multiple previous declarations that he lacks legal authority.  The politics of immigration is already fraught, and Mr. Obama's order will make it worse." Indeed, Texas and Oklahoma have announced they are going to sue president Obama on the grounds that he is violating the constitutional rights of those states. From The Factor Nov. 19 GREG ABBOTT (R), TEXAS GOVERNOR-ELECT: He has a legal obligation to enforce the laws, plus, immigration is assigned by the Constitution to the United States Congress to determine, not the president. The president has no legal authority to grant legal status to people who are here in the United States illegally. Of course, the Obama administration disagrees with Governor-elect Abbott, and millions of dollars will be spent defending the president's actions in the courts. But in the end, the president may very well lose in the Supreme Court. JUDGE ANDREW NAPOLITANO, FOX NEWS SENIOR JUDICIAL ANALYST: The president has this power called prosecutorial discretion. ((EDIT)) So he says to the Justice Department and DHS ratchet down the deportations. Ronald Reagan did that. George H. W. Bush can do that. He can do that for a class of people a small class of people, 100,000 here, 100,000 there. When he does it for half the foreign nationals who are in this country illegally, the practical effect of that is not just nullifying their deportations, it's nullifying the law. So according to Judge Napolitano, it's about numbers, it's about an abuse of prosecutorial discretion. The tragedy here is, none of this had to happen. I believe the new Congress would have passed a fair immigration law if given the chance; certainly there was immense pressure on the Republican leadership to do that. But President Obama was in a rush, and the question is why. Speculation from the right says the president wants to trap the Republican Party into overreacting. Also, that he wants to reinforce his reputation as a liberal icon before he leaves office. No matter -- what Barack Obama has done is setting off a constitutional brawl that will be harmful to a nation that needs united leadership and intense problem solving. And that's the memo
(The Center Square)  U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, introduced a bill that would prohibit the federal government from creating and maintaining a federal database of every American who has received COVID-19 vaccines.

Cruz introduced the bill after White House officials announced a plan to use taxpayer dollars to pay individuals to go door-to-door in regions of the country where there are relatively low vaccination rates.

In response to statements made by President Joe Biden and White House press secretary Jen Psaki about the door-to-door outreach initiative, Cruz tweeted, When the Biden admin calls for targeted door-to-door outreach to get people vaccinated, it comes across as a g-man saying: We know youre unvaccinated, lets talk, comrade. My bill to ban federal vaccine passports prohibits the feds from maintaining a vaccine database.

The bill states: To the extent any federal department or agency has received, obtained, collected, aggregated, stored, or is otherwise in possession of any data or records from officials, including public health officials, in any state, the District of Columbia, or any territory, or any third party who administered or has information related to the administration of any COVID-19 vaccinations, including health care providers and insurers, such data and records about any individuals vaccination status shall be destroyed by the federal department or agency and, if in digital form, that data record shall be deleted in its entirety within 30 days of the enactment of this act.

Biden said on Tuesday, we need to go community by community, neighborhood by neighborhood, and often times door by door  literally knocking on doors to get help to the remaining people. Neither Biden nor Psaki provided details about the initiative, including who it would target, how long it would last, and what type of outreach the teams would engage in or what kind of data they would collect, or how and where this data would be stored.

Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra told CNN, Perhaps we should point out that the federal government has had to spend trillions of dollars to try to keep Americans alive during this pandemic, so it is absolutely the governments business. It is taxpayers business if we have to continue to spend money to try to keep people from contracting COVID and helping reopen the economy.

In response, Rep. Dan Crenshaw, R-Texas, tweeted, How about dont knock on my door. Youre not my parents. Youre the government. Make the vaccine available, and let people be free to choose.

In 2021, the nine most terrifying words in the English language: Im from the government, have you been vaccinated yet? Rep. Andy Biggs, R-Ariz., also tweeted.

Becerra tweeted in response that the federal government doesnt keep a COVID-19 vaccination database and his comments were taken wildly out of context. Were encouraging people to step up to protect themselves, others by getting vaccinated. Its the best way to save lives and end this pandemic.

The initiative was announced after the White House fell short of its self-imposed July 4 target to have 70% of American adults get at least one vaccination shot. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 67% of adults have received at least one shot; more than 157 million people have received both.
AUSTIN, Texas (AP)  The possibility of Texas Democrats staging a second walkout to again stop one of America's most restrictive new voting measures grew louder Saturday, as hundreds of people waited hours to rail against the GOP's plan in the largest turnout this year at the state Capitol.

As Republicans made clear they intended this weekend to advance a new election bill  which would prohibit 24-hour polling places, ban drop boxes and stop drive-thru voting  some Democrats who broke quorum in May are now describing it as their best, if not only, option again.

Texas is among several states with GOP-controlled statehouses where Republicans have rushed to enact strict voting laws in response to former President Donald Trumps false claims that the 2020 election was stolen from him. A second walkout by Texas Democrats would mark a high-stakes escalation of their efforts to deny Republicans a major priority, and in turn, put more pressure on President Joe Biden to act on voting at the federal level.

Beto O'Rourke, the Democratic former Texas congressman who is considering challenging Republican Gov. Greg Abbott in 2022, said he has already offered help, saying he was ready to raise money "literally to feed and house the legislators if they go that route.

Should we stick around? Hell no. For what? Democratic state Rep. Jarvis Johnson said. There's nothing being done in earnest. There's nothing be done with the utmost respect for one another.

For weeks, Democratic leaders in the Texas House have said they are not ruling out another revolt, but have also expressed hope of weakening the bill during the 30-day special session. Johnson, however, believes a large number of his colleagues are ready to deny Republicans a quorum for a second time, though most continue speaking cautiously.

You may know my next move, but you can't stop it. You never knew when Mike Tyson was going to throw the uppercut, but you knew he was going to throw it," he said.

Another walkout may merely buy more time: Abbott could keep calling more 30-day special sessions until voting measures are passed. Paychecks for nearly 2,000 Capitol staffers could also be on the line, because Abbott vetoed funding for the legislative branch following Democrats' late-night walkout. He has signaled he will restore that funding this summer  if lawmakers are around to put a bill on his desk.

The last time Texas Democrats left the state to deny a quorum was 2003, when they decamped to Oklahoma and New Mexico to try to block new GOP-drawn voting maps. They were gone more a month, but ultimately, Republicans passed a new redistricting plan.

On Saturday, both the House and Senate were expected to advance the revived voting bills, which no longer include two of the most contentious provisions: prohibiting Sunday morning voting, when many Black churchgoers go to the polls, and language that would have made it easier for a judge to overturn elections.

Hundreds of opponents packed overflow rooms at the Capitol and waited for hours to testify. It was the biggest turnout against a bill this year in Texas, where COVID-19 concerns have dampened crowds.

Republican state Sen. Bryan Hughes defended the election proposals as refining and improving the voting process, and said newly added provisions increase early voting hours and provide opportunities to fix rejected ballots.

Your ballot is sacrosanct, Hughes said. Everything else in the election process should be bathed in sunshine."

Nacal Tate said she woke up at 4 a.m. to drive from suburban Dallas to Austin to testify against the bill, even though it meant missing her grandniece's birthday party. She was joined by June Jenkins, president of an NAACP chapter in Collin County.

Hopefully the impact of what we do today will be worth the sacrifice of what we needed to sacrifice," Jenkins said. "My compromise is to kill it.



Acacia Coronado 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.
SEOUL, South Korea  South Korea has reported more than 1,000 coronavirus cases for the sixth straight day as the greater capital area entered stringent social distancing restrictions to slow transmissions.

Workers carry a coffin for burial at the special section of the Pedurenan cemetery which was opened to accommodate the surge in deaths during the coronavirus outbreak in Bekasi, West Java, Indonesia on the outskirts of Jakarta, Indonesia, Sunday, July 11, 2021. (AP Photo/Achmad Ibrahim)

SEOUL, South Korea  South Korea has reported more than 1,000 coronavirus cases for the sixth straight day as the greater capital area entered stringent social distancing restrictions to slow transmissions.

The 1,100 new cases reported by the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency were the highest ever for a Monday, when the daily increase is usually smaller because of reduced tests during the weekends.

More than 780 of the cases were from capital Seoul and nearby Incheon and Gyeonggi Province, areas where officials have enforced the countrys strongest social distancing measures starting Monday.

Private social gatherings of three or more people will be prohibited from 6 p.m., nightclubs and churches will be shut down, and visitors will be banned at hospitals and nursing homes.

South Korea has added more than 12,100 cases this month alone, brining its caseload to 169,146, including 2,044 deaths. The country last week set record daily increases for three straight days through Saturday, when it reported 1,378 new cases.

The viral surge is a worrisome development in a country where only 30.4% among a population of 51 million have received their first doses of vaccines.

MORE ON THE PANDEMIC:

 South Africa ramps up vaccine drive, too late for this surge

 Myanmar caught off guard as cases surge, oxygen dwindles

Follow more of APs pandemic coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/coronavirus-pandemic and https://apnews.com/hub/coronavirus-vaccine

HERES WHAT ELSE IS HAPPENING:

DHAKA, Bangladesh  Authorities in Bangladesh say the country has registered the highest number of COVID-19 casualties and positive cases in a single day.

The news comes amid concern that the coronavirus pandemic could worsen over the next seven days.

The governments Directorate General of Health Services said that 230 people died and 11,874 tested positive on Sunday. Thats a single-day record on both counts.

About 100,000 people have tested positive for the coronavirus in the last 10 days.

FILE - In this July 5 2021, file photo, a policeman receives his Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine in Soweto, South Africa. New infections in South Africa rose to record levels in recent days, part of a rapid rise across the continent, and experts say the surge here has not yet peaked. South Africa reimposed several restrictions, and its vaccination drive is finding its feet after several stumbles. But even as the campaign gathers pace, experts say it's too late to reduce the deadly impact of the current spike. (AP Photo/Alet Pretorius, File)

Experts say if the present trend continues already overwhelmed hospitals would struggle to provide treatment.

Bangladesh has been under a nationwide lockdown since July 1. But new records of positive cases are being reported everyday.

Overall, Bangladesh has reported more than 1 million positive cases, including 16,419 deaths, in the nation of 160 million people.

MOSCOW  Russias daily tally of confirmed coronavirus infections has exceeded 25,000 for the third day in a row.

Authorities reported 25,033 new cases Sunday.

Russia has been facing a sharp rise of contagions in recent weeks, with daily new infections increasing from around 9,000 in early June to over 25,000 on Friday. For the first time in the pandemic, the daily death toll exceeded 700 on Tuesday. Its remained at that level ever since, with 749 new deaths registered on Sunday.

Officials blame the surge on the spread of the delta variant. Theyre seeking to boost vaccine uptake, which has remained lower than in many Western countries. As of Wednesday, about 27 million Russians, or just 18.5% of the 146-million population, have received at least one shot of a vaccine, and 18.5 million, or 12.6%, have been fully vaccinated.

ISLAMABAD  Pakistans planning minister is encouraging the countrys 27 million citizens who are over 50 to get vaccinated against COVID-19

Asad Umar also heads the national body tasked to control coronavirus. He said people over 50 are vulnerable to serious health effects.

Umar in a tweet Sunday said that 5.6 million people, or 20.6% of those in Pakistan in that age group, have received at least one dose of the vaccine.

The federal body recorded a slight hike in the positivity rate. Its asking residents to wear masks and maintain social distance at public places.

Authorities report 27 additional death and 1,980 more cases of the virus in a single day. That brings the countrys tally of deaths due to COVID-19 to 22582 and number of total confirmed cases to 973,284.

CAIRO  Health officials say Libya has seen an unprecedented spike in coronavirus cases amid a slow vaccination program and concerns about the highly infectious delta variant.

The number of new cases in the oil-rich country has risen more than six times since July 1, according to daily figures from Libyas National Center for Disease Control.

We are facing an unprecedented situation, said Tareq Gibrael, a senior physician at the center. The constantly rising curve of new cases shows that we are bracing for a third wave, especially now that the delta variant is spreading in neighboring countries. We are in a very tough position.

On Saturday, the North African country recorded 2,854 new cases, up from 719 a week earlier. So far, Libya has recorded more than 200,000 total cases, including 3,232 deaths. The actual figures are believed to be much higher given the scarcity of testing and the depletion of the countrys health care system after almost a decade of civil war.

Britain's Prime Minister Boris Johnson, center, speaks during a media briefing on coronavirus in Downing Street, London, Monday, July 5, 2021. Johnson says people in England will no longer be required by law to wear face masks in indoor public spaces and to keep at least 1 meter (3 feet) apart as soon as later this month. Johnson on Monday confirmed plans to reopen society despite rising coronavirus cases. (Daniel Leal-Olivas/Pool Photo via AP)

LONDON  Britains vaccines minister says that people in England are expected to continue wearing masks indoors from July 19 even though the legal requirement to do so would be dropped.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson will confirm Monday whether most coronavirus restrictions including social distancing and mandatory mask-wearing will be lifted the following week as widely expected.

Vaccines minister Nadhim Zahawi said new guidance will be issued Monday on mask-wearing. He said there will be an expectation of people to wear masks indoors, in crowded places, on public transport instead of a legal requirement.

The U.K. is seeing a sharp surge in coronavirus cases. Its partly driven by the more transmissible delta variant and partly by increased social mixing with the easing of lockdown rules. New cases now stand at over 34,000 a day. But deaths and hospitalizations have remained low and broadly stable.

JERUSALEM  Israels prime minister says the country has struck a deal with Pfizer to receive a fresh batch of coronavirus vaccines in August to help with its drive to vaccinate teenagers.

Prime Minister Naftali Bennett said at the start of the weekly Cabinet meeting that the agreement to advance delivery of new vaccines to Aug. 1 to ensure from this moment a continuous supply of vaccines in the state of Israel.

Bennett said that the country had vaccinated over 200,000 people in recent weeks. Many of them were teenagers. The country is trying to halt a fresh outbreak of the highly contagious delta variant. Children under age 12 arent yet eligible for the vaccine.

Israel has vaccinated over 61% of its 9.3 million citizens with at least one dose, and almost 56% with two doses, the vast majority with the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine.

The Health Ministry has recorded a steady climb in new infections in recent weeks, most of them among unvaccinated young children. Most new infections have been mild cases of coronavirus.

JAKARTA, Indonesia  Three million doses of the Moderna vaccine have arrived in Indonesia.

Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin said that the Moderna vaccine will be used as a third dose for health care workers.

Sadikin said that the plan for this vaccine, apart from (being) the first and second injections for the Indonesian people, we will specifically use it for the third booster injection for Indonesian health workers."

Many health care workers were previously vaccinated with the Chinese produced Sinovac vaccine.

JOHANNESBURG  New infections in South Africa have risen to record levels in recent days.

Its part of a rapid rise across the continent. And experts say the surge here hasnt yet peaked.

South Africa has reimposed several restrictions to fight the new wave. They include shutting restaurants and bars and limiting alcohol sales.

Its vaccination drive is also finding its feet after several stumbles. But experts say its too late to reduce the deadly impact of the current spike.

South Africa is instead rushing to vaccinate enough of its 60 million people to blunt the impact of the next surge.

TOKYO  The mayors of two Tokyo islands have asked the metropolitan government to take the planned Olympic torch relay off public roads amid a surge in coronavirus cases.

The torch relay in Tokyo, which started on Friday, has been taken off all public roads except for those on islands, because of rising cases in the Japanese capital.

Kyodo News agency reported that the mayors of Oshima and Hachijo have asked the Tokyo Metropolitan Government to take the torch off public roads in their areas, citing rising virus cases.

Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga on Thursday declared a state of emergency in Tokyo.

Olympic officials last week barred all fans from venues in Tokyo and three neighboring prefectures.

Tokyo reported 950 new cases on Saturday. That is the highest level since early May. Japan has reported about 816,000 cases and 15,000 deaths during the pandemic.

COLOMBO, Sri Lanka  Sri Lanka has received a further 2 million doses of the Chinese-made Sinopharm vaccine.

The country is aiming to vaccinate nearly everyone above 30 years old by September.

Sri Lanka has relied on China for most of its vaccination program.

Authorities are currently focusing on vaccinating the elderly and those connected with the tourism sector.

Sri Lanka has reported 273,031 cases including 3,467 deaths during the pandemic.

BANKGOK  Myanmar is facing a a rapid rise in COVID-19 patients and a shortage of oxygen supplies.

The situation comes as the country is consumed by a bitter and violent political struggle since the military seized power in February after ousting civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi.

Myanmar had weathered last years surge by severely restricting travel and securing vaccines from India and China. Her ouster came less than a week after the first jabs were given to health workers.

People shunned military hospitals after the takeover and medical workers spearheaded a popular civil disobedience movement.

Myanmar's new rulers have ordered oxygen plants to work at full capacity including converting industrial oxygen for the needs of patients.
A Westman MPs private members bill on small business and farm inheritance appears to be stalling right at the finish line.

Advertisement Advertise With Us

A Westman MPs private members bill on small business and farm inheritance appears to be stalling right at the finish line.

It has passed in both houses of Parliament and was set to receive royal assent until delays took hold.

Larry Maguire

Brandon-Souris Conservative MP Larry Maguires Bill C-208 adjusts how taxes are assessed on the transfer of small businesses, farms and fishing corporations between family members to bring them in line with taxes charged on selling those same entities to complete strangers.

Because of the minority Parliament, the Conservatives were able to garner the assistance of other opposition parties to get the bill through the House of Commons against the will of the governing Liberals.

Amendments to the bill were proposed but ultimately defeated in the Senate, passing third reading last month and getting royal assent to become law.

Despite becoming law, however, the federal government is delaying the bills implementation.

"Bill C-208 makes amendments to the Income Tax Act but does not include an application date," a media release from the federal Department of Finance released June 30 states. "The federal government is committed to facilitating genuine intergenerational share transfers, while preventing tax avoidance that undermines the equity of Canadas tax system. The government proposes to introduce legislation to clarify that these amendments would apply at the beginning of the next taxation year, starting on January 1, 2022."

Speaking to the Sun on Thursday, Maguire said he didnt buy into the excuse of the bill not having an implementation date.

"The rule is, if you dont have an implementation date in it, it becomes law the moment it receives royal assent," Maguire said. "Which was the night of June 29."

In previous conversations with the Sun, Maguire has said he believes there will be a federal election this year. If the Liberals or another party other than the Conservatives were to prevail in an election before Maguires bill is implemented, it could mean the bill gets watered down, amended or even repealed.

"We cant get any information out of the finance department to see what their intent is," he said. "Other than to put a shot across the bow to people, warning that they may change it. We dont know if they would go so far as to claw back the tax (break) that people would benefit from."

Maguires colleagues in the Conservative caucus are backing up his complaints.

On Thursday, the Conservative Party of Canada sent out a media release saying the failure to implement Maguires bill proved that the Liberals are failing Canadian farm families.

"Instead of taking swift action to implement this important bill, the Liberals have taken the almost unprecedented step of ignoring Parliament and cancelling this bill," Lianne Rood, Conservative Shadow Minister for Agriculture & Agri-Food was quoted as saying in the release.

"It is clear there is only one reason why the Liberal government is delaying the implementation of this bill  they want higher taxes for Canadian farm families and small businesses. This is shameful."

In an open letter to the federal and Manitoba ministers of agriculture on Friday about the drought conditions in his riding, of which a copy was posted to Twitter, Selkirk-Interlake-Eastern MP James Bezan included a line calling the delayed implementation of Bill C-208 "undemocratic."

Requests for comment from the Department of Finance on Thursday and Friday were not returned by Fridays deadline.

 cslark@brandonsun.com

 Twitter: @ColinSlark
ROME (AP)  Pope Francis on Sunday made his first public appearance since major intestinal surgery last week, greeting well-wishers as he stood for 10 minutes on a hospital balcony, offering hearty thanks for the prayers for his recovery and calling health care for all a precious good.

Pope Francis appears on a balcony of the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic in Rome, Sunday, July 11, 2021, where he is recovering from intestinal surgery, for the traditional Sunday blessing and Angelus prayer. Pope Francis is 84 and had a part of his colon removed a week ago. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

ROME (AP)  Pope Francis on Sunday made his first public appearance since major intestinal surgery last week, greeting well-wishers as he stood for 10 minutes on a hospital balcony, offering hearty thanks for the prayers for his recovery and calling health care for all a precious good.

Francis, 84, has been steadily on the mend, according to the Vatican, following his July 4 scheduled surgery to remove a portion of his colon which had narrowed due to inflammation. But it hasn't said just when he might be discharged. On the morning after his surgery, a Holy See spokesperson said his hospital stay was expected to last seven days, barring complications.

At first the pontiff's voice sounded on the weak side as he began his remarks after stepping onto a balcony outside his special suite at Gemelli Polyclinic at noon (1000 GMT; 6 a.m. EST). But he smiled broadly at those gathered below, including some hospital patients well enough to temporarily leave their rooms to cheer for him.

Noon is the hour when traditionally he would have appeared from a window at the Vatican overlooking St. Peters Square to recite the Angelus, or prayer. Exactly a week earlier, in his noon remarks he had given no hint that in a few hours he would have entered the hospital for surgery that same night.

Pope Francis appears with young oncologic patients on a balcony of the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic in Rome, Sunday, July 11, 2021, where he is recovering from intestinal surgery, for the traditional Sunday blessing and Angelus prayer. Pope Francis is 84 and had a part of his colon removed a week ago. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)

I am happy to be able to keep the Sunday appointment of the Angelus, even here from Gemelli Polyclinic," the pope said. "I thank everyone. I felt your closeness and the support of your prayers,'' Francis said.

"Thank you from my heart! exclaimed the pontiff, smiling as he peered over the balcony railing to better see the faithful below.

Standing on the balcony with him were some children who are also hospitalized at Gemelli, a major Catholic teaching hospital on the outskirts of Rome. The crowd below clapped often, in encouragement.

Francis underwent three hours of abdominal surgery under general anesthesia on the evening of July 4, and later that night was described by the Holy See as having responded well.

Reading from prepared remarks, he kept one or both hands on a lectern for support, including when he raised an arm in blessing.

A nun watches, on a giant screen set up in St Peter's Square at the Vatican, Pope Francis as he appears on a balcony of the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic in Rome, Sunday, July 11, 2021, where he is recovering from intestinal surgery, for the traditional Sunday blessing and Angelus prayer. Pope Francis is 84 and had a part of his colon removed a week ago. (AP Photo/Riccardo De Luca)

The pope praised the tenderness of those who care for the sick, which he said was like a caress that makes you feel better, eases the pain and picks you up."

In these days of hospitalization, I experienced yet again how important a good health service is, accessible to all, as it is in Italy and other countries, Francis said.

"We mustnt lose this precious thing, the pope said. He added that sometimes it happens in the (Catholic) church that some health care institution, because of poor management, doesn't go well economically, and the first thought that comes to our mind is to sell it, he said. "But the vocation in the church is not to have money, it's to give service,'' Francis said.

Francis added his appreciation and encouragement for all the health care workers and personnel at hospitals, then, referring to the pediatric patients on the balcony with him, said why do children suffer?

Why children suffer is a question that touches the heart, Francis said, asking prayers for them.

Although he stayed at a nonpublic hospital, Italy has a national public health service, and residents can often receive treatment at private hospitals, with the costs reimbursed by the government.

As he usually does on Sundays, Francis spoke of current events and of issues close to his heart. In his balcony remarks, he reiterated his closeness to Haiti's people, as he recalled the assassination last week of its president and the wounding of the first lady. Francis prayed that the people of Haiti could start going down a path toward a future of peace and of harmony.

The world's environmental fragility has been a major theme of his papacy since it began in 2013. On Sunday, as countless people vacation at the shore, Francis urged people to look after the health of seas." No plastic in the sea! the pope pleaded.

Without citing specific issues, he also voiced hope that Europe may be united in its founding values, a possible reference to tensions between the European Union leaders and member Hungary over LGBTQ rights crackdowns. Francis noted that Sunday marked the feast of St. Benedict, patron saint of the continent.

Francis ended with his usual invitation to faithful. Don't forget to pray for me, drawing rousing applause.

Besides seeing the faithful again, Francis had another reason to smile on Sunday. Argentina beat Brazil 1-0 in the Copa America soccer final overnight. Francis is a huge soccer fan, and roots for the San Lorenzo squad in his native Buenos Aires.
If you click on a journalists Twitter profile, four words often appear at the top of the page: Views are my own.

These words are a disclaimer; they attempt to explain to users that the comments a journalist makes on a personal social media account are not representative of the views of the company they work for, and to distinguish the private life of an employee from their public position.

Tweets by journalists have created an additional defamation risk. Credit:AP

However, they do little to dilute the publics perception that these personal views are not inextricably linked with their employer. Its this lack of distinction between public and private that becomes complicated when a comment is made that is potentially defamatory and leads to legal action.

Employment law has always faced challenges in delineating between the professional and personal conduct of employees, says Kieran Pender, an honorary lecturer at ANUs College of Law. Employees want to have a private life and feel that what they do in their own time should not be subject to employer oversight; employers are worried about blurring boundaries between the personal and professional, at a time when the concept of a fixed 9-5 shift has eroded. This complexity has been compounded by the rise of social media.
NSW Chief Health Officer Kerry Chant has urged older people who have had one dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine to bring forward their second dose to six weeks after a woman in her 90s, believed to be unvaccinated, died with COVID-19.

The woman was from south-western Sydney and is the first death of the present outbreak.

The state reported 77 new cases on Sunday, from 48,754 tests. Premier Gladys Berejiklian said 33 people were in the community while infectious and more than 50 were close family members of cases.

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian on Sunday morning at the Royal North Shore Hospital. Credit:Dean Sewell

The death is the states 57th of the pandemic and the first this year. The Premier said the woman who died contracted the virus in a family setting. Tragically, weve seen one older person die and I want to extend my deepest condolences to their families and loved ones, Ms Berejiklian said. Dr Chant said she thought the woman was not vaccinated but was yet to confirm that.
State and federal health authorities are urging older people who have had their first dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine to bring forward their second dose after a woman in her 90s, believed to be unvaccinated, died with COVID-19.

Hers was the first death of the current outbreak which began on June 16 when an eastern suburbs limousine driver who transports foreign crew became infected.

NSW Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant provides a COVID-19 update. Credit:Rhett Wyman

NSW Chief Health Officer Kerry Chant said people, particularly the elderly, who have had one dose of AstraZeneca vaccine should consider having their second after six weeks rather than wait 12 weeks.

We might sacrifice a bit of long-term protection but were making sure youre protected earlier and, at this time, thats the strategy wed suggest, she said.
Conservationists and wildlife carers have called on the Andrews government to undertake a more forensic assessment of the damage from last months wild storm in the Dandenongs, which left dozens of animals injured and displaced.

A month after the storm uprooted thousands of trees and left entire communities without power and heating for weeks, local volunteer groups are concerned the areas fauna and flora has been forgotten.

Wildlife carers Nicola Rae and Nell Pedzik with some wombat and swamp wallaby joeys rescued after the wild storm last month. Credit:Wayne Taylor

Selby wildlife volunteer Nicola Rae said she had seen a huge increase in the number of wildlife coming into the foster care network as a result of the storm; wombats whose burrows had flooded by rising creeks, possums displaced from fallen trees and kangaroos and wallabies wandering into traffic after their habitat was disturbed.

Most are orphans, their parents have died, often hit by cars. All the animals were on the move after the storm and came out onto roads, she said.
Victoria will shut its border to all of New South Wales and the ACT from 11.59pm Sunday, but the border bubble will remain in place.

State health officials have grown increasingly concerned about the deepening coronavirus crisis in NSW, which reported the death of a woman in her 90s and 77 new local COVID-19 cases on Sunday.

Australias top medical experts met at 1.30pm on Sunday to discuss the situation in Greater Sydney and advise state and territory leaders on whether the border should be sealed shut to NSW entirely.

Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews offered NSW any support or personnel the state needs to deal with its worsening second wave earlier in the afternoon as he warned Victorians to be quick about getting home.
The federal government is prepared to send Australian soldiers back to Afghanistan if needed to prevent terrorist threats, Defence Minister Peter Dutton has declared after confirming the withdrawal of troops in recent weeks.

Mr Dutton raised the possibility of deploying special forces if and when a new mission served Australias national interest or the interests of allies such as the United States.

Australian soldiers in Uruzgan Province, Afghanistan. Credit:Kate Geraghty

He also called for a special day to honour Australians who served in Afghanistan, saying they had helped stop terrorist attacks that might have repeated the 9/11 attacks in New York and Washington in September 2001.

But the idea prompted a cautious response from the Australia Defence Association, which said there was a place for a day to mark the war in Afghanistan but that it should not undermine Anzac Day and Remembrance Day.
My conscience now does not permi me to invest even a rupee in ever again, group chairman Sabu Jacob said on Sunday after returning from his trip to Telangana.

He said he has plans to initially invest Rs 1,000 crore in Telangana and had given assurances to them to that effect.

Speaking to the media after landing at the Cochin International Airport in Nedumbassery here, Jacob also took a dig at Congress MLAs and MP Benny Behanan, who had made complaints against hisunits, by saying that he was "indebted" to them for showing him what was a businessfriendly atmosphere and for opening the way for him to earn crores of money.

"I am grateful to them (the Congress MLAs and MPs)," he added.

He, however, declined to react to what Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said on Saturday that claims of that was not investment or business-friendly was a "planned and deliberate" move to humiliate the state.

Jacob said he has a lot of respect for the chief minister who has the right to scold him or criticise him and therefore, he was not going to react to what Vijayan said.

Referring to his two-day visit to Telangana on their invitation, he said that an aerial survey of the industrial parks and the facilities was facilitated by the state government there and before leaving he had discussions with the industries minister and other officials there.

He said that his company plans to initially invest Rs 1,000 crore there in the first phase andassurances to that effect have been given to the Telangana government.

After technical evaluations are carried out within the next two weeks, a call would be taken on whether to increase the investment there, he added.

He also said that his company has decided that by the end of this month, a final agreement with Telangana will be arrived at and thereafter, within the next two years a certain amount of money would be invested there.

Jacob said that if the people in come to know of the facilities and offers given to him, not a single business or industry would remain in the state and added that this trip that he took would be an inspiration to all businessmen and industrialists here.

He said he will be holding a press meet on Monday to give further details regarding his investment plans in Telangana and the offers made to him by that state.

On the aspect of offers, he said Union Minister of State for Electronics and Information Technology, Rajeev Chandrasekhar, called him inviting him to meet Karnataka Chief MinisterB S Yediyurappa.

On whether he was open to discussions with the Kerala government, he said he was always open to talks with them.

"Even if they had sent a clerk or a peon, I would have been open to talks. I am still open to talks with them. However, my conscience at the moment does not permit me to invest even a rupee in Kerala ever again," he said.

Jacob said he has been facing problems for a long time, but he hung on as he was concerned about the thousands of people he has employed in his

However, he was continuously surrounded, hounded and pushed into a corner and therefore, he finally decided that he cannot continue like this, he told the media.

He said no matter where in India he sets up his business he will provide jobs there to every Keralite who approaches him.

He said if his actions can bring a change in Kerala, it would only help the future generations of the state.

Alleging harassment by Kerala government officials, Jacob had in the last week of June said his group was withdrawing its Rs 3,500 crore project from the State.

Two days ago, the Kerala government had said it has an "open approach" towards issues raised by group, even as the company stuck to its decision to back out from a Rs 3,500crore investment plan in the state, with its chairman alleging that he was being "hounded and kicked out."



"The government is still open...issues can be discussed with the investors and take things forward," Industries Minister P Rajeev had told reporters in Thiruvananthapuram on Friday.

He was responding to Jacob's statement that he was not leaving his home state on his own, but was being "hounded and kicked out."



Before leaving for Hyderabad, Jacob had alleged that the Kerala government authorities did not bother to intervene even after his announcement of withdrawal from the multi-crore investment project from the state.

He had reiterated his charge that the atmosphere in Kerala was not conducive for launching business and said no other investor should face such an experience in the state.

The industries minister, however, had rejected the charges, saying the state has a conducive atmosphere for launching industries and young investors in various start-ups would telltheir better experience with the state government.

Kitex Garments Ltd had said it has decided to withdraw from the project signed during the "Ascend Global Investors Meet" organised by the Kerala government in Thiruvananthapuram in January 2020, alleging that it was difficult for the company to run the existing industrial units in the state.

Jacob had alleged that various units of Kitex were raided 10 times by officials from various departments during the past one month.
Vehicles will invest Rs 700 crore by 2025 to rev up its business expansion, including setting up of a new unit, for which it has raised Rs 220 crore to part-fund the activities, according to a top company official.

The company is planning to set up a new facility with an annual capacity of 10 lakh units besides increasing production at its current plant at Ludhiana to 3 lakh units per annum from 75,000 units at present, as it targets to sell around 10 lakh units a year by 2025-26.

Moreover, it is also ramping up research and development (R&D), marketing, dealer network expansion, along with expanding its supply chain, service network and charging stations in order to cash in on the 'explosive growth' in demand for its electric two-wheelers.

"What we're doing now is expanding our capacity from 75,000 units to about 3 lakh units. While we are building this up, we're also planning on the next facility which is going to be about a million units per year and that we believe is not very far off now. It's going to be sooner rather than later," Managing Director Naveen Munjal told PTI.

When asked about the investments, he said, "Over the next couple of years, up to about 2025, we anticipate around Rs 700 crore to be invested in these facilities. That's the bare minimum that we will be spending in these facilities now."



Munjal further said the company is "expanding in every direction" from to R&D, technology, product development, marketing, dealer expansion, supply chain and service network, besides charging stations.

In order to fund these activities, the company has raised fresh capital in the form part 1 of Series B funding of Rs 220 crore, led by Gulf Islamic Investments (GII).

"This is from our existing investor OAKS, which had invested in us in 2018 and a new investor, GII coming in," Munjal said, without disclosing the amount of equity stake the two investors have picked up in the company.

While the fresh funds raised will be for meeting immediate requirements for expansion, he said, "We will have to go for another (round of fund-raise) which is going to be much larger... we will raise again, possibly next year and that will be again for even further expansion in terms of manufacturing and market."



Munjal said is preparing for the exponential growth in sales that it expects going forward, with the FAME II scheme increasing support for electric two-wheelers thereby accelerating demand.

"In 2019-20, pre-COVID time, we had sales of about 46,000 units. In 2020-21 despite the disruptions due to the first wave of COVID-19, we sold about 54,000 units. This year we're targeting 100,000 units... We are at a run rate to be able to fulfil that kind of number this year" he said.

"Overall, in the next five years between 2025 and 2026, we're looking at sales of a minimum of a million units per annum," Munjal added.

Commenting on the company's investment in Hero Electric, GII Founding Partner and Co-CEO Pankaj Gupta said, "Hero Electric has established itself as a champion in the country's electric vehicles segment and is exceptionally well positioned to achieve multi-fold growth in the coming years."



As a sustainability conscious investor, GII has observed the growing role of electric vehicles in mitigating environmental pollution and the opportunities it presents in India, one of the world's most populous countries and an important investment destination in the firm's global strategy, Gupta added.

Similarly, OAKS Founder and CEO Vishal Ootam said, "We believe that over the next few years, the electric vehicles market is going to grow exponentially. Our belief is that this investment round will put the brand Hero (Electric) firmly in a leadership position.

(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.)
It is not yet a happy ending for the Kalrock-Jalan consortium and the insolvency resolution process of Jet Airways, as employees of the grounded airline are unhappy with the relief they are being offered which is heavily slashed down from the actual claims.

The admitted claims of employees stood at Rs 1,265 crore, while the consortium has proposed Rs 52 crore to settle their claims.

According to employees, the airline owes at least Rs 3 lakh to each which may well go up to Rs 85 lakh, while now each is being offered a total of around Rs 23,000, which one employee, who did not want to be named, described as "peanuts".

The plan proposes to pay each workman of the corporate debtor Rs 11,000 cash, Rs 5,100 cash as medical expense reimbursement for the parents of the workmen, Rs 5,100 cash as school fee reimbursement for children of the staff, Rs 1,100 would be paid for stationary for children of the staff and one-time mobile phone recharge of Rs 500.

This cash payment will be made out of the contingency fund (Rs 8 crores). Additional amounts, if required, will be utilised out of the proceeds of sale of assets received by the corporate debtor.

Now, there is uncertainty among the employees whether to vote in favour the plan or vote against it and lose whatever relief that is being offered.

As per the resolution plan, the employees and workmen would get the relief on if 95 per cent of them vote in favour of the plan.

According to people in the know, it would be tough to garner the 95 per cent votes.

Employees are now in a dilemma whether to legally contest the resolution plan or go with the "little" relief that is being provided

According to the resolution plan that the proposal for employees and workmen (equity stake in the Corporate Debtor; equity stake in AGSL, cash payment for employees and workmen, IT Assets and Free Tickets) is valid only if at least 95 per cent of the employees and workmen of the Corporate Debtor (as on ICD) support this Resolution Plan by not contesting or challenging its approval by the adjudicating authority (the authority) or its implementation in the manner approved by the authority.

"If the above proposal is not accepted by the employees and workmen within 30 days from the Approval Date, then no other creditor will have the right to seek such benefits or any part thereof and such proposal shall stand withdrawn. After expiry of the said period of 30 days from the Approval Date, the equity stake of 0.50 per cent, and cash payments of up to Rs 8 crores currently earmarked for employees and workmen will be given to the AFCs," the NCLT's order copy noted.

With the approval of the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) to the resolution plan of Kalrock-Jalan consortium, the Corporate Insolvency Resolution Process (CIRP) of has already concluded.

The seven-member monitoring committee has been constituted to look into the day-to-day operations and the implementation of the resolution plan.

The now-grounded is expected likely to take the skies again within six months from now.

On June 22, the Mumbai bench of the NCLT approved the resolution plan of the Kalrock-Jalan Consortium and gave a 90-day time period to the DGCA and the Civil Aviation Ministry to allot the slots.

--IANS

rrb/sn/ksk/

(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.)
TV manufacturing company Super Plastronics Pvt Ltd (SPPL) expects a 25 per cent growth in revenue to around Rs 1,000 crore this financial year, led by the fast-growing affordable segment, said a top company official.

SPPL, which recently entered into a brand licence agreement with German audio-video products maker Blaupunkt and launched TV here, expects the growth opportunity in the affordable segment to continue.

The company is also expanding its infrastructure such as service centres and warehousing for last-mile delivery in tier-II and -III towns.

With brand Blaupunkt, the Noida-based company has now entered into the premium segment of Android Smart TVs.

After this, SPPL has a portfolio of six brands operating in the TV and appliances segment, including Thomson, Kodak, White-Westinghouse and two of its in-house brands SVL and Suntek, besides Blaupunkt.

SPPL and its other group put together had a revenue of around Rs 800 crore in last financial year ended on March 31, 2021, said SPPL Chief Executive Officer Avneet Singh Marwah.

"Our goal is to cross an overall revenue of Rs 1,000 crore in FY 2021-22," Marwah told PTI.

Marwah added that the pandemic-hit FY21 was a "fantastic" year for the company, which witnessed pent-up demand and change in the consumer trends.

"We see a huge trend for smart TVs. In a pandemic, what we were expecting to happen in the next five years, happened in just about 8-9 months only," Marwah said.

During the pandemic, new TV soap operas and reality shows were not available to viewers as production work was stopped and the availability of affordable broadband shifted them towards OTT platforms, which fuelled the consumption of the online content and series on big TV screens.

"Now, there is a trend of buying a second TV at home because family members want to enjoy contents on their screens," it said.

Besides, In 2020-21, there was also a sudden consumer shift in favour of the Indian brands after skirmishes at the border with a neighbouring country.

"There is a trend of promoting Indian manufacturing brands," he said.

Besides, the company also plans to restart its original equipment manufacturing (OEM) business next year, after having an additional manufacturing capacity.

SPPL is investing over Rs 300 crore to set up a fully automated television manufacturing plant in Hapur, Uttar Pradesh.

Established in 1990, SPPL currently has a capacity to roll out nearly half a million units per annum, which will increase three times to 1.5 million sets after its Hapur facility is fully operational, Marwah added.

When asked whether the company plans to open exclusive brand outlets or experience zone for its products, he said: "It is very much possible after two years, when the brands settle down and then we would explore this option also."



He, however, ruled out the option of brand licence agreement with more new brands and said: "We would continue to focus with whatever brands we have."



Marwah also said the company is categorically placing all its brands to supplement each other in the highly competitive market.

Kodak has a presence in both offline and online marketplace, while Thomson is only an online brand competing with entry-level brands. Blaupunkt, with a rich audio legacy, would play in the premium segment.

Its American brand White-Westinghouse operates in the appliances segment, in which SPPL has a line-up for washing machines and plans to add more products into that.

"We invest on the infrastructure (of brands), try to grow our strength there and we maximise indigenisation and customise it as per the Indian consumer behaviour," he said adding that SPPL has 550 service centres and 28 warehousings across India.

In the past two-three years, several foreign brands have come to India in the market through brand licensing routes, including Toshiba, Philips, Sharp, JVC, Telefunken, and Realme, among many others.

According to a joint report by the industry body CEAMA and Frost & Sullivan, the TV market is expected to grow to 284 lakh units in 2024-25 from 175 lakh units in 2018-19.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
After nearly two months and much back and forth with the Centre, India has named Vinay Prakash as its resident grievance officer. Prakash will be based in Bengaluru.

India also published its transparency report in accordance with the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules (or IT Rules) 2021.

The microblogging platform has been in the eye of a storm over its non-compliance with the new IT Rules in India. The Rules mandate, among other requirements, the appointment of three key personnel  chief compliance officer, nodal officer and grievance officer  by platforms with over 5 million users.

All the three have to be residents of India.

has also specified the name of the grievance officer for Twitter Inc. The person to contact for Twitter Inc is Jeremy Kessel, based in San Francisco, California.





Content regulation comes under ambit of Twitter Inc while Twitter India provides support services for promoting and marketing Twitter in India.

Twitter had previously named Dharmendra Chatur as interim grievance officer, but he exited the role in June end.

These issues have left the government displeased with the microblogging platform, asking it to comply with the new IT Rules at the earliest.

The Delhi High Court told Twitter on Thursday that it would not protect the platform against legal proceedings if it does not comply with the rules introduced by the Centre.

The Centre told the high court, in an affidavit earlier, that the microblogging platform did not comply with the IT Rules. Therefore, it lost its safe harbour protection provided to intermediaries under Section 79(1) of the IT Act, 2000.
India on Sunday reported a net reduction of 915 in active cases to take its count to 454,118. Indias share of global active cases now stands at 3.79 per cent (one in 26). The country is fourth among the most affected countries by active cases. On Saturday, it added 41,506 cases to take its total caseload to 30,837,222 from 30,795,716  an increase of 0.1%. And, with 895 new fatalities, its Covid-19 reached 408,040, or 1.32 per cent of total confirmed infections.

With 3,723,367 more Covid-19 vaccine doses being administered on Friday, Indias total count of vaccine shots so far reached 376,032,586. The count of recovered cases across India, meanwhile, reached 29,975,064  or 97.2 per cent of total caseload  with 41,526 new cured cases being reported on Saturday.

Now the fourth-most-affected country by active cases, third by deaths, second by total cases, and first by recoveries, India has added 291,789 cases in the past 7 days.

India now accounts for 3.79% of all active cases globally (one in every 26 active cases), and 10.07% of all deaths (one in every 10 deaths).

India has so far administered 376,032,586 vaccine doses. That is 1216.41 per cent of its total caseload, and 26.97 per cent of its population.

Among Indian states, the top 5 in terms of number of vaccine shots administered are Uttar Pradesh (42020052), Maharashtra (41039592), Gujarat (31590998), Rajasthan (31094445), and Karnataka (28365445).

Among states with more than 10 million population, the top 5 in number of vaccine shots per one million population are Delhi (530429), Kerala (511517), Gujarat (494595), Uttarakhand (485055), and J&K (424161).

Backwards from here, the last 1 million cases for India have come in 22 days.

The count of active cases across India on Sunday saw a net reduction of 915, compared with 3,694 on Saturday. States and UTs hat have seen the biggest daily net increase in active cases are Kerala (2111), Maharashtra (1776), Manipur (298), Arunachal Pradesh (184), and Mizoram (177).

With 41,526 new daily recoveries, Indias recovery rate stands at 97.2%, while fatality rate remained unchanged at 1.32%.

The Indian states and UTs with the worst case fatality rates at present are Punjab (2.71%), Uttarakhand (2.15%), and Maharashtra (2.04%). The rate in as many as 18 is higher than the national average.

Indias new daily closed cases stand at 42,421  895 deaths and 41,526 recoveries. The share of deaths in total closed cases stands at 2.1%.

Indias 5-day moving average of daily rate of addition to total cases stands at 0.1%.

Indias doubling time for total cases stands at 514.6 days, and for deaths at 315.7 days.

Overall, five states with the biggest 24-hour jump in total cases are Kerala (14087), Maharashtra (8296), Andhra Pradesh (2925), Tamil Nadu (2913), and Assam (2391).

Among states with more than 100,000 cases, the five with worst recovery rates at present are Kerala (95.74%) and Maharashtra (96.05%).

India on Saturday conducted 1,843,500 to take the total count of tests conducted so far in the country to 430,885,470. The test positivity rate recorded was 2.3%.

Five states with the highest test positivity rate (TPR)  percentage of tested people turning out to be positive for Covid-19 infection (by cumulative data for tests and cases  are Goa (17.43%), Dadra & Nagar Haveli-Daman & Diu (14.62%), Maharashtra (14.03%), Kerala (12.6%), and Sikkim (12.54%).

Five states with the highest TPR by daily numbers for tests and cases added  are, Sikkim (19.28%), Manipur (13.24%), Mizoram (11.11%), Kerala (10.7%), and Meghalaya (8.72%).

Among states and UTs with more than 10 million population, five that have carried out the highest number of tests (per million population) are Delhi (1187628), J&K (776147), Kerala (678989), Karnataka (529514), and Uttarakhand (514560).

The five most affected states by total cases are Maharashtra (6149264), Kerala (3053116), Karnataka (2869320), Tamil Nadu (2516011), and Andhra Pradesh (1920178).

Maharashtra, the most affected state overall, has reported 8296 new cases to take its tally to 6149264.

Kerala, the second-most-affected state by total tally, has added 14087 cases to take its tally to 3053116.

Karnataka, the third-most-affected state, has reported 2162 cases to take its tally to 2869320.

Tamil Nadu has added 2913 cases to take its tally to 2516011.

Andhra Pradesh has seen its tally going up by 2925 to 1920178.

Uttar Pradesh has added 98 cases to take its tally to 1707225.

Delhi has added 76 cases to take its tally to 1435030.
Over 41,000 fresh cases reported

India reported 41,506 fresh infections on Sunday, taking the cumulative caseload to 30.8 million, according to central health ministry data. The country saw 895 deaths due to the pandemic, taking the death toll to 408,040. The active caseload is at 454,118, while the total recoveries have surged to nearly 30 million. As many as 376 million vaccine shots have been administered since the nationwide inoculation programme kicked off on January 16. Of these, 3.7 million were given on Saturday. Read more

Sputnik V gives 90% protection against Delta strain: Scientist

Russian virologist Sergey Netesov has said viral vector and mRNA vaccines, including Sputnik V, protect against the Delta variant of the novel coronavirus, a report in the Hindustan Times said. Sergey is the head of the Novosibirsk State University's Laboratory and a corresponding member of the Russian Academy of Sciences (RAS). "According to data from the UK, the US and other countries, mRNA and vector vaccines, including our Sputnik V, protect against it [the Delta variant], albeit to a lesser extent, but they do protect against it. They offered 95 per cent protection against the initial strain and now they give 90% protection against the 'delta' variant," Netesov said. Read more

Maharashtra: 70% prison inmates have received at least one shot of vaccine

The Maharastra Prison Department has been able to inoculate about 70 per cent of the 33,600 prisoners it is holding, a report in The Indian Express said. As many as 23,300 inmates across prisons in the state have received at least one shot till July 11. This is a sharp rise from the 7,600 who had received the first dose till June 11. Of the 23,300, 19,200 are undertrials and 4,100 convicts, the report said. Read more

Gurgaon: Vaccination at govt centres suspended today

Covid vaccination has been suspended at government centres in on Sunday due to a short supply of vaccines, a report in The Indian Express said. We have limited availability of Covid vaccines at the moment. As such, today (Sunday), we are not doing any vaccination at any of our sites. We are going to be accumulating our entire stock and planning the vaccination campaign for the coming days. Only second doses will be administered at government sites for the next one or two days, Dr Virender Yadav, the civil surgeon of Gurgaon, told the paper. Read more

New Covid strains can emerge, says top health expert

A top public health expert has warned that new kinds of variants may arise in the future as the virus will keep mutating, a media report said. Dr Mathew Varghese, public health expert, and former director, St. Stephens Hospital, New Delhi, said, Mutation is normal for viruses and they will keep mutating as long as their viruses are multiplying. That is the norm. Read more
Due to the deteriorating security situation in Afghanistan's Kandahar, some staff of the Indian embassy has been evacuated, said diplomatic sources on Sunday.

Meanwhile, the emergency services of the consulate remain operational.

However, diplomatic sources stated that reports of shutting of Indian Consulate in Kandahar, are incorrect. And the mission remains functional, they added.

India had earlier hinted that it will bring back its nationals and officials from if the security situation worsens as the is making advances and capturing more provinces.

"With the Afghan security situation deteriorating, plans have been discussed for bringing back our citizens and officials present in different parts of that country and multiple agencies are in discussion for this purpose," sources had earlier told to ANI.

India has its embassy in Kabul along with the consulates in Kandahar and Mazar where it has over 500 staff deployed.

Two consulates in Herat and Jalalabad had ceased operations earlier there.

The country, which has had a big presence in since the fall of the in 2001 following the US invasion, has been helping the successive governments there including the members of the northern alliance who have been friends with India for a long time.

Describing the security situation in Afghanistan as fluid and deteriorating, the Afghan envoy to India Farid Mamundzay has said the need to cease violence and there should be an end to the bloodshed.

"More than 200,000 Afghan civilians are displaced already. There is an active fight going on between Afghan forces and Taliban fighters in 200 districts out of a total of 375. There is also trouble in 18 border districts that share a border with several countries Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and Iran," the envoy said.

Considering that the complete withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan will end in August, the Taliban have been capturing newer districts and areas at a lightning speed and the Afghan government forces are also fleeing from a number of places there.

India has worked immensely for the redevelopment of Afghanistan and helped it to construct Parliament building along with several roads connecting important cities of the war-torn 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.)
India has pulled out around 50 diplomats and security personnel from its consulate in Kandahar in in view of the deteriorating security situation and the gaining control of new areas around the southern Afghan city, people familiar with the development said on Sunday.

A special aircraft of the Indian Air Force was sent on Saturday to bring back the Indian diplomats, officials and other staff members including a group of Indo-Tibetan Border Police personnel, they said.

External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said India-based personnel have been brought back for the time being in view of intense fighting near Kandahar city.

Describing the pull out of the India-based personnel as a temporary measure, he said the consulate continues to operate through the local staff members.

He said India is closely monitoring the evolving security situation in

"The safety and security of our personnel is paramount. The consulate general of India in Kandahar has not been closed. However, due to the intense fighting near Kandahar city, India-based personnel have been brought back for the time being," Bagchi said.

He was replying to a media query on the issue.

"I want to emphasise that this is a purely temporary measure until the situation stabilises. The consulate continues to operate through our local staff members," Bagchi said.

He said arrangements are being made to ensure continued delivery of visa and consular services through the Indian embassy in Kabul.

"An important partner of Afghanistan, India remains committed to a peaceful, sovereign and democratic Afghanistan," the spokesperson said.

India's move to temporarily bring back its Indian staff came in view of fighters rapidly seizing control of a number of key areas in the region as well as in western triggering huge security concerns.

On Tuesday, the Indian embassy in Kabul said there was no plan to close the embassy and the consulates in Kandahar and Mazar-e-Sharif.

Two days back, the Ministry of External said India was carefully monitoring the deteriorating security situation in Afghanistan and its implications on the safety and security of Indian nationals.

"Our response will be calibrated accordingly," External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Bagchi had said at a media briefing on Thursday.

Afghanistan witnessed a series of terror attacks in the last few weeks as the US looked to complete the withdrawal of its forces from Afghanistan by August-end, ending a nearly two-decade of its military presence in the war-ravaged country.

There were reports that at least two foreign missions in Mazar-e-Sharif, the capital of northern Balkh province, have closed their operation in view of the escalating violence in the region.

Amid growing concerns in India over the deteriorating situation in Afghanistan, Afghan Ambassador Farid Mamundzay on Tuesday briefed Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla on the situation in Afghanistan.

The Indian embassy last week asked all Indians visiting, staying and working in Afghanistan to exercise the utmost caution with regard to their security and avoid all types of non-essential travel in view of rising incidents of violence in various parts of the country.

In an advisory, the embassy said the security situation in Afghanistan remains "dangerous" and that terror groups have carried out a series of complex attacks including targeting civilians, adding Indian nationals additionally face a "serious threat" of kidnapping.

India has been a major stakeholder in the peace and stability of Afghanistan. It has already invested nearly USD three billion in aid and reconstruction activities in the country.

India has been supporting a peace and reconciliation process which is Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled.

In March, Afghan Foreign Minister Mohammad Haneef Atmar visited India during which Jaishankar conveyed to him India's long-term commitment towards a peaceful, sovereign and stable Afghanistan.
received 94 grievances and "actioned" 133 URLs between May 26 and June 25, the microblogging platform said in its maiden monthly compliance report as mandated by the IT rules.

The US-based company, which has been in the eye of a storm over its failure to comply with the new IT rules in India, has also named Vinay Prakash as its resident grievance officer for India to comply with the said rules.

Twitter, in the report titled 'India Transparency Report: User Grievances and Proactive Monitoring July 2021', said it had received 94 grievances via its grievance officer-India channel between May 26, 2021, and June 25, 2021, that included content on

This includes complaints received from individual users with accompanying court orders.

The majority of complaints received in this channel during the reporting period fell into categories including defamation (20), abuse/harassment (6), sensitive adult content (4), impersonation and privacy infringement (3 each), IP-related Infringement (1), and misinformation/synthetic and manipulated media (1).

The total number of URLs actioned in these categories stood at defamation (87), abuse/harassment (38), sensitive adult content (nil), impersonation (1), privacy infringement (6), IP-related infringement (nil), and misinformation/synthetic and manipulated media (1), as per the report.

"In addition to the above data, we processed 56 grievances which were appealing account suspensions. These were all resolved and the appropriate responses were sent," Twitter said.

It added that the platform "overturned seven of the account suspensions based on the specifics of the situation, but the other accounts remain suspended".

In a separate category -- 'Proactive Monitoring Data', Twitter said 18,385 accounts were suspended over the issue of child sexual exploitation, non-consensual nudity, and similar content, while 4,179 accounts were suspended for promotion of terrorism.

Twitter, however, said the 'Proactive Monitoring Data' represents global actions taken, and not just actions related to content from India.

'Proactive Monitoring' refers to content proactively identified by employing internal proprietary tools and industry hash sharing initiatives, it added.

Twitter said each user complaint received via the India grievance channel is assessed under its terms of service (ToS) and rules, and any content that is determined to be in violation is "actioned" in line with its range of enforcement options.

This includes tweet level enforcement (like labeling of tweets, limiting visibility and removal), direct message-level enforcement and Account-level enforcement ( includes permanent suspension) among other actions.

Twitter noted that going forward, it will publish this report on a monthly basis and that it will make improvements over time, based on feedback received from the government, or in accordance with internal changes that allow it to provide more granular data.

Companies including Google, Facebook and Koo have already published their maiden compliance reports as required under the IT rules.

Facebook had said it "actioned" over 30 million content pieces across 10 violation categories during May 15-June 15 in the country, while Instagram took action against about two million pieces across nine categories during the same period.

This data was a part of an interim report on July 2 providing information on the number of content Facebook removed proactively during May 15-June 15. The final report will be published on July 15, containing details of user complaints received and action taken.

The July 15 report will also contain data related to WhatsApp, which is part of Facebook's family of apps.

Google, in its report, had stated that 27,762 complaints were received by Google and YouTube in April this year from individual users in India over alleged violation of local laws or personal rights, which resulted in removal of 59,350 pieces of content.

Koo, in its report, had said it proactively moderated 54,235 content pieces, while 5,502 posts were reported by its users during June.

India is a major market for global digital platforms. As per data cited by the government earlier this year, India has 53 crore WhatsApp users, 41 crore Facebook subscribers and 21 crore Instagram users. Koo, a homegrown rival to Twitter, has over 60 lakh users.

Under the new IT rules, large digital platforms (with over 50 lakh users) are required to publish periodic compliance reports every month, mentioning the details of complaints received and action taken thereon.

The report has to also include the number of specific communication links or parts of information that the intermediary has removed or disabled access to in pursuance of any proactive monitoring conducted by using automated tools.

Twitter had courted controversy over the new social media rules, and the Indian government had confronted Twitter over deliberate defiance and failure to comply with the IT rules, despite repeated reminders.

Twitter, which has an estimated 1.75 crore users in India, lost its legal shield as an intermediary in India, becoming liable for users posting any unlawful content.

On July 8, Twitter had informed the Delhi High Court that it has appointed an interim chief compliance officer, who is a resident of India, and that it will make an endeavour to fill the regular position within eight weeks as per the IT rules.

The Delhi High Court had granted two weeks' to Twitter Inc to file an affidavit, notarised in the US, on compliance with the IT rules and had made it clear that it was not extending any protection to the microblogging platform.

The High Court had said the Centre was free to take action against Twitter Inc in case of any breach of the IT Rules.

(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.)
will start eight new flights connecting with Maharashtra and Gujarat from Friday onwards, Civil Aviation Minister said on Sunday.

Good news for Madhya Pradesh! Starting 8 new flights from July 16 onwards via SpiceJet: Gwalior-Mumbai-Gwalior; Gwalior-Pune-Gwalior; Jabalpur-Surat-Jabalpur; Ahmedabad-Gwalior-Ahmedabad, the minister said on Twitter.

The Civil Aviation Ministry & the aviation industry are committed to take UDAN to greater heights! he added.

Under the regional connectivity scheme UDAN, financial incentives from the Centre, state governments and airport operators are extended to selected airlines to encourage operations from unserved and underserved airports, and keep airfares affordable.

(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 Investigation Agency (NIA) on Sunday carried out raids at seven places in Srinagar and Anantnag in south Kashmir in connection with a case related to circulation of propaganda by banned terror group ISIS, the agency said.

The case pertains to online radicalisation. Some links with foreign shores are being investigated, a senior official told news website NDTV.

Some persons have been detained for questioning, the official said.

The raids are taking place a day after 11 Jammu and Kashmir government employees, including two sons of most-wanted terrorist Syed Salahuddin, were removed for their alleged involvement in terror-funding activities.

spokesperson said a case was registered on June 29 in connection with the conspiracy of the proscribed terrorist organisation ISIS to radicalise and recruit impressionable youths in India to wage war in India. To execute its plans, an organised campaign has been launched in cyberspace which is supplemented by on-ground terror financing activities.

Searches in the case on Sunday led to the recovery and seizure of a large number of incriminating documents and digital devices such as mobile phones, tablets, laptops and hard disks, and T-shirts having the ISIS logo.
Britain has reported another 32,367 cases in the latest 24-hour period, bringing the total number of cases in the country to 5,089,893, according to official figures released on Saturday.

The country also recorded another 34 coronavirus-related deaths. The total number of coronavirus-related deaths in Britain now stands at 128,399. These figures only include the deaths of people who died within 28 days of their first positive test, the Xinhua news agency reported.

Nearly 87 per cent of the country's adults have been inoculated with their first dose of Covid-19 vaccine while over 65 per cent have had their second jab, according to the latest figures.

Ministers are considering exempting fully vaccinated National Health Service (NHS) staff in England from having to self-isolate if they are traced as a Covid contact.

A source said that no decision had been taken and ministers wanted to see evidence the move would be safe.

British Health Secretary Sajid Javid has said that from Aug. 16, people in England who have received two doses will no longer have to self-isolate if they come into contact with someone who has tested positive for Covid-19.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson confirmed Monday that most restrictions are set to end on July 19 as part of the final step of England's roadmap out of the lockdown, despite warnings from scientists that lifting all restrictions at this stage will increase likelihood of dangerous variants.

To bring life back to normal, countries such as Britain, China, Russia, the US as well as the European Union have been racing against time to roll out coronavirus vaccines.

--IANS

int/rs

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Uttar Pradesh chief minister on Sunday unveiled the new population policy 2021-30, on the occasion of World Population Day.

Through the proposed policy, efforts will be made to increase the accessibility of contraceptive measures issued under the Family Planning Programme and provide a proper system for safe abortion and on the other hand, through improved health facilities, efforts will be made for population stabilization by providing accessible solutions to impotence/infertility and reducing the infant and maternal mortality rate.

Speaking on the occasion, the chief minister said that bringing the bill is necessary to control and stabilize the population to promote sustainable development with more equitable distribution.

He also underlined the need or creating awareness among the people on this issue.

In the new Population Policy, a target has been set to bring the birth rate to 2.1 per thousand population by 2026 and to 1.9 by 2030.

One of the key points in the new policy is to make comprehensive arrangements for the care of the elderly, apart from better management of education, health, and nutrition of adolescents between 11 to 19 years.

The period of Population Policy 2000-16 of the state has ended and now a new policy is the need of the hour.

The new policy has an innovative proposal to set up 'Health Clubs' in schools with the awareness efforts for population stabilization, as well as a system for digital tracking of infants, adolescents, and elderly people in line with the spirit of the Digital Health Mission.

While preparing the new population policy, efforts have been made to maintain the - demographic balance in all the communities; easy availability of advanced health facilities, and to bring down the maternal and child mortality rate to the minimum level through proper nutrition.

Meanwhile, the State Law Commission has also prepared the draft of the Uttar Pradesh Population (Control, Stabilization, and Welfare) Bill-2021, on which the public can give suggestions till July 19.

In the draft of the Uttar Pradesh Population (Control, Stabilization, and Welfare) Bill-2021 issued by the State Law Commission, 'Bacche Do He Acche' has been highlighted.

According to the proposal, parents who limit their family to only two children and are in government service and undergoing voluntary sterilization will be given facilities like two additional increments, promotion, exemption in government housing schemes, increasing employer contribution in PF.

There are also provisions to provide exemptions in water, electricity, house tax, home loan, and other such facilities to couples with two children who are not in government jobs.

If the law is implemented, then within a year, all government officials, employees, and elected representatives of local bodies will have to give an affidavit that they will not violate this policy. Ration cards would be limited to four units.

It is proposed in the draft that the election can be cancelled if the rules are broken.

The single child will get preference in admission in all educational institutions including but not limited to the Indian Institute of Management and All India Institute of Management Science.

Free education up to graduation level, scholarship for higher studies in case of a girl child and preference to the single child in government jobs are other benefits which couples with a single child will receive.

The draft bill further explains, "(a) The personal law governing A allows polygamy. A has three wives B, C and D. A and B, A and C, and A and D shall be counted as three distinct married couple so far as the status of B, C and D is concerned but as far as the status of A is concerned, it shall be counted as one married couple for the purpose of calculation of cumulative number of children. For example, A has one child from B, two children from C and one child from D, the total number of children of A shall be four. (b) The personal law governing B allows polyandry. B has two husbands A and C. B and A shall be counted as one married couple. B and C shall be counted as another married couple."

This Act shall be called the Uttar Pradesh population (Control, stabilization and Welfare) Act, 2021, and it will extend to the whole of the state. It will come into force after one year from the date of publication in the Gazette.

A State Population Fund would be constituted, and it will be utilized to implement this Act.

--IANS

amita/skp/

(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 identified a host of exemptions for review and has invited suggestions from trade and industry bodies on the same.

Importers, exporters, domestic industry and trade associations are invited to give views on the subject for consideration by the government by August 10 on the MyGov.in portal.

Some key products covered under the list include fabrics, games/sports requisites, magnetron for microwave manufacturing, specified parts for PCB, set-up box, routers, broadband modem, contraceptives and artificial kidney.

The list also includes magnetic tapes, photographic, filming, sound recording/ radio equipment, parts/ raw material for manufacture of goods supplied for off-shore oil exploration, specified machinery/ parts covered in textile industry.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in her 2020-21 Budget speech had announced that a further review of existing exemption notifications would be undertaken through extensive consultations.

Giving a list of 97 notifications, the Government said certain exemptions have been identified for purpose of further review.

Suggestions are invited in respect of their review which may include the need for review of the notification, amendment in wording of the notification for bringing clarity, consolidation, other relevant factors such as extent of use, etc, it added.

The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) last year too had conducted this crowdsourcing exercise to identify the customs duty exceptions which need to be reviewed. Following that, the government has now drawn up a list of notifications and invited stakeholder views for a comprehensive review.

Exemptions from customs duty have been given in public interest from time to time and a review of the Customs laws and procedures would help to align them with the needs of changing times and ease of doing business.

Abhishek Jain, Tax Partner, EY, said the government seems to be looking at exemptions prevalent for divergent sectors as is evident from the list of targeted Customs exemption entries released by the government.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Newly appointed Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Sunday reviewed the ambitious project between Ahmedabad and Mumbai, as part of his efforts over the last few days to get acquainted with the high priority works of the national transporter.

During a review meeting, the minister was apprised on the status of the project by the managing director of its implementing agency, the National High Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHSRCL).

"Reviewed implementation of Ahmedabad-Mumbai high speed line with Mr Satish Agnihotri, Managing Director NHSR," Vaishnaw tweeted.

Till date, 1,035 hectare of land has been acquired out of the total of 1,396 hectare required for the project, officials said.

Out of the 74 per cent land acquisition so far, the majority -- 96 per cent -- is in Gujarat, while only 25 per cent is in Maharashtra, they said, adding that 96 per cent of the land needed the project in the Union Territory of Dadra Nagar Haveli has been acquired.

Civil work contracts for the construction of 92 per cent of the alignment -- 325 km out of 351 km and five stations -- have been awarded in Gujarat and Dadra Nagar Haveli, and construction work has started in the region, employing around 2,200 people and 300 major machineries, the officials said.

They added that about 90 per cent land has already been handed over to contractors for construction.

More than 5,300 drawings related to various structures have been submitted by contractors to the NHSRCL, and geo-technical investigation has been completed at 785 locations and test pile casting has been completed at six locations, the officials said. Construction work is currently ongoing at 10 sites.

It is expected that contract award for remaining eight per cent of the alignment and three remaining stations in Gujarat will be awarded by end of this year and work for the Sabarmati rolling stock depot will be awarded early next year, the officials said.

Track construction work for 237 km is also expected to be awarded by the last quarter of this year and remaining track works in Gujarat by early next year.

Work in Maharashtra is limited to land acquisition and utility shifting, they said.

The officials said that the major hindrance for contract award in the Maharashtra part of the alignment is land availability as at least 80 per cent of the land has to be made available before any of the work can be awarded.

"The ongoing pandemic and slow land acquisition process in Maharashtra is adversely affecting the MAHSR (Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail) project. The revised timelines will be worked out after accessing the exact impact of the pandemic on the entire project, land acquisition and tender finalisation in the state of Maharashtra, an official said.

Earlier, on July 9, Vaishnaw met his predecessor Piyush Goyal and thanked him for the brief given by him about the rail projects in progress. He also conducted a full introductory review meeting with Railway Board members.

In a surprise move, the minister went to the first floor of the Rail Bhawan in Central Delhi and met officials of the signalling and telecom department.

In a video, the minister can be seen speaking with the staff and even hugging one of them after he reveals that he has completed his engineering in the same college as the minister.

Vaishnaw took charge of the Railway Ministry on July 8.

(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.)
British billionaire on Sunday soared more than 50 miles above the New Mexico desert aboard his Virgin Galactic rocket plane and safely returned in the vehicles first fully crewed test flight to space, a symbolic milestone for a venture he started 17 years ago.

Branson, one of six Virgin Galactic Holding Inc employees strapped in for the ride, has touted the mission as a precursor to a new era of tourism, with the company he founded in 2004 poised to begin commercial operations next year.

The success of the flight also gave the flamboyant entrepreneur bragging rights in a highly publicised rivalry with fellow billionaire Jeff Bezos, the Amazon online retail mogul who had hoped to fly into first aboard his own companys rocket.





Spaceship Unity 22 and mothership Eve

Sundays launch of the VSS Unity passenger rocket plane marked the companys 22nd test flight of its SpaceShipTwo system, and its fourth crewed mission beyond Earths atmosphere. It was also the first to carry a full complement of space travellers  two pilots and four mission specialists, Branson among them.



View of Unity 22 crew from inside the rocket plane

Seventeen years of hard work to get us this far, Branson said as he congratulated his team on the trip back.





Sirisha Bandla, Virgins V-P of government affairs
Secretary said on Sunday that a new mechanism to allow more countries to tax large, highly profitable multinational firms may not be ready for consideration by lawmakers until the spring of 2022.

Yellen told a news conference after a G20 finance leaders meeting in Venice in Italy that the OECD Pillar 1

re-allocation of taxing rights was on a slightly slower track than a global corporate minimum tax of at least 15 per cent as part of a major tax deal among 132 countries.

G20 finance ministers and central bank governors endorsed the deal over the weekend, but questions remain over the ability of US President Joe Bidens administration to persuade a deeply divided Congress to ratify the changes.

Yellen said she hoped to include provisions to implement the so-called Pillar 2 global minimum tax into a budget reconciliation bill this year that Congress could approve with a simple majority.

The Pillar 1 portion of the agreement would end unilateral taxes on digital services in exchange for a new mechanism that would allow large profitable companies to be taxed in part based on where they sell products and services, rather than where their headquarters and intellectual property reside.

This will require a multilateral tax agreement that will take time to negotiate, a Treasury official said.

Pillar 1 will be on a slightly slower track. Well work with Congress, Yellen said, when asked whether a two-thirds majority would be needed in the US Senate, which is normally the requirement for treaties.

It may be in ready in the spring of 2022 and well try to determine at that point whats necessary for its implementation, Yellen said.

Will encourage banks to increase their climate ambition said on Sunday that she will soon instruct the major multilateral development banks to increase their climate ambition and set ambitious timelines to support the Paris Agreement on carbon emissions reductions. I will be convening the heads of the multilateral development banks to encourage them to increase their climate ambition, both to support the most vulnerable and to incentivise private investment." Reuters Must compete on economic strengths, not low tax rates said deterring the use of tax havens will let countries compete on economic fundamentals  instead of by offering ever-lower tax rates that deprive governments of money for infrastructure and education. This deal will end the race to the bottom, she said after the end of the meeting in Venice. And this deal will give our nations the ability to raise the necessary funding for important public goods like infrastructure, R&D, and education." AP/PTI

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Firefighters are struggling to contain an exploding Northern California wildfire under blazing temperatures as another heat wave hits the U.S. West this weekend
Become A Subscriber

A subscription opens up access to all our online content, including: our interactive E-Edition, a full archive of modern stories, exclusive and expanded online offerings, photo galleries from Caledonian-Record journalists, video reports from our media partners, extensive international, national and regional reporting by the Associated Press, and a wide variety of feature content.
article

$100.00 / for 365 days

Sponsored Content Articles  Policy & Procedure

Only content submissions which satisfy our conditions for publication will be published.

The fee for publication via this portal is $100. This fee is non-refundable.

To accomplish your publication purchase, you must be logged-in as a website user: https://www.capemaycountyherald.com/users/signup

This purchase is for online publication only. If print publication is also desired, please proceed with the purchase of online publication and contact Advertise@cmcHerald.com regarding print publication.

By default, approved/paid submissions will be published to the "Lifestyle" section of the website. Requests for other urls/sections deemed relevant to the submission will be honored.

Submissions may contain links  including do-follow links.

Published submissions will remain published for as long as the website remains active, presumably at least one year.

Submissions must conform to our comment standards (https://www.capemaycountyherald.com/site/comment_standards.html) and must constitute appropriate use of the English language.

Publisher reserves the right to refuse publication for any reason.

Submissions will not be processed for publication without advance payment.

Submissions requiring additional support services  e.g., to amend content or to effect payment  will not be published. By mutual agreement, editorial services may be provided for an additional charge; otherwise, advance payment rendered will be deemed a non-refundable service charge.

Upon request to Advertise@cmcHerald.com a link to the published article will be transmitted via email.

Our website is directed to a U.S.-based audience; our content may not be accessible to some international audiences due to technology restrictions.

By initiating this transaction, the submitter assumes any and all liability associated with publication of the submitted content (e.g., infringement, licensing) and agrees to defend and hold the Publisher harmless.
* Username This is the name that will be used to identify you within the system. Choose wisely!

* First name

* Last name Your real name will be displayed next to your photo for comments, blog posts, and more!

* Email Your e-mail address will be used to confirm your account. We won't share it with anyone else.

* Password Create a password that only you will remember. If you forget it, you'll be able to recover it using your email address.
The Covenant Car Company, Inc. (TCCCI) is hitting the reset button on the Chevrolet brand in the country by wiping out about half of its lin...
FILE - In this June 10, 2021, file photo, Ben Frazier, the founder of the Northside Coalition of Jacksonville chants "Allow teachers to teach the truth" at the end of his public comments opposing the state of Florida's plans to ban the teaching of critical race theory in public schools during the Department of Education meeting in Jacksonville, Fla. Local school boards around the country are increasingly becoming cauldrons of anger and political division, boiling with disputes over such issues as COVID-19 mask rules, the treatment of transgender students and how to teach the history of racism and slavery in America. (Bob Self/The Florida Times-Union via AP, File)
Read all the news online FREE, for 30 days at no charge. After the trial period well bill your credit card just $6 per month.

The charge will appear as "Country Media Inc." on your credit card statement.
Chino, CA (91710)

Today

A mix of clouds and sun. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 98F. Winds WSW at 10 to 20 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy. Low around 70F. W winds at 10 to 15 mph, decreasing to less than 5 mph.
Cant get enough vanilla? Then make Ina Gartens Vanilla Cream Cheese Pound Cake. Its a simple Barefoot Contessa dessert recipe thats packed with what Garten often refers to as good vanilla.

Vanilla is Gartens favorite flavor

Ina Garten | Brad Barket/Getty Images for The New Yorker

Anyone who has watched a few episodes of Gartens cooking show or flipped through the pages of one of her many Barefoot Contessa cookbooks probably knows she loves vanilla. She really, really loves the stuff.

Vanilla is on the ingredient list for practically every single one of Gartens Barefoot Contessa dessert recipes. And, as far as shes concerned, no other flavor tops it.

I think my favorite flavor of all is vanilla, she told Food Networks FN Dish in 2018. Seeing as shes the Barefoot Contessa she had to add that not just any vanilla will do. She noted it has to be good vanilla.

To illustrate just how much she loves vanilla Garten said shed use it as cologne if I could.

RELATED: Ina Garten Uses Coffee to Elevate These 4 Chocolate Barefoot Contessa Recipes

A few splashes of good vanilla extract isnt enough in this recipe. Garten really turns up the volume on her Vanilla Cream Cheese Pound Cake with more vanilla flavor.

Because too much vanilla is never enough Im going to put in vanilla bean, she said after already adding good vanilla extract to the pound cake mixture on an episode of Barefoot Contessa.

To intensify the vanilla flavor the Modern Comfort Food author cut a dried vanilla bean pod in half lengthwise and scraped out the seeds. She then added the seeds to the pound cake batter. So not only is there a hefty dose of good vanilla extract but theres also an added level of flavor coming from the vanilla bean seeds.

Gartens been making her own vanilla extract for years but she also uses store-bought

RELATED: Ina Gartens Summer Potluck Recipes Are so Barefoot Contessa

What does Garten mean when she says good vanilla on Barefoot Contessa? Does she mean homemade vanilla? The most expensive one from the store? Turns out, Garten uses both homemade and store-bought vanilla extract when shes in the kitchen.

Garten uses store-bought vanilla on Barefoot Contessa. I dont assume that people at home have homemade vanilla on hand, so I use store-bought vanilla in my recipes, she once told a fan as part of her Ask Ina Q&A series. I always try to use ingredients that people can find at the grocery store.

Gartens favorite vanilla brand is Nielsen-Massey. She can often be found using their Madagascar Bourbon Pure Vanilla Extract on her Food Network show. The Barefoot Contessas pantry is also filled with a jar of homemade vanilla extract Gartens had going for decades. She once called it her favorite item in her kitchen. It can be made using only two ingredients: vanilla bean pods and vodka.

Get the complete recipe for Gartens Vanilla Cream Cheese Pound Cake on Food Networks website and be sure to have lots of good vanilla at home.
Malia White from Below Deck Mediterranean continues to heal from her scooter accident, finally getting out to go grocery shopping  in a scooter. But not the same scooter that resulted in her hospitalization, instead she rode a motorized grocery cart. She is wearing loose-fitting clothing to avoid contact with her harsh wounds and has a sense of humor about the situation. Back on a bike in no time, she captioned the video. Get Buffalo sauce #priorities #buffalochickentacos.

Malia White is here for the buffalo sauce

White slowly drives the motorized grocery cart down an aisle and abruptly stops. Get buffalo sauce, she says. Shes wearing sunglasses inside the store and her arms and legs are still bandaged. The remaining road rash on her thighs is still healing but looks extremely tender.

Below Deck Mediterraneans Malia White | Karolina Wojtasik/Bravo

Below Deck Mediterranean crew reacted. Ohhhh myyy god lol, Bobby Giancola from Below Deck Med responded. Courtney Veale and Katie Flood from Below Deck Med Season 6 also commented. Others offered well wishes and a few jokes about the video. They see me rollin, one person commented. White also posted on her Instagram story about a special delivery of her favorite cookies from her brother and sister-in-law.

Malia White posted images of the healing process

Only days earlier she posted a photo of the recovery process, the road rash she experienced still an open wound. One foot remains bandaged and the photo appears to be taken when she changed her bandages. She posted a before and after photo to show how quickly she was injured. This was a day before the crash and a few days after, she captioned the two photos. Hoping these wounds heal without too much scarring & Im back in shorts in Spain in no time! Thanks for all the love and well wishes!

Captain Sandy Yawn, who had experienced a horrific motorcycle accident in the past commented. Ouch! Road Rash was a huge part of my life back in the day! I know you will be as good as new soon! she wrote. Deckhand Max Hagley added, Savage wounds chick x. Others offered advice for how to speed up the healing process, including suggestions to stay out of the sun. Stay out of the sun to minimize scarring! Praying for a quick recovery, one person commented.

Malia White returned home after being in a scooter accident in Spain

White had a scooter accident in Spain weeks earlier. She shared on Instagram that she went out with her crew to see the sights on scooters and then suddenly she was being rushed to the hospital. Photos from the hospital show Whites arms and legs completely bandaged and she has an IV port in her hand.

RELATED: Below Deck Mediterranean: Katie Floods Wipeout Teases a Parade of Injuries This Season

Im sharing this to express the importance of always wearing a helmet, she shared on Instagram in late June. Mine quite literally saved my life. I spent the premiere night in a hospital bed after having a mean accident on my scooter. Ive been riding scooters my whole life was familiar with the equipment, wasnt drinking and was 10 minutes from my boat. Accidents happen when you least expect them. Luckily, I was able to walk away with a few stitches, fractured elbow, broken toes, severe road rash and a very sore body. I dont want to imagine what the case would have been without my helmet! I wont hang up my scooter keys just yet but Im definitely aware of the importance of cruising safely!
Elon Musk is more prominent than hes ever been, and his hairline is showing similar progress. Throughout recent years, the billionaire made headlines for everything from innovative space travel to a slew of controversies about the things hes said. Recently, however, a doctor spoke about his belief that Musk received hair transplants at some point in the last 20 years.

Must was born in South Africa

According to Biography.com, Musk grew up in South Africa, where he was also born. His parents, Errol and Maye, were wealthy thanks to his fathers career as an engineer and, according to Business Insider South Africa, an emerald mine owner.

Musk had a passion for computers and programming that helped him from an early age. His mother worked several jobs, including as a Canadian Covergirl model. By the time Musk was 17, he moved to Canada to go to Queens College and avoid military service.

Musk immersed himself in education, pursuing degrees in economics and physics at the University of Pennsylvania before trying his hand at a Stanford Ph.D. in energy physics. Around this time, however, the internet boom occurred, and with it, Musks priorities changed. He went all-in on tech, founding the Zip2 Corporation, a company they later sold for over $300 million.

With that money in hand, Musk and his brother, Kimbal, started X.com., a financial website that eventually became PayPal. This was the move that eventually propelled him to the mainstream success of billionaires. While photos from this era show a man with a similarly distinctive face, theres one major difference on top of his head.

Musk gained fame in the 90s

Musk started to make headlines in the early 90s, and with those headlines came a picture of a bald, relatively good-looking young man with a hairline resembling Prince Williams famously receding locks. As Hairguard notes, Musks receding hairline was undeniable, and the hair on top was especially thin. However, as Musks status grew in the industry, his hairline began to push down toward his nose.

Now, the 50-year-old Musk, with his girlfriend Grimes and newborn child, X AE A-Xii, has a whole head of hair which he often keeps tall and pushed back. Sometimes its spiky, and other times its filled with waves. However, anyone who has seen the old pictures knows that this may not be the full story. A hair doctor recently shed light on why this change occurred.

Musks hair journey

Elon Musk | Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images

While applications like Rogaine can help revitalize hair in the back of the head, it doesnt help the type of recession Musk displayed around the turn of the century. According to Dr. Jeffrey Epstein, a medical doctor specializing in hair care, Musks locks appear to be the result of hair plugs. According to him, the procedure Musk likely had was far more complicated.

If you look at his pictures from his PayPal days when he sold the company [in 2002], he was pretty bald, Epstein told Page Six. I mean, he had a class three to a class four (out of seven) hair loss pattern, and he now shows no evidence, at least in the front, of any hair loss It looks like he had good hair on the back and side of his head, and those are the hairs we use for transplanting.

If that sounds expensive, its because it is. Hair plugs are common among famous men who want to have their hairline back and have the wallet to justify such a procedure. In Musks case, hairs from the back and side are relocated to the front of his scalp. In Musks case, its a costly surgery that likely costs between $20,000 and $30,0000 and takes just over a week to recover from.

RELATED: Grimes Got Tortured While She Was Pregnant and Said It Was F*cking Awesome
Filming E.T. was a blast for Steven Spielberg and the movies young cast. Drew Barrymore, Henry Thomas, and Robert MacNaughton were all kids who played siblings in the film, and their on-screen family vibe translated off screen too. Pranks, food fights, jokes, and goofing around with their director was common. But Barrymore explained how Spielbergs see food game once made them all scream.

Steven Spielberg on the set of E.T. | Sunset Boulevard/Corbis via Getty Images

Drew Barrymore recalled Steven Spielbergs funny, sometimes gross game

Drew Barrymore is a huge star now but playing Gertie in E.T. is the breakout role that catapulted her to stardom. At age 7, she found herself galivanting around the world with her E.T. co-stars and director Steven Spielberg. During that time, they went to the U.K., France, Germany, and Japan.

Barrymore remembered being excited to go to Tokyo to try out the food, and Spielberg taught her about sushi. She wrote about his game of see-food in her memoir, Wildflower, stating that he loved to freak people out with food. Hed play around with the kid cast members and place food in his mouth, open it, and go, See food! It was a regular thing he did during all the months they spent working on E.T.

Such antics were common for him, and Barrymore also noted how hed often initiate food fights in the commissary on the E.T. set.

Spielberg made E.T. cast freak out when he ate a delicacy

The kids loved Spielbergs food game, and would react by laughing and screaming, Gross! Heading into the Tokyo trip, Barrymore said he boasted about eating anything at the hotel restaurant. And the chefs heard him, so they challenged him. He accepted.

All of us kids egged him on, so he waited as the chefs said they had something special just for him! Barrymore recalled. After a minute or two, they brought out a five-inch long centipede-looking creature with several legs, and it crawled across the sushi bar. It was a dancing shrimp, something thats traditionally eaten alive. She said they screamed as the chefs laughed, and Spielberg looked as if he might renege.

But he ate it, and I got so freaked out I ran out of the restaurant. He had to chase after me, still chewing on the live creature, struggling to get it down his throat, she wrote.

Henry Thomas and Robert MacNaughton teased Barrymore on E.T. set too

When she worked on E.T., Barrymore considered her movie brothers to be like her real brothers for that period they worked together. She wrote about how they playfully teased her, which is something MacNaughton spoke about in an interview with SyFy Wire.

Drew, off camera she was just like she was in the movie. She was just like, always the center of attention and always, making up stuff, making up stories, he said. She was very outspoken. We didnt ignore her but we sort of played with her. One time we did like the worst thing we could possibly do to her, pretend she was invisible. That drove her nuts, it made her crazy.

MacNaughton added that really were like a family, and Barrymore even thought E.T. was real. He figured it must have been hard for her when filming wrapped. He was right. In her book, Barrymore said that she could not stop crying when it was time to say goodbye.

RELATED: E.T. Made Drew Barrymore Famous, But It Wasnt Her First Film Role
Netflixs Fear Street slasher films have fans googling their filming locations and digging to find out whether these stories are based on reality. The movies are complete adaptations of R.L. Stines imaginative books, but some of the Georgia filming locations have their own folklore attached to them. An example of that is Camp Nightwing in Fear Street Part 2: 1978. The real campsite where filming took place has been known for spooky occurrences and hauntings.

Shot of Camp Nightwing in Fear Street Part 2: 1978 on Netflix | Courtesy Netflix

Fear Street 1978 Camp Nightwing site is at Camp Rutledge

The Fear Street team shot much of its footage for the trilogy in metro Atlanta, but they headed to a rural Georgia town for part 2. Rutledge is located a little over 50 miles outside of Atlanta with a population of approximately 1,000. Camp Nightwing gave fans total Friday the 13th vibes with its bloody and brutal story about the Bermans and the supernatural slaughter that rained down on all those poor campers.

Fear Street Part 2: 1978 was filmed at Camp Rutledge in Hard Labor Creek State Park. The camp has been open since the mid-1900s. And the park is actually home to another camp where Friday the 13th Part VI: Jason Lives was shot, Crystal Lake and all.

The nightmare continues at Camp Nightwing.



Fear Street Part 2: 1978 is now streaming pic.twitter.com/jFJGJZIQ42  Netflix (@netflix) July 9, 2021

Locals say Camp Rutledge is haunted by a little boy

For years, campers and locals have asserted that a playful little boy haunts Camp Rutledge. Hes known for laughing, leaving wet footprints, and toying around with a red ball. Some have said that he rolls the ball toward people and giggles. One witness reported that a little boy peeked out from behind a tree before disappearing.

Ghost Hunters did an investigation at the site in an episode that aired in 2012 titled Camp Fear. Jason Hawes and his TAPS team visited the camp where a groundskeeper said he worked at the park for almost 30 years, and there have been drownings at the lake. Ghost Hunters could not find a reasonable explanation for wet footprints in the dining hall.

Other entities reportedly also hang out at the camp

Over the years, people have reported seeing and hearing an old man hanging in or around the cabins, and once, he told someone they would die there. A woman who interviewed with Ghost Hunters said she once touched a spirit. I put my hand on him, and my hand sunk in. It was warm and dense air, and I could fee; that it was not a person, she said. Shes been visiting the campgrounds since childhood.

Others claimed to see odd shadows in the woods or hear crashing sounds. Team TAP trekked into the woods where they saw weird lights among the trees and caught a strange voice on audio equipment. They explained that there is likely paranormal activity happening at the camp site, but none of it is malicious. According to the Ghost Hunters team, if the entities wanted to cause harm, they would have by now.

Camp Rutledge is still the topic of lore and considered one of Georgias many haunted locations thanks to its old buildings and scary stories. Check it out in Fear Street Part 2: 1978 on Netflix, or visit the real-life camp during your next visit to Georgia.

Okay #FridayThe13th fans  Hard Labor Creek State Park's Camp Daniel Morgan aka Camp Crystal Lake hasnt changed a bit since Part VI filmed here in 1986! Watch out for those hockey masks! @GoodDayAtlanta #fox5atl @GaStateParks pic.twitter.com/0gJKZbqNTg  Paul Milliken (@PaulFromFox5) November 13, 2020

RELATED: Netflixs Fear Street Trilogy: Is Shadyside a Real Place?
Prince William and Prince Harry both had serious girlfriends when they were young. In Williams case, he had a long-term relationship with his current wife, Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge. However, royal correspondents alleged that, when William and Kate went through a rough patch, William negatively compared Kate to Prince Harrys then-girlfriend, Chelsy Davy.

Prince William, Kate Middleton, and Prince Harry | Stefan Wermuth  WPA Pool /Getty Images

Harry and Davy began dating in the early 2000s. At the time, Davywho was from Zimbabwewas studying in England.

The two of them had an on-and-off relationship for several years. Throughout this time, Davy studied at the University of Cape Town and the University of Leeds, while Harry enlisted in the army.

Harry and Davy ended things for good in 2010. However, they remained on good terms, and Davy even attended Harrys wedding to Meghan, Duchess of Sussex.

Prince William reportedly said Chelsy Davy was more fun than Kate Middleton

RELATED: Prince Harrys Longest Relationship Was Reportedly Full of Screaming Matches

William and Kate began dating in the early 2000s as well. They both attended the University of St. Andrews and remained together after their graduation in 2005. However, like Harry and Davy, William and Kate also took breaks throughout their long relationship.

In 2007, they had a high-profile breakup. According to an article published in The Mail On Sunday around that time, royal correspondents Laura Collins, Katie Nicholl, and Ian Gallagher alleged that William felt he was too young to be nailed down to a serious relationship.

William reportedly even compared Kate to Davy.

The royal experts wrote, William is also said to have told friends that he thought his brother Harrys girlfriend Chelsy Davy was more fun than Kate, adding: She is also very bright.

Before the breakup, the media reported that William often went clubbing with friends and surrounded himself with women. Kate allegedly told those close to her that this behavior was making her look bad. She issued an ultimatum to William, which led to their separation.

Prince William and Kate Middleton later talked about this breakup

RELATED: Prince William and Kate Middletons Expressions in Anniversary Video Look Scripted, Body Language Expert Says

Years later, William and Kate were able to look back on their 2007 breakup objectively. During their engagement interview, they explained what was going on from their perspectives.

At the time I wasnt very happy about it, but it actually made me a stronger person, Kate shared. You find out things about yourself that maybe you hadnt realized. I think you can get quite consumed by a relationship when you are younger, and I really valued that time for me as well although I didnt think it at the time.

Meanwhile, William said, It was very much trying to find our own way and we were growing up so it was just a bit of space, and it worked out for the better.

William and Kate only remained apart for a few months. They later reconciled and eventually married in 2011.
Being the head of the British Monarchy doesnt come without its perks. Queen Elizabeth has access to amenities that the rest of us can only dream of, from her many luxurious houses to her collection of high-end cars, and especially her impressive jewelry collection.

The queen doesnt simply get up in the morning and open her jewelry box to randomly choose which pieces to wear. Instead, her earrings, necklaces, and such are carefully chosen to correspond with not only her outfits but also to the occasion and whomever she might be meeting with.

Her Majesty always looks stunning, and there is simply no denying the fact that her jewelry collection is made up of some of the most precious stones and metals in the entire world. We know that the queen tends to send hidden messages with certain things that she does. Here is how Queen Elizabeths ruby tiara has a clever, shady meaning.

Queen Elizabeths jewel and tiara collection is massive

Queen Elizabeth II | Peter Summers/Getty Images

The Queen of England has a jewelry and tiara collection that would make anyones jaw drop, and she has been wearing the pieces for decades. While most people have one or two special pieces of jewelry, the queen, by contrast, has many, and according to National Diamonds, they pretty much all have a deep history.

For example, she has a special diamond bracelet given to her by Prince Philip on their wedding day. The queen also wears the Festoon necklace quite often, which is a triple diamond strand, and she is also often seen sporting Queen Marys Lovers Knot Brooch, which was made during the late 19th century.

What else does the queen have in her collection? The Crown Amethyst Suite of Jewels, which consists of a brooch, necklace, and earrings, as well as the Victorian Suite of Sapphire and Diamond set. Lets not forget all of her breathtaking tiaras such as the Queen Marys Fringe Tiara, the Grand Duchess Of Vladimir tiara, and of course, the Imperial State Crown.

Which tiara did the queen choose when she met with Donald Trump?

Queen Elizabeth and Donald Trump | Dominic Lipinski- WPA Pool/Getty Images

When meeting then-president Donald Trump, even the queen knew that not just any tiara would do! Many experts estimate that she has over 40 tiaras to choose from, and when she was around the then-president of the United States, Queen Elizabeth knew that the Burmese Ruby and Diamond tiara was the right choice.

The stunning headpiece, according to Town & Country, was made in 1973 using 96 rubies gifted to the queen by the people of Burma and has an estimated value of about $7 million dollars. Out of all the tiaras she has, which is her favorite or most worn? It is said to be The Girls of Great Britain and Ireland tiara.

Queen Elizabeths ruby tiara may have had a hidden meaning

As it turns out, the queen didnt choose the ruby tiara when meeting with Trump simply because she felt like wearing it. The piece was chosen due to its hidden meaning, which didnt go unnoticed.

According to Good Housekeeping, although the royals tend to take a neutral stand on politics, the queen wore that specific tiara because of its symbol of protection against illness and evil. The rubies are a symbol of protection from disease and evil, and according to a statement by the House of Garrard, who created the piece, the 96 rubies in the tiara protect she who wears it against 96 diseases that can affect humans.

Some royal fans even went so far as to say that the queen shaded Trump with her choice of the tiara, and although there is no way to know exactly what she was thinking, she looked beautiful nonetheless.

RELATED: Queen Elizabeth II Owns a Tiara That Protects Her From Evil Spirits and Recently Wore It for This Occasion
Kelly Dodd, formerly of The Real Housewives of Orange County, continues to get herself in trouble for saying things she shouldnt. This time, Dodd felt the heat from her former co-star Heather Dubrow, who is returning to the Bravo franchise as she leaves the show. Dodd had claimed she contracted COVID-19 through Dubrows son and now she was forced to apologize publicly. The former reality star has rectified her statement after receiving a letter from Dubrows lawyers.

Kelly Dodd and Heather Dubrow | Isabella Vosmikova/Bravo/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty Images

Kelly Dodd clears up Heather Dubrows sons name

RHOC fans always expect Dodd to make outrageous statements and be unapologetic. However, this time she took things a bit too far and is now facing the consequences of her words. Dodd alleged that she and her husband Rick Leventhal contracted the coronavirus from Dubrows son Nicholas. The couple was ringing in the New Year in Aspen, Colorado, where Dubrows 16-year-old son was as well.

So, I got this letter from an attorney from the Dubrow family reminding me I made a statement that may sound like truth, when in fact, it was a joke. And for that, Im offering my sincere apology, Dodd said in her Instagram apology video. I did get COVID at a party on New Years Eve, and Heather Dubrows son and his friends were all there. And while I had information leading us all to believe we could have gotten COVID from them, because we all  like 24 of us  got COVID that night, we obviously have no way of proving or knowing for sure he or his friends were the source of our infection.

And for that, I apologize. Im going on the record right now to be very clear, Rick and I dont know how we caught the virus, and were both very very sorry for any trouble we caused the Dubrow family, she ended.

Heather Dubrow and Kelly Dodd | Charles Sykes/Bravo/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty Image / Phillip Faraone/Bravo/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty Images

RELATED: RHOC: Kelly Dodd Blames Braunwyn Windham-Burke for Getting the Ax From Bravo

Kelly Dodd exiting RHOC after 5 seasons

Dodds clarification around the incident with the Dubrow family comes as she exits RHOC after 5 seasons on the show. The entrepreneur joined the Bravo series in season 11 and quickly clashed with Dubrow as Dodd used vulgar language on camera. Dubrow ended her time on the show after that season and took a 4-season break before coming back, as Dodd is leaving.

I had a great five years on RHOC. I will miss working with the ladies and the crews from Evolution and I want to thank Bravo for all the opportunities they gave me, Dodd told Us Weekly after departing. If it werent for the show, Id never have found my husband Rick, the greatest love of my life and for that, Im eternally grateful. Im also so thankful for the many thousands of fans whove shown me love and support since the news broke.

Kelly Dodd | Phillip Faraone/Bravo/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty Images

RELATED: RHOC: Vicki Gunvalson Doesnt Like Not Being on The Real Housewives of Orange County  I Was Born to Be on TV

Heather Dubrow ready to return

Filming for RHOC Season 16 has already started and Dubrow recently talked about why this was the perfect time to return to the reality series. The biggest reason for her comeback has to do with her children being older now than they were at the time she left.

My familys in a different place, my kids are a little bit older, the pandemic has sort of given me a different perspective on things, Dubrow said on her podcast. And then I started thinking about, how many times do you get to go back and try something again?

Dubrow said that if given the opportunity to do the show again, she said she would have a better time.
Linda Fay Adams Jansen, known to many as Nana, went home to dance on the streets of gold July 4th, 2021. She was born in Sweetwater, Texas September 8, 1941 to Obe and Fern (Wood) Durham. Linda wore many hats throughout her life. She was a devoted wife, mother, sister, grandmother, great gra
Josh Duggar was slated to stand trial this month on charges of downloading and possessing material that depicted the sexual abuse of minors. Instead, his court date has been delayed until the fall. His familys series Counting On has been cancelled by TLC.

In the months to come, Duggars case will be covered as the saga of a former reality TV star, making headlines in celebrity magazines as did every courtship, wedding, pregnancy, and birth announcement from the famously fruitful Duggar brood.

But for some who come from Christian circles like the Duggarsconservative Christian churches, tight-knit homeschool networks, big-family quiverfull movementsthis case isnt just about Josh Duggar. It represents a larger concern over how their communities teach about sexual abuse and, sadly, have missed opportunities to respond to it.

Josh Duggar is in the position he is in because he was enabled and protected from consequences at every step by his revolting parents and their patriarchal, dehumanizing theology, said Jacob Denhollander in a series of tweets posted after Duggars arrest in April of this year. Denhollander advocates for victims along with his wife, Rachael, herself an abuse survivor. But he also grew up one of 13 siblings in the same homeschooled circles as the Duggars.

Duggar has confessed and apologized for sex offenses he committed as a teen back in 20022003, and for infidelity in his marriage. He has pleaded not guilty to the charges that in 2019 he downloaded material depicting the sexual abuse of children.

His pattern of sexual abuse and misconduct has been reported on for years, but the recent case comes at a time of more attention around abuse in church. Christians are learning more about the risks of abuse, including how predators target the trusting environments they find among people of faith.

Lets start with the bad news. Theres too many churches in that type of [homeschooling] movement that dont have safeguarding policies and known-sex-offender policies, said Justin Holcomb, a theologian who studies sexual abuse. The good news is that in more and more churches, because of the #MeToo #ChurchToo movement years ago, the conversation about sexual abuse and domestic abuse has increased.

When news broke that the oldest 19 Kids and Counting sibling molested young girls in his home as a teen and had been unfaithful to his wife as a member of the affair site Ashley Madison, it was 2015.

It would be another year before Bill Gothard, whose Institute in Basic Life Principles shaped the Duggar family, would be sued over allegations of sexual assault and cover-up. Thats two years before the #MeToo movement took off. Three years before a major investigation uncovered hundreds of abuse allegations in independent Baptist churches, the tradition in which Duggar was raised.

While some fans and fellow church members have defended Josh Duggarhundreds of commenters on the Duggar family website disbelieved the charges or extended their supportleaders in the homeschool community said scandals like his have been a wakeup call. Theyve drawn more attention around abuse awareness and prevention.

Holcomb, an Episcopal priest who serves on the board of GRACE (Godly Response to Abuse in the Christian Environment), said he was shocked at the uptick in attention around abuse. Last spring, a Christian childrens book he and his wife wrote in 2015 to help kids protect their bodies, God Made All of Me, hit a milestone: 100,000 sold. Part of the popularity came from the book being promoted among homeschooling moms.

Article continues below

In the past, the popular, dangerous idea was widely accepted that homeschooling, following a certain set of rules/regulations, and withdrawing from the world would save and preserve our children and families. As homeschool hero after hero has fallen over the decades, as hidden evil after hidden evil has been brought to the light, that assumption has been proved false, said Amy Sloan, a second-generation homeschooler who blogs on the site Humility and Doxology.

Among fellow homeschooling families, Sloan has noticed abuse being discussed more openly. Not only that, but she said theres a desire to correct the false beliefs they held by placing their faith in popular figures or a Christian lifestyle choicenone of which can be a magic bullet to guard us from evil or abuse.

I see it as a theology problem. I see it as poor hermeneutics, said Kendra Fletcher, a homeschooling mom of eight in California, who has written two books about leaving a legalistic faith community.

Fletcher also recalled how that Christian community trained parents to see the outside world as a threat that could corrupt her childrenthats why they were eager to Sharpie-out references to sex or evolution in books and install porn-blocking software on their computers. But that mindset, she realized, discouraged parents from recognizing that their own children were indeed born in sin and could be the ones responsible for corruptingor abusingothers.

Texas pastor Bart Barber made a similar point in 2015. Josh Duggars public fall confronts homeschooling parents not only with someones bad behavior but also with some good theology that we should all take to heart, he wrote for SBC Voices. If your purpose for homeschooling is to protect your child from the sinful environment of the world, youve missed something important. Sin is not an out there problem; its an in here problem.

The sense of security within tight-knit communities and their fear of threats from the outside can lead adults to overlook the risk of abuse. When children are sexually abused, 34 percent of the time the perpetrator is a family member, according to US Bureau of Justice statistics. Another 58 percent of the time, its an adult known and trusted by their families.

When abuse cases do arise among Christians, a constellation of theological attitudes can complicate the responseinstinct to blame the victim, lack of understanding of consent, assumptions about masculinity and femininity, suspicions around psychology, and a desire to forgive and trust in Gods transforming work.

In The Great Sex Rescue: The Lies Youve Been Taught and How to Recover What God Intended, Sheila Gregoire, Rebecca Gregoire Lindenbach, and Joanna Sawatsky analyze beliefs about sex from tens of thousands of Christian survey respondents. They lament the expectations taught by some Christians that boys will push girls sexual boundaries and that all men will struggle with lust and porn.

Sexual-sin red flags are not just maleness, said Lindenbach. In the case of Josh Duggar, who molested four of his sisters and one other young victim while he was 14 and 15 years old, That was chalked up to, He was a teenager. He was curious. A lot of cases like this start out with clear warning signs.

One study found that the majority of adult sex offenders began molesting children when they were juveniles. But most young offenders can be reformed. Experts have identified early interventions that can help youth with abusive and problematic sexual behavior.

Holcomb has seen evangelical Christians go easy on abusive behavior, taking a shallow understanding of sin and believing accountability in biblical community will be enough to address the perpetrators problem. Such responses not only put more potential victims at risk but also keep perpetrators from fully reforming their sexual thoughts and behavior.

Article continues below

If you dont get a young sex offender holistic, therapeutic care before hes an adultbecause theres significant psychological development taking placeit almost solidifies the recidivism, said Holcomb, describing how sexual abuse and pornography establish pleasure pathways in the brain. The chances that he will repeat again are through the roof. Its nearly hopeless.

As a teenager, Josh Duggar attended an Arkansas training program through Gothards Institute for Basic Life Principles after confessing to multiple instances of sexual abuse. Its approach focuses on biblical teaching and character development. His father later spoke of the abuse to a law enforcement officer, who did not report it.

After Duggars 2015 scandal, he lost his job at the Family Research Council and attended a faith-based treatment center called Reformers Unanimous, which views addiction as stemming from sin. The ministry does not list any professional psychologists among its staff or board members, but says it partners with local doctors.

Investigators said that Duggar had the Christian accountability software Covenant Eyes on his computer, but used a password-protected network at the car dealership where he worked to bypass the program and download the illegal material in 2019.

Experts say that online material depicting child sex abuse, so-called child pornography, is far more common than people realize or want to acknowledge. A New York Times investigation found the internet is overrun with such material, which multiplies with the expanding access to smartphone technology. In 2018, tech companies reported over 45 million photos and videos of children being sexually abused, double that of the year before.

A father of six with a seventh child on the way, Duggar is staying with family friends ahead of his trial. He is currently barred from being around other children and must be supervised when around his own. If convicted, he faces up to 40 years in prison and will likely be kept from being alone with children again.

As with other cases of abuse, some Christians push back on the idea of holding someones past sins against them, since were all sinners.

Were very quick to talk about the heart being deceitful and depravity and sin, and yet when these situations come up, we talk about impropriety or a lapse in judgement or moral failure, which seem to take away that these are acts perpetrated on someone else, said Palmer Williams, a legal and policy advisor for the Southern Baptist Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission (ERLC). Its like we completely remove the victim from the situation.

Williams and ERLC editor Catherine Parks see implications in the Duggar case for churches at large. They advise churches to address abuse as a crime, not just as sin, and to acknowledge the victims. They warn against trusting perpetrators like Duggar who say right things but still pose a risk to the vulnerable.

According to research cited in the ERLCs Caring Well report, sex offenders who were most committed to church throughout their lives accumulated the most and the youngest victims of all sex offenders, their involvement providing access to more victims.

Josh Duggar is certainly not the first and wont be the last, said Fletcher, the homeschooling mom in California. Abusers can hide behind homeschooling, but abusers can slip through the cracks anywhere.

Article continues below

She is hopeful about change in the Christian homeschooling movement. She said that 20 years ago, the conventions she attended were full of moms and daughters in matching matronly dresses. At the height of 19 Kids and Counting fame, her neighbors asked her if she knew the Duggars. But now the conventions are full of moms with tattoos, who defy the stereotypes and want to teach differently.

Even her oldest kids, now 28 and 26, are flagging issues in the way they were taught about sex and helping her adapt as she addresses the topic with the youngest ones. We have an opportunity to change the thinking, she said.

Sloan, who homeschools her five children by grace alone, is grateful for more conversations and resources around abuse. But she still worries that people still are overconfident in the protection afforded by homeschooling.

Like Peter, so often we essentially assert, Even if everyone should forsake you, we wont, she said, referring to the disciples words in Matthew 26:33. Its only when we reject the it could never happen here blindness that we can truly guard our children and families from abuse.
Ken Hams Ark Encounter to build expansion featuring Tower of Babel

Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment

On the fifth anniversary of the Ark Encounter, which features a 510-foot-long wooden Noahs ark, founder Ken Ham has announced the expansion of the Bible-themed attraction in Kentucky by building a Tower of Babel attraction on the parks grounds.

Next year, we will start fundraising for a Tower of Babel attraction that we hope to open in three or four years, where among other things we will help people understand what genetics research and the Bible say about the origin of all the people groups around the world, Ham, the CEO and founder of the Ark Encounter and Creation Museum, says on the website of the Answers in Genesis ministry.

I can assure you: it will be a fascinating, eye-opening attraction, he continues.

Ham says the expansion of the theme parks grounds in Northern Kentucky will also include an exceptionally well-done scale model of what Jerusalem may have looked like at the time of Christ, which should be ready sometime in 2022.

He adds, Also, for children well create a themed carousel for them to ride, hopefully to open by next summer. These are just a few of the things we will be adding to our 800-acre property.

The $100 million Ark Encounter is seeing record crowds. The attendance is returning to pre-pandemic levels with up to 7,000 visitors on Saturdays.

Our research shows that over 92% of those who visit our attractions are coming from outside Kentucky, Ham shared. These guests of ours are bringing dollars that would not normally be spent in this state. What an opportunity for local businesses to capitalize on this phenomenon.

Previously, the Ark Encounter said on its website that it would use Babel to explain the origin of the different languages and people groups.

We will have an excellent teaching tool in the form of a very detailed Babel diorama. All of these figures and designs were meticulously designed, 3D printed, and hand-painted in order to present a realistic view of what it might have looked like as these people went about ignoring Gods command and building a tower that reached into the heavens, it said.

The impact of their rebellion can be seen all around us today and we can use this historical event to teach the truth about humanity  that we are all related and are descended from Noah, as described in Genesis, it added.

In June 2019, Answers in Genesis announced they would add new facilities, partly in response to a growth in annual attendance at the time.

This included the creation of a 2,500-seat auditorium with a 70-foot-long LED screen, expanding the size of the Ararat Ridge Zoo, and opening a larger family play space.

Built by Playground Equipment Services, this family play area is accessible by all children and adults, said Answers in Genesis at the time. Parents and grandparents are encouraged to have fun with their kids as a family activity. This cutting-edge playground has been specially designed for children of all abilities.
Biden wont send US troops to Haiti despite interim leaders request Widow of slain Haitian leader Jovenel Moise thanks God for her survival

Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment

The Biden administration has declined the request of Haitis Interim Prime Minister Claude Joseph for U.S. troops as the impoverished nation struggles in the social and political aftermath of the assassination of President Jouvenal Moise.

The U.S. will only send security officials to assess the situation, senior officials said Saturday, The Wall Street Journal reported, adding that the interim leader has imposed a two-week state of emergency and had requested the U.S. to deploy troops to protect infrastructure ahead of elections that had been scheduled for September.

Officials from the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Department of Homeland Security were to arrive in Haiti on Sunday.

We need U.S. troops to help us provide security to the population, to efficiently confront the COVID-19 pandemic and to assist in the investigation of Mr. Moises assassination, a spokesman for Joseph was quoted as saying.

The interim leadership of Joseph, who was an ally of the president, is being challenged by some Haitian politicians. He took charge after the killing of Moise on Wednesday, which occurred the day after the president appointed a new prime minister, neurosurgeon Ariel Henry. President Moise was also accused of corruption, having ties to criminal gangs, and overstaying his tenure.

The slain presidents wife, Martine Moise, was also critically wounded in Wednesdays attack by an armed commando of 28 men, 26 of whom were Colombians and two were Haitian-Americans. She addressed the nation on social media on Saturday.

I am alive, thanks to God, she said in an audio message posted on Twitter, France 24 reported. I am alive but I have lost my husband Jovenel.  In the blink of an eye, the mercenaries entered my home and riddled my husband with bullets ... without even giving him a chance to say a word. I am crying, it is true, but we cannot let the country lose its way. We cannot let his blood ... have been spilled in vain.

Meanwhile, the AP reports that James Solages, an American arrested in relation to the killing of Moise, worked alongside Hollywood actor Sean Penn to rebuild the country after the 2010 earthquake that killed at least 300,000 people.

Until 2011, Solages worked as a driver and in a security capacity for Penns J/P Haitian Relief Organization, according to three anonymous sources who are familiar with the actors relief work in Haiti.

Solages, 35, studied in Florida and started a charity in 2019 to help residents of his hometown of Jacmel, along Haitis southern coast.

Haiti has seen an increase in crime since last year.

The United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti stated in a February report that there were 234 kidnappings in the previous 12 months, an increase of 200% from the previous year.

Authorities in Haiti reported 1,380 killings in 2020.

According to the watchdog group Fondasyon Je Klere, over 150 gangs operate in Haiti.
Colombian court agrees to hear case of social media star forced to remove video supporting traditional marriage

Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment

The Colombian Constitutional Court has agreed to review the case of a social media star that seeks to overturn a national court ruling that ordered her to take down an online video wherein she expressed her belief in traditional marriage.

There are high hopes for a positive ruling affirming freedom of speech. The Courts ruling will affect whether we are allowed to share Christian views on social media, Christian legal group ADF International, which is supporting the social media star Erika Kika Nieto, said in a statement.

The national court had asked Nieto, who has millions of followers, to remove a YouTube video in which she shared her views about marriage being only between a man and a woman, but added that she tolerates other perspectives. An activist had complained about her statement.

In a previous case that arose from the same video, the court has already ruled that Nietos speech on marriage is constitutionally protected. However, another activist took Nieto to court, complaining that this same comment about marriage was offensive and discriminatory. This time, a lower court considered the video to contain hate speech and thus ordered its removal from YouTube, the legal group explained.

Everyone has the right to freely share their beliefs in public. Im glad the Constitutional Court has decided to review my case, Nieto was quoted as saying after her appeal was admitted.

I hope they will uphold everyones right to speak freely. Nobody should have to be afraid of censorship or criminal sanctions for voicing their deeply held beliefs. By speaking out, I hope to encourage debate and inspire more tolerance of different views, she added.

Nieto previously said that she wanted to be authentic with her followers without being censored or fearing criminal sanctions just for posting a video. I dont want others to be afraid to voice their beliefs. By speaking out, I hope to inspire more tolerance of different opinions.

Tomas Henriquez, ADF International's director of advocacy for Latin America and the Caribbean, said its a hallmark of a free society that all persons are able to speak freely on what they believe to be right and good, especially on matters of public importance.

Nietos right to publicly express her views is not only protected by the Colombian Constitution but guaranteed by every major human rights treaty. If we value a free and vibrant society, we must always choose debate over censorship. Ultimately, people and democracy suffer when voices are silenced, Henriquez added.

A former member of Parliament in Finland, Paivi Rasanen, is also facing criminal investigations after she shared her disapproval with the Lutheran Church participating in an LGBT pride event in 2019.

According to ADF International, the Finnish prosecutor general accused her of ethnic agitation, which is punishable by up to two years in prison.

Freedom of speech is a fundamental right that is coming under increasing fire in todays cancel culture. Both Nietos and Rasanens cases show that the freedom to share what we believe must be properly protected, ADF International Deputy Director Robert Clarke said in a previous statement.
In Pennsylvania, forgotten forts and George Washington

Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment

Tucked away in southwestern Pennsylvania are two forts from an almost entirely forgotten war.

About 90 minutes by car from Pittsburgh and near the Pennsylvania border with West Virginia and Maryland in the picturesque Laurel Highlands are the reconstructed earthworks and makeshift circular palisade at Fort Necessity National Battlefield.

This was where the first battle in the French and Indian War, as the North American theater of the Seven Years War is called, occurred. The wars official name is actually a misnomer. Not only did armed conflict last longer than seven years  1754 to 1763  but the first world war as most of Europe was entangled on one side or the other in military engagements spanning five continents.

The battle at Fort Necessity on July 3, 1754, ended in disaster for 22-year-old George Washington, who as a lieutenant colonel in the royal colony of Virginias armed forces commanded just under 400 British regulars and colonials. This was actually the first of two consecutive disasters for Washington  disasters that derailed his long sought-after military career until the cause of American independence some 21 years later.

Fort Necessity itself was a reaction to a skirmish that occurred about six weeks earlier at what is today called Jumonville Glen.

It was here where Washingtons colonials and Indian allies surprised the French, who were camped below a rocky cliff in a naturally indefensible location. Just what transpired next remains debatable today, although the death of the commanding French officer, Joseph Coulon de Villiers de Jumonville, was considered an assassination by France.

Word of the skirmish made it back to the French at their stronghold of Fort Duquesne (pronounced doo-kayn) in present-day Pittsburgh. Soon, de Jumonvilles half-brother led a force against Washington. While the skirmish was not enough to cause a world war, the later battle in a no mans land claimed by both France and Great Britain was more than enough to revive centuries-old hostilities.

Fort Necessity was hopeless from the start.

Washington never cleared the tree line surrounding what was called the Great Meadows. This gave a considerable advantage to the French, who shed conventional tactics for the guerilla warfare of their Indian allies. Combined with bad weather, a lack of useable supplies and mounting casualties, Washington surrendered for the first and only time in his career.

Washingtons second disaster, which admittedly was actually that of commanding officer Maj. Gen. Edward Braddock, came about a year later. This time, he was merely an aide.

The 60-year-old Braddock marched more than 2,000 soldiers on a 12-foot-wide road his troops blazed through forests and over mountains toward Fort Duquesne. The expedition turned into a disaster on July 9, 1755, when the outnumbered French and Indians surprised the British and Americans after they crossed the Monongahela River some 10 miles from the fort.

With around 900 casualties among approximately 1,400 regulars, the battle was one of the worst-ever defeats for the British Army. The major general himself was shot and later died during the retreat. After reading the burial service from the Church of Englands 1662 Book of Common Prayer, Washington had Braddock buried in the middle of his road to avoid the bodys discovering and desecration by Indians. Today, a monument stands at this location, about a mile from the Necessity battlefield at the Great Meadows.

Britains war effort improved by 1758, when a new army under Brig. Gen. John Forbes moved west from Philadelphia toward Duquesne.

His force, which numbered more than 6,000 and included Washington in command of a Virginia-raised regiment, was so overwhelming that the beleaguered French destroyed their fortress the day before a brigade led by Washington arrived on Nov. 25, 1758.

Parts of their route, called the Forbes Road, included the earlier Braddock Road. Along the way, they erected several temporary forts that were basically the equivalent of truck stops and rest areas. One such fort was Fort Ligonier, which was named after the field marshal of the British Army.

A full reconstruction stands at the original location in Ligonier, a charming small town in Westmoreland County. Besides the reconstructed fort there is the museums spectacular collection of objects and artifacts, including original art from the era  the kind of art generally only found in a big-city museum. This is without a doubt the best museum dedicated to the French & Indian War anywhere.

While the forts actual role in the war was minor compared to Jumonville Glen or Fort Necessity, it is the best place to discover this important chapter of American history.

If you go

Admission to the National Park Service-operated Fort Necessity National Battlefield, including the visitor center and museum, is free. This includes Jumonville Glen.

Tickets for Fort Ligonier range from $8 for children to $15 for adults. Consider booking a private sunset tour for $35 per person. Fort Ligonier Days, an annual reenactment, takes place Oct. 8-10.

I stayed at the Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott in Somerset, one of the closest towns of any significant size. It was a perfectly fine chain hotel. However, I wish I had stayed at either the Historic Summit Inn, near Fort Necessity, or in Ligonier at Thistledown.

Getting here by car is especially easy as Pennsylvanias Laurel Highlands is within driving distance for many Americans. If you wanted to fly, the Pittsburgh airport is the closest airport with significant service from commercial airlines.

Follow @dennislennox on Instagram and Twitter.
Email Whatsapp Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment

Shepherding my family and my church are intertwined. Some might advocate separating the two, but its impossible since my household is part of the local church. When I leave the church building, I come home to church members. The call to pastor a church is not an individual decision, but rather a collective determination by a family. One of my best mentors taught a seminary class. Ill never forget his adamant words: If your wife aint called, you aint called. A couple of students chuckled at his lack of academic polish. They were fools.

Our ministry became our family through the foster system. We adopted a son. We foster other children. The call to shepherd a church is a call to shepherd the community. Dont call yourself a pastor if youre not willing to dive into the communitys worst problems and help. And the decision to minister to our community affects my family. The community became our family when we chose to adopt and foster. Were in this thing together, and heres why I am grateful.

1. My wife and kids love the church. No shoes? No problem. My little ones are quick to kick off their flip-flops and run around barefooted in the church. Our childrens ministry builds a culture of training and equipping kids for ministry. My wife is right at home in our worship ministry and womens ministry. She led worship during an interim search periodnot out of obligation but out of joy.

2. My church loves my family. Weve experienced the worst of what a church can do. My wife and oldest daughter were deeply wounded by a previous church, so were grateful to have a church now that demonstrates the best of what a congregation can do. God moved us from horror to delight, and we know what weve got with West Bradentonan amazing body of people with a genuine love for my family.

3. Ministry compels us to sacrifice. The local church is the front line of ministry. In the battle against the spiritual forces of evil, the church is the trench. Christs bride is dug in, charged up, and ready to die for the freedom of souls. I relish the trench. Its messy, at times gruesome, and the noise makes it difficult to sleep. While there is no beauty in warfare (spiritual or otherwise), the battling bride is a gorgeous organism. Despite the muck, despite the damage, and despite the fight, she remains pure, white, and righteous. She belongs to Christ. She combats for Christ. She never stops engaging in the mission of reclaiming captives of darkness. I will die fighting in the trenchfor the unborn person, for the immigrant, for the widow, for my neighbors, and for every tongue, tribe, and nation.

4. The legacy of my family must continue. My grandfather fought for civil rights in Alabama in the 1960s. He rescued sons from alcoholic fathers. My father has a national ministry but sacrifices to great degrees for the local church and really doesnt want the details of his sacrifice known. My mother gave up a career for ministry. My wife has done the same. Her grandfather toiled in obscurity among the rolling fields of Kentucky farms, pastoring in poverty without any glory or recognition.

5. Ministry is fun. Most days are filled with laughter and fist bumps. My family is happy. My church is happy. We have fun. After walking through a dark valley in ministry, God brought us to the place of royal palms, sunshine, and sand. I shepherd in paradise. Granted, if you scratch the surface of sunshine, youll find a bizzaro land of Florida crazies who need Jesus. It can be dark here, sure, but its also a lot of fun and certainly never boring. My family fits right in.

I want to die here: old, leathered, scarred, and exhausted. I cant imagine approaching the throne of God unless Im ready to collapse into the arms of Jesus. My family will help me limp to the finish line.

Originally published at Church Answers.
Email Whatsapp Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment

Election integrity won a pivotal battle last week against an attempt by Democrats to highjack the Voting Rights act of 1965 for partisan reasons, laying the foundation for Brnovich v. DNC to restore Americans' confidence in their elections, so that everywhere in this nation, voting, not cheating, can be easy and accessible.

Decades ago, there was rampant voter suppression of black citizens in certain parts of the country. Although America fought a Civil War in which over half a million citizens gave what Abraham Lincoln called the last full measure of devotion to bring about what his Gettysburg Address called a new birth of freedom, millions of Americans of color wouldnt see that new birth for years.

We amended the Constitution no less than 3 times after the Civil War to bring about lasting freedom. One of these was the Fifteenth Amendment, which guaranteed that no one would lose his or her right to vote on account of race. Yet almost a century later, millions of black Americans were not living that dream at the ballot box. After years of struggle, the Voting Rights Act was part of Congresss delivery on that promise. And VRA has continued to deliver for more than half a century.

But Joe Biden, Kamala Harris, and their Democratic National Committee attempted to twist that critically important civil rights law into a tool of the far left. They tried, and now they have failed before the highest court in the land.

Democrats sued Arizona in federal court over that states law that did not allow ballot harvesting by political activists, and a policy requiring voters to cast Election Day ballots at their assigned precinct. In June, the Supreme Court in Brnovich v. DNC held that those requirements do not violate Section 2 of the VRA because they do not make it harder for blacks or other racial minorities to vote. Every voting rule imposes a burden of some sort, Justice Sam Alito wrote in Brnovich. Mere inconvenience cannot be enough to run afoul of VRAs requirement that the election process be equally open to all racial groups, because otherwise most voting procedure laws would be illegal.

The Supreme Courts majority spoke about each states strong interest in preventing election fraud. Alito also explained that making sure that voters cast their ballots free from any intimidation or undue influence is another important state interest.

Lawmakers are never blind to politics in their own elections. Some of them might think that a particular election law can benefit one party more than another, and Democrats argued in court that some Republican votes for Arizonas law made that law racist by default. But Alito rejected that, saying partisan advantage is not the same as discriminating against a voter because of race.

That last point has not gotten the attention it deserves. Its insulting to argue that any measure that mightand I emphasize mighthelp Republicans, must therefore discriminate against black Americans. Its insulting because its patronizing to think that black voters automatically support Democrats when given a choice.

Taking the black vote for granted is a fantasy Democrats indulge at their own peril. That goes back to Joe Bidens racist comment during the 2020 campaign when he said that if youre a person of color who wouldnt vote for him, You aint black.

But that aside, the fact remains: The left didnt just lose a battle in Brnovich; they lost their battle plan for every fight they were going to wage on this front. In other words, Biden and the Democrats have lost the war to stop election integrity. Because many of the controversies that arose in recent election cyclesand especially 2020 with voting laws overhauled during COVID lockdownscan be fixed with election integrity measures that not only enjoy widespread public support, but now will clearly pass legal muster under VRA.

No doubt, youve heard about these measures in countless news stories by now. The media has already framed these measures as racist. Laws such as encouraging voters to vote in person, requiring voter ID (including free IDs for anyone who does not have a drivers license), keeping voter rolls clean of invalid names, barring private money from flooding into the election process, are some of the commonsense measures youre seeing in election laws in Georgia, Iowa, Texas, Florida, and elsewhere. The Biden administration and the Democrats are filing federal lawsuits against these laws nationwide.

Guess what they cite as the legal standard that these state laws supposedly violate? They say these laws violate Section 2 of VRA.

Now the Supreme Court in Brnovich makes clear that such regulations of the times, place, and manner of elections are legitimate under VRA. Alito explains for his fellow justices all the reasons why these state laws are valid under the U.S. Constitution and federal law. Brnovich was only the first battle. But there is every reason to suspect that the upcoming legal challenges will go the same way. They have most of the same features, and the lefts legal attacks against them are always the same.

That being said, these state laws should be upheld, and Americans of every color and every party will be able to have confidence in coming elections, starting with the 2022 midterms and the 2024 race for the White House.
America, if you want to know whats coming next, look to Canada and be forewarned

Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment

In some respects, Canada has been a step ahead of America in terms of moral and cultural decline. That means that what happens in Canada todayand I mean what happens in the most negative sensecould well be coming to America tomorrow.

Of course, in other respects, America is far ahead of Canada in terms of serious moral issues. Just consider the difference in gun violence between our nations. Or ask yourself who is the world leader in exporting and providing porn; Canada or America?

Yet, when it comes to government overreach or attacks on fundamental liberties or hostility towards the Church, Canadas descent has been more frightening.

We do well to pay attention to what is taking place to our north.

For example, Canada legalized same-sex marriage in 2005, a decade before the Supreme Courts Obergefell decision, without which the states would have been battling over the issue for years to come. Not surprisingly, Canada was also well ahead of America in terms of prosecuting Christians who opposed gay activism and propaganda.

To give one case in point, already in 2006, a Canadian professor was fined two weeks pay by a Nova Scotia university for telling a student that homosexuality is an unnatural lifestyle...Cape Breton University (CBU) fined veteran history professor David Mullan $2,100 in response to two human rights complaints filed by a homosexual student who coordinates the campus Sexual Diversity Office. The student took umbrage at two letters the professor had written to his former Anglican bishop two years ago.

Canada has also been ahead of the US in passing national legislation that would punish those who refused to comply with transgender activism, such as choosing not to refer to a male as a female if that person identified as such.

Now, according to Tyler ONeil on PJ Media, a new bill, Bill C-36, would enable citizens to bring legal claims against people who engage in hate speech online, and if a member or panel of the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal finds the accused guilty, the tribunal can either order the accused to cease the discriminatory practice and take steps to prevent it from happening again; order the accused to pay compensation of up to $20,000 to any victim personally identified in the communication that constituted the discriminatory practice, or order the accused to pay a penalty of not more than $50,000 to the Receiver General if the tribunal considers it appropriate considering the nature, circumstances, extent and gravity of the discriminatory practice.

And what, exactly, would be defined as hate speech, especially if it simply needs to be hateful in the eye of the beholder? ONeil rightly warns, Claims about hate speech are arguably even more slippery than claims about discrimination, and it seems extremely likely that Canadas government will use this law to silence dissent from the governments preferred ideologies  from transgender orthodoxy to COVID-19 (the border between the U.S. and Canada is still closed to those filthy Americans).

Is there any reason that this could not become the law of the land in America too?

Then there is the overt hostility towards churches, to the point of saying publicly, Burn them all down!

As I mentioned, for years Christians in Canada have been prosecuted for opposing gay activism, with the noose getting tighter by the year.

In more recent months, pastors who refused to comply with the governments COVID-related overreach have served time in jail, producing more national hostility to these allegedly lawless Christians who are supposedly endangering their fellow-Canadians.

Just last month, as reported by the Christian Post,a Canadian pastor was arrested after his church held an outdoor worship service at an undisclosed location after the local government ordered the church building to be closed.

Yes, the congregation was reportedly discovered by a police helicopter as they met outdoors, meaning that they were not violating COVID guidelines for indoor meetings. Can you imagine holding an outdoor service to worship Jesus together, only to look up and see a police helicopter overhead? You have been found out! You are guilty! We found you!

The next day, the pastor was arrested. This really happened.

But it gets worse.

As reports have been emerging about unmarked graves being found at residential schools on First Nations reserves (roughly the equivalent of Native American reservations), church buildings are being set on fire, since these schools, which began in the 1800s, were normally church-led.

The discovery of these graves has prompted a national outcry, as if hundreds of children were killed or allowed to die by these schools. And certainly, there should be thorough investigations to find out exactly what happened. (There could be totally innocent answers, such as children dying of various diseases over the years with the markers eroding over time. Or there could be totally nefarious answers. Either way, there need to be answers.)

Others, however, are not waiting for answers, with radio host Nesta Matthews tweeting, Burn the churches down. Arrest any former staff that were actually there and any current staff that wont provide documentation. Sell everything they own in Canada and give it to survivors. Dismantle it completely.

Or, as expressed by Harsha Walia, executive director of the British Columbia Civil Liberties Association (BCCLA), Burn it all down.

Yes, these sentiments are being expressed openly and boldly. America, be forewarned!

With the growing hostility in our country towards Christians, and with attacks on church buildings during last years riots, this does not seem so farfetched.
South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster continues legal fight to revive heartbeat abortion ban

Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment

South Carolina has decided to continue its legal battle to allow the enforcement of a recently passed law that bans most abortions at the time when a baby's heartbeat can first be detected.

Gov. Henry McMaster filed an appeal on Wednesday to the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit to reverse a lower court ruling against the ban.

The appeal argues that the South Carolina Fetal Heartbeat and Protection from Abortion Act, which was signed into law by McMaster earlier this year, serves a valid state interest.

The Act requires the abortionist to give the mother the opportunity to view an ultrasound, hear the childs heartbeat, and receive information about her child. If the abortionist fails to do any of these, the Act gives the mother a cause of action against him, read the introduction of the appeal.

The Abortion Centers lawsuit, by contrast, seeks to deprive mothers of the right to receive relevant information. In these circumstances, the Constitution does not give the Abortion Centers third-party standing to represent the very women who would be harmed if the suit were to succeedand who are even now being harmed due to the injunction.

In a statement released Wednesday, McMaster argued that we must defend South Carolinas Fetal Heartbeat Act against every challenge at every level.

As Ive said before, the right to life is the most precious of rights and the most fragile. We must never let it be taken for granted or taken away. And we must protect life at every opportunity, regardless of cost or inconvenience, he added.

Signed into law by McMaster in February, the Act prohibited abortions when a baby's heartbeat can be detected, which normally occurs as early as six weeks into a pregnancy; it also provides an exemption for when a mother has a life-threatening medical emergency.

Soon after the bill was signed into law, a group of abortion providers filed suit against the law, with U.S. District Court Judge Mary Geiger Lewis blocking enforcement of the law in March.

Alexis McGill Johnson, president and CEO at Planned Parenthood Federation of America, one of the plaintiffs in the case, released a statement at the time celebrating the ruling.

We applaud the courts decision to protect South Carolinians from this abortion ban, stated Johnson, as quoted by wltx.com back in March.

Despite todays temporary win, we know there is a long road ahead as the fight to preserve abortion access intensifies by the day.
Christian women's shelter sues to stop city from forcing it to admit trans-identified men

Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment

A faith-based womens shelter in Anchorage, Alaska, filed a federal lawsuit last week to stop an ordinance from forcing the shelter to admit trans-identified biological males to sleep alongside women whove suffered physical and sexual abuse.

The lawsuit was filed last Wednesday by the nonprofit conservative legal group Alliance Defending Freedom on behalf of Downtown Hope Center, a womens shelter and soup kitchen founded by Anchorage church leaders over 30 years ago.

The complaint also alleges that an updated ordinance will also hinder the shelters ability to communicate its religious beliefs on sexuality and gender on its website or signs.

The new legal filing follows an initial lawsuit filed back in 2018 on behalf of the Downtown Hope Center, which faced a complaint after referring an injured and inebriated trans-identified individual to a hospital rather than let him stay in the facility. A court later sided with the shelter, and the city dropped its complaint.

In May, the Anchorage Assembly amended its city ordinance banning places of public accommodation from discriminating based on sexual orientation or gender identity. The shelters lawyers believe the amended language attempts to find a new way to force Downtown Hope Center to let biological males sleep next to abused and trafficked women.

The court previously ruled that the initial laws did not apply to the Downtown Hope Center, attorney Christy Allen said in an interview with The Christian Post. So then, it seems that Anchorage was displeased with that ruling, and they wanted to be sure that those laws did apply. So they rewrote the law to basically include homeless shelters within those definitions.

The assembly amended the definition of public accommodation to include facilities of any kind, whether licensed or not, whose goods, services, facilities, privileges, advantages or accommodations are made available to the general public. The old definition only applied to business[es] or professional activit[ies].

But the lawsuit argues that [m]any of the [updated] laws terms and phrases are undefined.

ADF maintains that the Downtown Hope Center should not be considered a public accommodation and argues that it is a private, religious entity that ministers to a select group of people. That select group is described as homeless women who have suffered physical and sexual abuse at the hands of men.

Women who use the shelter have told Hope Center officials that they would not feel safe if they had to sleep and/or undress next to biological men, the lawsuit reads.

Allen believes that the timing of the rewritten law seems like it was a response to the earlier court ruling.

The previous litigation was mentioned in the discussions about changing the law, so it does seem that it is directly correlated to the outcome of the previous suit, she told CP.

In a statement last Thursday, ADF Senior Counsel Kate Anderson stressed that the overnight womens shelter provides a safe place for women, many of whom have suffered due to sex trafficking, rape, or domestic violence at the hands of men.

Women deserve a place to sleep where they can feel secure, Anderson argues. City officials have no business trying to force the center to violate its beliefs by demanding that the shelter allow biological men to sleep mere feet from vulnerable women. This is the second attempt by the city to force Downtown Hope Center to violate its religious beliefs to the detriment of the women it serves.

The lawsuit argues that the citys ordinance violates the First and Fourteenth Amendments to the U.S. Constitution. The shelter seeks a preliminary and permanent injunction to stop the city from enforcing the ordinance.

The Downtown Hope Center launched as part of a vision of Anchorage church leaders who sought to share Gods love with the citys homeless population. The shelter provides overnight housing, meals, laundry services, hot showers and job-skills training.
Racial justice top social issue among InterVarsity Christian students: poll

Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment

The issue of racial justice topped social concerns for members of the prominent religious student group InterVarsity Christian Fellowship, according to a recent survey.

InterVarsity released the findings of a survey on Tuesday that they conducted among 316 members enrolled at 127 different college campuses. The survey focused on multiple matters.

When asked which social issues were the most important to them, 38.61% of students who responded to the survey said "racial justice" was the most important.

Racial justice was ranked higher than the social concerns of reducing abortion (26.27% of respondents) and religious tolerance/freedom (25.63% of respondents).

Second place in the social issues category was climate change, with 29.11% of respondents listing that as the most important." The third place was foster care, adoption, or orphan care at 28.16%.

InterVarsity Chief Communications Officer Greg Jao said in a statement released Tuesday that the recent upheavals in the United States over race were a major factor in the results.

Emerging from the past year of racial unrest, were seeing how the social issues that our nation reckons with are also at the forefront of our students minds, stated Jao.

As a campus ministry, its crucial for us to help students navigate both these issues and how to live out their faith from a biblical perspective in real-time on college campuses.

The survey also found that nearly two-thirds of respondents (68.76%) became a Christian before entering high school, and 94.62% felt that church involvement was either very important or somewhat important." Nearly half (46.52%) reported that the COVID-19 pandemic had negatively impacted their emotional or mental health.

The report also found that, despite many lawsuits surrounding their presence on secular campuses, around 75% of those surveyed believed that college campuses were extremely, very" or moderately supportive and welcoming of evangelicals.

During the pandemic, there has been growing debate and discord in the United States over racially charged issues, ranging from policing to how to teach American history.

Much of this was sparked in May of last year when George Floyd died while handcuffed and in police custody as three officers held him down, one being Minneapolis, Minnesota, police officer Derek Chauvin whose knee was on his neck.

In April, Chauvin was found guilty of second-degree murder, third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter for the death of Floyd. He was later sentenced to 22 and-a-half years in prison.
Email Whatsapp Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment

"So Cornelius said, 'Four days ago I was fasting until this hour; and at the ninth hour I prayed in my house, and behold, a man stood before me in bright clothing, and said, 'Cornelius, your prayer has been heard, and your alms are remembered in the sight of God. Send therefore to Joppa and call Simon here, whose surname is Peter. He is lodging in the house of Simon, a tanner, by the sea. When he comes, he will speak to you.' So I sent to you immediately, and you have done well to come. Now therefore, we are all present before God, to hear all the things commanded you by God" (Acts 10:3033).

This was the beginning of a phenomenal moment in history. God used one man with a deep reverence for God, a gentile named Cornelius, to become the open door to the Gentile world. Up until this point, the Gospel was only for the Jew. Yet, suddenly, the door opened through one hungry heart. Cornelius could not take the Gospel to the Gentile worldit would have been foolish for him to trybut God could do it through him.

In the same way, when you are willing to open your heart to God's will, beginning with your own household, and then to your friends, neighbors, and even people in places you have never been, you will discover that there is no limit to what God can do through a hungry heart.

When I was young, I was very fearful, especially afraid of people in crowded rooms. I felt I had little to offer the kingdom of God, but I did have a hungry heart. I was walking the beat one day as a young cop, and I just started praying, "Lord, I want to win 100,000 people to You before I die." Then I began to be very specific in my prayer. "I don't want them to just be people who raise their hand in a service somewhere. I want them to be people who actually live for You and end up at Your throne. You will be able to look them in the eye and say, 'Well done, good and faithful servant.'"

Now at this point, I had never preached a sermon. I had no ability to speak in public whatsoever. But I had a hungry heart, and I was willing to embrace the impossible. I said, "God, I am asking You to do something so far beyond me."

Fast-forward many years later to when I was standing in the fields of Nigeria, in the midst of a civil war. By local estimates, there were somewhere between 400,000 to 700,000 people gathered. You could not see an end to the crowd in any direction. I remember that first night preaching to nominal Christians and Muslims, and talking about the worthlessness of all religion that has no compassion for its neighbor. I asked people if they were willing to open their hearts to receive Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior and about 100,000 people raised their hands to receive Christ!

I went back to my hotel room, and it suddenly dawned on me that in one hour, God had answered a prayer I had prayed years ago when all I had was a hungry heart. I got down on my knees beside my bed to give God thanks, and the first thing He spoke to my heart was, "Carter, don't limit Me. Don't put boundaries around Me. There is no limit to what can be accomplished through a hungry heart!"

In the Book of Revelation, Jesus spoke to a particular church in Philadelphia, saying, "I know your works. See, I have set before you an open door, and no one can shut it; for you have a little strength, have kept My word, and have not denied My name" (Revelation 3:8). In other words, "I know your heart hungers for Me; I know you want My presence in your life, and I have set before you an open door that no one can shut."

I feel God is speaking the same thing to somebody reading this today. "You only have a little strength, but you have kept My Word the best you knew how. You have tried to walk with Me, and you have not denied My name by allowing unbelief to grip your heart. You still believe that I can do what I say I will do. You still believe that all things are possible with Me. And so I have set before you an open door, and as you go through it, I will do something so powerful in and through you that people will have to acknowledge that I have loved you."

I encourage you to yield to God's plan for your life. You have no idea what He is willing to do through you. He has something in mind that is so much bigger than anything you ever thought your life could amount to. But it starts with a hungry heart, and then one little step of faith, and then another step. Just keep going through every door He opens, and He will give you His Word, His plan, and His Spirit. He will fill you with courage, and you will be amazed at the difference your life will make in this generation!
4 suspects killed, 2 arrested in assassination of Haitian president as faithful and political react

Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment

Four suspects in the assassination of Haitian President Jovenel Moise were killed during a gun battle with police and two others were arrested, local authorities said Wednesday as the faithful and political continue to react to his death.

The police are engaged in a battle with the assailants, Haitis Police Chief Leon Charles said at a news conference late Wednesday. We are pursuing them so that, in a gunfight, they meet their fate or in gunfight they die, or we apprehend them.

The late Haitian president was assassinated in an attack on his private residence in the hills above Port-au-Prince at about 1 a.m. local time, the BBC reported. Magistrate Carl Henry Destin told Le Nouvelliste newspaper that Moise died at the scene and his body had 12 bullet wounds. He further noted that the president's office and bedroom were ransacked and he was found lying on his back, covered in blood.

The late presidents wife, Martine Moise, who was injured in the brazen attack, was transported to a hospital in South Florida, where she is said to be in critical but stable condition. The couples three children  Jomarlie, Jovenel Jr. and Joverlein  are reportedly being kept in a safe location.

As many in the Haitian diaspora try to process the killing of the Haitian leader, reactions have been mixed.

At the Notre Dame dHaiti Catholic Church in Miamis Little Haiti neighborhood Wednesday, members of the diaspora observed a moment of silence for Moise, Local 10 reported. The Rev. Reginald Jean Mary also asked parishioners to pray for Martine Moise.

Until when do we have to suffer? Until when will we continue to kill one another? Until when can we be one, Jesus? Jean Mary said in his public prayer.

Leonie Hermantin, a Haitian community leader in Miami, told The New York Times that Moise took on many projects in the northwest of Haiti, where he is from, and was popular among the working class and South Florida.

To some he was a corrupt leader, but to others he was a reformer. He was a man who was trying to change the power dynamics, particularly when it came to money and who had control over electricity contracts, Hermantin said.

Dahoud Andre, a Haitian radio host from Brooklyn, New York, told the publication that he was overjoyed by the news that Moise is dead.

There will be celebrations on the streets of New York, he said, noting how Moise had won the 2016 elections with just under 600,000 votes in a country of 11 million people.

We believe it is a good thing for the Haitian people that Jovenel Moise is dead, he said. He was a criminal, who never had any legitimacy and under his leadership, there have been massacres, and corruption, and the arming and financing of street gangs. The only people mourning will be those who were helping him to steal.

Frantz Benjamin, a Haitian-Canadian member of the provincial Parliament for the Quebec Liberal Party, said Moises assassination is not a good development for the Caribbean nation.

Whether you supported him or not, no one is a winner from this, there is no joy, he said. If you can kill a president, you can kill anyone.

Moise was killed as he pursued an aggressive agenda that included rewriting the countrys Constitution, The New York Times reported. It was not a move that was supported by the United States or some local religious leaders. Critics feared that he was setting the country down a path toward authoritarian rule and threatened the nation's democracy.

The late president had been known to use gangs to repress political opponents, according to the U.S. government. Last year, the U.S. Treasury sanctioned two senior Haitian officials for allegedly planning the 2018 La Saline massacre," The Wall Street Journal reported.

In that massacre civilians, including children, were taken from their homes and executed in the streets. Their bodies were then burned and dismembered, the U.S. Treasury said.

Laurent Lamothe, a former prime minister of Haiti, told ABC News he was devastated by Moises death. He suggested it was Moises push for reforms that triggered his death and now the country is in mourning.

I was completely devastated and the country, the people are devastated. Haiti is in mourning. It is a sad day for Haiti and for Haitians, he said.

The president was leading many fights on many fronts for reforms and he wanted to do it in different sectors of the economy and he had received threats. So he was aware that he was in a dangerous and tenuous situation. And they carried out on some of those threats. So now an investigation has to [occur] to find out who did it. Who paid for it and for those persons to be held accountable, Lamothe said.

Among those who did not support Moise were religious leaders who called on him to step down just months before he was killed as the country faced what some describe as a descent into hell amid rising political tensions and violence.

The Bishops' Conference of Haiti said the proposed changes to the countrys Constitution, while in the middle of a national socio-political crisis, were not wise, Vatican News said. In a Feb. 2 statement, the Conference said that violence had escalated under Moises rule, and the Haitian people were bearing the brunt of it.

The daily life of the Haitian people is reduced to death, murders, impunity and insecurity, the Haitian Bishops' Conference wrote, according to Fides News Agency. Discontent is everywhere, in almost all areas.

In March, the Haitian Conference of Religious echoed the alarm raised by the country's bishops and called on Moise to step down as his political opposition claimed that his five-year term had expired on Feb. 7.

"No serious decisions have been taken to alleviate the suffering of the people or to protect them from aggression," the CHR asserted in their letter. The only thing that seems to be of concern to you, is to carry out your so-called mandate at all costs, against the legitimate request of an entire people."

On Wednesday, Pope Francis called Moises assassination heinous and expressed condolences to the Haitian people and to his wife, who was also seriously wounded and whose life he commends to God.

He furthered condemned all forms of violence as a means of resolving crises and conflicts, and wished the Haitian people a future of fraternal harmony, solidarity and prosperity.

Lamothe said the U.S., which he called a great ally of Haiti, could help the country at this time by providing support with security and help with the upcoming presidential elections scheduled for September.

This was a very well financed and coordinated attack to kill the president of the country. That was a targeted attack. It was hired guns that carried out this work. The people of Haiti, what they want, they want peace, they want an environment conducive to being able to find jobs and they want security, he said.
Haitis Pres. Jovenel Moise assassinated months after bishops urged him to step down

Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment

Haitian President Jovenel Moise was assassinated Wednesday, and his wife was injured months after religious leaders called on him to step down as the country faces what some describe as a descent into hell amid rising political tensions and violence. He was 53.

Interim Premier Claude Joseph told The Associated Press that Moise was assassinated in an attack on his private residence early Wednesday, which he described as a hateful, inhumane and barbaric act.

The late presidents wife, first lady Martine Moise, was also shot and is currently hospitalized.

The countrys security situation is under the control of the National Police of Haiti and the Armed Forces of Haiti, Joseph said. Democracy and the republic will win.

In a message to the people of Haiti, White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said in an interview with CNN Wednesday that Moises assassination is a tragic tragedy.

Its a horrific crime and were so sorry for the loss that they are all suffering and going through as many of them are waking up this morning and hearing this news," she said. "And we stand ready and stand by them to provide any assistance thats needed."

U.K. Prime Minister Boris Johnson was among the first world leaders to react to the killing of the Caribbean countrys head of state. He called the assassination abhorrent.

I am shocked and saddened at the death of President Moise. Our condolences are with his family and the people of Haiti. This is an abhorrent act and I call for calm at this time, Johnson said in a statement on Twitter.

Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness said in a statement that the assassination is a stain on Haiti and a sorrowful time for the Caribbean.

This morning the world awoke to the shocking and tragic news of the assassination of Haitis President His Excellency Jovenel Moise. I have met and spoken with President Moise many times and in all my interactions with him, particularly within the context of CARICOM, I found him to be a man committed to seeing Haiti take her place in the world, Holness said. This heinous act is a stain on Haiti and a sorrowful time for the region. May God be a special covering over his family and over the people of Haiti during this dark time in the nations history.

Moise was killed as he pursued an aggressive agenda that included rewriting the countrys Constitution, The New York Times reported. It was not a move that was supported by the United States or some local religious leaders. Critics feared that he was setting the country down a path toward authoritarian rule and threatened the nation's democracy.

Moise was reportedly pushing for a Constitution that would grant Haitis leader immunity for any actions taken while in office. However, many Haitians felt a need for a new Constitution even if they were critical of Moise's proposal.

We need a system that works, Moise told The New York Times in March. The system now doesnt work. The president cannot work to deliver.

The Bishops' Conference of Haiti said the proposed changes to the countrys Constitution while in the middle of a national socio-political crisis were not wise, Vatican News reports. In a Feb. 2 statement, the conference argued that violence had escalated under Moises rule, and the Haitian people were bearing the brunt of it.

The daily life of the Haitian people is reduced to death, murders, impunity and insecurity, the Haitian Bishops' Conference wrote, according to Fides News Agency. Discontent is everywhere, in almost all areas.

In March, the Haitian Conference of Religious echoed the alarm raised by the country's bishops and called on Moise to step down as his political opposition claimed that his five-year term had expired on Feb. 7.

"No serious decisions have been taken to alleviate the suffering of the people or to protect them from aggression," the CHR argued in the letter. The only thing that seems to be of concern to you, is to carry out your so-called mandate at all costs, against the legitimate request of an entire people."

One wonders, what is the point of clinging to power even illegitimately or illegally when more than half the population lives in conditions of chronic food insecurity? they asked.

By April, the Catholic Archdiocese of Port-au-Prince said Haiti was facing a descent into hell after 10 people, including seven clergy members, were abducted by kidnappers demanding a $1 million ransom.

For some time now, we have been witnessing the descent into hell of Haitian society, the archdiocese said in a statement.

The public authorities who are doing nothing to resolve this crisis are not immune from suspicion. We denounce complacency and complicity wherever it comes from, the statement added.

Despite the calls for him to step down, Moise maintained that his term would not expire until February 2022 because he wasn't sworn in until 2017.

A provisional president ruled Haiti for one year following controversial elections clouded by fraud allegations. Moise had called for legislative and presidential elections to be held on Sept. 19, with a runoff scheduled for Nov. 21, Vatican News said. The government has been acting through continuous decrees.

In February, the U.S. State Department said that a new Haitian president should only take power once Moise's term ends in February 2022.

In 2019, Haitians took to the streets to demand Moise resign in light of allegations that the government misappropriated billions of dollars earmarked for reconstruction following a catastrophic earthquake in 2010 that killed 300,000 people and left between 1.5 million and 2 million people homeless.

With a Gross Domestic Product per capita of $1,149.50 and a Human Development Index ranking of 170 out of 189 countries in 2020, Haiti's economic and social development is hindered by political instability, governance issues and fragility, according to the World Bank. Haiti is the poorest country in the Latin America and Caribbean region and among the poorest countries in the world.
Nigeria: Parents cry out to God for safe return of 140 students, staff abducted from Christian school

Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment

Parents of the more than 140 students abducted from a Christian boarding school in Nigeria have been holding vigil outside the school, crying out to God and praying for the safe return of their children and staff.

Armed assailants invaded Bethel Baptist High School in the Kaduna state of northwestern Nigeria around 1:45 a.m. Monday, the day senior students were scheduled to take their final exams, according to Christian Solidarity Worldwide.

The mass kidnapping has led to the precautionary closure of 13 other schools in the area identified as vulnerable," most of which belong to Christian organizations.

A statement released Monday from the commissioner for Police Kaduna State Command said around 26 students and a teacher were rescued. The search continues for the remaining hostages.

The abductors promised the parents that their children would not starve if they provided rice, beans, palm oil, salt and stock cubes. They said a ransom demand would follow, Euro News reported.

Video footage released by Christian Solidarity Worldwide shows distressed mothers and fathers crying out to God and praying on the school grounds for the release of their children.

Among the parents praying for the students' safe return was a widow whose four children were kidnapped.

The mass abduction happened in the southern part of Kaduna state in Nigeria, the epicenter of the spate of kidnappings in recent years. The abduction at Bethel Baptist High School was just one of four incidents within 24 hours, CSW reported.

Terrorist groups that have a foothold in the region, like Boko Haram, oppose education and kidnap boys to use as assassins. Those who don't escape are brainwashed and become terrorists themselves, said Dede Laugesen, executive director of Save the Persecuted Christians, in a previous interview with The Christian Post.

Children often fear to attend school, she added, because terrorists attack education centers. Without education, they cant get jobs to provide for themselves as adults. As a result, jobless and uneducated young adults often become terrorists.

Seun Bakare of Amnesty International told Voice of America that the dropout rate is already high due to the dangers associated with going to school.

"We risk the loss of a generation if these attacks on schools and attacks on education continue," Bakare said. "It is so shameful that on one hand, bandits and Boko Haram are attacking children and their right to education, on the other hand, the government's only response is to shut down schools. The government's response is also an attack on education and this is completely unacceptable."

UNICEF Executive Director Henrietta Fore released a statement on Wednesday expressing her concerns about the kidnappings and child abductions spreading in West and Central Africa.

The U.N. estimates that at least 950 students have been abducted from their schools by armed men since December, Fore said in a statement.

Over the past six weeks alone, nearly 500 children were abducted in four separate incidents across the central and northwest parts of the country, she continued. Many of these children have not yet been returned. It is hard to fathom the pain and fear that their families and loved ones are suffering in their absence.

Kidnapping for ransom has become a lucrative industry for terrorists and Islamic extremist groups in Nigeria.

This abduction is the 10th mass kidnapping in northwest Nigeria since December, Newsclick NG reported.

Many Nigerians have raised concerns about what they perceive as the government's inaction in holding terrorists accountable for the rising number of attacks and kidnappings.

In an earlier interview with CP, Emeka Umeagbalai of the International Society for Civil Liberties and the Rule of Law, said kidnappings of Christians happen for various reasons. Some terrorists, like Boko Haram, ISWAP and radical Fulani militants, are motivated by money while others are motivated by Islamic radicalism.

Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari has called for security personnel to act swiftly in ensuring the students safe return.

Critics have accused the Nigerian government of being complicit in terrorist activity, as insurgent groups are allowed to continue their operations and often receive government ransoms for kidnappings even though the government denies paying ransom to terrorists.

We don't want the government to make a mere pronouncement that they're on top of the situation, we want the government to take responsibility, we want the government to take actions that will abort such occurrences," said Emmanuel Hwande, a spokesperson at Nigerian Union of Teachers, according to Voice of America.

Nigeria, Africas most populous nation, recently became the first democratic nation to be added to the U.S. State Department's list of "countries of particular concern" for tolerating or engaging in egregious violations of religious freedom under the International Religious Freedom Act.

More Christians are murdered for their faith in Nigeria than in any other country.

Religious persecution watchdog group Open Doors USA ranks Nigeria No. 9 on its 2021 World Watch List of countries where Christians face the most severe persecution for extreme levels of Islamic oppression.
Click here to read the full article.

Dr. Anthony Fauci said the crowds positive reaction to the dangerous anti-vaccine message emanating from the stage at the Conservative Political Action Conference in Texas this weekend was horrifying and frightening.

On Sunday, CNNs Jake Tapper showed Bidens chief medical adviser a video clip from CPAC where the crowd loudly cheered while a conservative author boasted about the government having trouble reaching a higher percentile of U.S. citizens vaccinated.

They were hoping, the government was hoping that they could sort of sucker 90 percent of the population into getting vaccinated. And it isnt happening, the panelist said to cheers. Currently, only 48 percent of Americans are fully vaccinated.

When asked for his reaction the nations top infectious disease expert responded with horror.

Its horrifying, Fauci said. I mean, they are cheering about someone saying that its a good thing for people not to try and save their lives. I mean, if you just unpack that for a second, Jake, its almost frightening to say, Hey, guess what, we dont want you to do something to save your life. Yay! Everybody starts screaming and clapping. I just dont get that. I mean, and I dont think that anybody whos thinking clearly can get that. What is that all about? I dont understand that, Jake.

Earlier in the interview, Fauci spoke about the pushback from conservatives regarding the vaccine.

I mean, its ideological rigidity, I think, Fauci said, Theres no reason not to get vaccinated.

Weve got to put aside this ideological difference or differences thinking that somebody is forcing you to do something, Fauci added. The public health officials, like myself and my colleagues, are asking you to do something that will ultimately save your life, and that of your family and that of the community.

Also on Sunday, Republican Congressman Adam Kinzinger blasted his party, saying theyre gonna get Americans killed with their lies surrounding the Biden administration initiative to go door-to-door to promote the vaccine.

Its absolute insanity  this is outrage politics that are being played by my party, and its gonna get Americans killed, Kinzinger said.

Sign up for Rolling Stone's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Most years, travelers make summer plans well in advance so they can fit in a getaway before life gets busy again in the fall.

But 2021 is not most years. Vaccinations in the United States only became widely available in the spring, some popular domestic destinations didn't drop covid restrictions until last month, and global travel rules are shifting constantly.

That leaves vacationers without much time to fit in a trip before kids go back to school or adults return to the office. Many are scrambling to arrange last-minute trips, whenever and wherever they can over the next several weeks. And, of course, safety is still a top concern since the pandemic isn't over.

RELATED: Texas summer storms are bringing out the alligators

"People definitely are raring to do something over the summer, and many didn't plan as far ahead as we would normally recommend because they just didn't know what was going to be happening," Washington D.C.-area travel adviser Sari Greene said.

Those who are venturing out while they still can are finding steep prices, limited lodging options, a dearth of rental cars and flight disruptions galore. So is it possible to scrape together a summer break? Experts say: Absolutely.

- Keep it close to home (just like last year): Greene, an affiliate of Virtuoso agency Avenue Two Travel, said she has been helping clients plan two- to three-day driving trips close to home. Without having to worry about flying or rental cars, it is easier to plan at the last minute and go whenever a hotel has availability.

"People have so much more flexibility if they don't have to get that flight, and they can go anytime," she said.

- Or go very far away: With many countries in Europe opening to Americans recently, the crowds are expected to be far smaller than in a typical summer - with prices following suit. Experts say international airfare is the only category of travel that isn't more expensive this year than last.

Mike Salvadore, owner of 58 Stars Travel, said deals in places such as Italy should still be available this summer.

"I would call Europe definitely an under-the-radar opportunity that they can explore, especially this year," he said. "Because next summer is going to be very busy."

- Consider big cities: Metropolises such as New York City, D.C., Los Angeles and Chicago - which normally welcome domestic tourists, business travelers and international visitors - have a lot of hotel rooms and only a fraction of the visitors they would see in a typical year. Many of these destinations are putting on big events, running ads and otherwise trying to entice more tourists this season.

- Think ski towns, but for summer: Greene said she has been able to find options for clients in places that would normally beckon in winter, including Colorado and Vermont. She is planning her own family vacation in August in Vermont - which, she said, would normally have never been a summer option. One additional item in Vermont's favor: More than 82% of residents over the age of 12 have at least started their covid-19 vaccination.

- Be flexible: Make plans around what is available, rather than try to stick to a specific date or destination. Caroline Teel, managing editor of SmarterTravel, said in an email that travelers looking for inspiration can go to Skyscanner and enter "everywhere" as their destination to find deals on flights.

MORE LIFESTYLE: Too hot? Keep cool at these waterparks near Houston

- Gamble on weather: Summer means hurricane season and a lot of potential weather disruptions. But for travelers willing to take the risk, there can be last-minute deals to offseason destinations including Cancun, Puerto Rico and other Caribbean islands, Teel said. (In this case, travel insurance would be wise; policies need to be purchased before a storm is named.)

According to travel booking app Hopper, Florida - another destination at the mercy of tropical weather - is also the cheapest place to go domestically when considering hotels and airfare. Orlando, Fort Myers and Tampa are also among the cheapest domestic destinations.

- Expect to pay a premium: Last-minute travelers this summer are joined by those who were bumped from plans in 2020 and earlier this year. That is part of the reason prices are higher than last year - and in a few cases, higher than even pre-pandemic times.

"We have some people that come in and think they're going to get a champagne trip on a beer budget, and they realize it's going to be a champagne price these days," said Mike King, owner of a Travel Leaders agency in Fredericksburg, Va. "There's very few of what they think are going to be deals."

- Get creative with flights: Consider booking your outgoing and departing flights with different airlines in case that presents cheaper options, said Mark Crossey, U.S. travel expert for Skyscanner. He said travelers should also search multiple dates and airports, set up price alerts, and look at options for a whole month to see when the fares are lowest.

In a roundup of "new normal travel booking tips," Hopper said that because prices spike in the couple of weeks before a flight leaves, it's best to lock a ticket in no later than three weeks ahead of departure.

Flights in the middle of the week are typically cheapest, with return dates on a weekend most expensive, Hopper says. Traveling in late summer or early fall could save on average about 12%.

Given the recent rash of delays and cancellations, Hopper said it is also wise to build extra time into plans, especially if there is a can't-miss special event on the agenda.

- Cruise from the Caribbean: Cruises have started departing from the United States again, but the number is still small and capacity is reduced. That means choices are limited and discounts are scarce, said Chris Gray Faust, managing editor of Cruise Critic.

But, she said, there are deals for those who are vaccinated and don't mind flying to get on ships in places including the Bahamas and St. Maarten.

"There is plenty of availability right now and, for some, airfare from the continental U.S. to the Bahamas is comparable to what they would pay to fly to Florida for a cruise," Gray Faust said in an email. Looking ahead, she said, cruises from the United States could be a better deal in the fall as operators have more and fuller ships sailing.

- Think broadly about rental cars - and book early: Adit Damodaran, an economist at Hopper, said in an email that the best approach is to avoid trying to rent a car in popular places such as Los Angeles, Orlando, Las Vegas and Miami since demand is high and availability is low.

"If you can look slightly outside the city or at a less popular airport," like Fort Lauderdale instead of Miami, he said, "you might find more availability and better prices."

BEACH-GOERS BEWARE: There's so much poop in Texas beach-water it could make you sick

Experts also say travelers should book a rental car as soon as they book a flight. Even if it doesn't help with the price, booking as far ahead of time as possible will increase the chance that a car will be available.

- Plan ahead for every part of the trip: Greene said she is emphasizing to her clients that they need to book dinner reservations and activities ahead of time.

"Those kinds of things are filling up like crazy, like we've never seen before," she said. "Those are things that can be really disappointing when you arrive."
GREENWICH  The Greenwich Land Trust was honored with a statewide award for its project to save the Converse Brook Preserve.

The GLT received the 2021 Excellence in Conservation Organization Award from the Connecticut Land Conservation Council.

GLT Executive Director Will Kies and board President Camille Broderick attended the Connecticut Land Conservation Council awards ceremony on June 25 to accept the award.

Converse Brook Preserve embodies our mission to conserve open space, connect our community with the natural world, and inspire the next generation of conservationists. We are honored to accept this award from CLCC, Broderick said.

These annual awards seek to recognize organizations and individuals who have made a contribution to the ongoing success of land conservation in the state.

The Awards Committee recognized the importance of the 72-acre property to the Greenwich community, both in terms of its unique size, ecology and historic values.

The preserve offers mixed-terrain trails on the tract of land that the Town of Greenwich and GLT acquired from Aquarion Water Co. in October 2020. The preserve is near the corner of Lake Avenue and Old Mill Road.

With the sale complete, GLT will own and act as steward for the land and the town of Greenwich will hold a conservation easement on the property, conserving the land in perpetuity while allowing public access. Converse Brook Preserve, which is Greenwich Land Trust's largest preserve, will be maintained as a natural area with public access for activities such as hiking, birding and nature walks available to the community.

The protection of this land enhances an existing greenway totaling over 800 acres of open space that links important landscapes with critical habitat and increases ecological diversity, according to the GLT. The conservation of larger blocks of undeveloped forest land protects wildlife, water quality, and the ecological health of the community.

In an email blast, Kies said the GLT is designing a trail system for Converse Brook Preserve that will allow the public to explore and enjoy this beautiful 72-acre preserve while protecting its most vulnerable and valuable habitats.

Volunteers, Youth Corps, EcoPath Interns, and the TerraCorps Member will all help GLT staff install the trails.

For more information on the Greenwich Land Trust, which offers monthly guided hikes at the preserve, visit gltrust.org/.
GREENWICH  NicholsMD of Greenwich, a dermatology boutique, presented Chief of Police James Heavey with a donation of nearly $1,500 for the Greenwich Police Department Scholarship Fund.

I am proud to donate to the Greenwich Police Department Scholarship Fund in celebration of 125 years of keeping our town, community, and children safe, said Dr. Kim Nichols, a board-certified dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon as well as the founding director of NicholsMD. She presented Heavey with the check on July 1.

The GPSF was the beneficiary of a percentage of product sales in June at NicholsMD of Greenwich, which provides high-level concierge care and non-surgical, innovative skincare solutions.

The fund, which grants scholarships to qualifying students of town police officers, relies on the support of individuals as well as businesses.

The Greenwich Police Department is proud of the partnerships it has created with the Greenwich community, including our local businesses. They always stand ready to help when asked, and we are very appreciative of the communitys support of our scholarship fund, Heavey said.

In the 2020-21 school year, the GPDSF funded 26 scholarships. The fund traces its roots to 1962, when three scholarships were awarded. Applicant must be full-time students and maintain an academic GPA of 2.75 or better.

For more information or to become a sponsor of GPDSF, call 203-622-7844 or visit www.gpdscholarshipfund.org.

The Greenwich Police Department Scholarship Fund Benefit Car Show will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Aug 28 at Town Hall. (The rain date is Aug. 29.) Admission is free. The show will include classic, antique, custom and exotic cars; motorcycles; vintage fire trucks; and military vehicles. There will be a DJ, food trucks and more.

Greenwich Symphony honors Teen Talent contest winners

Over 60 talented young musicians participated in the Greenwich Symphonys Teen Talent Contest via live Zoom auditions before a panel of nine judges.

Judging was done over four days and recorded so that judges could review the performances.

The winners of the High School $500 Prize are: Aniketh Arvind, piano, a ninth-grader at Hackley School, Tarrytown, N.Y.; Stephanie Chang, piano, a 10th-grader at Greenwich High School; and Sadie Goodman, flute, a 10th-grader who is homeschooled in South Salem, N.Y.

The winners of Middle School $300 Prize are Evan James Lee, cello, an eighth-grader at Scarsdale Middle School in New York; Jordan Pak, viola, an eighth-grader at Ardsley Middle School in New York; and Teresa Wang, piano, an eighth-grader at Weston Middle School.

The middle school honorable mentions went to Matthew Wang, Aran Basu, Elliott Levine, Marshall Franz, Andrew Xu and Rachel Horn.

The high school honorable mentions went to Kay McIlhenny, Ayush Maini, Benjamin Sheppard, Madison Chueka, Alex Pak, Iris Araki, and Adrian Pascual.

Local residents earn degrees from Connecticut College

Two students from Greenwich were awarded bachelor of arts degrees from Connecticut College in New London on May 23. They were among the 380 members of Connecticut Colleges Class of 2021.

Alexander Charles Bologna earned a degree in economics and physics, and Charlotte Grace Harding earned a degree in psychology.

UMass Lowell names local student to Deans List

Nicole Pergjini of Greenwich, who is majoring in biology, was named to the Deans List at the University of Massachusetts at Lowell.

Local students honored at Baylor University

Three local students were named to the Deans Academic Honor List for the spring 2021 semester at Baylor University in Waco, Texas.

The honored students are Benjamin Rana of Cos Cob, a students in the College of Arts & Sciences; Daniel Bradford Bourgeois of Old Greenwich, a student in the School of Engineering & Computer Science; and Mark Alexander Bourgeois of Old Greenwich, a student in the College of Arts & Sciences.

Honored students must earn a minimum semester grade-point average of 3.70.

Area residents named to Deans List at Quinnipiac

A number of local students were named to the Deans List for the spring 2021 semester at Quinnipiac University in Hamden.

The honored students are Joseph ODonoghue of Cos Cob; Katherine Gannon of Old Greenwich; Alyssa Biondo of Greenwich; Joseph Caridi of Greenwich; Andrew DAutilio of Greenwich; Madison Deblasi of Greenwich; Julia Dinota of Greenwich; Emma Duryea of Greenwich; Brianna Fiorito of Greenwich; and Christyna Stagg of Greenwich.

To qualify for the Deans List, students must earn a grade point average of at least 3.5.
WIKIEUP, Ariz. (AP)  Federal authorities on Sunday were at the scene of the crash of a small plane that killed two crew members responding to a wildfire in northwestern Arizona.

Both people aboard the Beechcraft King Air C-90 aircraft died in Saturdays crash.

The state Bureau of Land Management on Sunday identified the victims as Air Tactical Group Supervisor Jeff Piechura, 62, a retired Tucson-area fire chief who was working for the Coronado National Forest, and Matthew Miller, 48, a pilot with Falcon Executive Aviation contracted by the U.S. Forest Service.

Our hearts go out to the families of our brave wildland firefighters, an Arizona Bureau of Land Management spokesperson said in a statement.

Bureau officials said the plane went down around noon Saturday as it was doing aerial reconnaissance and helping direct aviation resources over a lightning-caused wildfire burning outside Wikieup, a tiny Mohave County community about 123 miles (206 kilometers) northwest of Phoenix.

The wildfire ignited Friday evening and fueled by brush and grass was at more than 700 acres (283 hectares) Sunday and still with zero containment.

Arizona Bureau of Land Management spokeswoman Dolores Garcia declined to discuss any aspects of the plane crash Sunday, saying investigators from the National Transportation Safety Board, the Federal Aviation Administration and the Interior Department's Office of Aviation Services will try to determine the cause.

We dont have answers right now. We hope to get them in the coming days," Garcia said.

The Arizona Republic quoted a 54-year-old Wikieup woman who said she saw the plane going down at a "steep angle before hitting the ground.

Michele Machholz said she was looking outside from her kitchen while talking to her husband on the phone and thought she saw a turkey vulture before realizing it was a plane.

And its coming down at an angle that ... you dont traditionally see airplanes flying at, Machholz told the Republic.

Machholz said she then watched the plane slam into the ground.

Im screaming on the phone, 'And, oh my gosh, it just crashed! I cant believe it, she said. Im trying to tell my husband that this airplane just crashed and there was this big, black plume of giant, black smoke.

Machholz declined an interview request Sunday when reached by The Associated Press.

Im a retired photojournalist for 30 years, and I dont wish to relive the horror of yesterday, said Machholz, 54. I will state this: Theres an enormous difference between covering disasters on assignment as a journalist and witnessing them live in front of you... I am in a state of shock still."
COVINGTON, La. (AP)  For the past few weeks, after morning football practice, Stephanie Sinclairs son Evan has toiled away on his computer, working toward a passing grade in government.

The last year was a struggle for Evan, a ninth grader at Slidell High, particularly during the hybrid learning of the first quarter, his mother said. Evan is among the many students who enrolled in virtual summer school classes in St. Tammany Parish, either to move on to the next grade or to repeat courses they had done poorly in last school year.

That whole first semester was really difficult, especially those first nine weeks, Sinclair said. Im really glad that they offered this opportunity.

Though the course is self-paced, Evans summer school teacher checks in with Sinclair daily on his progress.

As students make up for more than a year of learning losses related to the pandemic, summer school enrollment has risen across St. Tammany Parish. In high school, enrollment increased more than 215%, from 461 students last summer to 1,457 this summer, school district statistics show.

For elementary students, summer school enrollment rose more than 300%, from 158 students to 634, the statistics show.

Fluctuations in year-to-year summer school enrollments are normal, said Mary Hart, the supervisor of elementary instruction who oversees summer programming for the St. Tammany Parish school district. But the increase in this years numbers was likely due to a combination of factors stemming from the pandemic, she said.

Some students entered this past school year already behind from the three-month gap in the spring of 2020 when schools abruptly closed and teachers scrambled to transition to online learning. Plus, quarantine policies during the pandemic caused students to miss days at a time when they had been potentially contaminated or were sick themselves.

Were trying to get those students to graduation, and we didnt want anything that happened over the past year to hinder them so we want to give them every opportunity, schools Superintendent Frank Jabbia told the School Board Thursday as he shared the participation numbers in summer programs.

This year, the summer session for both elementary and high school students was offered virtually. Students are expected to spend four hours a day at their computers and complete the work at their own pace, but teachers track the time they spend on the work and their progress and are available virtually for questions.

In December, Congress approved $1.2 billion in federal assistance for Louisiana schools, $28.5 million of which went to St. Tammany Parish. The districts received half of the federal aid in June and the rest will be available for spending in January 2022.

The state Department of Education instructed districts to use the funds to make up for learning losses suffered during the pandemic, said Meredith Mendez, a St. Tammany schools spokesperson. Some of the money was used to fund the Accelerate Learning Camp, a new program for kindergarten through eighth graders, she said.

About 3,000 students who experienced learning losses were selected by their schools for the camp, which took place over two, two-week sessions. Of the selected students, 1,412 students participated.

Teachers and students alike seemed to enjoy the camp, Hart said, which combined academics and activities. They had visits from agriculture teachers, dance teams, the Starlab portable planetarium, and others.

We wanted to make it a fun thing so they wouldnt feel like they were in school seven hours a day, she said.

Enrollment in Accelerate Learning was not mandatory, said Kimberly Gardner, St. Tammanys assistant superintendent of students with exceptionalities and federal programs. It offered students a chance to get acquainted with material for their upcoming school year, Gardner said. For example, incoming first graders would learn material from first grade to give them a boost the upcoming school year.

We understand and know that learning loss has occurred, Gardner said. Were beefing up interventions and accelerated learning opportunities so we can quickly close the gaps the pandemic caused.

St. Tammany isnt the only area school district seeing a surge of summer school students.

In New Orleans, more than 13,000 students  triple the typical number  were enrolled in summer school of some kind, NOLA Public Schools said in May.

Jefferson Parish held a three-week program in June called Jefferson Summer Bridge, that offered all-day instruction for selected students focused on math and English. The parish planned to enroll 6,000 students in the program.
BATON ROUGE, La. (AP)  Gov. John Bel Edwards, Secretary of State Kyle Ardoin and Republican lawmakers have agreed to rework Louisiana's method for selecting its next voting system, but the new law isn't likely to end disputes over what technology to select and how to do the shopping.

The new process, worked out in a bill by Senate GOP leader Sharon Hewitt, adds layers of legislative oversight and technical analysis, allows for more public input and requires an auditable paper trail for the voting system that can be chosen by Ardoin, the Republican who oversees elections in the state.

Two recent efforts from the secretary of state's office to replace Louisiana's 10,000-plus voting machines collapsed in controversy. That has left the state continuing to scavenge for parts to keep some machines, many of which are decades-old, up and running properly.

Lawmakers seem to largely agree that a new voting system is needed. But on election issues, theres simply no way to satisfy everyone.

The changes included in Hewitt's legislation won't address all the disparate criticisms from supporters of former President Donald Trump who believe his baseless claims of widespread voter fraud in the 2020 presidential election.

Already, some Republicans criticized the new law as doing too little to address their concerns about hacking and voter integrity. Some Trump supporters want to block Louisiana's current voting machine vendor, Dominion Voting Systems, from participating in an open bid process for the new multimillion-dollar contract. Trump backers suggest Dominion is somehow to blame for Trumps loss in key swing states, though not his victory in Louisiana. Dominion has sued several high-profile figures for spreading the allegations.

Meanwhile, Democrats  most of whom opposed Hewitt's bill  questioned the need for the changes included in the law, noting that Ardoin vehemently defends Louisiana's elections system as safe.

Hewitt's bill won passage with a 69-34 House vote and 27-10 Senate vote in the final minutes of the regular legislative session. Edwards, a Democrat, announced he signed it into law July 2.

This common-sense legislation allows our state to shift from our outdated, electronic voting system to an auditable, paper ballot system to ensure that every Louisiana vote cast is secure and tabulated accurately, Hewitt said in a statement. It also guarantees public input, transparency and legislative oversight into a bid process that has seen trouble in the past.

The voting machine replacement work will start with a new 13-member commission that includes lawmakers, elections experts, a cybersecurity expert and others to analyze and make recommendations about the type of voting system that should be bought or leased. The commission will have to hold open, public meetings.

Commission members remain to be named. Its first public meeting must be held by Sept. 1. The panel is required to make its voting system recommendations by Jan. 31. The secretary of state must take into consideration those recommendations when putting out its bid solicitation for a new contractor.

Already there seems to be confusion about exactly what voting system the bill requires.

Louisianas new voting system will have to produce an auditable voter-verified paper record, unlike the state's current machines. But that doesn't mean the state is locked into a hand-marked paper ballot dropped into a box without technology involved.

Instead, the state could use a ballot-marking digital voting machine that prints a paper receipt to review and confirm a voter's selections, paper ballots that are scanned into a digital system to record the votes or some other machine-based method with a paper trail.

The legislation mandates that Louisianas voting system cant connect to the internet, already the practice today in the secretary of states office.

Ardoin ended his last voting machine replacement attempt in March after facing widespread complaints from election technology firms, Hewitt and other Republicans about how the search was handled. A previous 2018 search fell apart amid allegations the secretary of state's office didn't follow legal requirements for the bid process and tried to manipulate the outcome to benefit Dominion.

Even with the new law, it seems unlikely the next effort to replace Louisiana's voting machines will proceed smoothly, with Ardoin saying at one legislative hearing: The paranoia because of the national narrative is out of control.

The secretary of state separately created an election integrity commission to make recommendations for improving Louisiana's voting processes and voter confidence.

___

EDITORS NOTE: Melinda Deslatte has covered Louisiana politics for The Associated Press since 2000. Follow her at http://twitter.com/melindadeslatte.
SANTA ANA, Calif. (AP)  A Southern California man has been arrested after being charged with joining the mob that stormed the U.S. Capitol while trying to impersonate a member of the media.

Matthew Thomas Purse, 45, was arrested in Irvine on Friday to face federal charges of entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds, disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds, disorderly conduct in a Capitol building, and parading, demonstrating or picketing in a Capitol building, the Orange County Register reported.
CAIRO (AP)  Egypt's highest appeals court on Sunday upheld the life sentences of 10 leaders of Egypts outlawed Muslim Brotherhood, including the group's head, the state-owned MENA news agency reported.

In 2019, a Cairo criminal court had convicted all 10, including the group's leader, or supreme guide, Mohamed Badie, of charges related to killing policemen and organizing mass jail breaks during Egypt's 2011 uprising. That revolt culminated in the ouster of longtime autocrat Hosni Mubarak.

The defendants were found guilty of helping around 20,000 prisoners escape, and of undermining national security by conspiring with foreign militant groups  the Palestinian Hamas and Lebanon's Hezbollah.

Meanwhile, the Court of Cassation acquitted eight middle-rank leaders of the nation's oldest Islamist organization, who were sentenced earlier to 15 years in prison.

All of the sentences, which the court considered on appeal, are final.

Sunday's rulings upheld the latest of several life sentences for Muslim Brotherhood leaders. They had gone on trial several times since the crackdown on the group in 2013 following the military ouster of Egypts first democratically elected president, the late Mohammed Morsi. Morsi had hailed from the group's ranks. His one-year rule had proven divisive and provoked nationwide protests.

Tens of thousands of Egyptians have been arrested since 2013, and many have fled the country. Morsi himself was a defendant in the prison-break case, but he collapsed in a courtroom and died while appearing in a separate trial in the summer of 2019.

Last month, the Court of Cassation upheld the death sentence for 12 people involved in a 2013 protest by Islamists, including several senior Muslim Brotherhood leaders.

Rights groups in Egypt and abroad have denounced the trials and death sentences as a mockery of justice.
HELSINKI (AP)  The European Unions border agency is pledging to significantly step up its support to Lithuania in the coming days due to the growing migratory pressure at Lithuanias border with Belarus that the Baltic nation is trying to contain.

The decision by Frontex, the agency responsible for coordinating border control between EU member states and third countries, was announced late Saturday following a video call between Frontexs Executive Director Fabrice Leggeri and Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda.

Lithuanias border is our common external border and Frontex stands ready to help where needed, Leggeri said in a statement. We are ready to strengthen our level of support and deploy more European standing corps officers and equipment to Lithuania, an EU and NATO member of 2.8 million.

Frontex's operation, which started earlier this month with the deployment of a dozen officers and patrol cars, will more than double next week, the agency said.

Nausedas office said reinforcements pledged by Frontex were expected to reach Lithuania by July 15 and that some armed border patrols and additional translators arrived over the weekend. In addition, a patrol helicopter will be sent to Lithuania from neighboring Poland and discussions were under way to dispatch another helicopter from Germany, Nauseda's office said.

In a tweet, Nauseda thanked Frontex for its support to manage flows of illegal migrants through eastern border with Belarus, another former Soviet republic that is not in the EU.

Lithuania, which has granted refuge to Belarus opposition figures, accuses its neighbor of organizing the border crossings by people mainly from Iraq, the Mideast and Africa.

In June, the number of illegal border crossings from Belarus into Lithuania rose six-fold, increasing the pressure on national border control authorities, Frontex said. The phenomenon has accelerated in July. More than 1,500 people have crossed into Lithuania from Belarus in the past two months  20 times more than in all of 2020.

Tensions between the EU and Belarus escalated even more after Belarus diverted a passenger jet on May 23 to arrest an opposition journalist. Belarus authoritarian President Alexander Lukashenko has said his country will halt cooperation with the 27-nation bloc on stemming migration in retaliation for bruising economic sanctions the EU slapped on Belarus over the passenger jet diversion.

On Friday, Lithuania started building a double barbed wire fence on the Belarus border. It will run for 550 kilometers (342 miles), covering most of the nearly 680-kilometer (423-mile) border and cost 41 million euros ($48 million), according to Lithuanian authorities.

In addition, Lithuania has set up tent camps to accommodate the growing number of migrants.

Nauseda, on a visit to Poland on Sunday, said that technical steps are necessary to make the border work and be a real barrier, because now it can be easily crossed."

Nauseda said Lithuania was talking to the governments of the countries where the migrants come from and also with transit countries like Turkey in order to curb the (illegal migration) process that is being supported by the Belarusian regime.

It is a kind of revenge for EU sanctions, Nauseda said in Krakow, following talks with Polands President Andrzej Duda.

Duda said Poland will extend the necessary assistance to Lithuania and was talking about the best way to do that with Frontex.

___

Follow all AP stories on global migration at https://apnews.com/hub/migration
FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. (AP)  Fayetteville State University has used pandemic relief funds to clear $1.6 million in tuition debt for nearly 1,500 students.

The Fayetteville Observer reported Sunday that the historically Black school utilized money from the federal legislation that's known as the American Rescue Plan.
PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (AP)  Gangs in Haiti have long been financed by powerful politicians and their allies  and many Haitians fear those backers may be losing control of the increasingly powerful armed groups who have driven thousands of people from their homes as they battle over territory, kill civilians and raid warehouses of food.

The escalation in gang violence threatens to complicate  and be aggravated by  political efforts to recover from last week's brazen slaying of President Jovenel Moise. Haiti's government is in disarray; no parliament, no president, a dispute over who is prime minister, a weak police force. But the gangs seem more organized and powerful than ever.

While the violence has been centered in the capital of Port-au-Prince, it has affected life across Haiti, paralyzing the fragile economy, shuttering schools, overwhelming police and disrupting efforts to fight the COVID-19 pandemic.

The country is transformed into a vast desert where wild animals engulf us, said the Haitian Conference of the Religious in a recent statement decrying the spike in violent crime. We are refugees and exiles in our own country.

Gangs recently have stolen tens of thousands of bags of sugar, rice and flour as well as ransacking and burning homes in the capital. That has driven thousands of people to seek shelter at churches, outdoor fields and a large gymnasium, where the government and international donors struggle to feed them and find long-term housing.

Those included dozens of disabled people who were forced to flee last month when gangs set fire to the encampment where they settled after being injured in the catastrophic 2010 earthquake.

I was running for my life in the camp on these crutches, said 44-year-old Obas Woylky, who lost a leg in the quake. Bullets were flying from different directions. ... All I was able to see was fire in the homes.

He was among more than 350 people crammed into a school converted into a makeshift shelter where hardly anyone wore face masks against disease.

A cigarette dangled from the mouth of an older woman who washed clothes in a large bowl while a group of children took turns flicking a single blue marble. Nearby, a teenage girl crouched next to an elderly blind man sitting on the concrete floor and lifted a small bag of water to his mouth.

Experts say the violence is the worst theyve seen since in roughly two decades  since before the creation of a second U.N. peacekeeping mission in 2004.

Programs aimed at reducing gang activity and an influx of aid following the earthquake helped quell some of the problem, but once that money dried up and aid programs shut down, gangs turned to kidnappings and extortion from businesses and neighborhoods they control.

Gangs are in part funded by powerful politicians, a practice recently denounced even by one of its reputed beneficiaries  Jimmy Cherizier, a former police officer who heads a gang coalition known as G9 Family and Allies.

He complained that the country is being held hostage by people he did not identify: They reign supreme everywhere, distribute weapons to the populous quarters, playing the division card to establish their domination.

Cherizier, known as Barbecue, has been linked to several massacres and his coalition is believed to be allied with Moise's right-wing party. He criticized those he called bourgeois and exploiters, adding: We will use our weapons against them in favor of the Haitian people. ... Were ready for war!

Cherizier held a news conference on Saturday and called Moises killing cowardly and villainous, saying that while many disagreed with him, no one wanted this tragic outcome that will worsen the crisis and amplify political instability.

He also issued a veiled warning: We invite all those who are trying to take advantage of this coup to think carefully, to consider whether they have in their hands the appropriate solution to the countrys problems.

Cherizier added that he and others will demand justice for Moise: We are just now warming up.

G9 is one of at least 30 gangs that authorities believe control nearly half of Port-au-Prince. Their names range from 5 Seconds  for how long it allegedly takes them to commit a crime  to 400 Mawozo  which roughly translated means 400 lame men.

The epicenter of the recent gang violence is Martissant, a community in southern Port-au-Prince whose main road connects the capital to southern Haiti. Drivers' fear of caught in a crossfire or worse has almost paralyzed commercial connections between the two regions, driving up prices, delaying the transportation of food and fuel and forcing international organizations to cancel programs including the distribution of cash to more than 30,000 people, according to a July 1 report by the U.N.s Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs.

The agency said more than 1 million people need immediate humanitarian assistance and protection.

Newly displaced people seek refuge in shelters every day, it said, adding that hygiene there was appalling." Authorities worry about a spike in COVID-19 cases in a country that has yet to give a single vaccine.

Escalating violence on an almost daily basis is expected to last for some time," the agency said in a report.

The overall economy doesn't help. The U.N. said the cost of a basic food basket rose by 13% in May compared with February, and that foreign direct investment fell by more than 70% from 2018 to 2020, dropping from $105 million to $30 million. That translates into fewer jobs and increased poverty in a country where 60% of the population makes less than $2 a day and 25% less than $1 a day.

Many also worry that the gangs could derail elections scheduled for September and November  a contest crucial to restoring functional legislative and executive branches now largely moribund in the wake of Moises slaying.

But Haiti's elections minister, Mathias Pierre, said Saturday that those backing the gangs may want to disrupt the elections. Such periods commonly see an upsurge in violence as groups try to use fear to nullify rivals' advantages.

He said that wouldn't work this time, noting that countries have held elections even during wars. We need to organize elections. ...They need to back off."

Haitis Office of the Protection of Citizens, a sort of ombudsman agency, has urged the international community to help Haitis National Police, which it said was unable to respond effectively to the gangsterization of the country.

Pierre said that lack of resources and weakness of Haiti's police led the government to ask the United States and United Nations to send troops to help maintain order following Moises killing: We have a responsibility to avoid chaos.

Officials say they have been trying to boost the budget and manpower of a police force that now has about 9,000 operational officers for a country of more than 11 million people. Experts say it needs at least 30,000 officers to maintain control.

The government also is trying to figure out where to put people who have fled their homes due to violence, such as 43-year-old Marjorie Benoit, her husband and their three children.

Benoit, who lost an arm in the earthquake, said they fled as gunfire crackled around their neighborhood. She now also has lost her home and all their belongings.

We have been uprooted," she said, "and we dont know where to start.
AMMAN, Jordan (AP)  A U.S. citizen and former top aide to Jordans King Abdullah II alleged he was tortured in Jordanian detention and fears for his life, his U.S.-based lawyer said Sunday, on the eve of a verdict in the high-profile sedition trial linked to a rare public rift in the kingdoms ruling family.

Along with the mistreatment allegations, the closed-door trial before Jordans state security court has been completely unfair, Michael Sullivan, a former federal prosecutor hired by defendant Bassem Awadallahs U.S.-based family, told The Associated Press.

The allegations of mistreatment, denied by Jordanian officials Sunday, were raised just days before Jordans king is to become the first Arab leader to meet with President Joe Biden at the White House on July 19. Jordan is a key Western ally in an unstable Middle East.

Awadallah and co-defendant Sharif Hassan bin Zaid, a distant cousin of the king, have pleaded not guilty to sedition and incitement charges, which carry lengthy prison terms.

The defendants were accused of conspiring with a senior royal  Prince Hamzah, a half-brother of the king  to foment unrest against the monarch while soliciting foreign help. The indictment portrayed Hamzah as a disgruntled royal who never forgave Abdullah for taking away his title of crown prince in 2004. Hamzah, who was placed under house arrest in April and has been seen in public just once since then, denied he incited against the king, saying he was being punished for calling out high-level corruption.

Despite the serious nature of the charges against Awadallah and bin Zaid, the trial ended after just six sessions. The court denied requests by Jordanian defense lawyers to call witnesses and prosecutors only shared purported transcripts, but not audio, from surveillance of the alleged plotters.

The prosecutors office at the state security court denied the trial was unfair. Awadallah was guaranteed due process in line with Jordanian law, the prosecutor said in a statement to the AP. He has not been mistreated in any way, and his allegations of torture of any kind are false.

The U.S. State Department said that U.S. consular officials visited Awadallah five times and that we also take seriously any allegations of abuse and lack of minimum fair trial guarantees.

Sullivan, a former U.S. attorney for Massachusetts and former acting director of the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, said that based on the way the trial was conducted, a guilty verdict appeared to be a foregone conclusion. He said any conviction would be appealed.

The U.S. legal team, which has remained in the background until now, will play a more open role in the appeals stage, said Sullivan. He said the aim is to raise awareness about Awadallahs case in the United States and internationally. This includes the serious concerns about his safety and security in the short term and the complete unfairness in terms of the process, as well as obviously the torture and violation of a number of international conventions, treaties and laws, Sullivan said.

The prosecutors office said Awadallah didnt raise torture allegations during the court hearings, his 17 meetings with his Jordanian lawyer or the first four meetings with U.S. consular officials in Jordan. He only made these claims at his most recent meeting with the consul, as the rulings pronouncement (verdict) neared, the statement said.

Sullivan said Awadallah told his visitor that he had been been beaten, subjected to electrical shock and was threatened with future mistreatment if he didnt confess.

The prosecutors office said Awadallah gave a voluntary statement about the case, denying it had been extracted by force.

Awadallahs family said late last week that he fears for his life. Bassem is justifiably fearful of being killed in prison after the sentencing, especially because he held several high ranking and sensitive positions in the Jordanian government, the family said.

Awadallah, who also holds Jordanian and Saudi citizenship, served as head of the royal court and government minister in Jordan. He has extensive business interests in the Gulf and has advised Saudi Arabias powerful crown prince, Mohammed bin Salman, on attracting foreign investment.

The Awadallah family urged the Biden administration to call for Awadallahs release.

Laub reported from Berlin, Germany.
JERUSALEM (AP)  Israels Supreme Court on Sunday cleared the way for same-sex couples to have children through surrogate mothers, a move hailed by lawmakers and activists as a victory for LGBTQ rights.

The court ruled in 2020 that a surrogacy law, which had expanded access to single women but excluded gay couples, disproportionately harmed the right to equality and the right to parenthood and was unlawful.

It gave the government a year to draw up a new law, but parliament failed to meet the deadline.

The court said Sunday that since for more than a year the state has done nothing to advance an appropriate amendment to the law, the court ruled that it cannot abide the continued serious damage to human rights caused by the existing surrogacy arrangement."

The change in the law is to take effect in six months to allow the formation of professional guidelines, it said.

The Aguda, an Israeli LGBTQ activist group, applauded the decision as a historic landmark in our struggle for equality.

Ultra-Orthodox lawmaker Aryeh Deri, formerly the country's interior minister, wrote on Twitter that the court's decision was another serious blow to Israel's Jewish identity and that most of the nation desires safeguarding the tradition of Israel, preserving Jewish family values."

Deputy Foreign Minister Idan Roll, an openly gay member of the Knesset, retorted: I am sure that most of the nation loves and respects my Jewish family that was created through surrogacy.

Etai and Yoav Pinkas Arad, the gay couple who appealed to the court against the surrogacy law in 2010, said the ruling is a big step for equality not just for LGBTQ in Israel, but for equality in Israel in general.

Under the existing regulations, Israeli same-sex couples looking to become parents cannot engage a surrogate, and are often deterred by the additional costs of finding one abroad.

The state had argued that the law was intended to protect surrogate mothers but the court ruled that it would be possible to strike a balance that would not discriminate.

In contrast with much of the conservative Middle East, Israel is generally tolerant toward its LGBTQ community. Gays serve openly in Israels military and parliament, and many popular artists and entertainers, as well as the countrys current health minister, are openly gay. Nonetheless, obstacles  including the absence of civil marriage that would allow same-sex marriage  remain.
LEWISTOWN, Ill. (AP)  The last of four people who escaped from the Fulton County Jail in western Illinois last week has been captured, authorities said Sunday.

The Fulton County sheriffs office says Zachary Hart was caught near Canton. Hart, 36, was being held on charges including home invasion, possession of a firearm by a felon and fleeing police. He escaped from jail in western Illinois with Jesse Davis, 35, Cody Villalobos, 26, and Eugene Roets, 23. They were captured Thursday.
IRON RIVER, Mich. (AP)  Authorities have identified a man fatally shot by police in the Upper Peninsula community of Iron River last month, but released few other details.

The Iron County Prosecutors Office identified the man as David Ronald Bridgette. His age was not released.
MACON, Ga. (AP)  A new initiative at the Mercer University School of Medicine conceived by a retired federal judge is helping poor people in rural Georgia erase their medical debt.

The Mercer Family Cares Initiative, funded by three families with ties to the university, is retiring more than $4.3 million in medical debt for nearly 3,000 people who live in 33 Georgia counties, according to a news release from the university.

The idea came from retired U.S. District Judge William Duffey, who served in the northern district of Georgia and was previously a partner at King & Spalding law firm in Atlanta, after he noticed inflated prices for items on his own medical bills. He did some research and found that the system is needlessly confusing and fraught with undue and unreasonable expenses, particularly for those who are least able to pay.

Ive always wondered how people navigate the system, especially those who didnt have the patience, time or resources, Duffey said in the news release.

Mercer's medical school works on issues related to access to medical care in rural Georgia, and Duffey reached out to two friends who had graduated from Mercer Law, one a current university trustee and one a former trustee, to see about helping to resolve medical debt for people living in poverty.

While he believes in personal financial responsibility, Duffey said it's rarely someone's choice to rack up medical debt.

When youre sick, have an accident or suffer from disease, you have to get care, he said. "So, its an involuntary imposition of a debt on someone. That debt imposes a particularly harsh barrier for the poor.

Through his research, he found RIP Medical Debt, a nonprofit organization that uses donations to buy up medical debt at discounted rates to relieve that debt without tax consequences for the recipients and with a tax benefit to donors, the release says.

Duffey's son, Charles, is chief operating officer for Mercer's Medicine, which has rural health clinics in several counties.

William Duffey asked RIP Medical Debt to total up the medical debt available for purchase for those living in poverty in the counties where the university's rural health care clinics are found and in the neighboring counties.

Duffey and his wife, Betsy, joined with Doc and Helen Schneider and Dwight and Brenda Davis, to donate money to erase more than $4.3 million in debt, with an average of about $1,500 per person among 2,866 people, the release says.

Dr. Jean Sumner, dean of Mercer's medical school, said it's an honor for the school to be part of such an important initiative.

The Mercer Family Cares Initiative and those who support this effort may not fully comprehend the transformational impact this program will have on the lives of patients, access to care and the health of Georgians in need, Sumner said in the release.

Duffey has already worked with RIP Medical Debt to identify more than $13 million in medical debt owed by people living in Fulton County that could be retired with donations totaling about $200,000, the release says. Considering the high salaries earned by many lawyers, Duffey is calling on the county's legal community to donate.

Im going to propose that the lawyers in Fulton County collectively donate $200,000 to retire the medical debt of every poor person in Fulton County, he said. "Frankly, I think if I went back to RIP Medical Debt and said, Tell me what the collective medical debt is for poor people throughout Georgia, that lawyers could retire it all with the stroke of a pen. Well, maybe several pens.
CHICAGO (AP)  A 34-year-old man sought by police in the fatal shooting of a couple at a Puerto Rican culture celebration in Chicago has been arrested in California.

Anthony Lorenzi is charged with first-degree murder and is awaiting extradition to Illinois, Chicago police said Saturday.
MILTON, Mass. (AP)  Police say a 25-year-old man died Saturday after being shot in the town of Milton.

The Milton Police Department identified the victim as Marquis Simmons, a Milton resident.
INDIANAPOLIS (AP)  A teenage boy was seriously injured in a shooting at a fast food restaurant on the citys east side, according to Indianapolis police.

Indianapolis police said officers responded to a shooting before 6:30 p.m. Saturday at a Taco Bell and found a male who had been shot.
TBILISI, Georgia (AP)  Several thousand people protested in front of the Georgian parliament on Sunday evening, demanding that the ex-Soviet nation's prime minister resign over the death of a journalist who was attacked and beaten by anti-LGBT protesters.

Cameraman Alexander Lashkarava was found dead in his home by his mother earlier Sunday, according to the TV Pirveli channel he worked for. Lashkarava was one of several dozen journalists attacked last Monday by opponents of an LGBT march that had been scheduled to take place that day in the Georgian capital of Tbilisi.

Organizers of the Tbilisi March For Dignity cancelled the event, saying authorities had not provided adequate security guarantees. Opponents of the march blocked off the capitals main avenue, denounced journalists covering the protest as pro-LGBT propagandists and threw sticks and bottles at them.

Lashkarava, according to his colleague Miranda Baghaturia, was beaten by a mob of 20 people. Local TV channels later showed him with bruises on his face and blood on the floor around him. Media reports say he sustained multiple injuries and had to undergo surgery but was discharged from a hospital on Thursday.

The cause of his death was not immediately clear.

Police launched an investigation into Lashkarava's death, which Georgia's Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili and President Salome Zurabishvili both described as "a tragedy."

Animosity against sexual minorities is strong in the conservative Black Sea nation of Georgia.

The Tbilisi Pride group said Monday that opponents of the planned march were supported by the government and by the Georgian Orthodox Church. The Open Caucasus Media group published a photo of a man it said was a local TV journalist being pulled away from the scene in a headlock by an Orthodox priest.

Zurabishvili condemned the violence, but Garibashvili alleged the march was organized by radical opposition forces that he claimed were led by exiled former President Mikheil Saakashvili.

A large crowd of protesters that gathered in Tbilisi on Sunday demanded that authorities punish those responsible for the attack on journalists and urged Garibashvili to step down. Some protesters blamed the prime minister for enabling the violence by publicly denouncing the LGBT march.
Flickr/David Taylor

ROSE LAKE, Idaho (AP)  Searchers are looking for a man who went missing in the Coeur d'Alene River while trying to retrieve a set of boat keys that had fallen into the water.

The Kootenai County Sheriff's Office says the man and a woman were boating on the river in northern Idaho on Saturday afternoon, and both entered the water to find the keys. The man started struggling in the water, and the woman made her way to the shore and tried to throw him her life jacket.
PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (AP)  The head of Haiti's national police announced Sunday that officers arrested a Haitian man accused of flying into the country on a private jet and working with the masterminds and alleged assassins behind the killing of President Jovenel Moise.

Police Chief Leon Charles identified the suspect as Christian Emmanuel Sanon, without giving any personal information about him, though it appears he has been living in Florida. The chief also gave no information on the purported masterminds.

Charles said the alleged killers were protecting Sanon as the supposed president of Haiti, adding that officers found several items at his house, including a hat emblazoned with the logo of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, 20 boxes of bullets, gun parts, four automobile license plates from the Dominican Republic, two cars and correspondence with unidentified people.

"We continue to make strides, Charles said of police efforts to solve the brazen attack early Wednesday at Moises private home that killed the president and seriously wounded his wife, Martine Moise, who was flown to Miami and remains hospitalized.

Charles said a total of 26 Colombians are suspected in the killing of the president. Eighteen of them have been arrested, along with three Haitians. He said five of the suspects are still at large and at least three have been killed.

They are dangerous individuals, he said. I'm talking commando, specialized commando.

The chief said police are working with high-ranking Colombian officials to identify details of the alleged plot, including when the suspects left Colombia and who paid for their tickets.

Charles said Sanon was in contact with a firm that provides security for politicians and recruited the suspects, adding that the suspect flew into Haiti with them in early June. The men's initial mission was to protect Sanon, but they later received a new one: arrest the president, the chief said.

The operation started from there, he said, adding that an additional 22 suspects joined the group and that contact was made with Haitian citizens.

Charles said that after Moise was killed, one of the suspects phoned Sanon, who then got in touch with two people believed to be the intellectual authors of the plot. He did not identify the masterminds or say if police knew who they are.

The chief said Haitian authorities obtained the information from interrogations and other parts of the investigation.

It was not immediately clear if Sanon had an attorney.

Sanon has lived in Florida, in Broward County and in Hillsborough County on the Gulf Coast. Records show he has also lived in Kansas City, Missouri. He filed for bankruptcy in 2013 and identifies himself as a doctor in a video on YouTube titled Leadership for Haiti.

In the video, he denounces the leaders of Haiti as corrupt, accusing them of stripping the country of its resources, saying that they dont care about the country, they dont care about the people.

He claims Haiti has uranium, oil and other resources that have been taken by government officials. With me in power, you are going to have to tell me: What are you doing with my uranium? What are you doing with the oil that we have in the country? What are you going to do with the gold?

He also added: This is a country with resources. Nine million people cant be in poverty when we have so much resources in the country. Its impossible. ... The world has to stop doing what they are doing right now. We cant take it anymore. We need new leadership that will change the way of life.

Sanon has posted little on Twitter but has expressed an interest in Haitian politics. In September 2010, he tweeted: Just completed a successful conference in Port-Au-Prince. Many people from the opposition attended. A month later, he wrote: Back to Haiti for an important meeting regarding the election. Pray for me for protection and wisdom.

The announcement of Sanon's arrest was made hours after hundreds of Haitians sought solace in prayer at early Sunday church services as a political power struggle threatened to further destabilize their fragile country.

Roman Catholic and Protestant church leaders asked for calm and told people to remain strong as anxiety about the future grew, with authorities providing no answers or theories about who masterminded the killing by a group of gunmen early Wednesday at the president's home. Martine Moise, the president's wife, was critically injured and was transported to Miami for treatment.

Facing this situation, we will not be discouraged... You must stay and fight for peace, Father Edwine Sainte-Louis said during a sermon broadcast on TV that included a small picture of Moise with a banner that read: Haiti will remember you.

Prosecutors have requested that high-profile politicians including presidential candidate Reginald Boulos and former Haitian Senate President Youri Latortue meet officials for questioning as the investigation continues. Authorities also said they plan to interview at least two members of Moises security detail.

Interim Prime Minister Claude Joseph is currently leading Haiti with the help of the police and military, but he faces mounting challenges to his power.

Ariel Henry, whom Moise designated as prime minister a day before he was killed, has said he believes he is the rightful prime minister, a claim also backed by a group of legislators who are members of Moise's Tet Kale party. That group also supports Joseph Lambert, head of Haitis dismantled Senate, as the countrys provisional president.

Haiti, a country of more than 11 million people, currently has only 10 elected officials after it failed to hold parliamentary elections, leading Moise to rule by decree for more than a year until his death.

While the streets were calm on Sunday, government officials worry about what lies ahead and have requested U.S. and U.N. military assistance.

We still believe there is a path for chaos to happen, Haiti Elections Minister Mathias Pierre told The Associated Press.

Pentagon chief spokesman John Kirby said on Fox News Sunday that the Pentagon is analyzing the request to send troops to Haiti and that no decisions have been made. He said a team, largely comprising agents from the Department of Homeland Security and the FBI, were heading down to Haiti right now" to help with the investigation of the assassination.

I think thats really where are our energies are best applied right now, in helping them get their arms around investigating this incident and figuring out whos culpable, whos responsible and how best to hold them accountable going forward, Kirby said.

The United Nations has been involved in Haiti on and off since 1990. The last U.N. peacekeeping mission arrived in 2004 and all military peacekeepers left the country in 2017. But a stabilization group stayed behind to train national police, help the government strengthen judicial and legal institutions and monitor human rights. That mission ended in 2019 and was replaced by a political mission headed by an American diplomat, Helen La Lime.

In addition to helping normalize the country, the U.N. peacekeeping force played an important role after a devastating 2010 earthquake that killed as many as 300,000 people and after Hurricane Matthew in 2016. But U.N. troops from Nepal are widely blamed for inadvertently introducing cholera, which has afflicted over 800,000 people and killed more than 9,000 people since 2010. Some troops also have been implicated in sexual abuse, including of hungry young children.

Laurent Dubois, a Haiti expert and Duke University professor, said questions over Moises assassination could remain unanswered for a long time.

There are so many potential players who could be behind it, he said, adding that the political strength of Pierre, the interim prime minister, is an open question. There is going to be some jockeying for positions of power. That is one big worry.

In Port-au-Prince, resident Fritz Destin welcomed a priest's sermon urging people not to be discouraged.

The country needs a lot of prayers, he said. The violence makes life a little uncertain.''

___

Fox reported from Washington. AP writer Evens Sanon in Port-au-Prince, Haiti and AP video journalist Gerardo Carrillo in Port-au-Prince contributed to this report.
GLENROCK, Wyo. (AP)  Some communities would balk at the idea of a company building an experimental power source on the edge of town. Glenrock is not one of them.

Before the end of the year, developers of a new type of nuclear power plant will decide which of four Wyoming towns will house their project, and Glenrock wants to be selected.

During a Wednesday meeting with the heads of TerraPower and Rocky Mountain Power, community leaders listened attentively to the companies pitch. Most were already on board with the project. A few safety questions did come up, but Glenrocks leaders wanted to focus the conversation on logistics  not risk.

The towns coal-fired power plant, Dave Johnston, is set to retire in 2027, taking 191 jobs with it. The Natrium reactor is scheduled to come online the following year, generating an estimated 250 permanent jobs. Its developers intend to establish training programs to help workers in the selected community transition from their current jobs at the coal plant to new roles at the nuclear facility.

Glenrock is a town of just 2,600 people; Converse Countys entire population numbers fewer than 14,000. The communitys history is intertwined with that of the energy sector. Many see the nuclear plant not only as a natural transition, but a necessary one for their economic survival.

We have a history of energy developments in our community, going way, way back, Glenrock councilwoman Margaret Nunn said during the meeting. One, we opened coal mines. Two, we built a power plant. Three, we mined out the coal and reclaimed the land. Four, we built a new wind farm where the coal mine once was. Five, our power plant has outlived its time. So what is number six in our energy history?

In a sense, the two parties are equal partners in the arrangement. Each one is attempting to persuade the other that theyre worth the investment. But with many local leaders already convinced of the projects potential benefits, its the developers choice to make.

What do we need to do, collectively, to ensure that the plant lands here? Converse County Commissioner Robert Short asked the executives.

Their answer: Be enthusiastic. And get lucky. All four possible sites have already undergone preliminary evaluations and been deemed viable. The companies want to build the plant in a supportive community with demonstrated economic need  criteria Glenrock meets. But just as important are business concerns like infrastructure and access to services, along with factors such as seismic activity, which can affect permitting eligibility.

A decision is expected before the end of the year. Until then, the community can do little more than wait and hope. The other three towns in contention, Gillette, Kemmerer and Rock Springs, will do the same.

A new energy era?

In 1957, when the experimental Shippingport nuclear reactor was completed in Pennsylvania, the U.S. proved that water cooling technology was market-ready, leading to the construction of 100 water-cooled nuclear reactors nationwide and 400 around the world, said Chris Levesque, president and CEO of TerraPower. Levesque believes the Natrium reactor will similarly inspire a new generation of nuclear development.

The TerraPower plant is distinguished from standard U.S. nuclear facilities in part by its cooling system: Instead of pressurized water, the core temperature will be maintained using liquid sodium  the metal, not the salt. Because sodium has a much higher boiling point than water, it does not need to be pressurized to prevent it from vaporizing, reducing the plants need for the controlled systems used to keep cooling water in place and allowing it to rely more on natural forces like convection and gravity.

We used a lot of supercomputing and advanced metallurgy to design it, Levesque said, but the plant itself is actually simpler than a lot of plants today.

The reactor is also designed to operate more efficiently, producing one-third as much waste as existing nuclear plants. It will require less human intervention, including in the case of any malfunctions, a feature its developers say makes it much safer than water-cooled facilities. Its modular nature allows it to be built in sections, with additional generating capacity added later.

But the projects energy storage system, which reserves generated energy in tanks of molten salt during times of low demand and releases that energy to the grid when demand rises, is what makes the TerraPower plant particularly distinctive.

Dave Johnston has a capacity of 922 megawatts. The Natrium reactors capacity is lower, at 345 megawatts. But its energy storage system enables the facility to increase its output to 500 megawatts of power for more than five hours at a time. Because of its added storage capacity, the plant will be dispatchable, and therefore much more valuable to Rocky Mountain Power.

Dispatchable resources are things like hydro plants, coal plants, natural gas plants, our geothermal plant  places that that, if you see customer demand coming up throughout the day, you can call on a specific resource, and know that youll have the extra 100 megawatts that you need, when you need it, David Eskelsen, a spokesman for Rocky Mountain Power, said during an interview with the Star-Tribune.

Renewable energy sources like wind and solar are variable, not dispatchable, meaning theyre hard for utilities to rely on. Most nuclear plants are technically dispatchable, but take too long to activate to meet immediate demand.

As the electric grid is powered increasingly by variable sources, dispatchable sources like battery storage will be required to supplement them. And as coal plants continue to go offline, the reactors developers  who say theyd like to one day build reactors at all four sites  hope it will help to fill the energy niche that is left behind.

From the coal plant to a nuclear island

By building the nuclear facility on the site of a retiring coal plant, developers will have access to an available workforce and cost-saving resources like current water permits and electric grid connections.

We are able to leverage the existing technical infrastructure thats there, but also the expertise, said Tiffany Erickson, media relations manager for Rocky Mountain Power, in an interview with the Star-Tribune.

Representatives of Rocky Mountain Power and TerraPower have repeatedly emphasized the companies plan to hire as many local workers as possible and provide training to those workers when necessary.

The intent is to work with community colleges and (the University of Wyoming) on developing training and reskilling programs, Erickson said.

While the reactor itself will be built according to strict nuclear regulations, the part of the plant that generates electricity will be constructed some distance away from the reactor, which its developers are calling the nuclear island. The portion producing electricity will face looser permitting requirements and, unlike the reactor, will operate similarly to generators in other types of power plants.

Theres a lot of jobs in this nuclear island, and theyre very different, Gary Hoogeveen, president and CEO of Rocky Mountain Power, told the Glenrock community. Now, some of the people will be able to, if theyre interested, retrain and have those jobs. But the people that are mechanics, its the same low-pressure system that they were working on, and theyll have the ability to translate their expertise directly over.

Natrona County Commissioner Dave North told the Star-Tribune that he expects the plant to provide good jobs and a constant power supply to Natrona County in addition to Converse County.

I think its a positive all the way around, he said.

An economic lifeline

Aside from concerns raised by conservation groups like the Powder River Basin Resource Council, little opposition to the reactor has been expressed publicly. And though nuclear is always divisive, the projects appeal stretches across party lines  potentially improving its chances as it navigates the short, seven-year development timeline set by the Department of Energy, which provided half its funding. The other half comes from private sources, including TerraPower founder Bill Gates.

Levesque said Democrats favor the projects low carbon footprint, while Republicans see it as a source of energy security.

The great thing about the program is theres something in it for everybody, he said.

Converse County Chairman Jim Willox told the Star-Tribune that nearly all of his concerns were addressed during the meeting. For him, siting criteria are the sticking point. He hopes that by learning more about what the companies are looking for, he can help Converse County present itself as the most attractive location for construction.

Willox said the broader Glenrock community seemed ready to welcome the nuclear plant.

The people Ive visited with  and its not a huge sampling, but the people Ive visited with are positive about it, he said. They have questions, but theyre positive. And they recognize the value of energy.

The nuclear plant could save Glenrock from a fate like that of Jeffrey City, a uranium boomtown that collapsed along with the industry in the 1980s. Loss of the coal plant without construction of the reactor would not be a death sentence  Lander, a former iron town, managed to diversify its economy after its mine shuttered  but would spell a much harder recovery for the town.

If we lose the power plant and its shut completely down, that would affect us a great deal. It trickles down all the way through the business community, in the schools, all of our special districts  we would lose a lot when this power plant shuts down, Converse County Commissioner Tony Lehner said after the meeting.

If we dont get this first one, then I hope to heck we get the next one, he said.
COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP)  South Carolinas state-owned utility has been fined nearly $23,000 for failing to control air pollution at power plants in three parts of the state.

The State reports that the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control found Santee Cooper power plants in Anderson, Georgetown and Berkeley counties had released air toxins in violation of state permits.
U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said Sunday that deterring the use of tax havens will let countries compete on economic fundamentals  instead of by offering ever-lower tax rates that deprive governments of money for infrastructure and education.

Yellen spoke after finance ministers from the Group of 20 major economies endorsed a global minimum corporate tax of at least 15%, a measure aimed at putting a floor under tax rates and discouraging companies from using low-rate countries as tax havens.

This deal will end the race to the bottom, she said at a news conference after the end of the meeting in Venice.

Instead of asking the question: Who can offer the lowest tax rate?, it will allow all of our countries to compete on the basis of economic fundamentals  on the skill of our workforces, our capacity to innovate, and the strength of our legal and economic institutions.

"And this deal will give our nations the ability to raise the necessary funding for important public goods like infrastructure, R&D, and education."

The global minimum proposal faces political and technical hurdles before it would take effect. Details are to be ironed out in coming weeks at the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development in Paris, followed by a final endorsement by presidents and prime ministers of the Group of 20 at an Oct. 30-31 meeting in Rome.

Countries would then need to legislate the rate into their own laws. The idea is for headquarters countries to tax their companies' foreign earnings at home if those earnings go untaxed in low-rate countries. That would remove the reason for using complex accounting schemes to move profits to subsidiaries in low-tax nations where the companies may do little or no actual business.

The U.S. already has such a tax on overseas profits, but the rate is below the 15% minimum. Congressional Republicans have expressed opposition to President Joe Biden's proposal to raise the rate on overseas corporate profits to 21% to help pay for infrastructure and investments in clean energy. The Democratic president has only a narrow majority in Congress.

Three European Union countries that took part in talks over the minimum tax have refused to endorse the proposal. Ireland, Hungary and Estonia could obstruct adoption in Europe, where tax matters at the EU level require unanimity. Ireland, whose low tax rates are part of its pro-business economic model, has said its 12.5% headline rate is a fair rate.

The tax proposal would also give countries the right to tax part of the profits of big global companies that earn money in their jurisdiction but have no physical presence. Examples would include online retailing and digital advertising.

Some countries, led by France, have already started imposing such taxes on U.S. tech companies such as Google and Amazon. The U.S. considers such taxes to be unfair trade practices and has threatened retaliation through tariffs on imported goods. Under the tax deal, countries would drop those taxes in favor of a single global approach.
ROME - All through the morning Sunday, people kept arriving, transforming the outdoor square in front of the sprawling Gemelli Polyclinic hospital. As noon approached, people baked under the sun, waiting: nuns, priests, police, nurses, hundreds of ordinary Italians. A French choir practiced their tunes. Volunteers passed out water. Almost everybody looked upward, squinting at a particular 10th floor hospital balcony.

And then, with a roar, out onto the balcony walked hospital patient Pope Francis, 84, seven days after surgery.

"Dear brothers and sisters, good morning," the pope said, looking down, extending a hand over the crowd.

MORE NEWS: Why anti-gun Americans joined the new wave of gun-owners

"Good morning," many shouted back.

This was Francis's first public appearance since he'd had part of his colon removed, and in a sense, he was just keeping his usual schedule delivering the weekly Angelus blessing - this time from the 10th floor of a hospital instead of the usual window overlooking St. Peter's Square.

"I am happy to keep this Sunday appointment," Francis said.

But for those who came to see Francis, this Sunday was much different from the others, because it was a chance to give the pope their support, to gauge his recovery, and even to see a little bit of his vulnerability. Francis appeared in good spirits but seemed slightly weakened. He held on to the lectern for support as he walked onto the balcony, and during his 10 minutes of remarks and prayers, his voice sounded a little clipped and tired.

"There was fatigue in his speech," said Claudia Bonavoglia, 58, a Roman who'd come to see him. "I was very moved to hear him. It was a beautiful emotion."

Francis, during his Angelus, talked about the importance of caring for the sick, and of making health care free for all. He thanked the health staff at Gemelli Polyclinic, where he has been treated, and at other hospitals. ("They work hard!" Francis said.) He also asked for special prayers for children suffering from sickness.

Francis did not speak about his own surgery or when he might be discharged. Only a week earlier, he'd given the Angelus at St. Peter's Square, revealing nothing amiss, and then three hours later the Vatican issued a surprise announcement that he was going in for a "scheduled" bowel surgery. The Vatican said the operation addressed what had been a "severe" narrowing of his large intestine.

The Vatican has since offered daily progress reports - a few sentences, emailed to journalists every day at noon - that depict the pontiff to be on a mostly-normal path to recovery. Tuesday, he had breakfast, read some newspapers, and got up to walk around. Wednesday, he had a fever in the evening. Thursday morning, a battery of tests showed no infection, and the fever was gone. By Friday morning, he had resumed his work.

BREAKING: Billionaire Richard Branson makes trip to space in own ship

The Vatican had initially said the pope was expected to stay at Gemelli for roughly seven days, though it has provided no updates.

Since Sunday, Francis has been staying in a wing of this Catholic hospital dedicated to papal care. Though this is believed to be his first hospital stay as pontiff, the facility became a common backdrop during the pontificate of John Paul II, who stayed at Gemelli after a 1981 assassination attempt for which he needed six hours of emergency surgery, and many times in subsequent years for an appendectomy, a fractured femur, a dislocated right shoulder, and the removal of a benign intestinal tumor, among other health issues he dealt with before his 2005 death.

On several occasions John Paul II performed the Angelus from the hospital, and at one point termed the facility "Vatican No. 3" - after the Holy See's territory and the traditional papal summer retreat of Castel Gandolfo.

"I thank you pilgrims, who this time have found the way to reach this 'Vatican number three' to be together, to pray together, to sing together," John Paul II said from the hospital in 1996. "We hope that next Sunday we will have the Angelus from 'Vatican No. 1.' "
The stock market failed in 1929, and suddenly prosperity had slipped around the corner. Jobs disappeared, soup kitchens and bread lines grew. Fathers stood in long lines shuffling their feet, hoping for a chance to pick up some work and earn a few bucks. By 1931 it was clear that denying people help in tough times did not strengthen their character. By 1932, Franklin Roosevelt was inaugurated, I was born, and the New Deal began.

Even I, this unaware kid, felt hope stirring. There were jobs. WPA (Works Progress Administration), NRA (National Recovery Administration), CCC (Civilian Conservation Corps), TVA (Tennesee Valley Authority), and over it all the NIRA (National Industrial Recovery Act).

Where there had been paralyzation, there was action. Beneath the shock, the deprivation, the diminished pride, the evictions, the foreclosures, all brought on by a failing stock market, there was industry. There was now food on the table, shoes, clothes for school, a six pack of Labatt for the weekend.

The New Deal brought a nearly revolutionary proposition: Ordinary people caught in the maelstrom of market turmoil did not need to go hungry. This country had untold resources. Willing people, with some priming from the public pump, could be a resource for each other. People mattered; that was established.

But almost as sudden as the market crash, the world burst forth into war. Although there hadbeen outrage and unspeakable mayhem since Germany had invaded Poland in 1939, how serious would not be known until Hitler was defeated. And on our snug island we had watched. Until Pearl Harbor.

No longer neutral, faced with a serious threat of attack from both Atlantic and Pacific sides, we were mustered to serve. Some with more sacrifice than others. Young men were drafted. Fathers, brothers, husbands, green kids just out of high school. Lights blazed through the nights as war plants worked three shifts turning out P-38s, B-29s, howitzers, Sherman tanks, trucks, Jeeps. Old men went to work; so did women. Kids collected cans and newspapers. The nightly news became a ritual; Edward R. Murrows quavering static direct from London. Walking in the neighborhood, blue stars in windows deserved a pause and a nod of respect. Gold stars stopped you cold. You usually knew someone in that family.

If war has any redeeming virtues at all, surely one of them is community. We defeated Germany, Italy and Japan, together. And when the troops came home, at least those able to come home, there was a palpable sense of having done this together. And in that bubble, families grew, bought houses, constructed tight communities. For the fragility of life, the knowledge of how little stood between man and total destruction, was still very much an immediate lesson, learned on the battlefield.

But not all were so fortunate. The long-festering rot of unequal rights, unequal justice, discrimination by color and culture burst open for all to see. Black citizens were claiming their constitutional rights. But not without pain and indomitable courage. TV shots of kids fire-hosed, kids murdered at their Sunday school, their parents beaten on the Edmund Pettus Bridge, savaged during the Freedom Rides, all this came home to every screen in every home in the country.

It was a long, long bloody struggle but there was light. And it took a rough-speaking, clear-minded legislator from a Jim Crow state to do it. Lyndon Johnson thrown into the turmoil by the assassination of John Kennedy shepherded the Civil Rights Act, the Voting Rights Act, the Equal Opportunity in Employment Act past the solid Jim Crow states and into law.

Since then there have been more wars. Smaller ones, but no less deadly. There have been presidents of varying degrees of moral imagination and integrity,

And lately weve been licking our wounds after a totally unexpected assault on the U.S. Capitol by a ragtail outfit, armed with clubs and flagpoles, determined to overthrow a presidential election. But order is restored. And it is worth noting that not once did the forces of law, the police, the National Guard, the military consider defecting in favor of the mobs leader, as often is the preliminary to a military coup.

The point is this: Although we may waver and too often wander from our best interests, as a nation we are strong. For a time darkness may rule. But inevitably, through the rubble, the doubt, and the calls for destruction, the light struggles upward. We do know charity from greed, compassion from revenge. And we know to do what is right, because it is right and ensures our ultimate preservation.

Barbara DeMille is an author living in Rensselaerville.
A. Asking isn't enough and neither is the current level of enforcement.

B. Entrance into Three Sisters Springs needs to be staggered.

C. Human entry into Three Sisters Springs should be limited to only the boardwalk - no swimming or paddlecraft.

D. The current levels of erosion are acceptable and can be addressed with additional rock installation.

Vote

View Results
Florida, FL (34429)

Today

Mixed clouds and sun this morning. Scattered thunderstorms developing this afternoon. High around 90F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 50%..

Tonight

Cloudy skies this evening followed by isolated thunderstorms overnight. Low 73F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 30%.
Cleburne, TX (76033)

Today

A mix of clouds and sun. High 96F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

A few clouds. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low around 75F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph.
As the 2020-21 school year came to a close, students and families embraced the many opportunities to celebrate with more traditional milestone events. Some of the events were rethought and refreshed in light of the pandemic. The focus was on bringing on as many people together as possible to
SHOREWOOD [mdash] Robert J. Horan, age 85, of Shorewood, IL, formerly of Preston, IA, passed away Monday, July 12, 2021 at Salud Wellness Nursing Home, in Joliet, IL. A graveside funeral service will be held at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, in Preston, IA on Saturday, July 17, 2021 at 2pm. A
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 11) -- The military has so far identified at least 28 of the 49 soldiers killed in the C-130 plane crash in Sulu.

In a statement, the Armed Forces of the Philippines said eight more bodies were identified. They were:

-Private First Class Carlos Dapanas, Jr.

- Private First Class Keth Kane Alegarme

- Private First Class Marchi Bonzales

- Private First Class Philip Dante Camilosa

- Corporal Jay-ar Obenita

- Private Archie Barba

- Private Carlos Paragua, Jr.

- Technical Sergeant Nelson Hadjiri

Meanwhile, Philippine Air Force spokesperson Col. Maynard Mariano said scene of the crime operatives (SOCO) are still examining the cadavers of the remaining soldiers to verify their identities.

Mariano said the military is ready to subject the soldiers remains to DNA testing for identification before they are released to their families.

Continued pa rin po ang identification. SOCO po ang gumagawa nito and were providing everything -- dental records hanggang DNA testing gagawin natin -- kasi gusto ng Armed Forces (of the Philippines) na makasiguro tayo ng identity ng ating mga service member, he said in a forum.

[Translation: The identification still continues. The SOCO is working on it and were providing everything -- from dental records to DNA testing we will do everything -- because the Armed Forces wants to be sure with the identities of all the service members.]

Mariano said parts of the C-130 plane recovered by the military will be sent to Mactan, Cebu for reconstruction.

Nabuo na po natin yung pag-recover ng aircraft natin. At ito within the day, isasakay sa Navy vessel at dadalhin sa Mactan kung saan ibubuo natin siya and we will piece everything together and we will try to reconstruct the event that happened on that fateful day, he said.

[Translation: We have finished the recovery of our aircrafts parts. Within the day, we will load it on our Navy vessel and bring it to Mactan where we will piece everything together and we will try to reconstruct the event that happened on that fateful day.]

Meanwhile, Mariano said the analysis of the contents of the C-130s black box will take around a month.

The black box, which contains an aircrafts flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder, has been sent to the United States for analysis.

Aside from military personnel, three civilians were also killed in the incident that happened last July 4.

CNN Philippines correspondent Xianne Arcangel and multi-platform news writer Vince Ferreras contributed to this report
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 11)  Vice President Leni Robredo on Sunday said the country's arbitral victory against economic giant China on the West Philippine Sea should always remind Filipinos not to be apathetic about issues threatening national sovereignty.

"Ang sa akin pagpapaalala 'yung 5th anniversary bukas na mayroon tayong pinaglalaban pa, na marami tayong kababayan na nakabase dun ang kanilang hanapbuhay," she said during her weekly radio show.

[Translation: This 5th anniversary reminds us that we're still fighting for something on which many of our countrymen's livelihood depends.]

On July 12, 2016under the leadership of late former President Benigno Aquino IIIFilipinos witnessed a major feat: an arbitral tribunal favoring the Philippines against Chinas claims to virtually all of the South China Sea.

READ: PH wins maritime arbitration case vs. China

Robredo stressed the Philippines' historic case against China is "not just a concept" that should be shrugged off.

Many Filipinos, she said, do not consider China's presence in the Philippine waters as "encroachment".

"'Yun ang naririnig ko minsan, hindi tayo apektado, usapan lang 'yan ng mga pamahalaan. [Pero] pektadong apektado tayo, lalo na ang mga mangingisda natin," the government official added.

[Translation: That's what I hear sometimesthat they're not affected since it is an issue involving governments. [But] we're very affected, especially our fishermen.]

READ: Duterte says PH arbitral win vs. China 'just' a piece of paper, trash to be thrown away

Robredo also expressed disappointment that Filipino fishermen experience harassment within the country's exclusive economic zone.

The Philippine government, she said, should take this arbitral win as an advantage to collaborating with other countries that have the similar issues in the disputed waters.

Earlier this year, the Department of Foreign Affairs fired several diplomatic protests amid the incursion of over 200 Chinese vessels in the West Philippine Sea. Likewise, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana issued strongly-worded statements calling for the removal of Chinese vessels, further urging China to stop its aggressive actions that "disturb" peace in the region.

READ: I am no fool. Leave now,' Lorenzana tells Chinese vessels at West PH Sea

RELATED: PH fires twin diplomatic protests over Chinese vessels' lingering presence in West PH Sea
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 11)  Vice President Leni Robredo said the national government should be alarmed at the current state of Philippine education, believing the coronavirus pandemic has worsened the situation.

During her weekly radio show, Robredo cited several issues hounding the country's educational system, which was recently in the spotlight after World Bank issued its report stating the Philippines is lagging behind.

"Para sa akin, dapat mag-deklara ng krisis sa education para pagtuunan nang mas malaking pansin," she said.

"All hands on deck na tayo. Rather than maging defensive tayo, gawin na natin 'yung lahat...," Robredo added.

[Translation: For me, a crisis in education should be declared to provide more focus on the sector. It should be all hands on deck. Rather than be defensive, we should exhaust all efforts.]

Last week, the Department of Education demanded an apology from the World Bank for the latter's failure to inform the agency on the release of the "insulting" report, which was based on outdated data.

The report, which said 80% of Filipino children fare poorly in studies "do not know what they should know, used inaccurate data and that the government was not informed about its release, which is against protocols, Education Secretary Leonor Briones previously said.

The World Bank issued an apology to the Philippine government on Friday.

READ: World Bank apologizes, regrets publishing PH education report without DepEd inputs

However, Robredo said that the DepEd should also present updated information so the government will know the areas that need improvement.

"In fairness naman sa DepEd, marami silang ginawa na na hindi nag-reflect sa study. Sana magkaroon ng update based on the latest data para mas alam natin kung saan tayo ngayon," she said.

[Translation: In fairness to DepEd, they have done a lot that was not reflected in the study. Hopefully there will be an update based on the latest data so we know better where we are now.]

Robredo also raised on Sunday the lack of support to teachers, the unending problem of malnutrition, the widening gap between the private and public schools, and the current learning setup imposed amid the pandemic.

"More than a year nang wala sa paaralan ang mga bata. Ang tingin ko mas lumala pa ang situation, sana mali ako," she said.

"Maraming students ang nagsasabi na nahihirapan sila mag-aral with the current setup," Robredo said.

[Translation: The children have been out of school for more than a year now. I think the situation got worse, I hope I was wrong. Many students have been saying they have difficulty studying with the current setup.]

Robredo also pointed out that the administration has been shelling out more money for public works compared to the education sector.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 11)  Vice President Leni Robredo said Sunday her team is ready to assist the private sector with their COVID-19 vaccination drive.

"Tutulong kami sa pag-activate sa [vaccination drive ng] private sector," she said during her weekly radio show.

[Translation: We will help activate the (vaccination drive of) private sector.]

Last month, Presidential Adviser for Entrepreneurship Joey Concepcion said over a million private sector workers will receive their first shot of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine this month.

The private sector also secured seven million doses of Moderna vaccine through a tripartite agreement with the national government and the pharmaceutical firm.

Robredo said her office has been ramping up efforts to help the country reach herd immunity despite limitations

She reiterated that while their infrastructure, volunteer health workers are ready for deployment, they continue to face problems with vaccine supply.

READ: Robredo hopes to have access to vaccine supply

"Nakita natin na maraming dumating [na vaccines] late last week. Hopefully may supply na pwede tayong ma-deploy," she said.

[Translation: We saw that many (vaccines) were delivered late last week. Hopefully there is a supply we can deploy.]

Robredo has a program called "Vaccine Express" where they provide logistics and vaccinators to local government units in need of assistance.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 11)  Monday is officially the last day of public school classes in the current academic year in the country.

Some students and teachers admitted the past year was particularly difficult, as they grappled with the challenges of distance learning amid the pandemic.

One high school student shared how he needed to work harder, including selling noodles on the street, so he could afford to buy gadgets and internet load for his online studies.

With all the distractions, he admitted he had a hard time understanding his lessons.

"Minsan wala pong gadgets, minsan walang pambili ng gadgets. Mahirap po talaga, (Sometimes, we don't have gadgets. Sometimes, we don't have the money to buy gadgets. It's really hard,)" said Carlos Sepe.

Carlos was not alone in his struggles. Even teachers complained how hard the past year was for them.

Teacher Joselyn Fegalan of Imelda Elementary School in Malabon couldnt help but get emotional as she explained why some parents could not properly assist their children with school. She said it was because they were too busy trying to make a living and making ends meet.

"Naiintindihan po namin ito yung burden ng mga magulang ngayon. Nag-post conference nga last Friday, iyakan talaga ang teachers at magulang, emotional. Gusto nila mairaos kaya lang hirap talaga sila. Nakakaawa," she said.

[Translation: We understand the burden on the parents now. During our post conference last Friday, the teachers cried and the parents were emotional. They want their children to pass but they were struggling. It was pitiful.]

"Kung bibigyan ko ng general average yung kasalukuyang blended learning, 70 talaga or failed (If I could give the current blended learning system a general average, it would be 70 or failed,)" Fegalan said.

She said teachers would often shoulder the expenses needed for online learning.

For Teacher Ruby Bernardo from Quezon City, aside from a health crisis, the country is also facing a learning crisis.

"Sobrang pagod na pagod yung mga teachers simula pa nung June 1 kung kelan kami simula pumasok. Ako personally yung pagod na to sa sampung taon na nagtuturo ako, di ko naranasan sa isang dekada na nagtuturo sa high school dahil sobrang exhausted," said Bernardo.

[Translation: The teachers have all been worn out since June 1, when we first started working. I have not experienced this kind of exhaustion in my ten years of teaching in high school.]

Department of Education officials said they are satisfied with the effort they exerted despite the many challenges they faced during the past year.

"Considering the challenges, sobra naman kami sa pasang-awa [we deserve more than just a passing grade]. I would always say 8 out of 10, so we have fulfilled our mandate through the help of the whole society. We were able to provide learning continuity for the youngsters," said Usec. Diosdado San Antonio.

The DepEd said it will intensify the distribution of modules in the next school year, assuring that they will contain no more errors.

It is also preparing for the eventual resumption of face-to-face learning. In case the President gives the green light, the department said it will start the dry run in areas with the lowest number of COVID-19 cases.
(CNN)  Patients are crammed into every corner of the hospital's emergency room ward. They lie on beds and gurneys, or sit slumped in wheelchairs. Many suck on oxygen, but nobody talks. Some die while waiting for a bed.

On the worst nights in Johannesburg, currently in the grips of a terrible wave of infections, medics at one hospital must turn away ambulances carrying Covid-19 patients. It may be a diversion order more common to mass casualty events, but 16 months into the pandemic here, COVID-19 is a mass casualty event.

"It's devastating, it's soul destroying. We are trained to save lives, but you revert to that wartime mentality. You revert to becoming numbed, you revert to becoming blunted," said a senior doctor at a major public hospital in South Africa's largest city.

"Patients are being brought in in cars with desperately ill patients who have been turned away from other hospitals with no beds."

Like many healthcare workers CNN has spoken to during the crisis here, they did not want to be identified for fear of reprisals from the government.

"The third wave has been far more devastating, far more overwhelming," the doctor said.

The disease is no respecter of status, with authorities announcing Friday that the city's mayor had died of COVID-19 in hospital.

"It is my sad duty to confirm that the Executive Mayor of the City of Johannesburg, Cllr Geoffrey Makhubo has indeed succumbed to COVID-19," said acting Executive Mayor and Member of the Mayoral Committee Eunice Mgcina via the official Twitter account of the city's authorities.

"We had hoped that the Executive Mayor would beat the virus and return to work and lead the city as we face this pandemic that has devastated lives and livelihoods. Our heartfelt condolences go to his wife, daughters, mother and the rest of his family, friends and comrades," added Mgcina.

No more cheering

In the early days of the fight against COVID-19, South Africans cheered healthcare workers in neighborhoods across this city. Since then there have been more than 2.1 million confirmed cases in the country, and over 63,000 deaths -- making it one of the worst-affected countries in the region per capita. Excess deaths suggest the toll is much higher.

The applause stopped months ago, but the impact of COVID-19 is at its worst right now.

Sixteen months into the pandemic here and doctors describe a system beyond its breaking point -- with insufficient beds and barely enough oxygen. Sometimes the only time a bed opens is when a patient dies.

"There are patients that are dying while they are waiting to be seen, while they are waiting to go to the ward. Because the resources are just being overwhelmed by the onslaught of patients," the doctor said, an assessment corroborated by paramedics and other physicians.

Sometimes patients will die when entering a hospital no matter what the level of care, they say. But this wave means tough choices have to be made and the best care can't always be given.

The explosion of cases and deaths, as well as renewed lockdowns across the region have come as a surprise to many public health experts. With low rates of vaccination in South Africa, they did expect another wave, but some scientists thought that the very worst was over.

After all, the southern African region was hit by a first wave and battered by a second wave driven by the more infectious Beta variant discovered by South African scientists. The thinking was that a level of immunity in much of the population might dampen future spikes.

The caveat given was always that a new variant could emerge, but few anticipated an even more transmissible variant like Delta that would dominate so quickly.

"When you get a new variant, you can roughly think of it like getting a new virus. A lot of the progress you have made through people getting exposed will get reduced," said Dr. Humphrey Karamagi, the leader of the World Health Organization (WHO) Africa regions data, analytics and knowledge team.

First discovered in India and responsible for an overwhelming spike in cases and deaths on the sub-continent earlier this year, the Delta variant is now present in countries throughout the world.

The variant has so far been detected in at least 10 African countries, with a high prevalence observed in southern and eastern Africa, according to WHO.

On Thursday WHO Regional Director for Africa Matshidiso Moeti said the variant continues to "gain speed and new ground in countries." New cases on the continent have increased for the seventh consecutive week while vaccination rates remain low, said Moeti.

"Africa has just marked its worst pandemic week ever," she said. And the situation is set to worsen.

"The next couple of months are going to be very difficult on the continent as we see the spread of the variant," added Moeti.

The rapid spread of variants on the continent poses a major threat to Africa's population, of whom 16 million have been fully vaccinated -- less than 2% of the continent's population, added Moeti.

Displacing and dominating

Karamagi said Delta's greater transmissibility and its ability to reinfect people with previous Covid infections helped drive the spike in the region. And while countries like the United Kingdom are seeing surges in Delta infection, their widespread vaccination coverage should provide some protection from severe illness.

Vaccination coverage is still exceptionally low on the African continent -- fertile ground for a new variant like Delta.

Countries have been hit by the slowdown in the vaccines coming from the COVAX vaccine alliance, because of India's decision to stop importing to the facility. And, in South Africa's case, a reticence to make bilateral deals with vaccine manufacturers early on.

"It was surprising how quickly the Delta variant took over," said Tulio de Oliveira, who until recently led the team at KRISP, a genomics surveillance center in Durban. "The growth seems to be much, much faster than the Beta variant. Within weeks here it seemed to be dominating and displacing the Beta variant."

Within hours of the variant's discovery, the country's COVID task force decided to put the country back into a strict lockdown, de Oliveira said. But by then, Delta was already raging in Gauteng province, much of the rest of the country, and the wider region.

Asked by CNN about the lack of space in hospitals and the deaths of patients while they waited for a bed, the Gauteng Department of Health responded by sharing presentations that show expanded bed space in the city over the past few months.

Private hospitals are also packed to capacity with surgeons and other non-physicians volunteering for rounds in the COVID-19 wards.

But doctors here blame a fire at one of the city's biggest hospitals and the decision to close one of its major field hospitals at Nasrec before the third wave as significant failures. Also, beds need staff.

"Beds are just a piece of furniture, you need staff and oxygen, nurses and supplies," said a physician who helped set up Nasrec and spoke on the condition of anonymity because they still work within the state sector.

Overcoming natural barriers

In recent weeks, one of the worst-hit countries in the world has been Namibia, South Africa's neighbor to the northwest and a tragic example of the power of the new variant.

In 2020, Karamagi and his team of data scientists at WHO's African headquarters in Brazzaville, Republic of the Congo, had predicted that COVID-19 would have a very different trajectory in parts of the continent than in countries like the US, Italy, and the UK, where cities were brought to their knees.

Unlike the dire predictions of a catastrophe in Africa, with COVID-19 overwhelming weak health systems, their modeling suggested a mixed picture with some countries escaping the worst because of a young population and so-called "socio-ecological" factors.

Namibia would seem an ideal example: A large country for its population of around 2.5 million, with a generally warm climate, and limited large-scale movement of people relative to other countries.

"Namibia has had three waves. The first two waves were quite small and health measures brought them under control. But this wave is very high. You can see the effect of the transmissibility of the virus," said Karamagi.

The presence of the Delta variant was only confirmed by government scientists this week, but by then it was one of the worst-hit countries on earth, despite renewed lockdowns.

"At every hospital you have 25 to 30 people on a waiting list. The system is overloaded, prominent people are dying because they can't get a bed," said Dr. Danie Jordaan a well-known general practitioner who works in the country's capital, Windhoek, and the coastal city Swakopmund.

"You have come to a point where they need to decide who will make it. Elderly patients are being pulled out of ICU knowing that it will kill them to give someone younger a chance," he said.

In Windhoek, the state mortuary has been completely overwhelmed. Video clips seen and authenticated by CNN show bodies in white bags stacked three deep in the facility.

"What they are having to do now is use a rotation system, swapping bodies kept in the freezers overnight with those lying in the corridors in the morning and then doing it again in the afternoon to prevent thawing," a person familiar with the operations at the mortuary told CNN.

Namibia's presidential spokesman confirmed that the mortuary in Windhoek was at full capacity.

"Our mortuaries had been designed to deal with deaths under normal circumstances and we are now dealing with exceptional circumstances. This is not a challenge that is unique to us, COVID-19 has put pressure on health systems across the globe," said Dr. Alfredo Hengari, adding that they have created additional capacity in order to deal with the emergency.

Making space when there is none

The situation is so bad in Namibia, doctors like Jordaan must resort to treating patients at home. The same is happening in Gauteng, the epicenter of this wave in South Africa, but just on a much larger scale. And sometimes home care is just not enough to keep sick patients alive.

"Delta has caused a whole lot of chaos, a whole lot of patients are suffering, their oxygen levels are dropping drastically daily -- there are patients that are suffering and there is no space in hospital, there is no ventilators available. It's complete chaos," said Mohammed Patel, a paramedic with Pulsate EMS.

Patel and paramedics throughout the city are working with charity Gift of the Givers. In its warehouse, filled with the food and emergency supplies they deploy to crises all over the world, a team loads oxygenators into the back of a pickup.

They distribute them to patients across the province to lessen the load at hospitals. Covid-19 is unlike any emergency they have ever dealt with.

"The difference is when you go to a war zone or a natural disaster, you have an idea of the level of damage, what the disaster is. But this is very unpredictable. We have never seen anything like this before," said Dr. Yakub Essack, the medical coordinator of Gift of the Givers.

But with hospitals at full capacity in both the public and private sector, the charity has gone a step further and built, in five days, a 20-bed clinic for patients who can't find a bed.

Patel and his team enter a house in Lenasia, a suburb south of Soweto, to find a 67-year-old patient who tested positive for coronavirus 17 days ago. After he gets up to walk, an oximeter shows that his oxygen concentration levels drop into the 60s. Healthy adults should have a reading in the nineties.

"We are going to get you through, OK," Patel tells the patient. He is the first patient to arrive at the community center-come-clinic attached to a mosque. Patel is confident he will make it now.

But in the hospitals across Johannesburg patients are still struggling through this Delta wave, and the doctors and nurses are suffering with them.

Doctors do say that sometimes patients won't make it into the wards, even with the best facilities.

But just this week, the doctor we spoke to said that their hospital was struggling to wrap the bodies quickly enough to free up space.

"Patients are looking to us, they are relying on us to do our best, but it isn't good enough. There is a that sense no matter how much I do, it is going to be the same thing tomorrow and the next day and the next day and the next day," they said.

This story was first published on CNN.com, "Southern Africa hoped it was through the worst of Covid-19. Then the Delta variant arrived."
It wasn't long ago that Earth Defense Force: World Brothers arrived and wowed us with its wild mix of characters and elements from past EDF games. Gamers will soon have a chance to experience some classic EDF action firsthand when the appropriately-named Earth Defense Force 2 for Nintendo Switch arrives on July 15. The only catch is this is a Japanese release, with an English release presumably to be announced in the future.

Earth Defense Force 2 for Switch will be a mildly enhanced port of Earth Defense Force 2: Invaders from Space, a formerly PlayStation Vita-exclusive remake of the original PlayStation 2 game. The Switch game features three playable classes: Ranger, Pale Wing (Wing Diver), and Air Raider. There are 78 missions and five difficulty levels to complete, with mission completion percentage shared between single-player and co-op games.

Earth Defense Force 2 might seem like a dated game for re-release given that Earth Defense Force 6 is coming sometime in the next year or so, but EDF 2 is a pretty special installment. Not only did it introduce the Pale Wing/Wing Diver - many fans' favorite playable class, it also utilized a very specific B-movie art style that hasn't been replicated in any of the sequels. For instance, EDF 2 introduced several cool enemy types like Saurus (kaiju), Darogas (walkers), pillbugs, and centipedes that recently showed up in EDF: World Brothers. It's important to know your roots, gamers!

Preorder bonus trailer

Earth Defense Force 2 for Nintendo Switch features 4-player online and wireless LAN co-op. Sadly, no split-screen feature has been announced - a real missed opportunity to make this the definitive EDF 2 release. An eventual English release is likely, but you can also import the game from retailers like Play-Asia ($37 shipped) or digitally from Nintendo (use this guide). We'll have impressions for you when my preordered copy arrives.

A Switch version of Earth Defense Force 2017, the third game in the series, has also been announced for Japanese release this fall.
MONTANA

Spurred by drought, grasshoppers threaten rangeland

BILLINGS  A punishing drought in the U.S. West is drying up waterways, sparking wildfires and leaving farmers scrambling for water. Next up: a plague of voracious grasshoppers.

Federal agriculture officials are launching what could become their largest grasshopper-killing campaign since the 1980s amid an outbreak of the drought-loving insects that cattle ranchers fear will strip bare public and private rangelands.

Grasshoppers thrive in warm, dry weather, and populations already were up last year, setting the stage for an even bigger outbreak in 2021. Such outbreaks could become more common as climate change shifts rainfall patterns, scientists said.

To blunt the grasshoppers' economic damage, the U.S. Department of Agriculture in late June began aerial spraying of the pesticide diflubenzuron to kill grasshopper nymphs before they develop into adults. Approximately 3,000 square miles in Montana are expected to be sprayed, roughly twice the size of Rhode Island.

The program's scale has alarmed environmentalists who say widespread spraying will kill numerous insects, including spiders and other grasshopper predators as well as struggling species such as monarch butterflies. They're also concerned the pesticides could ruin organic farms adjacent to spray zones.

A typical infestation can remove 20% of forage from the range and have a $900 million impact, according to a 2012 University of Wyoming study cited by federal officials.

Drought benefits grasshoppers in part because it lessens exposure of grasshopper eggs to deadly parasites that need moisture, said Chelse Prather, a University of Dayton insect ecologist.

This year's outbreak will peak in roughly two months, Prather said, when the insects reach 2 to 3 inches in length and become so prevalent they'll start to eat more plant matter than cattle can.

NEW MEXICO

State jobs seekers can nab $1,000 federal bonus

SANTA FE  Federal relief funds will be used to offer back-to-work bonuses of up to $1,000 for New Mexico residents who find a job in the coming weeks and stop receiving unemployment insurance benefits, state labor officials announced July 2.

The program from Democratic New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham is aimed at encouraging a return to work before federal unemployment supplements expire in early September.

The new support payments decline gradually from $1,000 to $400 by late July, providing a bigger payout the sooner a job is secured. The federal supplement provides an extra $300 a week on top of state unemployment benefits.

Some businesses have complained that expanded federal aid to the unemployed  especially the $300-a-week supplemental benefit, intended to cushion the economic blow from the pandemic  has discouraged people from looking for a job. But other factors also are believed to have contributed to the shortage of people seeking work again, from difficulty arranging or affording child care to lingering fears of COVID-19.

Responding to the criticism about the duration of expanded jobless benefits, dozens of states began dropping the expanded federal aid in June.

More than 70,000 residents of New Mexico are receiving unemployment insurance. On July 1, state health officials lifted the last restrictions on business occupancy and public gatherings  throwing open the economy as vaccination rates surpass 62%.

The Department of Workforce Solutions says it expects up to 15,000 people will take advantage of the back-to-work program at a total cost of up to $10.1 million.

Recall petition begins against Cowboys for Trump founder

SANTA FE  A political committee has begun circulating a petition to recall Cowboys or Trump founder Couy Griffin from public office as a commissioner in Otero County.

The Committee to Recall Couy Griffin said July 1 in a news release that it has begun collecting signatures in efforts to scheduled a recall election.

The petition alleges that Griffin neglected and misused his position as a county commissioner while skipping public meetings and promoting a support group for President Donald Trump that Griffin treated as a for-profit business.

Griffin, elected in 2018, says allegations in the petition are frivolous and without merit. Separately, Griffin is confronting federal charges in connection with the U.S. Capitol siege on Jan. 6, where he appeared on an outdoor terrace and attempted to lead a prayer.

The recall committee needs to collect about 1,540 signatures from registered voters in Griffin's district to trigger a vote on whether Griffin stays in office through 2022.

Otero County Clerk Robyn Holmes says a successful petition would put the question on the November general election ballot for local, nonpartisan races.

Colorado Politics' Insider newsletter tells you all you need to know about the latest in Colorado's political arena. Subscribe through the newsletter button on our homepage.

IDAHO

Northwestern Band of Shoshone sues Idaho over hunting rights

BOISE  The Northwestern Band of the Shoshone Nation is suing Idaho Gov. Brad Little and state wildlife officials in federal court, contending the state has wrongly denied the tribe hunting rights guaranteed by the 1868 Treaty of Fort Bridger.

The lawsuit, filed in Idaho's U.S. District Court in June, asks a judge to declare that the Northwestern Band is protected under the treaty. Attorneys for the state didn't immediately respond to a request for comment.

On its surface, the legal case could come down to whether one of the Native American leaders who signed the treaty was representing the Northwestern Band along with other bands of the Shoshone Nation, and whether the Northwestern Band itself has remained a cohesive unit in the time since.

But at the heart of the dispute is a dilemma faced by many Native American governments across the U.S. who sometimes find themselves at odds with game wardens, mining companies, water users or other groups as they try to preserve their use of the land they were promised in treaties signed centuries ago.

Today, the Northwestern Band doesn't have reservation land and its tribal offices are in Brigham City, Utah. Historically, members of the band would spend time fishing near what is now Salmon, Idaho, would hunt big game in western Wyoming and hunt and gather in southern Idaho and Utah. Winters were often spent in southeastern Idaho.

According to the lawsuit, the state of Idaho doesn't recognize that the northwestern bands of the Shoshone nation were part of the Fort Bridger Treaty, and doesn't believe that members of the federally recognized Northwestern Band have the right to hunt on unoccupied lands pursuant to the treaty.

In 1997, two brothers and Northwestern Band tribal members were found guilty for hunting out of season in Idaho, though they had hunting tags issued by the Northwestern Band. Shane and Wayde Warner appealed their convictions, claiming treaty rights under the Fort Bridger treaty.

WYOMING

Drunk, disorderly Yellowstone tourist gets 60 days in jail

JACKSON  A Yellowstone National Park tourist has been sentenced to 60 days in jail and banned from the park for five years after pleading guilty to disorderly conduct and other charges involving a disturbance that erupted when a guide refused to take the tourist's party on a kayak trip because the group was too drunk to go.

Prosecutors say 31-year-old Kyle Campbell of Fairmont, Indiana made threatening comments and kicked at park officers while resisting arrest in the incident.

Campbell was sentenced on June 23 by U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark L. Carman in Mammoth. Campbell also faces five years of unsupervised probation and was ordered to pay more than $1,550 in fines, according to a statement from Acting U.S. Attorney Bob Murray that was reported by the Jackson Hole News&Guide.

"We understand that people are eager to get out this summer and enjoy our national parks; however, this type of behavior is unacceptable," Murray said.
Colorado Politics is published both in print and online. Our website features subscriber-only news stories daily, designed for public policy arena professionals. Member subscribers also receive the weekly print edition of our award-winning newspaper, containing outstanding features and news stories, in their mailboxes every Saturday.
DANVILLE - Jane Thurston Hahne, of Danville, passed in her home surrounded by loved ones on July 3, 2021 at the age of 92. Jane was born on March 11, 1929 in Boston, Massachusetts. Jane will forever be known for the diehard Boston Red Sox and Ohio State fan she was. Along with raising her se
NAIDOC Week digital announcements

The NAIDOC Week celebrations last week, which takes place every July across Australia to celebrate the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples included a few digital-related announcements. (NAIDOC is the National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee.)

NBN has announced a three-year collaboration deal with Jawun, a not-for-profit organisation that partners with Indigenous communities to empower Indigenous-led change and foster meaningful connections between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians. As a result, NBN will place as many as 12 of its employees into Indigenous organisations across Australia, sharing their expertise to help communities enhance their digital capability.

[ Keep up on the latest thought leadership, insights, how-to, and analysis on IT through Computerworlds newsletters. ]

The University of Melbourne Indigenous Business Sector Snapshot 1.0 found some success when compared to non-Indigenous businesses: Registered Indigenous businesses are bigger businesses on averagewith average gross income of $1.6 million in 2018 and 14 employees, compared to $400,000 and two employees for non-Indigenous businesses. Of course, there are far fewer Indigenous businesses, but given their success it makes sense to increase investments to have more of them. The Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services sector makes up 14% of all Indigenous businesses and is responsible for 6% of all employees and 8% of gross income.

Telstra and TPG Telecom restack mobile network spectrum

Telstra and TPG Telecom have defragmented and re-stacked their mobile network spectrumspecifically, the 1800MHz and 2100MHz spectrum bandsin Adelaide, Brisbane, Canberra, Darwin, Hobart, and Perth, promising a better network experience as a result. Telstra claims this has improved its 4G speeds by as much as 20%.

Spectrum restacking involves defragmenting and shifting separate spectrum blocks that are not adjacent to create a single contiguous holding, Telstra explained. In Telstras case, separate 10MHz spectrum blocks have been joined to form single 20MHz blocks in six cities. Larger spectrum blocks are more efficient as they can carry more traffic.

The telcos spectrum holdings in the 1800MHz and 2100MHz bands were fragmented due to different spectrum allocations made over the last decade. The 1800MHz band was restacked by all operators in 2012 as part of the Australian Communications and Media Authoritys spectrum licence reissue process.

TPG Telecom opens innovation lab

TPG Telecom has opened an innovation lab in Sydney that will serve as an integrated site for vendors to trial their emerging 5G-related technologies. Samsung is the first vendor to use the lab.

The lab has a data centre and rooftop mobile site. According to TPG, the site offers potential to unlock 5Gs high-throughput and ultralow-latency capabilities for industry verticals, such as for using augmented reality and virtual reality for training, using low-latency remote control for mining and transportation, and implementing smart city applications.

Deloitte Australia launches private AI institute

Deloitte Australia has opened an artificial intelligence institute in Melbourne as part of a global strategy to drive innovation and collaboration in AI and machine learning. The institute is not an open AI research facility; its focus is to help Deloittes customers, practitioners, and partners to start or scale AI capabilities.

The Australian federal government has recently launched the countrys first AI Action Plan backed by $124.1 million in funding.
100%

Website aboutdevice.com uses latest and advanced technologies like: JQuery. It is very popular on the web, it's within the 1 million most visited websites of the world at position 210835 by Alexa. It supports HTTPS and GZIP compression. The main html page has a size of 30369 bytes (29.66 kb uncompressed) and 5733 bytes (5.60 kb compressed).

This CoolSocial report was updated on 2021-04-22, you can refresh this analysis whenever you want.
"Freddy was extremely mild mannered. Every morning (we) would pick up the three of them for trial (Freddy and Ty Geas, and Arthur Nigro).... I always patted down and shackled Freddy. He always walked out of the cell first, followed by Ty, and Nigro lagging behind last. They walked out in the same order every day for four months. That stuck in my mind because I knew Nigro was a boss but to me, Freddy seemed to take on that role."





That was one of the things we learned during a recent chat with a former deputy marshal who spent considerable time on the job getting to know numerous members and associates of organized crime in New York, including former Genovese family acting boss Arthur Nigro and brothers Ty and Freddy Geas, both former members of the Genovese family's Springfield Crew.







Fotios, left, and brother Ty, who got life sentences for the slaying of mob boss Big Al Bruno.









Freddy Geas also is the number one suspect in the brutal murder of James (Whitey) Bulger , who was found beaten to death inside a West Virginia prison in October 2018.





And as recently reported, two years and nine months later, no one has been charged with the murderthough Freddy Geas and two other inmates who are suspects in the casePaul J. DeCologero and Sean McKinnonall remain in the special housing unit at US Penitentiary Hazelton, locked in tiny cells for 23 hours a day.













The Geas brothers were originally sentenced to the same federal prison in Kentucky but have since been split up to maximum security federal penitentiaries in California (for Ty) and West Virginia (for Fotios).



"Working for the marshals, you spend a considerable amount of time with inmates," the former deputy marshal, who would only speak to us if we would grant him anonymity (which we did), told us recently.



The following is in his own words (and was only lightly edited):



I definitely got to know some of the inmates on a personal level. Probably the most interesting was Fotios Geas. I was assigned to his trial along with his brother and Artie Nigro. I was shocked when I saw that



I didnt know anything about the Geas brothers, Nigro or anything involving Springfield Massachusetts organized crime before I was assigned to the trial. The only background info I got from my boss was that Freddy and Ty beat up a guard at some jail they were at. So watch your back.



Freddy was extremely mild mannered. Every morning four of us would pick up the three of them for trial (Freddy, Ty, and Nigro). For some reason I always patted down and shackled Freddy. He always walked out of the cell first, followed by Ty, and Nigro lagging behind last. They walked out in the same order everyday for four months. That stuck in my mind because I knew Nigro was a boss but to me, Freddy seemed to take on that role.



I sat behind Freddy for the duration of the trial. Freddys lawyer would hand him a tin of Altoids every morning. Every single day Freddy would take one, pop it in his mouth, turn around and offer me one. Everyday I turned it down simply for the optics of it, but he still offered it. Nigro, the acting boss who oversaw the Springfield Crew from the Bronx, also was sentenced to life in prison. He died in 2019 while serving the sentence.The Geas brothers were originally sentenced to the same federal prison in Kentucky but have since been split up to maximum security federal penitentiaries in California (for Ty) and West Virginia (for Fotios)."Working for the marshals, you spend a considerable amount of time with inmates," the former deputy marshal, who would only speak to us if we would grant him anonymity (which we did), told us recently.The following is in his own words (and was only lightly edited):I definitely got to know some of the inmates on a personal level. Probably the most interesting was Fotios Geas. I was assigned to his trial along with his brother and Artie Nigro. I was shocked when I saw that he killed Bulger . Its weird to think I have some sort of connection to some of these guys from spending so much time with them.I didnt know anything about the Geas brothers, Nigro or anything involving Springfield Massachusetts organized crime before I was assigned to the trial. The only background info I got from my boss was that Freddy and Ty beat up a guard at some jail they were at. So watch your back.Freddy was extremely mild mannered. Every morning four of us would pick up the three of them for trial (Freddy, Ty, and Nigro). For some reason I always patted down and shackled Freddy. He always walked out of the cell first, followed by Ty, and Nigro lagging behind last. They walked out in the same order everyday for four months. That stuck in my mind because I knew Nigro was a boss but to me, Freddy seemed to take on that role.I sat behind Freddy for the duration of the trial. Freddys lawyer would hand him a tin of Altoids every morning. Every single day Freddy would take one, pop it in his mouth, turn around and offer me one. Everyday I turned it down simply for the optics of it, but he still offered it.









Genovese family acting boss Arthur Nigro.








Some might find it wholly unnecessary to be told that a film is fictitious. After all, most of us understand that a movie and a documentary are not the same thing and that there's this thing called creative license, even though it sometimes leads to controversy (looking at you, Pocahontas).

But need we remind you that even though a story may be based on the truth, some people still think that it's all very, very real. That's how people have come to believe that Ted Bundy was some kind of suave genius gentleman killer (he wasn't) or that demons are real and can only be stopped by the loving saint-couple that is Ed and Lorraine Warren (oof, not so much). Of course, a person who has done some terrible things would probably not mind if the media decided to portray them in a better light. The opposite, however, could get you a one-way ticket to the courthouse. This is precisely what happened back in 1933 when the prince who killed Grigori Rasputin sued MGM for depicting the murderous affair all wrong.

MGM For one, that receding hairline is grossly inaccurate. - The prince, probably.

Prince Felix Yusupov was one of the parties involved in the assassination of Rasputin, and instead of paying for his crimes, he was exiled by Tsar Nicholas II to go and live a cushy life in Paris only to squander his fortunes because he sucked at business as much as he sucked at covering up a crime. Yusupov was still alive, penniless, and presumably dueling people with baguettes in the streets of Paris when MGM released Rasputin and the Empress in 1932. The film shows the murder of the Russian rapscallion by Yusupov, who is depicted as "Prince PaulChegodieff"  a fact that greatly irked the prince because even though he had bragged about killing Rasputin to everyone and also in a memoir, he didn't want audiences to associate him with the movie's version of events. Sure, the film switched some things around, but we bet it had something to do with the fact that it showed Yusupov initially failing in his attempt.

Continue Reading Below Advertisement

However, it didn't matter because trying to build a libel case when you are, in fact, a self-confessed murderer is actually harder than it sounds. So instead, the prince alleged that the movie defamed his wife, Princess Irina, the niece of Tsar Nicholas II. The film shows Prince Chegodieff's wife, Natasha, as a devoted follower of Rasputin. At one point, she is hypnotized and ultimately raped by Rasputin  something that never happened to Irina, a woman who had never even met Rasputin. Major yikes.

Rasputin and the Empress was prefaced as such: "This concerns the destruction of an empire ... A few of the characters are still alive  the rest met death by violence." In court, it was argued that seeing as the Yusupovs were the only significant characters still alive, audiences would obviously associate the movie with them. The court's decision that the disclaimer should have actually stated the opposite  that it was not intended to portray factual events  led to every film in Hollywood slapping just that on their movies.

It's also worth noting that an MGM researcher actually told the studio they might get in trouble for portraying a sexual assault there was absolutely no record of. They fired her, proving that everyone's a villain in this very real and very true story.

Zanandi is on Twitter.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released guidance Friday morning stating vaccinated students, teachers and staff dont need to wear masks in school this fall, with some exceptions.

Masks will still be required on all public transportation, including school buses, and apply to passengers and drivers. The new recommendations give leeway to school administrators who may opt to require universal masking.

Unvaccinated teachers and students, including those who are not yet age-eligible, should continue to wear face coverings in school buildings, according to the agency. Students and educators, vaccinated or not, can go mask-less in most outdoor settings including recess and gym.

Though the CDCs guidance is not a mandate, the recommendations will likely help state and district leaders make key decisions about school reopenings this fall.

In a joint statement, the Connecticut Department of Public Health and the state Department of Education said they are reviewing the CDC guidance and will be assessing Connecticuts current and future guidance for schools.

The departments said they strongly endorse and support the guidances emphasis on the importance of in-person learning, and on vaccinating the maximum number of students and staff eligible.

The statement also said the departments are working toward the release of Connecticut-specific guidance for schools in the coming days.

Some reasons the CDC cited for more stringent masking requirements include teaching students under the age of vaccine eligibility (grades prekindergarten through six) and high COVID-19 transmission rates in the school or area. A school might decide to mandate face coverings if they lack a system to monitor vaccine status or have difficulty enforcing non-universal policies, the agency said.

The CDC makes clear that schools and school systems should be supportive of people who are fully vaccinated but wear a mask on their own accord or due to a medical condition.

The states largest teachers union encouraged districts on Friday to follow the CDCs guidance, including on other preventative measures. The CDC continues to recommend proper ventilation and three feet of social distancing, though it said the latter should not impede a full school reopening. Students and teachers who are not fully vaccinated still need to quarantine after exposure to COVID-19.

Were clearly very happy with the idea that more and more, it looks like teachers and kids can be back in school in-person, doing it the way we know it should be done, said Jeff Leake, president of the Connecticut Education Association. Everything seems to be heading in that direction.

The guidelines also make it clear that people have to cooperate; people have to be honest. We dont want people saying theyre vaccinated when theyre not, said Leake, who added he hasnt heard of official vaccine-status reporting requirements at this stage.

He said that safety should remain a top priority as students return to school buildings this fall.

Im seeing in some communities that parents are saying no kids should wear masks, he said. Thats clearly not what this says.

The American Federation of Teachers Connecticut was largely in agreement.

Our members are concerned that communities reporting high immunization rates today will abandon mitigation strategies like masking, distancing and ventilation for the fall, said Mary Yordon, AFT CT vice president for preK-12 educators. Those tactics can interfere with instruction somewhat, but last year we learned that they effectively reduce risks.

Our union members wish nothing more than to return to no-mask, in-person classrooms. Such convenience and comfort should not come at a risk to their health or that of their students and families, she said.

Debates over masking have broken out across Connecticut since the early stages of the pandemic. At first, parents and educators were concerned about or outright rejected that children would follow masking rules, but students showed those fears were mostly unwarranted.

Then in May, updated mask guidance from the CDC said people who are vaccinated could go mask-less in most indoor and outdoor settings. That left many school officials and administrators confused, until the agency clarified that universal masking should remain for schools through the end of the academic year.

The mask debate then heated up across Connecticut, with mostly parents demanding the requirement be lifted for schools, too. Families in the Danbury-area urged urged school boards to remove the mandate. Parents in Branford staged an anti-mask rally along a well-traveled parkway. The Fairfield school board called on the state to end the requirement.

Some school districts have been waiting on Fridays guidance to make any determinations on masking, while others have put in place their own rules.

While it is good to have some updated guidance from the CDC, much can change between now and the first scheduled day of school, said Stamford Superintendent Tamu Lucero. We will continue to monitor the national, state and local health professionals recommendations and make a determination closer to the beginning of the school year.

East Hampton and Newtown Public Schools opted to make masks optional last month. New Fairfield, meanwhile, plans to require masks at the beginning of the year, even if the state does not.

The CDC guidance also urges schools to promote vaccination, calling it one of the most critical strategies to help schools safely resume full operations.

School districts throughout Connecticut have made vaccinating eligible students a priority.

Bridgeport Public Schools and Southwest Community Health Center have partnered to host Pfizer vaccine clinics next week. Students ages 12 and older with a parent or guardian present can get vaccinated at four schools  Batalla, Roosevelt, Blackham and Read School  on different days starting Monday.

Other districts have run similar initiatives as more students have qualified for the vaccine.

Students ages 12 to 15 only became eligible for the vaccine in May, but time is already running out for them to get fully vaccinated before schools reopen.

A complete series of the Pfizer vaccine, the only shot currently authorized for children ages 12 to 17, takes at least five weeks for the two shots to be administered and full protection to kick in. That means if students wait to get vaccinated for the next few weeks, they wont reap all the benefits until the end of August or early September.

Staff writers Ignacio Laguarda and Julia Perkins contributed to this report.
WASHINGTON (AP)  Pfizer says it plans to meet with top U.S. health officials Monday to discuss the drugmakers request for federal authorization of a third dose of its COVID-19 vaccine as President Joe Bidens chief medical adviser acknowledged that "it is entirely conceivable, maybe likely that booster shots will be needed.

The company said it was scheduled to have the meeting with the Food and Drug Administration and other officials Monday, days after Pfizer asserted that booster shots would be needed within 12 months.

Pfizers Dr. Mikael Dolsten told The Associated Press last week that early data from the companys booster study suggests peoples antibody levels jump five- to 10-fold after a third dose, compared to their second dose months earlier  evidence it believes supports the need for a booster.

Now Playing: Pfizer says it is about to seek U.S. authorization for a third dose of its COVID-19 vaccine, but U.S. health officials say a booster isn't needed yet. (July 9) Video: Associated Press

On Sunday, Dr. Anthony Fauci didn't rule out the possibility but said it was too soon for the government to recommend another shot. He said the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the FDA did the right thing last week by pushing back against Pfizer's assertion with their statement that they did not view booster shots as necessary at this time.

Fauci said clinical studies and laboratory data have yet to fully bear out the need for a booster to the current two-shot Pfizer and Moderna vaccines or the one-shot Johnson & Johnson regimen.

Right now, given the data and the information we have, we do not need to give people a third shot, he said. That doesnt mean we stop there. ... There are studies being done now ongoing as we speak about looking at the feasibility about if and when we should be boosting people.

He said it was quite possible in the coming months as data evolves that the government may urge a booster based on such factors as age and underlying medical conditions. "Certainly it is entirely conceivable, maybe likely at some time, we will need a boost,'' Fauci said.

Jim Lo Scalzo/AP

Monday's planned meeting between Pfizer and U.S. health officials was first reported by The Washington Post.

Currently only about 48% of the U.S. population is fully vaccinated. Some parts of the country have far lower immunization rates, and in those places the delta variant is surging. Last week, Dr. Rochelle Walensky, the CDC director, said thats leading to two truths  highly immunized swaths of America are getting back to normal while hospitalizations are rising in other places.

Fauci said it was inexplicable that some Americans are so resistant to getting a vaccine when scientific data show how effective it is in staving off COVID-19 infections and hospitalizations, and he was dismayed by efforts to block making vaccinations more accessible, such as Biden's suggestion of door-to-door outreach.

Gov. Asa Hutchinson, R-Ark., agreed Sunday that there is a vaccine resistance in Southern and rural states like his because you have that more conservative approach, skepticism about government."

Describing his efforts to boost vaccinations in his state, which is seeing rising infections, Hutchinson said no one wants an agent knocking on a door," but "we do want those that do not have access otherwise to make sure they know about it.

The grassroots component of the federal vaccination campaign has been in operation since April, when supplies of shots began outpacing demand. It was outlined and funded by Congress in the $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief bill passed in March and overwhelmingly is carried out by local officials and private sector workers and volunteers.

Rep. Adam Kinzinger, R-Ill., blasted opposition to vaccination efforts from some GOP lawmakers as absolute insanity." He said House Republican leader Kevin McCarthy of California and others in the party need to speak out against these absolute clown politicians playing on your vaccine fears for their own selfish gain.

Fauci appeared on CNN's State of the Union, ABC's This Week and CBS' "Face the Nation"; Hutchinson spoke on ABC, and Kinzinger was on CNN.
EAST HAMPTON  A car driving down Old Middletown Road in the Cobalt section of town honked its horn as it rounded the bend and the sign came into view.

That happens all the time, Barbara Hitchcock said.

Hitchcock and her daughter, Amanda Amtmanis, said it makes them happy every time someone beeps at the sign on their front lawn. The duo frequently changes what the local landmark, dubbed A Sign of Hope, says, but it always aims to inspire hope, empathy and understanding.

We become neighbors when we are willing to cross the road for one another, read Thursdays sign, a quote from Henri Jozef Machiel Nouwen, written in brightly colored chalk.

Amtmanis, a physical education teacher at Macdonough and Spencer elementary schools in Middletown, said she and her mother came up with the idea shortly after the 2016 presidential election. Thats when East Haddam Selectwoman Theresa Govert put up a sign in the center of town about standing with marginalized people.

It was vandalized, and I was like, We should put up a sign, she said.

But, Amtmanis said, she did not want to put a static sign on her lawn, because it eventually stops drawing eyes. So, she and Hitchcock got some chalkboard and chalk and now change the messages periodically.

We have joy looking for things that speak to us, Hitchcock said, adding the first quote the pair ever put on the sign was: In a world where you can be anything, be kind.

Hitchcock, a retired teacher who worked at RHAM High School, said they have made a concerted effort to be apolitical. Thats the reason we put it up, she said, to counteract the wave of negativity that was going on.

Amtmanis said it can be a challenge to be apolitical when picking quotes and sayings, because they are all open to interpretation. There was one time the sign was vandalized, and another, when a quote set a colleague on a rant because she did not like the person who said it.

Where it sends your mind isnt necessarily where it sends my mind, she said.

Hitchcock and her daughter look at what is going on in the world, and try to find a quote that matches or reflects that issue.

I have found satisfaction searching for quotes and things that other people, who have been through adversity over the years, have had to say about such things, she said. It sort of feels like, Well, they survived that. We can get through this.

Amtmanis especially enjoys coming up with sayings that inspire her to draw something along with it. Mother and daughter look for common themes of empathy and compassion.

Its about how we treat each other, she said, and having quotes that are sort of food for thought. We are not all going to agree with each other. We try to make them thought-provoking, but not ... just talking to the people who agree with us. Its about building common ground.

They frequently find good quotes, but recognize they may not be good for a sign, Amtmanis said, either because they are too wordy or too likely to cause arguments. Im coming at it from that perspective. Its forced  I hope  people to be more thoughtful.

Through their Facebook page, the Sign of Hope has fans from all over the world, Hitchcock said, from New Zealand and Australia to Sweden and all across the United States.

Amtmanis said the sign is also popular in their area. There is even a benefactor who drops off money for chalk every now and then.

Its really heartwarming when people in our community come and talk to us, Amtmanis said. I was putting up the sign this morning, because it rained last night, and somebody slowed down enough to roll down his window and say something nice to me.

Both Hitchcock and Amtmanis said being teachers is directly related to their desire to educate through the sign. Hitchcock said they both try to keep the focus on positive things.

We have a second-grade teacher who drives by, and shell stop at the sign, Amtmanis said. She stopped to say shell sometimes use something as a prompt for the kids.

Hitchcock said the teacher will put one of their quotes on her board, and the class will vote at the end of the week to see which student best demonstrated whatever trait or ideal it promotes.

Its been gratifying to see that, for the most part, its been very well-received, she said. She enjoyed working on it with her daughter. I think, as with all joint ventures, I dont think it would be the same if it was either one of us alone.

Amtmanis said she and her mother have no plans of stopping, because there are many problems in the world that are outside the ability of an average person to fix.

This is something we can do, and doing your one thing does help you feel better, she said.

For information, visit A Sign of Hope on Facebook.
BRIDGEPORT  Before last years nationwide police reform protests had elected officials scrambling to scrutinize and improve law enforcement in Connecticuts largest city and statewide, Bridgeports force was attempting to upgrade policies and procedures.

The formal term for that work is accreditation, and Bridgeport is close to becoming one of the few urban centers in Connecticut to obtain it.

It matters for the same reason ... that when you go to college, you want to go to an accredited college that practices best practices (and) doesnt operate by a whim, making policy by reaction rather than on research, said Professor John DeCarlo, director of the University of New Havens masters program in criminal justice. Accreditation brings to policing an organizational structure, a portable body of best practices and a level of accountability that just does not exist in a non-accredited police department.

Bridgeport is in the final stage of a four-year effort  and something long-talked about prior to that  to get accredited by the states Police Officer Standards and Training Council. The process is being managed by Lt. Manuel Cotto.

The Council, or POST, in late June conducted an on-site assessment in order to determine its final recommendation to its board.

POST has three tiers of accreditation. Bridgeport is currently seeking the first  liability certification, involving 127 standards. POST also awards professional certification (79 standards) and general management (116 standards).

Its kind of like building blocks, DeCarlo explained of the three-step process. Instead of doing it all at once ... it allows them (police departments) to build on and gain experience in the accreditation process and learn as they go.

A POST spokesperson did not return requests for comment.

If Bridgeport is successful, the city would become just the 38th municipal department in Connecticut to receive some form of POST accreditation, joining Norwalk and Danbury, which are both at tier three. Accreditation only lasts for a few years and has to be continually renewed.

That would be some good news for a force that in recent years has made multiple headlines for scandals involving excessive force and other examples of officers behaving badly; internal disputes over promotions and allegations of racism; and the recent arrest and conviction of its then-chief, Armando Perez, on federal charges of cheating in 2018 to obtain that top cops position.

The Bridgeport Police Department has always provided quality police services to the community, the city said in a statement to Hearst Connecticut Media. Becoming part of the accreditation process is a commitment that Bridgeport is actively working on improving these services and relationships.

The statement outlined benefits ranging from modernization and increased community support to monetary savings  greater eligibility for government grants and reduced risk of liability (and) stronger defense against civil liability.

While this may seem like a long process it was rather fast for an agency our size to reach the first goal, the city added.

Not fast enough for local police reform advocates like Gemeem Davis, a leader of the Bridgeport Generation Now civic group, which has been pushing for an overhaul of the force since the May 2017 shooting death of 15-year-old Jayson Negron by a rookie officer who was ultimately cleared of wrongdoing.

Its very frustrating that its taken so long, Davis said this week. It needs to get done.

That is how the state Legislature felt about the bulk of the states police departments. The policing reform bill the General Assembly passed in 2020 no longer makes accreditation voluntary.

Bridgeport was at least thinking about this and starting the ball rolling before the police accountability legislature passed, said state Rep. Steve Stafstrom, D-Bridgeport, who was one of the architects of the statewide law.

Stafstrom said the general excuse offered for not pursuing the designation is theres manpower, resources and a financial cost to doing it.

So while it was nice to have for certain departments to point to, it wasnt as high on the priority list for many as it should have been, Stafstrom said.

Its a big job, to be quite frank, DeCarlo agreed, especially, he added, for larger law enforcement organizations like Bridgeport.

Departments can also receive national accreditation. DeCarlo said years ago Connecticut set up its own process with the idea of making it more affordable.

Stafstrom said initially the legislatures 2020 reforms required departments follow national law enforcement standards.

But there has been a push to allow the state accreditation to be sufficient as well. Some have made the case the state accreditation is as robust if not more, Stafstrom said. And its also cheaper. I think before the requirement goes into effect the law will be updated to say ... either is sufficient.

Bridgeport hired a consultant, Daigle Law Group of Plantsville, which markets itself as one of the nations leading law firms specializing in the development of effective and constitutional policing practices. As new policies, all of which are finally being posted online, were drafted they required the approval of the citys police commission, then had to be distributed to rank-and-file staff.

Anna Cruz, a Bridgeport police commission member, cited the fact that group typically meets only once a month as one reason accreditation has been a drawn-out process.

Cruz hopes if POST grants the city accreditation it will improve the local departments image.

It can only help, she said, but noted for the average resident, Not everyone knows what accreditation means.

DeCarlo acknowledged police have done their job for years without it, which may make some observers wonder why it is necessary.

Do we need accreditation to arrest people? No, he said. Do we need accreditation to ... keep on improving? Yes.

Following Perezs arrest last September, a coalition of faith leaders, including Pastor Anthony Bennett of Mount Aery Baptist Church, renewed their prior public call for new police leadership and systematic reforms that included accreditation.

I remember when we started asking about how many hours do they (officers) get training on de-escalation, racial profiling, all those things, Bennett recalled this week. And literally the push back we got is ... the instructor is not going to share their curriculum with us.

I think, particularly in cities in Connecticut, accountability is very illusive, Bennett said. The accreditation gives it a level of accountability that is public.

But, Bennett added, he will be satisfied only when the designation is announced by POST.

Im a man of faith, he said. But I have become increasingly skeptical until a process is completed.
MILFORD  The city was about to market its new Discover Milford website just before the pandemic took hold  and boom, plans canceled for the next summer.

But now it seems people have discovered Milford, as the tweaked website is getting lots of organic traffic with visitors returning in droves to this city with 17 miles of shoreline, a public marina steps from the quaint downtown full of restaurants and shops, as well as destination summer events such as the Milford Oyster Festival, officials say.

City Economic Development Director Julie Nash said while there is no data available yet, tourism is back  not to what it was pre-pandemic, but going strong so far this season.

People are so eager to get out and about again, but they dont want to go far, Nash said. Everybodys still cautious. There are a lot of day trips out of New York City.

Brian A. Pounds / Hearst Connecticut Media

At Milford Lisman Landing Marina, a transient venue owned by the city and a major driver of local tourism, theres an uptick in business  and it never was down much at the height of the pandemic, said Jim Donegan, director of operations.

He said the marina is unique because its steps away from a thriving downtown full of great restaurants and shops. Visitors can dock by the hour just to catch dinner, or by the night.

Its an activity families can do amongst themselves, Donegan said. Last year we were only slightly down for us. This year is one of the busiest years weve had.

People come from around Connecticut as well as from Westchester County and New York City, and those traveling in Long Island Sound could be from anywhere, Donegan said.

Its very affordable, he said.

The marina begins taking reservations in January, and key holiday or event weekends usually sell out.

Brian A. Pounds / Hearst Connecticut Media

Nash said the people who help with tourism in Milford are volunteers who help me because they truly love Milford.

Nash handles the Discover Milford Facebook page  previously, everything was promoted under the City Hall page.

Resident Mindy Briar, a travel blogger and owner of Mindy Briar Photography, runs the Discover Milford Instagram Page  and Nash says Briar does a fabulous job.

Briar moved here from California for her husbands job a few months ago.

I love the town.  Its old and sweet and charming. ... When she (Nash) reached out to me I was happy to help, Briar said. It has very much a small-town feel. I like that you see the same people ... which is really endearing.

Brian A. Pounds / Hearst Connecticut Media

Digital and marketing expert Rob Kurfehs said he volunteered to create the website because hes a resident and wanted to impact the community positively with good branding and design.

Kurfehs said he wanted to build a modern brand for the city and highlight its strengths.

The new brand can be seen now all around town on signage, bike racks, etc. Most of this work was done volunteer and the website was a culmination of a lot of it, he said. We did launch right before COVID so now is a good time to get word out as people are looking for new weekend and day trip destinations. We are getting a lot of organic traffic from people looking for parks and beaches, attractions, and looking to move here.

Nash said Kurfehs is broadening the digital reach behind the scenes as part of the Discover Milford campaign that began in 2019.

Milford is so special because we truly have it all. Our downtown intersects with a train, harbor, theater, restaurants. That is very rare to come by, Nash said. You can hop off the train and spend a day visiting our beaches, having a beautiful lunch then maybe some bird watching or kayaking. Its a great day trip.

Brian A. Pounds / Hearst Connecticut Media

Nash said the website also is useful for locals who want to know more about Milford beaches and events. In addition, she said, the city has three highly lauded breweries, open space trails, boating, biking, shopping and more.

Milfords biggest cheerleader, Mayor Ben Blake said the city is the kind of place that when people visit they end up wanting to live here.

He said part of what makes Milford unique is that visitors can come via train  a few steps to downtown  boat or car.

Hearst Connecticut Media

Donegan said the hourly fee at the marina makes it easy for boaters to dock in Milford and go to a downtown restaurant for dinner. The price to dock is $10 per hour for a boat 30 feet and less, $15 per hour for boats over 30 feet.

The cost of a slip for a night is $3.50 per foot per night.

He said from April to July 1 there were 500 boats at the marina and 150 of those were hourly.

The beaches are fabulous, Blake said. As things open up theres hopefulness in the area.
NEW HAVEN  Former city police chief Anthony Campbell is mourning the loss of his beloved brother Devin Campbell, whose funeral was Friday.

The 32-year-old was shot multiple times while outside of the Grant Houses in Harlem, New York at about 7:30 p.m. on June 28, the New York Post reported. Devin Campbell was taken to a nearby hospital but authorities told the Post he could not be saved.

Devin Campbells death was one of several shootings reported across the five boroughs that night in which eight others were injured, according to the Post.

Anthony Campbell shared the loss of his brother on Facebook days after the homicide.

Today the Campbell family will be burying my younger brother, Devin Campbell who was only 32 years old when he was murdered in my hometown New York City, he said in the post Friday.

As a Police Chief, I have always made it a point to attend the funerals of those who were murdered in New Haven while I was the Chief because I wanted the family to know that they were not alone, he added.

The former police chief was accompanied by his wife, family, and members from the Yale Police Honor Guard as they laid Devin to rest. A funeral service was held at the Metropolitan Baptist Church on W 128th Street in New York City Friday afternoon.

Anthony Campbell asked people to pray for Devins wife, Terry, who survived him.

As a person of faith I know that I will see Devin again but it is so comforting to have my New York family, my aunts and uncles and sisters and cousins to share the burden of grief and its truly comforting to have the support of my brothers and sisters in blue to lift my spirits during this time, Anthony Campbell said in the post. Rest In Peace baby brother until we meet again.

Asked about the funeral Saturday, Yale Police Chief Ronnell Higgins sighed and used the word tragic.

We see so much gun violence around us all the time and this time it hit Chief Campbells family, Higgins said.

Higgins drove Anthony Campbells wife to the funeral with other Yale honor guard members.

Higgins said of gun violence, it needs to stop.

Too many of us are dying, too many mothers without children, too many young people dying, Higgins said.

We need to approach gun violence the same way we approached the pandemic, he added. Wheres the dashboard?

Higgins questioned where the dashboard counting how many people have lost their lives or been affected by gun violence. Addressing gun violence is something that is going to take our whole community, Higgins said, emphasizing that everyone has a part to contribute to the fight.

Chief Campbell is a leader and we have to look out for and take care of our leaders. But leaders need help, too. We have to step up and help them, especially in times like this, Higgins said.

Anthony Campbell was a New Haven police officer for 21 years and held the chiefs title for two years during his tenure. He left the department in 2019 over proposed changes in police retirees health coverage.

After departing from the citys department he joined the Yale University police force as an assistant chief.

Campbell, who grew up in New York, graduated from Yale in 1995. He earned a masters in divinity from Yale in 2009.
Broken Bow, NE (68822)

Today

Partly to mostly cloudy skies with scattered thunderstorms during the morning. High 84F. Winds SE at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 70%..

Tonight

Partly cloudy this evening. Scattered thunderstorms developing after midnight. Low 64F. Winds SE at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 40%.
Windsor, NC (27983)

Today

Partly cloudy early followed by scattered thunderstorms this afternoon. High near 90F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%..

Tonight

Scattered thunderstorms this evening followed by occasional showers overnight. Low near 70F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 50%.
Elizabeth City, NC (27909)

Today

Partly cloudy early followed by scattered thunderstorms this afternoon. High 92F. Winds WSW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 60%..

Tonight

Thunderstorms likely this evening. Then a chance of scattered thunderstorms overnight. Low 72F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 70%.
An article about staff turnover in the Ulster County District Attorney's Office should have stated an assistant district attorney hired by DA 
The following items are based on information provided by officials in law enforcement and the criminal justice system.
President Joe Biden spoke May 18 at the Rouge Electric Vehicle Center in Dearborn, Michigan, manufacturing home of the all-new, all-electric Ford F-150 Lightning that goes on sale in mid-2022.
Sunbury, PA (17801)

Today

Generally cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 76F. Winds NW at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Some clouds this evening will give way to mainly clear skies overnight. Low 59F. Winds NW at 5 to 10 mph.
Trying to find the perfect name for a new pet can prove to be quite the struggle.

But it's fair to say some pet owners from across the globe really thought outside the box when it came to settling on a name for their furry friend.

Among the more unusual monikers, which were initially posted on Twitter page Petfinder Names before being compiled on Bored Panda, include 'Times New Roman' and 'Plague.'

Some dog names ranged from hysterical to just outright bizarre, with one being called Jake Gyllenpaws - a play on the name of Hollywood actor Jake Gyllenhaal.

Elsewhere, a cat was called Big Mac - likely in homage to McDonald's famous burger.

Bored Panda has compiled a hilarious gallery of snaps to reveal the very unusual names pet owners from across the globe have given their furry friends - including one cat named Times New Roman

This 27-week-old chihuahua, who is pictured wearing an adorable blue bow tie, was given the rather unusual name Plague

Likely to be named after the famous McDonald's burger, this green-eyed cat was called Big Mac

This hilarious name indicates how one owner may be feeling towards their pet, as they named the cat Freeloader

One guinea pig was given the hysterical name Constructive Criticism - but it is unclear why it was given such an unusual name

One young four-month-old pup's moniker was a play on the name of Hollywood actor Jake Gyllenhaal

One chihuahua, who is a little bit on the chubby side, was given the name, Thicken Nugget

A young black cat, who is described as being a domestic short hair, was given the absolutely bonkers name Business Frog

This California cat, who doesn't seem very pleased to be getting his photograph taken, is named the perfectly gentlemanly Mr Toast

This adult domestic short hair is called Big Boy Beef, but it is not clear where he got his name from

Perhaps suggesting that they are always by your side, one little black kitten who boasts a very animated adoption snap, is called Velcro

Appearing very smug in his picture, this little 26-week-old chihuahua may be fitting of his name Naughty Wilbur

One little Siamese kitten, who has blue eyes and white fur, couldn't be further from her name, which is after the insect Mosquito

Appearing very happy in his picture, this adult lizard was given the very long name Sunflower aka Train Wreck

Names on the list ranged from hilarious to bizarre, like this domestic short hair cat named neuroscientist
A fit and healthy yoga instructor made the brave decision to go under the knife for a preventative double mastectomy to reduce her risk of cancer - only to be diagnosed with leukaemia the following year.

Sophie Gray, from the UK but living in Australia, was 28 when she found out she carried the BRCA gene which is a common precursor for breast cancer in women.

So she decided to remove her breasts to giver her the best chance of a cancer-free life.

Shortly after she moved to Australia to live her 'best life' and told FEMAIL she believed she had 'dodged a bullet'.

UK born Sophie Gray, pictured, had a preventative double mastectomy at 28 but a year later just two weeks after this photo was taken she was told she had blood cancer

Weeks later she was fighting for her life in hospital and facing the reality of a 'very scary' stem cell transplant which would either kill her or give her a chance at life

Now the 31-year-old is determined not to waste the extra life she has been given

But then in 2019 her whole world was turned upside down when routine blood tests revealed she had leukaemia.

'To be diagnosed a different kind of cancer was a big knock for me. It felt like a big kick in the teeth because I did everything in my power to avoid cancer.

'To remove my breasts then to be diagnosed with blood cancer was a real blow,' she admitted.

Before her diagnosis Sophie had been on a holiday in the UK, visiting friends and family and celebrating a loved one's wedding.

'I was feeling a little fatigued but put it down to jetlag,' she said.

'It is so easy to explain away tiredness and fatigue,' she warned.

Sophie, now 31, had to undergo chemotherapy, a stem cell transplant and grueling recovery.

It took Sophie a year to 'feel okay' after her transplant which left her with the immune system of a newborn

Sophie had to have chemotherapy, a stem cell transplant and countless blood transfusions after being diagnosed

'It was crazy I got a call about my blood test and was told to present to emergency immediately. I left work at lunch time for a bone marrow biopsy,' she said.

'And I was admitted to hospital to start chemo the same day.

'Everything happened faster than my brain could process it.'

That was in August. Sophie spent a month in hospital before returning in October for a stem cell transplant.

'I was terrified the whole time because it is such a risky procedure,' she revealed.

She describes her diagnosis as being like 'a kick in the teeth' because she had thought she was dodging cancer with her mastectomy

'It was such a scary place to be in because the transplant would either be successful and prolong my life or it would be the thing that killed me.

'But If I didn't take the chance I would die in a couple of months.

'I was terrified for my family and trying to put a brave face on as much as I could,' she said.

Her mum was able to come from the UK to be with her during treatment but being far away from the rest of her family and friends was difficult.

'I am so glad that my friendship circle here in Australia rallied around me so well,' she said.

Sophie explained the stem cell transplant totally reset her immune system leaving her susceptible to infections.

Living in Adelaide, Australia, she admits it was difficult to go through her treatment away from her family in the UK but was glad her mum could be with her

These infections could lead to her transplant being rejected by her body at anytime which would kill her or keep her into hospital until another match could be found.

'If I get any infection I have to go to the hospital quickly because it can become quite serious,' she said.

'It happened once last year, I was in hospital for five days while they tried to find the source of the infection and gave me high doses of antibiotics to get rid of it.'

Common germs that cause gastro or common colds can be especially troublesome.

'It was a total reset, even all my childhood vaccinations were gone. Every bug I have ever developed immunity to could hurt me again,' she said.

The brave young woman is now in remission and sharing her story to help raise awareness for the disease which left her broken and fighting for life.

'The road to recovery has been a long one, they warn you it takes 12 months after the transplant to feel okay and it definitely did for me,' she said.

An incredible 'before and after diagnosis' shot shared by Sophie on Instagram shows how she went from a vibrant, healthy-looking young woman to lying in a hospital bed with a feeding tube up her nose facing 'scary' treatment options in a matter of weeks.

'The feeding tube was a low moment for me, I felt so sick and defeated,' she said.

But Sophie said cancer helped her take control of her future and embrace her dreams.

Now Sophie's a yoga instructor and will soon work with people with cancer to help them regain a connection with their body

She is now a certified yoga instructor.

'Cancer was such a big wake up call for me, she said revealing the rapidness in which she went from healthy and 'dancing until 2am' to fighting for life was her wakeup call.

'Life and health are not guaranteed so it has made me focus on the way I want to be living, she said.

'Being of service and making a positive impact on other people's lives is important to me and something positive to come out of the whole journey.'

Sophie is working toward being able to offer yoga to cancer patients to help them through their recovery.

'I want to help other people who are going through what I went through find a connection with their body again,' she said.

How can you add yourself to the bone marrow register? Regular blood donors can ask to be added to the register the next time they give blood. But this can rule out potential bone marrow donors who live rurally or are ruled out from donating blood for other reasons including if they are homosexual or have lived in certain countries. Sophie says she recommends charity organisation Strength To Give. The organisation allows people to join the registry using a simple cheek swap which is sent in the mail. 'You just swipe your cheek and then send it back to them. It is quick and easy,' she said. 80 percent of bone marrow transplants used in Australia are found overseas. Advertisement

'The biggest takeaway is that I am now, finally, living the life I always wanted.'

Sophie's father passed away from cancer when she was 18. She found out she carried the BRCA gene after completing a 23 And Me ancestry test.

She says having common ancestry was a factor in being able to find a donor quickly but many people aren't that lucky.

Sophie would like people to become registered bone marrow donors and said in most cases donating is as simple as a blood test.

'People are scared because they think giving bone marrow is painful but in most cases it isn't done like that anymore,' she said.
Katrina Darcy-Frelford from Tweed Heads has a glioma brain tumour that will cost $100k to remove, giving her a 15 percent chance of being cured

A devastated mum has explained why she has hidden her crippling brain cancer diagnosis from her two young daughters because she is afraid it will destroy them.

Katrina Darcy-Frelford from Tweed Heads on the NSW/Queensland border has been told by Charlie Teo, one of Australia's top surgeons, that she only has a 15 per cent chance of being cured if she has the tumour removed.

'They are pretty sh*tty odds, lower than I had expected. But when he talks about prolonging life instead of a cure it breaks my heart for my girls,' she told FEMAIL.

Katrina said she owes it to Indi, two, and Ayla, six to do everything she can to survive.

'They need me. They need their mum,' she said.

'They would never get over it - my eldest daughter doesnt even like it when I walk out of the room. So there is no other option but to be here for them,' she said.

The 45-year-old sales rep revealed she has 'felt off' since her second daughter was born but doctors dismissed her daily headaches and she soon learned to live with them.

The 45-year-old mum-of-two said she has felt off since the birth of her second daughter

Katrina said the surgery has its risks but she isn't willing to 'watch and wait' as the tumour grows

'I just assumed I was never going to bounce back and had a hectic lifestyle overlooked the exhaustion,' she said.

'I mean I was a busy working mum and no-one gets much sleep at out place, so I put my headaches down to that.'

But then 12 weeks ago Katrina suffered from a bout of vertigo.

'It all came to a head that day. I just felt so unwell as I picked the girls up from school. I was terrified I was just going to fall asleep behind the wheel,' she said.

'I could feel the motion of the car and my headache was so bad I can't even describe it.

'I was driving the car in full panic mode. Then when we got home and I went to get out of the car I couldn't stand up.'

Pictured here with her husband, Seth, Katrina has had daily headaches for two years but they were dismissed by doctors

She says her kids are too young to be told about her life-threatening diagnosis

The vertigo hasn't returned to that level but the headaches remained and the ongoing symptom lead doctors to finally perform a MRI scan which found her glioma brain tumour.

'I knew as soon as the MRI had finished because the guy looked at me seriously and told me to follow up with my GP as soon as possible,' she said.

Over the next few weeks the mum would be told by doctors both in and out of the hospital that they would 'watch and wait' to see how much the tumour grew.

But everything she and her husband Seth read about glioma, the brain tumour Katrina has, suggested to simply 'watch and wait' could decrease her chance of survival.

'We came to the decision we didn't want to just watch and wait,' she said.

Since being diagnosed Katrina has been in and out of hospital with nausea, fatigue and burning headaches

This feeling was confirmed for the couple when renowned surgeon Dr Teo invited her to Sydney to see him.

'He told me he has seen what happens when people watch and wait with this. The tumour grown into nearby cells and becomes impossible to remove.

'He also said it is impossible to tell how long it has been there and studies show it goes malignant after four years.

'He won't know if it has been there two months or five years until he opens it up. And he won't know what effect removing it will have on me until he does,' she said.

The mum fears her two young daughters will 'never get over it' if she dies

Katrina said Dr Teo told her there is a 15 percent chance he could cure her but didn't rule out drastic side effects as a result of the surgery.

The surgery also comes at a huge cost, because it is done outside of the public system, it will set the family back $100,000.

The huge sum has to be paid up front which has lead to Katrina asking for help from the public.

There are currently two Go Fund Me campaigns running for the family, which have raised about $45k, just less than half of what they need before they can head to Sydney for surgery.

The two youngsters hate when their mum leaves the room and are 'very clingy' sensing something is not right

What is glioma? Gliomas are brain tumours that develop from a group of brain cells called glial cells, according to the brain tumour foundation. Glial cells support and protect the neurons in your brain and spinal column by providing the neurons with oxygen and nutrients - as well as removing dead cells. The Sloan Kettering brain cancer memorial foundation lists headaches, seizures, nausea, vomiting, decreased brain function including confusion and weakness on one side as common symptoms. There are different kinds of glioma, but it can often be difficult to diagnose the exact glioma before operating on a patient. Glioblastoma is an especially devastating version of the disease. The average survival time is 12-18 months - only 25% of glioblastoma patients survive more than one year, and only 5% of patients survive more than five years. Advertisement

'Going the public system isn't an option because they want to watch and wait and until it is a higher stage they won't make me a priority.'

And despite not telling her children about the crisis, her ever-perceptive six-year-old senses something is terribly wrong.

'She has been very clingy and keeps telling me that she loves me,' she cried.

'Sometimes something will flash up on my phone, like from the GoFundMe that says my fight for life, and I just quickly grab the phone off her because she is learning to read,' she said.

She also revealed her mother and father both suffered from different kinds of brain cancer, with her father dying from the disease aged 49.

'It is scary to think how young that is, how close I am to his age now.' she said.

Katrina has been trying to raise the $100k needed for her surgery and has been humbled by the many generous donations

'I sat by my mum's bedside and watched her work through her rehab, she has shown me how to get through this.

'We have different tumours but she is kicking goals now because she did everything the doctors asked of her. Even when she couldn't be bothered. And I will too,' she said.

Katrina hasn't been able to work since her huge episode of vertigo and feels very fatigued most days.

The mum doesn't know if she will ever be able to work again even if she is cured as the surgery may have a devastating effect on the part of her brain which controls balance

Her friends have set the Go Fund Me amount at $250k in the hope they can raise some extra money to help the family get through the rehab period.

'We don't know if I will ever be able to go back to work, but we are taking things one step at a time and the first step is surgery and my only chance at a cure.'

Gliomas occur in the brain, spinal cord and brain stem. Watch and wait is a common approach to the disease however it is also treated with surgery and radiotherapy.
A young Australian woman who has suffered from chronic acne since the age of 13 has turned over almost $800,000 in less than 18 months after starting her own skincare business to assist acne-prone customers.

Rachael Tyers, 24, launched tbh Skincare on March 18, 2020 alongside her mum Bridget Mitchell, 54, and has since gained a plethora of support from returning shoppers who praise the scientifically-backed products.

The Sydney duo started the brand with the motif to provide assistance to acne sufferers who are often 'limited in their skincare choices'.

Rachael told FEMAIL tbh Skincare fills this gap in the market while also providing something new and safe for customers to try.

'We want everyone to have the opportunity to have fun with their skincare routine and to feel 100 per cent confident in their skin,' Rachael said.

To date the business has turned over $798,000 and had more than 9,400 orders.

Scroll down for video

Rachael Tyers, 24, (pictured) launched tbh Skincare on March 18, 2020 alongside her mum Bridget Mitchell, 54, and has since gained a plethora of support from returning shoppers who praise the scientifically-backed products

Rachael also shared an image of her red skin covered in breakouts and blemishes, but after using her own products her acne was cleared significantly after 100 days

Rachael and her mum (pictured) launched the brand around the 'acne hack cream' but has since introduced additional products to the range over the past year

The brand launched around the 'acne hack cream' but has since introduced additional products to the range over the past year.

The acne hack cream, priced at $55, is a topical treatment for breakouts and is formulated with new 'patented technology'.

'When we launched we partnered with a medical research and development to bring the acne hack cream to market,' Rachael said.

'They are the brains behind this patented product, and have done a huge amount of R&D across infection prevention and treatment, specifically in relation to biofilm.'

'This technology that they have created around treating biofilm, which has large applications in hospital and healthcare, also has an application in skincare and is the patented technology that it in the acne hack cream, as well as one of our cleansers.'

To date the business has turned over $798,000 and had more than 9,400 orders

The abbreviation 'tbh' is also short for 'the biofilm hack', but in everyday jargon is known to stand for 'to be honest'.

Rachael said this intentional decision not only allows the brand to relate to the customer but provide a 'fun experience' from an 'authentic expert voice'.

The tbh Skincare team worked with chemists who are responsible for the formulation, testing and production of almost all of our products.

'We go to lengths to ensure that our products are effective on our core customer demographic, being our sensitive acne-prone babes!' Rachael said.

The abbreviation 'tbh' is also short for 'the biofilm hack', but in everyday jargon is known to stand for 'to be honest'

'When we launched we partnered with a medical research and development to bring the acne hack cream to market,' Rachael said

The acne hack cream, priced at $55, is a topical treatment for breakouts and is formulated with new 'patented technology'

During her teenage years, Rachael was offered prescription benzoyl peroxide products and anti-biotics from her GP in attempt to combat against her acne.

But as the results dwindled, she was then prescribed the contraceptive pill and retinol a few years on.

'This had a huge impact on my self-confidence and was the reason why I was so inspired to create a brand like tbh,' she said.

Rachael also shared an image of her red skin covered in breakouts and blemishes, but after using her own products her acne was cleared significantly after 100 days.

Customers and influencers alike have seen drastic results by using the products

The brand now offers an entire range consisting of a gentle cleanser, anti-bacterial cleanser and 'skin shady' 50+ (an SPF 50+ face moisturiser)

What is acne and what causes it? Ance is a reoccurring skin condition that impacts millions of people around the world Acne occurs when the pores of the skin become blocked by oil, bacteria, dead skin cells or dirt Acne can be found almost anywhere on your body. It most commonly develops on your face, back, neck, chest, and shoulders If you have acne, you'll typically notice pimples that are white or black. Both whiteheads and blackheads are known as comedones Source: Heathline Advertisement

The brand now offers an entire range consisting of a gentle cleanser, anti-bacterial cleanser and 'skin shady' 50+ (an SPF 50+ face moisturiser).

Accessories are also available to purchase online such as a time tracking water bottle, positive affirmation mirror decal and terry towel headband.

Former Bachelor contestants Abbie Chatfield and Bec Cvilikas have seen quick results within a few months of using the products.

Former Bachelor contestants Abbie Chatfield (pictured) and Bec Cvilikas have seen quick results within a few months of using the products

Today Rachael's go-to morning skincare routine consists of cleansing her face with a gentle cleanser then applying a serum.

She then protects her skin from sun and environmental damage by applying the tbh Skincare skin shady SFP50+, which also acts as a makeup primer.

Her night time routine consists of a longer list of products including micellar water to remove makeup, an anti-bacterial cleaner, the tbh Skincare acne hack cream, a serum and moisturiser.

'I like to keep it pretty simple; occasionally I will add in a chemical exfoliant (maybe twice a week) and an eye mask when I am feeling like I need some TLC,' she said.
Former Miss Universe Australia Olivia Molly Rogers says the morning after a big night out that left her anxious and arguing with her fiance prompted her to quit alcohol.

From the time she started drinking in her teens, the 29-year-old model said she would often black out for half the night and wake up riddled with 'debilitating' anxiety and a sense of dread that sometimes lingered for three days.

The Adelaide speech pathologist, who was crowned Miss Universe Australia in 2017, said drinking also led to 'silly' fights with her husband-to-be, Justin Mckeone.

But it wasn't until the morning of Sunday, May 1, 2021, that Olivia woke up after a night on the town and made the decision to give up booze.

Scroll down for video

Former Miss Universe Australia Olivia Molly Rogers (pictured) says the morning after a big night out that left her anxious and arguing with her fiance prompted her to quit alcohol

The speech pathologist, who was crowned Miss Universe Australia in 2017, said drinking left her anxious and led to 'silly' fights with her fiance, Justin Mckeone (left)

'It was just the straw that broke the camel's back,' she told news.com.au.

'This was happening way too often and when I reflected on it that day when I was hungover - the common denominator here is alcohol.'

While Olivia initially planned to take just a few weeks off drinking, she quickly noticed the many benefits of living a sober lifestyle.

The blonde beauty said she no longer suffers from headaches, sleeps better and almost instantly noticed an improvement in her mental health.

Her physical strength also improved, with Olivia feeling 'stronger and more efficient' in her workouts after just two weeks on the dry.

Since going dry in May, the blonde beauty (pictured) said she no longer suffers from headaches, sleeps better and almost instantly noticed an improvement in her mental health

While Olivia initially planned to take just a few weeks off drinking, she quickly noticed the many benefits of living a sober lifestyle

What to expect when you stop drinking Within 12-24 hours: Detoxification begins and blood sugar normalises. During this period you may experience withdrawal symptoms including sweating, anxiety, depression and insomnia. Within one week: Quality of sleep should improve and you should start to feel more energised and hydrated. Within two weeks: Weight loss may begin thanks to cutting out the hidden calories in alcohol. Within three to four weeks: Blood pressure stabilises. Source: Dry July Advertisement

She has since embraced sobriety as a long-term lifestyle choice and encourages others to reconsider their relationship with alcohol, just like she did.

Olivia believes education around alcoholism is too black and white.

'[It's like] you either drink and you're OK drinking or you're an alcoholic and you shouldn't drink and there's no in between, but that's not true,' she said.

'I think there's so much grey area that is not spoken about, particularly in Australia.'

Olivia is not alone.

The Adelaide model (pictured) has embraced sobriety as a long-term lifestyle choice and encourages others to reconsider their relationship with alcohol, just like she did

Recent figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics reveal more than a quarter of Australians - 28.9 percent - are mostly abstaining from alcohol, while a further 9.5 percent are drinking less than they were this time last year.

Over the past four years, the number of ex-drinkers in Australia rose from 1.5million to 1.9million.

The growing sober scene is largely fuelled by hordes of Instagram influencers who tout the benefits of their alcohol-free lifestyles online, and the hospitality industry is taking note.

Australia's first-ever non-alcoholic bar opened its doors in Melbourne on May 1, pouring a menu of more than 100 alcohol-free beers, wines and cocktails to teetotal punters.

Australia's first-ever non-alcoholic bar and bottle shop (pictured) opened its doors in Melbourne on May 1

Brunswick Aces bar is designed for anyone who is living or entertaining the thought of a sober lifestyle

Brunswick Aces in Brunswick East, six kilometres north of the CBD, was designed for anyone who is living or entertaining the thought of a sober lifestyle.

Brand director Stuart Henshall said the 'inconsistent' stocking of non-alcoholic products in traditional bars led to a stand off between venues and consumers.

'People don't know where stocks what - venues say we don't stock alcohol-free options because nobody asks for them, but sober consumers say they don't go out because of the lack of these options,' Mr Henshall previously told Daily Mail Australia.

'We wanted to create somewhere for people to come and also to prove to traditional venues that there is demand for non-alcoholic products.'

CEO and co-founder Stephen Lawrence said he has been 'inundated with messages' from sober drinkers from Perth to Sydney, as well as overseas.

For support for alcohol-related problems and addiction you can contact Turning Point Services, or one of the many other services available, speak to your GP, local health service or call a helpline.

There are trained telephone counsellors available in all Australian states and territories.
When I speak to Kirsty Henshaw, the 35-year-old powerhouse behind Kirstys  a range of tasty, healthy meals free from gluten, wheat and dairy  she apologises if the signal is crackly, as shes dialling in from her new 2 million factory in the North Yorkshire countryside.

Its something shes been working towards since launching her business in 2012. Now, she can prevent cross-contamination and boost production, and is aiming to hit an annual turnover of 25 million by 2024.

To achieve this, the single mum of two  Sophie, three and Jacob, 15  is willing to commute up to four hours a day, four days a week, from their home in Hale, Cheshire, to avoid moving the kids and disrupting their schooling.

Instead, Kirsty shares alternate drop-offs and pick-ups with Sophies dad, who was her partner of five years until they split last February.

When Kirsty Henshaw's (pictured) son Jacob, now 15, almost died from anaphylactic shock at nine months old, it inspired her to launch range of meals free from gluten, wheat and dairy

It happened just a month after she collected the keys to her new, empty factory (which required five months of renovations) and one month before lockdown was announced.

So, it seems rather an understatement when she describes the past year as very, very hard.

The break-up was fairly amicable, she says. But we were chucked in at the deep end of full-time childcare. It was horrendous trying to manage that. Suddenly, I had a three-year-old at home all the time. Her behaviour deteriorated as she missed the nursery routine.

Alongside the hell of heartbreak and home-schooling, the business itself was severely impacted by Covid.

We would have had an amazing year, she explains. But we had big problems with suppliers, which heavily impacted sales. It was a disaster.

Today, the business is back on track, with 11 million of sales so far this year, though its still down 30 per cent on projected figures.

Kirsty credits exercise as the best stress-relief  running, Peloton and weekend walks  but her core motivation comes from motherhood.

Ive been through worrying, awful times in my life, she reflects. But having them [the children] makes you feel like you will do anything.

Youve got to ride the storm because its not an option to let them down.

Kirsty credits exercise as the best stress-relief  running, Peloton and weekend walks  but her core motivation comes from motherhood

The pandemic is far from the first storm Kirsty Henshaw has had to weather. She grew up on a council estate in Preston, with little money.

We never went to a restaurant, ever, she recalls. I remember eating out once in my whole childhood, at Deep Pan Pizza, for my dads 30th birthday.

From an early age, she says: I wanted to work for myself and be independent so I wouldnt be poor.

NOW SEIZE YOUR CHANCE TO ENTER OUR AWARDS Want to take your business to another level? The Daily Mail/NatWest Everywoman Aphrodite Award gives your venture instant prestige  plus access to an elite group of the UKs top female entrepreneurs and mentors. To enter, you must be based, or have your chief operation, in the UK and have set up your business from scratch while raising a child, or children, aged 12 or under. The deadline for entries is July 5, 2021. For full entry details see: Everywomanforum.com/mpage/everywoman-awards Advertisement

I didnt want my family holidays for the rest of my life to be camping in Wales. I thought, there has to be more to life than two weeks in a tent. Beneath my working-class exterior, was a middle-class entrepreneur dying to come out!

Not being good at passing exams, she left school at 16 and trained as a masseuse. Then at 19, she found herself three months pregnant to her bad boy boyfriend, who was by then in prison.

My parents said, if you stay with us and cut him out, well help you. Im so glad I did. My son Jacob was the making of me. I wanted to build a future for him.

The idea for her business also came from her experience as a mum. At nine months old, Jacob almost died from anaphylactic shock. It turned out he was allergic to nuts and dairy, and mildly sensitive to gluten, too.

Back in the early 2000s, the free-from options in supermarkets were limited, explains Kirsty. So she started cooking meals and treats from scratch.

His favourite was a coconut-based ice cream concocted using a 30 ice-cream maker from Argos. When neighbours started requesting it, too, she knew she was onto something. Shortly afterwards, in 2009, she launched Coconice ice cream, renting a local kitchen and funding it with a 2,000 overdraft on her debit card.

But by early 2010, her product was stocked in 600 health food shops nationwide. Then Tesco got wind of it and invited her to a meeting, where they asked her to supply 500 stores.

I said yes to everything: fake it till you make it, she says. But, after that meeting, I went outside and cried for an hour, thinking, how will I do this? That night, I drank a bottle of rose and applied to Dragons Den.

A week later she got onto the show. Kirsty won 65,000 of investment from Peter Jones and Duncan Bannatyne. Re-branding the business as Kirstys in 2012, she replaced ice cream with free-from meals after other mothers who had children with allergies started requesting meal tips.

The original Kirstys range of five meals was stocked in Sainsburys. Now she supplies Waitrose, Morrisons, Tesco, Co-op, Booths and Asda, and has 20 products across ready meals, pizza and desserts.

Her business, called Kirsty's, started in 2012 and won 65,000 of investment from Peter Jones and Duncan Bannatyne in Dragons Den - and has made 11m in sales so far this year. Pictured: Outside her new 2 million factory in the North Yorkshire countryside

During this time, shes also had to navigate maternity leave, after having Sophie in 2017.

I had 12 weeks off, then got a full-time nanny. But I didnt want her to miss out on breastfeeding. So, Id nip home or the nanny would bring her to the office. I remember feeding her in the boardroom during a meeting with lawyers. It was surreal, but they were lovely about it.

Kirsty is open about the difficulties of juggling a successful, fast-growing business, as a mother.

However, she is adamant: You cant be everywhere or everything to everyone.

And a word of warning, she adds. Money doesnt make you happy, its about family and friends. And my children bring me the most joy in my life.

I wouldnt do any of this  work for 70 hours a week  if it wasnt for them.
Old gangster Bertie Kidd has finally revealed his role in the notorious Fine Cotton ring-in

An 87-year-old gangster described as Australia's most complete criminal has revealed how the country's most notorious betting scandal was hatched inside a Queensland prison.

Bertie Kidd, who is largely unknown to the general public but has been notorious in the underworld since the 1960s, details his role in the Fine Cotton ring-in for the first time in a new book.

Fine Cotton was a poorly performed horse secretly replaced by the better credentialed Bold Personality in an August 1984 race at Eagle Farm in Brisbane.

The organisers hoped to cash in on the long odds offered for 'Fine Cotton' but the scam turned into a debacle and all the main players were exposed - except Kidd.

Bold Personality looked nothing like Fine Cotton and an amateurish attempt to disguise the differences with paint proved disastrous, ending any hope of the conspirators pulling off a million-dollar sting.

The highest profile casualties of the Fine Cotton affair were bookmaking father and son Bill and Robbie Waterhouse who were found to have had prior knowledge of the ring-in and banned from Australian race courses for 14 years.

Kidd, who did occasional work for his mate 'Big Bill' Waterhouse, writes that Bill and Robbie's punishments were 'a terrible injustice' and insists the family was not involved in the attempted fix.

Bertie Kidd, who is largely unknown to the general public but has been notorious in the underworld since the 1960s, details his role in the Fine Cotton ring-in for the first time in a new book. He is pictured poolside on the phone with a newspaper in the late 1970s or early 1980s

Bertie Kidd, 87, has been described as Australia's 'most complete' criminal. He was released from prison in May 2018 amid warnings from those who know his background he was a still a danger to society. He is pictured at the launch of his first book

'I know for a fact that Bill was not involved,' he writes in a chapter on the affair. 'A lot had been done to ensure the Waterhouses didn't know, as it would have stuffed up the whole rort.'

Daily Mail Australia has obtained an exclusive extract of Kidd's version of how the Fine Cotton substitution was put in place which is published below.

Kidd's life story is being spread out in a trilogy of tomes, the first of which was published in 2019 and the second has just been released.

The grandfather has been working with author Simon Griffin on the books since he got of jail in May 2018, setting the record straight after decades of silence about his exploits.

His first book, The Audacious Kidd, covered the old crook's law-breaking up to the the start of the 1970s. The second, The Notorious Kidd, picks up the tale from there.

Kidd's own lawyer once described him as 'the most complete criminal' in the nation's history. Others have referred to him as 'Australian criminal royalty'.

The English-born villain, who arrived in Australia in 1947 as a 14-year-old, was a master safe-breaker with sidelines in forging currency, bold bullion thefts, armed robberies and home invasions.

The highest profile casualties of the Fine Cotton affair were bookmaking father and son Bill (right) and Robbie Waterhouse (left) who were found to have had prior knowledge of the ring-in and banned from Australian race courses for 14 years.

Kidd, pictured left in custody, has spent almost 30 of his 86 years behind bars, often in maximum security prisons. He has been likened to the crime lord Keyser Soze played by Kevin Spacey in The Usual Suspects (right)

Kidd has been a prime suspect in two underworld murders and was investigated over the near-fatal shooting of another gangster, all of which he denies committing.

He was also a fixture on the darker edges of the nation's thoroughbred and booking industries, collecting debts from gamblers and fixing horse races.

Kidd's criminal feats are so extensive and his reputation so ruthless he has been likened to the mythical crime lord Keyser Soze in the 1995 film The Usual Suspects.

He was christened Bertram Douglas Kidd but changed his first name to Robert in the 1960s. He has remained known as Bert or Bertie.

Kidd, who made millions from crime, claims he won 19 acquittals in Victoria before he moved to Sydney in the 1970s and could not have done so without paying police.

He decided to tell his story after watching from behind bars a television news report of his planned deportation which painted him as 'a real villain'.

'They'll have a hell of a say once I'm gone - I'm not there to answer,' he previously told Daily Mail Australia. 'So I thought I'm gonna put a few things right.'

Kidd spent 27 years in jail in three major stints including hard time at Pentridge's H Division in Melbourne and segregation at Boggo Road in Brisbane.

For half a century Kidd, pictured with a lady friend, has been among the most notorious identities in the Australian underworld, his name infamous to generations of crooks and cops

Kidd, pictured with his dog Dino, was described by his lawyer as among the most complete criminals in Australia's history. He has been referred to as Australian criminal royalty by others

His last prison term began in 1997 when he was sent away for 11 years after a bungled attempt to steal pseudoephedrine from a Brisbane chemical company.

While in custody in 2004, he was convicted of armed robberies on wealthy Sydney home owners at Burraneer Bay and Manly committed a decade earlier when he was in his 60s.

Kidd's latest book recounts his most infamous deed when in 1982 he and several associates hid inside wooden crates on a flight carrying $1million in Reserve Bank cash to regional Queensland banks.

That job was unsuccessful but Kidd tells of a similar operation in which he concealed himself in a box to steal more than $2million in drug takings being flown from Sydney to Melbourne.

He explains his role in planning the still unsolved 1978 raid on the Bank of NSW branch at Murwillumbah in the state's north which he says netted more than the reported $1.7million.

Griffin writes that Kidd, who lives in retirement in Launceston, acknowledges crime doesn't pay but the old felon has been less than apologetic in some interviews.

'I took up being a crook and I paid the penalty,' he told Daily Mail Australia. 'Life's been very good to me. I've had a lot of fun and a lot of enjoyment.'

Kidd was just 170cm (5'7') tall in his prime but kept himself extremely fit and well into his 60s there were people who still found him terrifying.

Bertie Kidd says the late earless criminal Mark 'Chopper' Read (left) was a liar. He could laugh just by looking at him.He reckons Graham 'The Munster' Kinniburgh (right) is the best safe-breaker Australia has produced

Ray 'Chuck' Bennett (left) was among the most skillful criminals in Australia according to Kidd. He says 'Jockey' Smith (right) was a big-noter whose exploits were exaggerated by the media

His first two books feature Kidd's associations with Melbourne criminals including Jimmy 'Jockey' Smith, brothers Brian, Les and Ray Kane, Ray 'Chuck' Bennett, Mark 'Chopper' Read and Graham 'The Munster' Kinniburgh.

From the Sydney underworld, he writes of Stan 'The Man' Smith, George Freeman, Lennie McPherson, Neddy Smith, Michael Hurley, the Toe Cutters and Kangaroo Gang of shoplifters.

He tells of nobbling horses for kickbacks from bookmakers and owning successful thoroughbreds including Dondice which won a race at Flemington in front of the Queen in 1977.

Through it all is his best mate, armed robber turned drug dealer Mick Sayers, who was shot dead in an unsolved murder at Bronte in 1985 a year after he helped Kidd plan the Fine Cotton sting.

Kidd's involvement in that comedy of errors was not widely known until the 2019 publication of The Fine Cotton Fiasco, written by Peter Hoysted and Pat Sheil.

But while Kidd says that account 'gets close to the mark of what really happened' it still fell short of the full truth and 'the real story of my involvement in the Fine Cotton story is the one I've written here.'



Kidd did not spend 27 years in prison for picking pockets and got away with the vast majority of his crimes, which he likes to call 'projects'. Brisbane's Boggo Road jail is pictured

The following is an edited extract of The Notorious Kidd: Volume 2 of The Kidd Trilogy by Simon Griffin published by Fin Press:

The story of Fine Cotton has gone down in Australian history as one of the country's most audacious scams. The rort was to substitute a dud horse with another that had good form and would easily outclass the competition, then clean up on the betting with the runner at long odds. In order for this con to be successful, three things were necessary: finding a horse with good form that looked similar to the dud; making sure only a few people knew about it; and having the funds to be able to pull the whole thing off. That's where I came in.

One day when I was in Boggo Road, an inmate who was working as a waiter in the screws' mess came to talk with me, a conman named John Gillespie. He wanted to put a proposition to me, one that he believed, with my connections in Sydney and Melbourne, could be lucrative for all of us. He was planning to set up a horse sting at a city race meeting by swapping a good horse for a dud with similar markings.

Bold Personality, racing as Fine Cotton, wins at Brisbane's Eagle Farm racecourse in 1984. Bertie Kidd was one of the instigators of the bungled betting sting

Gillespie mentioned that a fellow inmate named Pat Haitana was a jockey and had a brother, Hayden, who was an established horse trainer. He was interested in getting him involved, but he required further assistance and money to pull the rort off.

Bertie Kidd's best friend Mick Sayers (pictured) was shot dead outside his Bronte home in 1985, a year after he helped plan the Fine Cotton ring-in

I thought this little sting could be a bit of fun to while away the time, so I showed interest and told him I would contact him if I wanted to proceed. I got word to Mick to see if he was keen and after he responded positively I organised for Gillespie to meet Mick through an intermediary at a well-known Sydney solicitor's office.

Within a week I'd received all the pertinent information; the plan was a goer, and everything was to proceed at haste. Mick felt the sting had the potential to earn a substantial purse: the cost of the venture was going to be between $50,000 and $100,000, with a possible million-dollar return. I organised for the funds to be handed over by a trustworthy colleague and sat back to let things take their course.

I heard that as soon as Gillespie had the money, he sprang into action. He had already met Hayden Haitana and selected Fine Cotton, a horse whose form was at best poor, as the patsy. Haitana's role was to ensure Fine Cotton had a few more lousy races in the run-up to the key meet, at Eagle Farm in Brisbane, in mid-August. That way the odds would be high. Soon after, Gillespie selected a good horse named Dashing Solitaire and asked a part-time female trainer named Wendy Smith to prepare him for a race at Eagle Farm in August too.

Bold Personality is pictured at the Queensland Mounted Police Unit stables after he was seized following the Fine Cotton fiasco

The date was set for 18 August and the race Gillespie had selected was the Commerce Novice (2nd division) Handicap over 1500 metres. In other words, it was hacks racing against hacks. Dashing Solitaire was more than a few classes above these horses, and with his form was almost certain to win easily.

The Notorious Kidd: Volume 2 of The Kidd Trilogy by Simon Griffin is available now

As the race approached, I found out that we would have odds of 33/1. I had long ago informed Gillespie and Mick that the betting had to be handled discreetly and minimal amounts needed to be spread among a select group of bookies across the country.

Then disaster struck. A few days before the race Dashing Solitaire was badly injured in a paddock accident: supposedly, he was spooked by kangaroos and ran into a barbed-wire fence.

At this point Gillespie should have aborted the plan. I had no idea what had happened and I suspect that when Mick heard about it he simply told Gillespie to sort it out. Gillespie identified a substitute horse with form, named Bold Personality, which was stabled near Coffs Harbour. He quickly purchased him, paying with a cheque, then raced him up to Brisbane.

The only problem was the horse looked nothing like Fine Cotton. For a start, Fine Cotton was dark brown, while Bold Personality was light brown, a bay; and Fine Cotton had distinctive white markings on his lower hind legs. Gillespie's team desperately tried to conceal the differences, but these guys were no beauticians and the makeover was seriously off.

Bertie Kidd helped plan and finance the Fine Cotton sting from behind bars at Brisbane's infamous Boggo Road jail (pictured)

The day before the race they tried using hair dye to change Bold Personality's colour, but it turned the horse a shade of orange rather than dark brown. Mortified, they hosed the horse down, but the colour stayed the same. Next they tried to replicate Fine Cotton's hind-leg markings with white spray paint, but they did it so badly they had to wrap the legs in bandages to make them look whiter.

So the lookalike for Fine Cotton, a brown gelding with white markings on his hind legs, rocked up to Eagle Farm in the shape of Bold Personality, a burnished orange horse with white spray paint and bandages on his hind legs.

Things got even worse after that. By race day, every man and his dog seemed to be betting on Fine Cotton. The odds went from 33/1 to 7/4, which ensured the stewards would be looking at the horse closely after the race.

Bertie Kidd was a safe-breaker, armed robber, home invader and gambler who fixed races and helped plan the 1984 Fine Cotton scandal from his Brisbane prison cell. An animal lover who has owned dogs most of his life, he is pictured with his horse Why So

When the race got underway, I listened eagerly to the radio commentary, unaware of the disaster that was unfolding. 'Fine Cotton' was slow to start and then raced erratically in the first few furlongs, which in itself was enough to alert the stewards, I thought. As the race progressed, he moved through the field and hit the front, but he was being run down in the final sprint by Harbour Gold, and the two horses went neck and neck to the winning post. It was a close finish, but aggressive riding on the part of the jockey got Fine Cotton in by a short half head. 'Wow,' I thought, 'so much for the sting; he was lucky to win at all.'

I gave a cheer then listened intently to see if all was okay. Within minutes, my elation turned to despair. There were reports on the radio that something was up, and the familiar cry of 'hold all tickets' was broadcast. 'There may be a protest,' I thought, as it had been neck and neck. Then I heard the stewards were holding a meeting and instantly I knew our million-dollar pay day had turned into a hundred-thousand-dollar loss.

Bertie Kidd expected his role in the Fine Cotton fiasco to be exposed after the arrest of the main participants. The conspirators kept him out of their police statements and he ensured they had no problems behind bars when they were sent to prison

A few days later I found out that, prior to the race, Chinese whispers about Fine Cotton's chances had leaked out across the country: the word was he couldn't lose, so everybody then wanted to bet on him. I reckoned Gillespie's efforts to curry favour with corrupt officials, including police and politicians, had let too many people in on the rort.

The fallout was swift, with the stewards looking for blood. Hayden Haitana initially did a runner, but then gave an interview to Jana Wendt from 60 Minutes before turning himself in and being charged. I thought he was going to expose Mick and me as the architects with Gillespie, and I held my breath, but he stayed staunch and all was kept under wraps. In return, I ensured that when the boys entered jail, they had no problems passing muster with the main prison cohort for their short sentences. Gillespie, though, had absconded and it was to be close to a year before he came before the courts. By then I was due to get out. I never saw him again.

The Notorious Kidd: Volume 2 of The Kidd Trilogy by Simon Griffin, published by Fin Press is available now for $34.95 at www.finpress.com.au, Amazon, Ebay, Apple Books and all good bookstores.
A leading breastfeeding support group is allegedly demanding staff offer their services to transwomen and gay men who are on 'chestfeeding' journeys.

A whistleblower known only as Sue criticised the Australian Breastfeeding Association (ABA) for promoting its services to LGBTQI+ families.

She said counsellors have raised concerns that they aren't equipped or comfortable with offering support to men or transgender women because the service was designed to support a birth mother through breastfeeding.

'We are only trained to provide peer support for mothers, not gay men, transmen, queer people, agender or asexual people,' Sue, who worked with the ABA for more than 10 years, told Daily Mail Australia.

She said five new training videos have been released in conjunction with LGBTQI+ Rainbow Families to train 1,100 counsellors in providing support for these families.

The videos, Sue claims, have diverted counsellors from their original mission of supporting new mothers.

She said counsellors have raised concerns that they aren't equipped or comfortable with offering support to men or transgender women because the service was designed to support a birth mother through breastfeeding

Sue is one of seven counsellors from the association who was allegedly suspended following accusations by other volunteers of bullying and harassment for using the term 'mother' on the ABA Facebook group.

The suspended counsellors fear the ABA will follow international breastfeeding associations in erasing mother-to-mother language and adopt terms such as 'parent' and 'chestfeeding'.

A spokesperson for the ABA strenuously denies such claims.

'We will not be erasing sexed language such as 'mother' or 'mum' or 'mothering' from our vocabulary, and we have no plans to adopt the use of the language such as 'chestfeeding' rather than breastfeeding more generally within the Association.'

Despite the reassurances, Sue says she and her fellow volunteer counsellors were told back in November that they 'should consider using inclusive language'.

'Then we were told we'd continue to use our mother-to-mother language but would provide tailored information and support for the LGBTIQ+ families. Then we were told our concerns about providing counsellors' support for men was inaccurate, misleading and wrong.'

Sue insists many of her colleagues did not feel comfortable offering their services to anybody other than mothers and their non-breastfeeding partners who are supporting them.

'We do not consent to provide that support. We are experts in mother-to-mother breastfeeding we have no skills in assisting in affirming men in their experimental attempts to breastfeed,' she said.

Sue is one of seven counsellors from the association who was allegedly suspended following accusations by other volunteers of bullying and harassment for using the term 'mother' on the ABA Facebook group (stock image)

Meanwhile, the training videos have been released for counsellors to support them ahead of the release of a $20,000 Breastfeeding, Chestfeeding and Human Milk Feeding book that was the result of a collaboration between the ABA and Rainbow Families.

Breastfeeding, chestfeeding and human milk feeding online classes will also begin from July.

'These training videos show clearly the board has misled us because the training videos make it plain, we are to support men who ring the national helpline, who believe they are women and want to breastfeed their newborns,' Sue says.

She argues the change has occurred without any consultation among members.

'This is not what the ABA was formed to do and is in conflict with our code of ethics and founding documents,' she claims.

The videos tell counsellors they must use inclusive language unless the caller signals which language they want them to use.

'We must reflect the language used by the caller, such as, 'pregnant parent' and 'chestfeeding parent'. We are told to assume they are not 'mothers',' Sue claims.

'I have experienced men ringing the helpline and wanting to have inappropriate sexualised conversations about breasts and have always, until now, felt supported by the organisation to immediately discontinue those phone calls and report them.'

Lactation consultant and long-time member of the ABA, Chris, says she is concerned about the lack of consultation within the ABA and the association has refused to address the fact that a lot of people are uncomfortable with the new training.

'Those expressing concerns have been silenced rather than the ABA trying to accommodate the volunteers,' Chris states.

A whistleblower known only as Sue criticised the Australian Breastfeeding Association (ABA) for promoting its services to LGBTQI+ families

Chris says the priority for volunteer counsellors is always to establish breastfeeding with the mother who birthed the baby.

'It is not the role of mother support people to be counselling transwomen. Their number one role is to establish breastfeeding with the birth mother,' she says.

'The counsellors are confused, they are concerned, and feel something is being imposed on them without consultation.

The Australian Breastfeeding Association told Daily Mail Australia counsellors do not provide medical advice to any parent.

'As induced lactation is a highly specialised field, counsellors are expected to direct the parents to their healthcare provider (or more likely reproductive care team) for medical advice around induced lactation.

'ABA's counsellors are provided with many techniques and support approaches for handling all manner of calls that they may not be comfortable handling (eg. Around the death of a child if the counsellor has also lost a child).

'There is a team of experienced volunteers that a counsellor can refer a caller to, in order to arrange for a call back, or support can be provided offline via email or other means.'
The Miami-Dade County Courthouse will begin undergoing repairs immediately because of safety concerns found during a review prompted by the deadly collapse of a nearby condominium building, officials said.

An engineering firm that examined the 28-story courthouse recommended that it undergo immediate structural repairs and that floors 16 and above be closed.

All courthouse employees, including those who work on lower floors, will return to working from home, Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava and other leaders said in a joint statement late Friday.

In its report, engineering firm U.S. Structures Inc. said that during its June 30 inspection, it found structural distress in various structural members such as support beams and joists, including steel columns that are in 'poor condition' and concrete columns that have numerous cracks.

Miami-Dade County Courthouse will begin undergoing repairs immediately after a review found safety concerns within the building

'In general, we observed numerous members with visible signs of structural deterioration that have been documented and reported by this and other firms for quite some time now.

The engineer's report of the Courthouse identified safety concerns with various floors and recommended floors 16 and above be closed to staff

'Many of these members are in an advance state of deterioration,' inspector Jose Toledo wrote in the firm's Tuesday letter to Miami-Dade County officials.

The announcement about the courthouse, which is in Miami, came during the third week of the search for victims of the collapse of the Champlain Towers South building in nearby Surfside.

On Saturday, authorities raised the confirmed death toll to 86, with 43 people still missing.

The courthouse, which was completed in 1928 and placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1989, is where most civil cases are heard and contains some administrative offices.

Separate courthouses for criminal, children's and family cases are not affected.

An engineers' report by U.S. Structures, Inc. on the condition of the Miami-Dade County Courthouse after a June 30, 2021 evaluation has led to the closure of the courthouse so repairs could be done

All staff are now being required to work from home following the closure having only recently returned to work because of the coronavirus pandemic

Workers only recently returned to the building after working remotely because of the coronavirus pandemic. Court operations will go back to a remote format until the safety concerns are addressed. The court planned to notify people with upcoming court proceedings of the changes.

'They had only been back in that building about a week,' Levine Cava said at a Saturday news conference. 'So they have everything they need to continue to operate remotely and also at other locations, so it should not disrupt substantially.'

Authorities didn't disclose details about the specific types of repairs that are needed, and they still plan to inspect its basement to determine if additional ones are required.

In its report, the engineering firm warned that one column on the 25th floor needed 'immediate attention' and urged that it be repaired within 30 days.

It also found overhead beams and slabs that had cracks and spalling, which is when pieces of concrete break off and potentially allow water in. In addition, it advised officials to remove heavy items such as books, office supplies and sandbags that were stored on upper floors.

Excavators dig through the remains from the collapsed 12-story Champlain Towers South condo building on Friday in Surfside, Florida

Miami-Dade County is in the early stages of constructing a new civil courthouse and had been planning to sell the current one, which has been beset by leaks, mold and issues with its facade over the years. It's unclear how the new findings might affect those plans to sell the building.

The building underwent a review following the June 24 collapse of the Champlain Towers South building, where efforts are ongoing to recover the bodies of those missing and presumed dead.

Levine Cava said those efforts would continue throughout the day Saturday despite bad weather, though work was paused for about an hour Saturday morning due to a nearby lightning strike. She also said no asbestos has been found during the search of the rubble.

'Please pray for all those who've lost loved ones and for those whose hearts are broken by this unspeakable tragedy,' she said.

Surfside Mayor Charles Burkett said crews were making good progress, especially in clearing debris from the section of the building that didn't collapse but was later demolished. That section will likely be cleared sooner than originally expected, he said.

'It's astounding the pace at which they're working in getting that rubble out of there,' he said.

Several other buildings have been reviewed to search for any structural concerns, and some - such as a condo building in North Miami Beach - have been evacuated.
Two men were killed when a homebuilt trike aircraft they were in crashed in Oregon.

The Linn County Sheriff's Office said the crash happened before 9pm on Friday in a field behind Deciduous Avenue in Millersburg, Oregon.

When they arrived on scene they found the pilot, 57-year-old Charles Kizer and his passenger 49-year-old Matthew Irish dead at the scene, KEZI-TV reported.

They were flying in a North Wing Trike, a two-seater, motorized glider-type aircraft.

The sheriff's office said there were witnesses to the crash.

Two men were killed in Oregon on Friday when the homebuilt motorized glider crashed

Charles Kizer, 57, (left) and his passenger Matthew Irish, 49, (right) were dead at the scene

Kizer is seen on his North Wing glider, which comes in a kit for building at home

The Federal Aviation Administration has been called to help investigate.

The National Transportation Safety Board said Saturday that it was an unregistered, homebuilt trike aircraft and they were responding to the scene to investigate the crash.

A trike is an ultralight aircraft composed of a robust hang-glider and a powered tricycle.

Kizer and Irish were both from Albany, Oregon, a community just a few miles away from where the crash occurred.

According to Kizer's social media, he was a small-business owner who did handyman and contractor work

The National Transportation Safety Board said Saturday that it was an unregistered, homebuilt trike aircraft and they were responding to the scene

Investigators are seen at the scene of the crash, which killed two men

Kizer is seen on another glider, a hobby he has pursued for years

Both men were pronounced dead at the scene of the crash.

According to Kizer's social media, he was a small-business owner who did handyman and contractor work.

Many of his Facebook photos proudly display a North Wing Trike, the same model that was involved in the crash.

Friends of Kizer have set up a GoFundMe campaign to help pay for his memorial service, which a representative for the company verified was authentic.

'He was the type of man that was always a phone call away, a blanket to comfort you, a friend for life, someone to listen to you when you needed to talk, he was such a great guy,' a friend wrote in a testimonial.

'He will forever be missed. Forever flying high, with the wind beneath his wings.'
The mother of murdered student Libby Squire is calling for new action to stop sex offenders from potentially killing as she reached out to the family of Sarah Everard.

Lisa Squire, 51, said she feared no lessons have been learned since her daughter was raped and murdered in 2019 by Polish butcher Pawel Relowicz.

Relowicz had committed sexual offences before the killing of the 21-year-old, and Wayne Couzens, 48, has been the subject of multiple sex allegations before killing Sarah after snatching her off a London street in March.

The father-of-two had spent 18 months patrolling the streets of Hull and had raided homes for sex toys and stared through strangers' windows while masturbating.

The convicted murderer had an 'uncontrollable sexual deviancy', the court heard, that caused him to rape university student Libby before callously dumping her 'dead or dying' in the River Hull.

Libby's mother Lisa said her heart broke at the similarities with the Sarah Everard case, which caused a national outcry over the violence suffered by women.

Lisa Squire, 51, said she feared no lessons have been learned since her daughter (pictured together) was raped and murdered in 2019 by Polish butcher Pawl Relowicz

On Friday, Wayne Couzens (left) admitted raping and killing Sarah Everard (right) after snatching her off a south London street

She told The Sunday Mirror: 'I remember hearing about Sarah's death and thinking we have learned nothing from Libby's murder.

'If I had a message for Sarah's family it would be to remember her and don't give her killer power by thinking about him.'

It comes as pressure mounts on the Metropolitan Police to explain why firearms officer Wayne Couzens was hired despite suspicions about his behaviour.

The cop was referred to as 'The Rapist' and drove around naked years before he was hired by the force, it has been claimed.

Kent Police - with whom he volunteered from 2005 to 2009 - received a complaint from a male motorist that a man had been spotted driving around Dover naked from the waist down.

Pawel Relowicz, 26, who was found guilty of raping and murdering Libby Squire, 21, was photographed grinning in a pair on reindeer antlers just weeks before he killed the student

Relowicz was jailed for 27 years at Sheffield Crown Court after being found guilty of raping and murdering Libby Squire (pictured)

The claim comes as several women step forward to make historic accusations of harassment against Couzens who had been accused of indecent exposure three times before Sarah was killed.

Ms Squire is now calling for a change in the law to stop similar sex offenders from escalating their crimes.

She met Safeguarding Minister VIctoria Atkins as part of a campaign to offer therapy to low-level offenders.

MPs Diana Johnson and Steve Baker have backed her calls for change to stop similar incidents occurring.

Wayne Couzens' ex-colleagues at the Civil Nuclear Constabulary (CNC), where the 48-year-old (pictured left and right) joined in March 2011, reportedly nicknamed him 'The Rapist' because he made some female officers feel uncomfortable

Ms Squire said: 'Men don't wake up one morning thinking "I'm going to rape or kill today". It starts off with flashing, voyeurism, following women.

'If there's no intervention for lesser offences they think they can get away with it and up the ante. There's an idea men who flash are just dirty old men. But Libby's killer was a young man, Sarah's was a police officer.'

How was he still on the force? Killer cop was caught flashing six years ago and four days BEFORE he snatched Sarah Everard As Dame Cressida Dick apologised after Wayne Couzens' guilty plea at court yesterday morning, her force refused to comment on what other crimes he may now been linked to. But the IOPC laid bare a series of worrying incidents and said it had served 12 officers from several forces with gross misconduct or misconduct notices with multiple investigations ongoing. One gross misconduct notice and six misconduct notices relate to a probe into allegations officers from 'a number of forces' breached standards of professional behaviour by sharing information linked to the prosecution of Couzens via a messaging app. Gross misconduct notices have been served to three officers over an investigation into a probationary Met Police constable who allegedly shared an inappropriate graphic relating to the Sarah Everard case with officers over social media before subsequently manning the cordon at the scene of the search for her. A probe into the Metropolitan Police's alleged failure to investigate allegations of indecent exposure linked to Couzens in February 2021 continues with two officers being investigated for possible breaches of professional standards that may amount to misconduct. A separate investigation is also ongoing into claims Kent Police failed to investigate an incident of indecent exposure in 2015, but no notices have been served by the IOPC to officers over this. An investigation into how Wayne Couzens sustained head injuries while in custody on both March 10 and March 12 following his arrest has almost concluded, the IOPC said, with all officers involved treated as witnesses. Kent Assistant Chief Constable Tom Richards said: 'Kent Police made a referral to the Independent Office for Police Conduct in relation to its investigation into an alleged indecent exposure in Dover in June 2015. 'It would be inappropriate to comment further whilst the IOPC continues to carry out its independent investigation.' Advertisement

The mother also urged women to report non-contact sexual offences saying it could help save a woman's life and Libby's death would not be in vain.

It comes as the IOPC confirmed Couzens was suspected of two other indecent exposures feared not to have been properly probed by the Met force days before he killed Sarah.

Despite the past cases, Couzens was still a member of the elite Parliamentary and Diplomatic Protection squad at the time of Sarah's killing  a role that entitled him to carry a firearm and a Metropolitan Police warrant card.

He was also equipped with a Heckler and Koch G36 rifle while working at the CNC, as part of the team protecting Sellafield and later Dungeness nuclear power station.

His odd behaviour there is rumoured to have been what made female workers feel uneasy - although the Civil Nuclear Police Federation confirmed there were no official complaints about him.

In total, Couzens had been accused of indecent exposure three times before he abducted Ms Everard in Clapham, south London, on March 3.

He pleaded guilty at the Old Bailey to the murder of the marketing executive on Friday, having previously admitted her kidnap and rape.

Five members of Ms Everard's family were joined by Met Police Commissioner Dame Cressida Dick in court to watch as Couzens, head bowed and shaking, entered his whispered plea by video link from Belmarsh prison.

During the 20-minute hearing Lord Justice Fulford discussed the possibility of a whole-life order as he adjourned sentencing until September 29.

Dame Cressida spoke to the family before making a statement on the steps of the Old Bailey.

She said that she had told the Everard family 'how very sorry I am for their loss, for their pain and their suffering'.

She said: 'All of us in the Met are sickened, angered and devastated by this man's crimes - they are dreadful. Everyone in policing feels betrayed.'

The wife of Couzens also told of her horror at the police officer's sickening crimes and her distress at failing to spot any warning signs in the months before Ms Everard's kidnap and murder.

Speaking exclusively to MailOnline, Elena Couzens, 38, said: 'I keep on asking 'why?' What Wayne did wasn't human behaviour.'

His wife of 15 years said she is still picking up the pieces of her shattered life and rebuilding it together with the couple's two young children.

'If I had any idea what was going on in Wayne's head, then none of this would've happened but I didn't know anything,' she said.

'He didn't appear to be acting strangely. I didn't notice anything was wrong. I'm working full time, most of the time I'm dropping the children off at school and picking them up, I have a really busy lifestyle.

'I can't comprehend it because he never once previously showed any glimpse of violence, he was never that way. I'm just as puzzled as everyone else.

Wayne Couzens seen in a court sketch during a previous hearing relating to the case. He pleaded guilty at the Old Bailey to the murder of the marketing executive on Friday

Met commissioner Dame Cressida Dick (pictured) said that she had told the Everard family 'how very sorry I am for their loss, for their pain and their suffering'

'I saw nothing wrong. He had a beautiful family, a good house what else did he need? I'm constantly asking myself "where I did miss the signs?" How on earth could this have happened?'

Harriet Wistrich, director of the Centre for Women's Justice, is among those calling for a full public inquiry into 'police failures and misconduct and the wider culture of misogyny' following Couzens' guilty plea.

Ms Everard's murder sparked protests by women fearing for their own safety earlier this year.

Ms Wistrich said: 'As protesters made clear, women do not feel safe and it is incumbent on the Government and all criminal justice agencies to now take action over the epidemic of male violence which is the other public health crisis of our day.'

Nick Thomas Symonds, the shadow home secretary, has also urged police to review their vetting process.

A number of areas were searched in Clapham as police tried to look for the missing 33-year-old in March this year before they turned the hunt to Kent

Sarah's family leave the Old Bailey after a previous hearing where Couzens made two guilty pleas. Her father Jeremy is seen on the left, with her sister Katie who can be seen on the right

CCTV footage of Sarah Everard captured earlier on the night she was kidnapped in south London in March this year

The Labour MP said: 'Society puts huge trust in the police to keep us safe and the vast majority of officers who serve their communities so bravely who will all be appalled by this case.

'It is absolutely vital that everything possible is done to ensure this can never happen again.

'The Metropolitan Police and wider policing must look at vetting processes and their own safeguarding systems to ensure people who pose a threat to the public are not able to hold such vital positions of trust.'

The IOPC has launched an investigation into alleged failures by Kent Police to investigate the indecent exposure allegation against Couzens dating back to 2015.

An IOPC probe is also ongoing into alleged failures by the Met to investigate two allegations of indecent exposure linked to Couzens in London in February this year, with two officers under investigation for possible breaches of professional standards.

The watchdog said a total of 12 gross misconduct or misconduct notices have so far been served on police officers from several forces relating to the Couzens case.
A legal dispute has been launched over claims a brand of underwear that Bachelor star Nick Cummins promotes aren't the 'Aussiest Undies Ever'.

Step One Clothing Australia sued in the Federal Court claiming Sojo Pty Ltd, the business that makes TRADIE jocks, misled customers by claiming its products are 'true blue' Australian when laundry tags say they are made in China.

The rival underwear company alleged Sojo breached Australian Consumer Law by using images of Australian stars for advertising purposes, including Cummins, freestyle aerial skier Danielle Scott, and rugby sevens player Charlotte Caslick.

Pictured: Australian Bachelor star Nick Cummins in an ad campaign for TRADIE underwear

Pictured: Sevens rugby player Charlotte Caslick in an ad campaign for TRADIE underwear

Daily Mail Australia is not suggesting Cummins, Scott and Caslick have done anything wrong, and they are not involved in the court case.

Step One Clothing Australia accused Sojo of marketing, promoting, advertising, and selling the intimates by using false statements such as 'The Aussiest Brand Ever' and 'we're a whole of true blue', according to the Herald Sun.

It also claimed the underwear company used deceptive hashtags such as #Aussieundies and #australianunderwear.

'The conduct of Sojo in trade or commerce, represented to members of the public in Australia that TRADIE underwear is made in Australia and is the most Australian underwear,' the court documents filed by Step One Clothing Australia claimed.

Rival company claims TRADIE underwear is not the 'Aussies Brand Ever' because products are made in China

'TRADIE underwear is not made in Australia and is not the most Australian underwear brand.

'The laundry tag attached to TRADIE underwear states that TRADIE underwear is "Made in China".'

A photo of the tag was also filed in court documents showing 'Made in China' was written on the label.

Directly above the manufacturing information, it says the product is 'Australian family owned'.

Pictured: An ad for TRADIE underwear with Nick Cummins and champion skier Danielle Scott

Step One Clothing Australia listed underwear labels that are 'more Australian' than TRADIE because they are made in Australia, including Tuffys & Tuffetts, Merino Country, Farm to Hanger, and Wonderpants.

The company also claimed Sojo falsely stated the bags TRADIE underwear is sold in are 100 per cent biodegradable, and is seeking an injunction to stop Sojo from continuing to claim products are the most Australian underwear.

It will ask the court to enforce a correction banner on the Sojo website for 60 days.
A survivor of a fatal boating accident for which the scion of a powerful South Carolina family was awaiting trial when he was murdered has claimed that police may have deliberately hampered the investigation into the crash in an attempt to frame him as the person responsible.

Paul Murdaugh, 22, and his mother, Maggie, were found shot to death at their hunting lodge in June before he could face trial for the boating mishap that killed 19-year-old Mallory Beach in 2019.

But now Connor Cook, who at age 20 was one of six people on the Sea Hunt boat when it crashed and broke his jaw, has asserted that some law enforcement officials may have intended to frame him as the driver of the boat - when it was Murdaugh who was actually at the wheel.

Lawyers for Cook recently filed a petition in Richland County Court which suggests that law enforcement officers who investigated the crash colluded to blame him instead of Murdaugh.

Connor Cook who was on board a boat when it crashed in 2019 launched a court petition in which he believes law enforcement 'hampered' the investigation and tried to frame him

Evidence photos of the boat crash in South Carolina that killed Mallory Beach

The stern of the boat which was involved in the 2019 accident killing one woman

The February 2019 boat crash has come under increased scrutiny in recent months

Pictures of the crash scene were included in an evidence report of the crash

Cook believes some evidence gathered at the scene of the boat crash scene is missing and has now petitioned to have the officers involved questioned about why they 'failed to conduct an appropriate investigation', according to the petition viewed by Island Packet.

It suggests law enforcement may have first attempted to frame him because of Murdaughs status whose wealthy family had ties spanning several generations to the local prosecutors office.

At least five law enforcement officers were interviewed by attorneys about their actions during the boat crash investigation.

The petition alleges that the officers failed to conduct an appropriate investigation.

That failure includes the fact officers did not give Murdaugh a sobriety test and 'other investigative irregularities,' according the filing.

The petition names the S.C. Department of Natural Resources, the Beaufort County Sheriff's Office and 'Unknown Others,' as defendants.

Paul Murdaugh(pictured) had been indicted and released on a $50,000 bond

Cook is hoping a judge will allow him to depose, and obtain the cell phones of the police officers who investigated the boat crash.

They include former SCDNR officer and current S.C. Law Enforcement agent Michael Brock; SCNDR officer Austin Pritcher; Beaufort County Sheriff's Office Sgt. John Leroy Keener, III; Former SCDNR officer Robin Camlin; Beaufort County Sheriff's Office Sgt. Troy Andrew Krapf.

Lawyers hired by Cook will seek to the law enforcement officers about the boat crash investigation; statements collected at the time from the boat crash including body camera footage and other video and audio footage; physical evidence collected; DNA and other biological evidence collected; Phone, verbal and other communications throughout the investigation; 'Investigative failures and deficiencies and the officers' relationship to the people involved in the investigation.

'Brock, Pritcher, Kenner, Camlin and Krapf may have information as to a 'campaign' to cloud the investigatory issues and disseminate false information in the community with the intention of misleading law enforcement and prosecution charging parties, and the public, into wrongly and falsely believing Connor Cook should be arrested and charged as the boat operator with multiple counts of Felony Boating Under the Influence,' the filing reads.

Mallory Beach (pictured ) was killed in the 2019 boating accident still under investigation

Former SCDNR officer and current S.C. Law Enforcement agent Michael Brock is one of those named in the petition as having colluded to blame Cook for the crash instead of Murdaugh

The accident occurred in February 2019 when a boat carrying six people crashed in Archer's Creek near Parris Island.

Beach, 19, who was one of the passengers as killed. Her body was missing for a week before it was found.

Murdaugh, who was 20 at the time of the crash, was indicted on three counts of boating under the influence in April 2019.

Others on the boat were Anthony Cook, Connor Cook, Miley Altman and Morgan Doughty who was Murdaugh's girlfriend at the time.

Connor Cook with girlfriend Miley Altman in photos from his Facebook page. The pair were both on the boat at the time of the crash

2018 photo taken in Clemson, South Carolina, shows (left to right) Miley Altman, Morgan Doughty, Mallory Beach and Madison Wood

The South Carolina Attorney General's Office decided to keep the investigation into the boat crash open even after Murdaugh's murder.

A week and a half after the murders, Mark Tinsley, the lawyer representing the Beach's said the family is confident the AG's Office 'will continue to investigate and prosecute any improprieties related to any attempts by any member of law enforcement to influence the original criminal investigation related to the boat crash.'

Members of the Murdaugh family have served as county elected prosecutors for almost 87 years but none is currently in office.

Margaret, 52, and Paul Murdaugh, 22, were found dead, shot multiple times, in the backyard of their home in Islandton, South Carolina, last month. Paul, 22, was awaiting trial for the death of Mallory Beach who was thrown from a boat he was thought to be driving while drunk

Paul's father, Margaret's husband, Richard Alex Murdaugh, works in private law. His grandfather, Richard Murdaugh III, served as the 14th Circuit Solicitor for 20 years before retiring in 2006.

Last month, DailyMail.com revealed how there was a chaotic chain of events leading up to and after the horrific incident which took place when Murdaugh insisted on boating downtown after an oyster roast on Paukie Island.

According to Murdaugh's then girlfriend, Morgan Doughty, Murdaugh was, 'an angry drunk,' who thought he was 'invincible.'

All of the survivors testified to Murdaugh being drunk and there being arguments over his determination to drive his boat. Beach's boyfriend Anthony Cook offered to get an Uber but Murdaugh was insistent they would travel by boat despite the fog and the lack of any light on the vessel.

Cook told attorneys that Murdaugh had a 'crazy' alter-ego called 'Timmy' who came out when he was drunk.

On the night in question Cook stated, 'The whole way everybody was fighting and arguing. We drifted around in circles numerous times. We idled along.Miley was steady hollering that she had to work the next morning. She was ready to go.

'All Paul was doing was making a fool of himselfthen for some reason Paul acted like he was on drugs or something.

'He started taking off his clothes during one of the arguments and it is 40 degrees outside.'

According to Cook, Murdaugh stripped 'all the way down to his boxers,' and belligerently refused to let anyone else drive his boat.

Both Cook and Altman told how Murdaugh, 'slapped, pushed and spat' on his girlfriend Doughty as the bitter arguing continued.

Asked if Murdaugh had ever spat on her when he was sober, Doughty replied, 'No.' She admitted to having witnessed him smoking weed and taking cocaine on other occasions.

Describing the terrifying scenes as the youngsters begged Murdaugh to let someone else drive, or just take them home, Altman recalled, 'I yelled at him once and he just told me..he was like..shut the eff up and sit the eff down. Nobody else is driving my boat.'

Paul Murdaugh's ex-girlfriend Morgan Doughty (pictured together) said Murdaugh was, 'an angry drunk,' who thought he was 'invincible'

Doughty told how she and Beach cowered in the boat with their arms 'intertwined,' as Murdaugh continued the journey that was doomed to end in such tragedy.

Ultimately, Cook remembered, the boat suddenly took off. In a chilling recollection he said ,'We went from a two-mile-per-hour idle to the bow of the boat sticking up in the air and I went to the back.'

Cook pulled Beach down next to him and held onto her but the next thing he knew, he testified, he was 'waking up' in the water, grabbing at piles of weed and debris and fighting against the swift current and frigid temperatures.

In among the panic the survivors quickly established that nobody could locate Beach.

In an emotional Facebook post barely a month after Beach's death Anthony Cook wrote how he would have to live the rest of his life, 'with the memory of getting thrown into the freezing pitch black water with the true love of my life in my arms.'

He wrote, 'I had to swim against that current for 15 minutes in a panic screaming her name begging her to answer me. I had to swim to shore without her to save my own life and live in regret of that forever. I'm reminded of that by every little thing all day everyday!'
A martial arts expert who bashed his girlfriend to death and dumped her body in bushland has been beaten in a brutal 'retaliatory attack' in prison.

Sayle Kenneth Newson, 43, of Buff Point on the Central Coast, was found guilty of murdering mother-of-two Carly McBride, 31, by the NSW Supreme Court on June 24.

Just four days later, Newson was viciously bashed by three inmates in the maximum security Shortland Correctional Centre in the Hunter Valley.

Sayle Kenneth Newson, 43, (pictured) was found guilty of murdering girlfriend Carly McBride on June 24, and was bashed by three inmates in a 'retaliatory attack' in prison four days later

Newson sustained a broken jaw and eye socket during the brawl at the Shortland Correctional Centre in the Hunter Valley (pictured), and was admitted to hospital for surgery

The attack gave the martial arts fighter a broken jaw and eye socket, along with other extensive internal and head injuries that required surgery in hospital.

The attack was believed to be retaliation, with two of the men understood to be indigenous like Ms McBride, the Daily Telegraph reported.

The Muay Thai boxer vehemently denied he murdered Ms McBride in the seven years since she went missing on September 30, 2014.

Her remains were found almost two years later in thick scrub at Owens Gap, about 17km northwest of Scone, on August 7, 2016.

A post-mortem examination revealed Ms McBride suffered blunt force trauma to her face and back of her head, indicating she suffered at least two blows to the skull and one to her back.

The 43-year-old had been dating Carly McBride, 31, (pictured) for eight weeks before she went missing on September 30 in 2014 and her body was found two years later

Ms McBride met Newson at a drug and alcohol rehabilitation centre west of Wyong in late 2013, before beginning a relationship with him in early August 2014.

They had been dating for eight weeks before she mysteriously disappeared, last seen leaving her former partner's home in Muswellbrook at about 2pm.

She would regularly visit her young daughter at the Hunter Valley home, with Newson often driving her there.

It is believed the 31-year-old was walking to a local McDonalds just a four-minute drive away when she vanished.

The victim's Facebook account was deleted a short time before she went missing and her phone and handbag were never recovered.

At the time, the missing woman's mother Lorraine Williams described her daughter as a 'proud Aboriginal woman' with a 'radiant smile'.

Ms McBride's mother Lorraine Williams (right) described her daughter as a 'proud Aboriginal woman' with a 'radiant smile'. Pictured with her husband Steve McBride (left)

When interviewed by police before Ms McBride's remains had been found, Newson said she was the first woman he had loved in 14 years and he believed 'Carly was given to me'.

The Crown alleged Newson was motivated by jealousy and possessiveness and angry Ms McBride was receiving messages from other men.

A prison source alleged to the Daily Telegraph, Newson should not have been housed with Aboriginal inmates when the verdict was delivered.

'He gets savagely beaten by other inmates who we all know sought to avenge the death of one of their own,' they said.

A post-mortem examination revealed Ms McBride suffered blunt force trauma to her face and back of her head, indicating she suffered at least two blows to the skull and one to her back

'Do you think it would have been prudent to conduct a risk assessment?'

Corrective Services NSW said a 43-year-old man was attacked in prison and hospitalised as a result of his injuries.

She said the inmate remains in hospital with facial injuries and that NSW Police had been notified of the incident.

Newson is understood to no longer be allowed to interact with other prisoners after being classified as a 'non-association' inmate.

His lawyers have six months to file an appeal to his conviction and sentence before the matter is listed for hearing.
The vaccines minister today dismissed claims the waiting time between vaccines is being halved in a bid to stem the surge in Delta infections.

Nadhim Zahawi said he was puzzled by the suggestion as evidence showed that the current eight-week gap gave better protection from coronavirus.

According to the Sunday Times, officials have asked the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) to provide immediate advice on reducing the interval to four weeks.

But Mr Zahawi said: 'The real-world data, the clinical data suggests that actually the eight-week interval offers that additional fortification in terms of protection with the two doses, is much better than having the interval shortened any further...

'That's the clinical advice and that is the advice we will follow.'

Public Health England's vaccination instructions issued to doctors and nurses states that for the AstraZeneca and Pfizer jabs 'there is evidence of better immune response and/or protection where longer intervals between doses are used'.

However, the report indicated that extra immune response was now being balanced against the vulnerability of people who have had only a single jab.

A reduction would open up the prospect of quarantine-free foreign travel for millions who would otherwise have had to wait a further month to receive their second does.

The wait time between the first and second dose of the Covid vaccine is 'to be halved to four weeks' as No10 urges the jabs roll-out to be sped up with Freedom Day looming (stock image)

Nadhim Zahawi said he was puzzled by the suggestion as evidence showed that the current eight-week gap gave better protection from coronavirus

The discussion comes amid surging cases of the now-dominant Delta variant - which is better able than others to evade the first dose - with Freedom Day looming.

But Boris Johnson is to press ahead with the lifting of Covid rules on July 19 despite increasing pressure last night from some doctors and scientists to delay the move.

The Prime Minister is expected to confirm tomorrow that all restrictions will be removed next week - with No 10 sources saying that Mr Johnson trusted in 'the innate good sense of the British people' not to embrace their new liberties 'recklessly'.

The pledge came after the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges (AMRC) warned yesterday that the number of cases was 'rising dramatically' and the NHS was under unprecedented pressure.

Yesterday, the UK recorded 32,367 new Covid cases and 34 deaths after the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges warned that the number of cases was 'rising dramatically

Almost 45.8 million people have received the first dose of the vaccine  equivalent to 86.9 per cent of adults, while 65.6 per cent have received both jabs.

Professor Helen Stokes-Lampard, chairwoman of the AMRC, said she was 'profoundly concerned' about removing all restrictions on July 19.

'There seems to be a misapprehension that life will return to normal from then and that we can throw away all the precautions and, frankly, that would be dangerous,' she said.

But a Government source said: 'It is still full steam ahead, but we are trusting people to behave cautiously.

'There are going to be some difficult days ahead, but it is better that we open up now with the school holidays upon us than when they are back in the classrooms in the autumn.'

Boris Johnson is to press ahead with the lifting of Covid rules on July 19 despite increasing pressure last night from some doctors and scientists to delay the move

Yesterday, the UK recorded 32,367 new Covid cases and 34 deaths.

Almost 45.8 million people have received the first dose of the vaccine  equivalent to 86.9 per cent of adults - while 65.6 per cent have received both jabs.

Ministers have urged Mr Johnson to let double-jabbed tourists come to the UK from July 19  or risk devastating the domestic holiday market.

The Cabinet has been split over how to open up travel, with some warning against a phased reopening that prioritises people who have been double-jabbed in the UK.

Despite this, a staggered approach was announced last week after the Border Force said it wouldn't cope with a full reopening, sources told The Mail on Sunday.

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said that from July 19, people who have received both jabs from the NHS will be able to visit amber-list countries without having to self-isolate on returning to the UK.

MailOnline has contacted No10 for comment on reducing the vaccination interval.

Hospital waiting lists are rocketing towards 13MILLION, warns Savid Javid as he says 'very British' attitude of not wishing to overburden NHS during Covid pandemic is leaving millions untreated and undiagnosed

Hospital waiting lists could soar to 13million in the coming months after more than a year of lockdowns and warnings not to burden the NHS, Sajid Javid has warned.

The new Health Secretary said internal modelling showed the current record number of 5.3million patients awaiting treatment could more than double this summer.

He believes the pandemic has had a huge impact on other health problems as well as affecting those who decided not to seek treatment for fear of catching the virus in hospital.

The new Health Secretary said internal modelling showed the current record number of 5.3million patients awaiting treatment could more than double this summer

Javid told The Telegraph the 'very British' attitude of trying to protect the NHS has worsened the problem.

He said: 'What shocked me the most is when I was told that the waiting list is going to get a lot worse before it gets better.

'It's gone up from 3.5million to 5.3million as of today, and I said to the officials: 'So what do you mean [by] a lot worse', thinking maybe it goes from 5.3 to six million, seven million.

'They said no, it's going to go up by millions... it could go as high as 13million.

'Hearing that figure of 13million, it has absolutely totally focused my mind, and it's going to be one of my top priorities to deal with because we can't have that.'

Modelling shown to the Health Secretary showed seven million people who would have normally sought medical treatment did not during the pandemic.

This includes tens of thousands of people who are believed to have missed out on checks for cancer and heart disease treatment, on top of untreated mental health issues.

Javid said clearing the backlog is one of his top priorities and current proposals include more virtual appointments and relying on private hospitals to provide care.

It comes as NHS trusts are facing the combined hit of Covid cases rising again, the backlog for other treatments including cancer checks and heart disease, and staff shortages due to workers having to self-isolate if they are 'pinged' by the Covid app.

NHS Providers, the membership organisation for NHS trusts in England, warned that up to a fifth of staff could be absent from one NHS trust in just three weeks from now, potentially leading to the cancellation of as many as 900 operations.

Mr Javid confirmed to The Sunday Telegraph that there was 'every reason to think that we can take a more proportionate and balanced approach to the isolation policy' for NHS staff after No 10 suggested they could be exempt from having to stay at home if they had two jabs.

He also discussed NHS pay and that raising taxes to fund social care could be a 'practical and obvious' solution.

Earlier, Professor Helen Stokes-Lampard, chairwoman of the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges, said deaths were beginning to rise again too.

She told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: 'We've only just heard in this bulletin about the rising numbers of cases, the rising numbers of people requiring hospital treatment, in intensive care and sadly deaths are starting to rise again, too.

'There seems to be a misapprehension that life will return to normal from then (July 19), and that we can throw away all the precautions, and frankly, that would be dangerous.'

Warnings over July 19, which is being called freedom day, were echoed by Greater Manchester metro mayor Andy Burnham, who told the Observer it was more like 'anxiety day'.

He told the newspaper: 'The Government is simply wrong to frame everything from here as a matter of pure personal choice. It is not.

'Many people who are vulnerable to the virus have to use public transport and do their food shopping in person. That is why the wearing of face coverings in these settings should have remained mandatory. I will be strongly encouraging the people of Greater Manchester to continue to wear masks on public transport out of respect for others.'

In his Sunday Telegraph interview, Mr Javid said anyone who would not wear a mask in an enclosed space was 'just being irresponsible' despite it becoming guidance rather than the law in Step 4 of restrictions lifting.

Labour's shadow health secretary Jonathan Ashworth said: 'Given Sajid Javid now considers it irresponsible to not wear masks then it would be equally irresponsible for his government to carry on with the plan to lift mask requirements while infections are heading to 100,000 a day.'

The rate of new cases of coronavirus in most areas of England is now back at levels last seen during the winter.

Patient numbers have risen to levels last seen around three months ago.

And there has been a very slight increase in the average number of deaths reported each day of people in England who died within 28 days of testing positive for Covid-19.

But this is still far below the sort of numbers seen in January and February of this year.

The Sunday Times reported that No 10 had asked the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) to look at whether the wait between the two doses of the vaccine could be cut to four weeks in light of the rise in cases.

The Academy of Medical Royal Colleges said in a statement: 'There is little doubt that things will get worse before they get better.'
He's dreamed of going into space since childhood  and has spent 17 years and more than 720million trying to get there.

Today, at 2pm UK time, Sir Richard Branson is set to achieve a life ambition when he boards his Virgin Galactic rocketship and is blasted 55 miles to the edge of space at three times the speed of sound.

Speaking to The Mail on Sunday hours before lift-off from Spaceport America in New Mexico, the 70-year-old maverick tycoon revealed he will take family photos and a Pride flag with him  but not a camera.

'The last bit of advice I have been given from other astronauts is do not take a camera, do not take notebooks, just look out of the window and look back at this incredible world we live in and take it all in,' he said.

Richard Branson has spent 17 years and more than 720million trying to get to space. He described his spouse Joan (both pictured), 73, as 'the most understanding wife on Earth'

At 2pm, Sir Richard Branson will achieve his goal by boarding his Virgin Galactic rocketship (above) and getting blasted 55 miles to the edge of space at three times the speed of sound

The 70-year-old maverick tycoon revealed he will take family photos and a Pride flag with him  but not a camera. Pictured: Virgin Galactic's passenger rocket plane, the VSS Unity

'As a kid I always dreamed of building a spaceship to go to space on,' he said. Pictured: Sir Richard at the New York Stock Exchange ahead of Virgin Galactic trading in October 2019

The billionaire Virgin founder described his spouse Joan, 73, as 'the most understanding wife on Earth'.

'As a kid I always dreamed of building a spaceship to go to space on,' he said. 'It used to be cardboard boxes, then it became a bit bigger: toy spaceships.'

Sir Richard's Virgin Galactic venture has already faced numerous setbacks, including a fatality in 2014 when pilot Michael Alsbury was killed on a test flight after Virgin Galactic's VSS Enterprise spaceship broke up mid-flight.

But the business tycoon, who turns 71 next Sunday, said he was 'fit and healthy' and played down the risks, insisting his previous escapades such as crossing the Pacific in a hot air balloon in 1991 had been more dangerous.

'It [space] is not the most risky adventure I've ever done because we've had 800 engineers working on it, whereas for our ballooning and boating adventures we had only three or four, but it's definitely the most extreme, the most exciting,' he said.

Sir Richard will take with him photos of his parents, children Sam and Holly, five grandchildren and friends' loved ones.

Sir Richard's Virgin Galactic (pictured) venture has faced setbacks, including a fatality in 2014 when pilot Michael Alsbury was killed on a test flight after a spaceship broke up mid-flight

But the founder of Virgin Galactic (pictured at NYSE in October 2019), who turns 71 next Sunday, said he was 'fit and healthy' and played down the risks before take off

Sir Richard (pictured with crew members in rocket plane VSS Unity) will take with him photos of his parents, children Sam and Holly, five grandchildren and friends' loved ones

The tycoon (pictured) is competing with Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and Tesla and SpaceX founder Elon Musk in what has been dubbed the 'billionaire space race'

The Pride flag is to remember victims of the 2016 Orlando nightclub shooting.

He explained: 'Somebody who lost a loved one at the Orlando massacre asked if I would do that. We also have many, many friends who are gay and I know people who lost friends there.'

Sir Richard's late mother Eve had booked a seat on a Virgin Galactic spaceflight but died of Covid-19 in January aged 96.

He said she would be there 'in spirit' and has given her name to the mothership VMS Eve, which will carry the VSS Unity spaceship to an altitude of 50,000ft before it points vertically upwards and accelerates to 2,300 miles per hour.

The tycoon is competing with Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and Tesla and SpaceX founder Elon Musk in what has been dubbed the 'billionaire space race'.

He will beat Mr Bezos's maiden spaceflight by nine days.

Virgin Galactic, founded in 2004, aims to launch 90-minute commercial spaceflights next year.
Even stricter face mask rules and travel restrictions have been introduced in Sydney to force the city's coronavirus outbreak under control.

NSW Health Minister Brad Hazzard ramped up restrictions as the citywide lockdown enters its third week and the city recorded 77 cases on Sunday.

Residents will have to wear masks in more places - including their own apartment buildings - and everyone outside Sydney banned from coming in.

But a respected expert claims this will not be enough and a draconian lockdown similar to Melbourne's stage-four, with troops on the street to enforce it, is needed.

New face mask rules and travel restrictions have been introduced in Greater Sydney with a draconian-style lockdown and troops on the street possibly on the way, a top epidemiologist has warned

Residents will only be able to travel to Greater Sydney to access goods and services that are not available in their area

Under the new restrictions coming into effect this week, residents are only be able to travel to Sydney to access goods and services that are not available in their area.

Travelling into the area for exercise or outdoor recreational activities is no longer a valid reason.

They are also only be allowed to travel to attend a funeral or memorial service as long as there are no more than 10 mourners.

Sydney residents wanting to leave the area must also carry identification that contains their residential address.

Face masks must also be worn at indoor construction sites at all times.

On Tuesday, the restriction will be extended to all indoor common property areas of residential premises in Sydney, the Blue Mountains, Central Coast, Wollongong and Shellharbour.

Residents who live in apartments will be required to wear the extra protection when taking the lift or waiting in the lobby.

Epidemiologist Tony Blakely warned the restrictions are not tough enough and suggested the city should be placed into a much tougher lockdown with soldiers patrolling the streets.

Dr Blakely said the state government had three options: Let the Covid-19 outbreak circulate in the community, continue with a partial lockdown, or deploy troops and police to patrol the streets.

'The third option is the only one. It's very hard to say those words: 'We're going into a hard lockdown, we've called in the military, the police and we are going to police it,' he told news.com.au.

'It's not a pretty look but if you want it to be over and done with as quickly as possible that, most unfortunately, is what needs to happen.'

The draconian lockdown would be similar to the one introduced in Victoria last year - which lasted 111 days.

The draconian-style lockdown would be similar to the one introduced in Victoria last year - which lasted 111 days (pictured, a deserted Melbourne laneway during the lockdown in September)

Non-essential businesses were closed, an 8pm curfew enforced and a ring of steel placed around Melbourne with residents only allowed to leave their homes and exercise within a five kilometre radius (pictured, an empty Flinders Street during the draconian lockdown in September)

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian (pictured) announced new social distancing restrictions for Greater Sydney residents on Friday

Non-essential businesses were closed, an 8pm curfew enforced and a ring of steel placed around Melbourne with residents only allowed to leave their homes and exercise within a 5km radius.

Police patrolled the streets and were assisted by military troops during the tough three months.

Dr Blakely warned continuing with a partial lockdown meant Sydney might only begin to reopen in September.

'If they keep going the way they are now, without really stepping it up now it could go on for months,' he said.

The additional face mask and travel restrictions were introduced by NSW Health after it announced it would be tightening lockdown across Sydney from 5pm Friday.

Exercising outdoors must be limited to groups of two and people must stay within 10km of their homes when exercising.

Residents in Sydney, the Blue Mountains, Woollongong, Central Coast, and Shellharbour are in the midst of an already extended three week lockdown - with the premier hinting another extension was not off the table.

Exercising outdoors has been limited to groups of two from 5pm on Friday under expanded restrictions (pictured: people exercising in Sydney last weekend)

Can you still exercise outdoors?

Yes, but in reduced groups. Locked down residents from Friday evening will only be allowed to exercise outdoors in groups of two - down from the 10 previously allowed.

The only exception to this rule is members of the same household already living together can exercise outdoors together.

How far can you travel to exercise?

Additionally locals can only travel within their own local government area or at most 10km of their homes to exercise.

'Please do not leave your house. Do not leave your home, unless you absolutely have to,' Ms Berejiklian pleaded with Sydneysiders.

What about leaving the house for essential items?

Locals should only leave their house for essential supplies and should not browse, the premier said.

Only one member of a household should be traveling to the shops for essential items and this should not be an excuse to socialise.

Can you visit a partner in another household?

This is still allowed under the new restrictions provided you are in a relationship.

Is carpooling allowed?

Carpooling with other households - whether to the shops, to exercise or work - is also not allowed from 5pm on Friday.

Centennial Park in Sydney was packed with crowds last Saturday morning (pictured)

Can you still travel to work?

Ms Berejiklian restated only people who need to travel for essential work should leave their house.

'Too many people who have continued to go to work, too many people have either misunderstood the rules or not followed them. And that has to stop.'

Is there a curfew?

No. You can leave your house at any hour as long as it is for one of the essential reasons.

What about funerals and weddings?

Health officials have also made the decision to cap funerals at 10 attendees from Sunday.

Weddings were already prevented from going ahead early on in the lockdown.

Exercising is still allowed in groups of two from 5pm Friday in Greater Sydney and surrounds

Only one member of a household is allowed to go to the shops for essential items on each trip

How many people can you have at your house?

Only those providing essential care are allowed to visit another household. This includes caring for elderly family members.

In other cases guests are not allowed to visit other households unless in exceptional circumstances.

'We are still getting questions through Service NSW about how many people you can have into your home. The answer is zero.' Ms Berejiklian said.

'I don't mean these words lightly, or say these words lightly. But we are facing the greatest threat that we have faced in New South Wales and the pandemic started. And it is up to all of us to turn things around'.

Shoppers are pictured in Cabramatta in Sydney's south-west. Only one member of each household will be allowed to go out to shop for essential items from Friday evening

Ms Berejiklian added with the rate of vaccination hovering around 9 per cent, allowing the virus to spread in the community was not an option.

'Unless there is a dramatic change, unless there is a dramatic turnaround in the numbers, I can't see how we would be in a position to ease restrictions by next Friday.'

Of the 44 new local cases in the 24 hours to 8pm on Thursday, at least 29 were in the community for part or all of their infectious period.

It is the highest number of NSW daily infections since the pandemic's first wave in early 2020.

Additional police have been dispatched to some areas from Friday including south-western Sydney (pictured: police at Bondi Beach last weekend)
Charles is refusing to give Edward the Duke of Edinburgh title passed down after Prince Philip's death despite his younger brother being tipped to inherit it more than 20 years ago, it has been claimed.

The dukedom was expected to be passed to Edward after Buckingham Palace announced in 1999 that he would succeed his father 'in due course' with both his parents' blessing.

He was instead granted the Earl of Wessex title by the Queen after his marriage to Sophie Rhys-Jones that same year.

But upon Prince Philip's death in April this year at age 99 the title immediately reverted to Philip's eldest son, Charles, in line with royal tradition set out in the Letters Patent issued when George VI gave Philip the title in 1947.

It is thought that Charles is now deciding whether to grant the title to Edward, another member of his family, or leave it in abeyance.

He is said to be considering breaking the 1999 pledge as he assesses his own future, The Sunday Times has said.

Charles (left) is refusing to give Edward (right) the Duke of Edinburgh title passed down after Prince Philip's death despite his younger brother being tipped to inherit it more than 20 years ago, it has been claimed

A source told the publication: 'The prince is the Duke of Edinburgh as it stands, and it is up to him what happens to the title. It will not go to Edward.'

And another said: 'Edinburgh won't go to them (the Wessexes) as far as the prince is concerned.'

The Duke of Edinburgh title will merge with the crown upon Charles' eventual accession to the throne meaning that it can be regranted anew to Edward.

The initial decision to give Edward the title was taken in recognition of his work with, and commitment to, the Duke of Edinburgh's Award - of which he is a trustee, as well as chairman of The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award.

Philip was the sixth person - including two Dukes of Gloucester and Edinburgh - to bear the title the Duke of Edinburgh.

Philip was the sixth person - including two Dukes of Gloucester and Edinburgh - to bear the title the Duke of Edinburgh

The first was George I's grandson Prince Frederick, later the Prince of Wales, for whom the title was first created in the Peerage of Great Britain in 1726.

George VI gave Philip the titles of the Duke of Edinburgh, Earl of Merioneth and Baron Greenwich in the Peerage of the United Kingdom shortly before his marriage to Princess Elizabeth on November 20 1947.

Philip's great-great-uncle, Prince Alfred Ernest Albert, fourth child and second son of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, was also a Duke of Edinburgh in the Peerage of the United Kingdom.

A Clarence House spokesman told the Sunday Times: 'We do not comment on matters related to the accession.'

A spokeswoman for Buckingham Palace also declined to comment when approached by MailOnline.
The U.S. has recorded more than 20,000 new daily cases of COVID-19 for the third day in a row, a threshold that has not been crossed since May.

Health officials say that the fast-spreading Delta variant first identified in India is racing through areas with low vaccination rates, eroding gains made in beating back the virus.

On Friday, the seven-day rolling average of daily new cases was up 47 percent from two weeks ago, and hospitalizations were up 11 percent, according to a DailyMail.com analysis of U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data.

Around 93 percent of COVID-19 cases in recent days have occurred in counties with vaccination rates of less than 40 percent, CDC director Rochelle Walensky told a media briefing on Thursday.

The Delta variant (dark orange) now accounts for 80% of all new cases in the US heartland

People check in for their Covid-19 vaccine at a mobile clinic in an East Los Angeles neighborhood which has shown lower vaccination rates especially among the young on Friday

Preliminary data from recent months suggest 99.5 percent of COVID-19 deaths have occurred in unvaccinated people, she added.

'Simply put: In areas of low vaccination coverage, cases and hospitalizations are up,' Walensky said.

The CDC earlier this week said that the Delta variant of COVID-19 has become the dominant strain in the United States, accounting for more than half of all new cases.

In Missouri, the Delta variant now accounts for 96 percent of all new cases, and is driving a dangerous surge in the southwest part of the state.

This week, a federal COVID 'surge team' was dispatched to Springfield, Missouri in the heart of the hotspot.

Parts of central and northwest Arkansas are also seeing a surge in new cases.

On Friday, Arkansas added more than 1,000 coronavirus cases for the third day in a row, as the state topped the nation in new cases per capita.

Parts of Missouri and Arkansas are now seeing rapid outbreak driven by the Delta variant

The Delta variant, which is highly contagious, has also become dominant in other countries around the world.

Cases of COVID-19 are surging in U.S. counties with a total population of nine million people, Walensky said.

'Low vaccination rates in these counties coupled with high case rates and lax mitigation policies that do not protect those who are unvaccinated from disease will certainly and sadly lead to more unnecessary suffering,' she said.

Wall Street's main indexes fell on Thursday as the spread of the COVID-19 Delta variant cast doubts over an economic recovery.

The White House is concentrating federal assistance for vaccinating against and treating COVID-19 in states including Arkansas, Missouri, Nevada and Illinois, said Jeff Zients, who leads the White House's COVID-19 response team.

The White House last week said it would send out special teams to hot spots around the United States to combat the Delta variant amid rising case counts in parts of the country.

The White House is also working to make COVID-19 vaccines available at doctors' offices around the country, Zients added.

The Delta variant (dark orange) now accounts for more than half of all new cases nationwide

He said the spread of the Delta variant is particularly dangerous to young people. Research suggests it may cause more severe disease among younger people than other variants of the coronavirus.

Walensky added that the United States is seeing outbreaks of COVID-19 at summer camps and other community events.

She said that both vaccinated and unvaccinated people with symptoms of COVID-19 should get tested for the virus.

The United States had administered 332,966,409 doses of COVID-19 vaccines in the country as of Friday morning and distributed 386,058,070 doses, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said.

Those figures are up from the 332,345,797 vaccine doses the CDC said had gone into arms by July 8 out of 385,495,790 doses delivered.

Pfizer plans to ask U.S. regulators to authorize a booster dose of its COVID-19 vaccine within the next month, the drugmaker's top scientist said on Thursday, based on evidence of greater risk of re-infection six months after inoculation and the spread of the highly contagious Delta variant.

Pfizer's own data from the United States showed an erosion of the vaccine's efficacy after six months against the variants circulating there in the spring.
An illegal immigrant believed to be a leading member of an international people-smuggling network appeared before magistrates in London yesterday.

Afghan national Gul Wali Jabarkhel, 32, was detained by National Crime Agency officers in Colindale, North London, on Thursday.

He is suspected of being a kingpin in an organised crime group involved in transporting migrants from northern France and Belgium into the UK in the backs of lorries.

Afghan national Gul Wali Jabarkhel, 32, was detained by National Crime Agency officers

He faces two charges of conspiracy to facilitate illegal migration to the UK and was remanded in custody at Willesden Magistrates Court.

He will appear again in August.
Pictured: Ashleigh Petrie, 23

The tradie who ran over a young law clerk when she jumped in front of his car after her affair with a 71-year-old magistrate was revealed feels haunted by her, even though he never saw her alive.

Not only does the traumatised man relive the crash, but a 'cold' and 'emotionless' note sent to him by her lover magistrate Robert Higgins, 71, after her death still baffles him.

Moments after Daniel Macklin's brand new Toyota RAV4 ploughed into 23-year-Ashleigh Petrie on Metung Road in eastern Victoria at 1am on October 9, 2019, he got out of the car and immediately tripped on her body.

'A girl popped out of the middle of nowhere. Not just popped out, she ran,' he told The Age in his first ever interview.

The 33-year-old called an ambulance and waited, trying desperately to quell growing fears that the body beneath the vehicle was his girlfriend as they were wearing similar clothes.

He spotted her handbag sitting on the opposite side of the road, dived into it and retrieved a phone - the screen lit up with a photo of the woman with an older man, neither of whom he recognised.

That man was Mr Higgins, who Ms Petrie had been dating and living with for four months after he left his wife for her, and was recently engaged.

Pictured: Daniel Macklin, who hit and killed Ashleigh Petrie when she ran in front of his Toyota

Miss Petrie is pictured with Mr Higgins, who proposed to her in September 2019 after a whirlwind romance

Mr Macklin later cleared a police drug and alcohol test, before a detective told him there was nothing he could have done to avoid her, and added: 'I don't want you watching the news. This girl's well known.'

Ms Petrie, who worked as a clerk, had been in the headlines for weeks over her affair with Victorian magistrate Mr Higgins, who was married and 68 years old at the time.

Their relationship sparked a media frenzy due to the 45-year age gap, and potential power imbalances between high-ranking officials and staffers within the judicial system - even though Ms Petrie never framed her relationship with Higgins as abusive in any way.

The media attention reached boiling point when Higgins popped the question to Ms Petrie on a holiday in Fiji.

Hours later, she gushed on Instagram about her husband-to-be - flashing her newly bedazzled finger to all her followers with the caption: 'I said yes.'

About a month later, she launched herself in front of Mr Macklin's car and changed his life forever.

'There are not many days that I don't think about her,' he told The Age.

'I never knew her, but I feel like she's like a little sister. I'll always be connected with her.'

Mr Higgins proposed in 2019 during a romantic holiday in Fiji. Pictured: The couple on holiday

Magistrate Rodney Higgins proposed to his girlfriend Ashleigh Petrie, 23, in September. She is pictured right and left with her ring

He knows Ms Petrie's death was not his fault, but still feels responsible.

After her death, reports about her mental health began to emerge.

Ms Petrie was diagnosed as bipolar at 19, struggled with alcoholism, had a history of dating men who were significantly older than her, and made several attempts on her own life.

Given her mental health situation - which the coroner said affected her until her death - Mr Macklin said he feels deeply sorry for Ms Petrie and is still puzzled by a typed note he received from Higgins, handed to him via the police.

It read along the lines of: 'Mate, she had mental-health problems, it was not your fault.'

He thought it cold and lacked emotion, given that his young fiance had died so suddenly.

Pictured: The 68-year-old magistrate and 23-year-old court clerk (pictured) after getting engaged

Mr Higgins previously told the ABC's Media Watch that Ms Petrie told him she was going for a walk to clear her head on the night of her death.

He told the program that she sent him four or five texts and voice messages saying he couldn't cope with the media coverage, and that she loved him but that he would be better off without her.

Mr Higgins said he waited for her to return before he went looking, and stumbled upon the scene of the accident.

About 24 hours later, he was accused of asking about the young woman's $180,000 superannuation death benefit.

The cash was allocated to her distraught mother, but was eventually paid to the wealthy judge because he claimed she was his dependant.

Senior judicial figures were furious that Mr Higgins fought Ms Petrie's mother for her $180,000 super payout. Pictured: The couple at the beach

Her mother, who earns a modest wage working in accounts compared with Mr Higgins' $324,000 salary, has been fighting the ruling for about 16 months.

Outraged members of the public set up a Go Fund Me campaign to help her mother pay for her legal fees, and claim the money her daughter designated for her.

Higgins also refused to let the mother listen to her daughter's final voice messages, and reportedly made an ill-fitting speech at her funeral in Werribee, west Melbourne - describing her as 'externally as attractive as a woman could possibly be'.

He went on describe Ms Petrie's 'zest for life', before the language changed. Higgins publicly pointed to Ms Petrie's 'problems of anxiety and depression', before revealing she was on medication for a chemical imbalance in her brain.

When he also revealed her battles with depression had intensified her 'shortcomings', and that she constantly needed reassurance, her angry mother intervened.

'I think that's enough,' Ms Petrie's mother said loudly, causing Mr Higgins to quickly sit down and end his 'tribute'.

Pictured: Ashleigh Petrie and Rod Higgins at the local pub. She often shared selfies with the magistrate on social media

After Ms Petrie's death, Mr Higgins moved back to the riverside home in Shepparton he shared with his ex-wife, Lurline Le Neuf, to resume their 18-year relationship.





Stuart Gowty, 50, who dated Ms Petrie for five years, previously told Daily Mail Australia of his disgust and bitterness at Mr Higgins winning Miss Petrie's superannuation.





'Here's a guy earning a hell of a lot of money and is about to retire on a huge pension,' said Mr Gowty, who runs a picture framing business in Shepparton.





'And you've got a grieving mother with very little. I don't know what to say. I don't think it's the right thing. It's horrendous to see. It just keeps going.





'I know her mother very well and she's a grieving mother. I've maintained a close relationship with the mother and brother since.





'Every time something like this happens, it just brings up a whole heap of old wounds.'





In June, thousands of angry Australians signed a petition demanding the super fund pay the cash to Ms Petrie's mother.




A father has been arrested in Tennessee for allegedly abducting his two-year-old son from New Jersey, prosecutors said on Saturday.

Sebastian Rios was found with his father Tyler Rios, of Highland Park in New Jersey, earlier on Saturday in Monterey, Tennessee, according to a press release from the Union County Prosecutor's Office.

Rios, 27, also allegedly abducted little Sebastian's mother Yasemin Uyar, 24, who law enforcement agencies have not yet found.

Cops had sent out a widely disseminated Amber Alert on Friday, which was cancelled after the boy was found.

Rios was identified as a suspect in the case after Sebastian didn't show up to his daycare on Friday and Uyar did not arrive for scheduled work shifts, officials said.

Tyler Rios, left, the father of Sebastion Rios, has been arrested while cops said the boy's mother Yasemin Uyar remains missing

Cops had sent out a widely disseminated Amber Alert on Friday, which was cancelled after the boy was found

Sebastian and his mother Yasemin had last been seen in Rahway on Thursday

Members of the Rahway Police Department conducted a welfare check for her and her toddler son at her home on Friday morning but found nobody inside.

Prosecutor Lyndsay Ruotolo said in the news release that her office is 'relieved' that Sebastian was found that his father has been arrested.

'We are still urging anyone with information about the whereabouts of Yasmine Uyar to come forward and tell us what they know, even anonymously,' she said.

Rios will remain in custody in Tennessee until he is extradited back to New Jersey, officials said. Charges are expected to be filed in Union County Superior Court.

Sebastian and his mother Yasemin had last seen in Rahway on Thursday. Uyar's tearful mother Karen, the young tot's grandmother, said she a 'grateful' to have her grandson back.

'I'm so grateful to know that he's okay, but I am just praying every second that we find Yasemin, we call her Yazzi, that we find Yasemin,' Karen Uyar told WABC.

Yasemin's sister Marissa told WABC that she and Rios are not together and he recently became homeless.

Court records reviewed by DailyMail.com show Rios was charged with aggravated assault and strangulation of a domestic violence victim in 2018, as well as theft.

Karen Uyar, the grandmother of Sebastian Rios, said she is 'grateful' that her grandson has been found

Karen Uyar, the grandmother of Sebastian Rios, is pictured while her daughter remains missing

The grandmother has detailed her daughter's and grandson's alleged abuse on Facebook

Cops are pictured outside of a home in New Jersey after an Amber Alert was issued for the then-missing boy

Police are seen responding to the home where they found Yasemin and her son Sebastian missing

Police are seen responding to the home where they found Yasemin and her son Sebastian missing

Rios took a plea deal signed in February 2020 in which he was convicted of the domestic violence assault charge but the theft and strangulation charges were dismissed.

The document shows that the court had found 'aggravating factors' that Rios was at risk of committing 'another offense.'

He was sentenced to serve 180 days in jail and three years on probation, and was ordered to attend anger management counseling.

The court also ordered him to have no contact with the victim, while noting that he already had restraining orders against him issued by Family Court.

Grandmother Karen Uyar detailed her daughter's alleged abuse in a post made to Facebook

Karen Uyar had posted screenshots showing that Rios had been charged with crimes in Arizona, and included screenshots of his mugshot

Court records reviewed by DailyMail.com show Rios was charged with aggravated assault and strangulation of a domestic violence victim in 2018, as well as theft

The victim was not named in the court documents but the dates of the legal troubles align with a post Yasemin's mother Karen made to Facebook in 2019 in which she called Rios an 'alcoholic, abusive monster.'

Karen Uyar detailed how Yasemin had 'become involved' with Rios several years before the post was made in 2019.

'His drunken rages have caused him to choke my daughter till she passed out. Leaving her on the floor, he stole her car and fled,' Karen Uyar wrote.

Karen Uyar wrote how Rios had 'given her more black and blues than I can count' and 'continuously pounced on her self esteem with verbal and emotional abuse almost as much as the physical abuse.'

'He would tell her she was crazy and f**ked up and when she would beg to go for help he would walk out for hours and not help/respond to her. Telling her to 'toughen up',' Karen Uyar wrote.

Karen Uyar detailed how Yasemin had 'become involved' with Rios several years before the post was made in 2019

Yasemin, pictured, allegedly struggled for years with getting away from Rios

The concerned grandmother wrote that her daughter suffered from post-partum depression that included insomnia after her son was born.

'He would leave for hours and not answer her. Take the baby and tell her she wasn't a good mother. Tell her how weak and useless she was. It was heartbreaking to see how he treated her. Yet I needed leaving him to be HER CHOICE,' Uyar wrote.

Uyar added that she has feared she would receive phone calls telling her that her daughter is in a hospital or dead.

The concerned grandmother said that, at the time, Rios' criminal history extended across a number of states including: New York, New Jersey, Mississippi and Georgia.

Yasemin 'finally got the strength to leave' in August 2019 - the results of a 'combined effort' to get her and Sebastian into a hotel, where she spent two 'terrifying days' worried that Rios would find her, the grandmother alleged.

'This enraged him. He stalked her. Through their phones, friends, social media. Any way he could find,' Karen Uyar wrote.

At some point, Rios - now seemingly living in Phoenix, Arizona - allegedly convinced Yasemin to let him see their son.

Karen Uyar wrote that Rios was drinking and 'degrading' on 'day one' of her arriving in Arizona with the young boy.

Little Sebastian Rios is pictured in a photo

Uyar said she received an alarming text from her daughter around 8 p.m. on October 22, 2019 telling her to 'call 911' and 'give address.'

The grandmother, remembering that Rios had allegedly been arrested weeks prior for firing a gun in city limits, worried that her daughter and grandson were dead.

Rios finally let Yasemin leave the apartment more than two hours after the call, Karen Uyar alleged in the Facebook post.

But before doing so, he allegedly cut up all of Yasemin and Sebastian's identification documents including the little boy's birth certificate, Yasemin's bank cards and social security cards, and her driver's license.

'I love you too much to let you leave' Rios said at the time, the grandmother alleged.

She added: 'I need people to see this alcoholic, abusive monster for who he is.'

The post from Uyar included screenshots of the Maricopa County Sheriffs Office inmate search database, showing that Rios had been hit with charges including assault and unlawful imprisonment.

Yasemin's sister Marissa told NJ.com that Rios recently broke into her sister's home, and police officers were called.

Before Yasemin's disappearance, she 'was pretty busy packing and trying to get herself together' in order to move and once again get away from Rios.

'Man I just want him to let at least my nephew go. I mean I want my sister to come home, but, I mean, something's got to give, you know?' she told the outlet.
New South Wales has recorded 77 new local Covid-19 cases and one death, with a warning that cases of the highly-infectious Delta variant are likely to be above 100 over the coming days.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian said in her daily press conference on Sunday that 33 of the cases were out in the community while infectious.

A 90-year-old unvaccinated woman also died after contracting the virus 'within the home setting'.

'I want to extend my deepest condolences to their families and loved ones,' Ms Berejiklian said.

She is the first person to die in Sydney's outbreak since it began on June 16 and the 57th casualty in the state over the whole pandemic.

The premier warned the figure was likely to keep rising before it fell down again, with more than 100 cases expected on Monday.

The severity of the outbreak has prompted the federal government to launch a Covid-19 safety advertisement that will air on Sydney TV screens from tonight.

Chief medical officer Paul Kelly described it as 'graphic' and said it would contain three important messages: 'Stay-at-home, get tested and booked in for a vaccination.'

NSW Chief health officer Dr Kerry Chant said the 'vast majority' of cases were identified in southwest Sydney - which has recently been targeted by police with extra officers deployed to monitor lockdown compliance.

New South Wales has recorded 77 new local Covid-19 cases and one death as Premier Gladys Berejiklian warns daily cases are likely to rise above 100 over the coming days

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian announced on Sunday that 33 of the cases were out in the community while infectious

Ms Berejiklian warned the figure was likely to skyrocket with more than 100 cases expected to be recorded on Monday

'I need to give frank advice that the case numbers in south-western Sydney are extraordinarily high,' she said.

'We know transmission is going through households, from household to household.'

The highly-infectious nature of the Delta variant also prompted the chief health officer to urge residents to get their two doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine six weeks apart - instead of waiting the recommended three months.

'While the interval was three months, at this time because the case numbers are high, we want people to come forward and get vaccinated around that six-week mark,' she said.

'We know that for the Delta variant you need the two doses so by calling people to get a second dose, we might sacrifice a bit of long-term protection but we're making sure you're protected earlier and at this time, that's the strategy we'd suggest.'

More than 50 of the 77 new cases were identified as close contacts of Covid-19 positive cases.

'I've spent a lot of my working life in south-western Sydney and I appreciate the strengths of the family. It's wonderful to see,' Dr Chant said.

'But at this time, those close connections between family groups is actually so detrimental to achieving a public health outcome.

'So what we're finding is that we're having to strengthen, you know, strengthen the messaging to get it really clear that... your household is your family group.'

Professor Kelly said the latest figures were a cause of 'concern'.

'There are some concerning signs thereabout still a large proportion of those over 70 cases today in New South Wales had been in the community while infectious,' he said.

'The pleasing part is that the majority of those 77 cases were close contacts of known cases and the New South Wales authorities are continuing to do an extraordinary job at chasing down those chains of transmission and making sure they get to those quickly, doing rapid testing, getting those results and taking any action that is required.'

There were more than 48,000 Covid-19 tests conducted within the last 24 hours.

Ms Berejiklian reminded Sydneysiders to obey lockdown orders after they were tightened with residents ordered to wear face masks in apartment buildings and everyone outside of Sydney banned from coming in.

'We can't stress enough the importance of not only following the rules but also realising the risk that the people who will suffer the most - if you don't worry about yourself, that's fine,' she said.

'Even though it's affecting people of all age groups. If you don't worry about yourself, that's your decision.

'But think about your closest family members, your closest people in your life, they're the people that are most impacted.'

She would not clarify if the lockdown would be extended and would wait to see how the Covid-19 outbreak developed before making any decision.

Home schooling may also be extended beyond next week to avoid 'hundreds of thousands of people leaving home at the same time'.

Epidemiologist Tony Blakely warned the restrictions are not tough enough and suggested the city should be placed into a much tougher lockdown with soldiers patrolling the streets

Dr Kerry Chant said the majority of cases were identified in south-west Sydney - which has recently been targeted by police with extra officers deployed to the area to monitor lockdown compliance

New face mask rules and travel restrictions have been introduced in Greater Sydney with a draconian-style lockdown and troops on the street possibly on the way, a top epidemiologist has warned

'The numbers aren't going in the right direction. That's pretty obvious to everybody,' Ms Berejiklian said.

'And the number that concerns us the most is the number who've been exposed in the community.

'Unfortunately, I know that for a few days, as soon as we have health advice that gives us information on where the numbers are tracking and what we think the future looks like, we'll convey that.'

The federal government is holding regular conversations with the state government to discuss ongoing support for businesses if a lockdown is extended.

They are likely to announce further assistance packages and investigate bolstering mental health support services.

Professor Kelly said he was in close contact with Dr Chant and providing continued support.

'It is very practical support that is happening from the Commonwealth in relation to the situation in Sydney,' he said.

'That includes because that is a Commonwealth designated hot spot, there is funding available for aged care, for example, in terms of single site worker payments, there is the disaster, the COVID disaster payment which is also available now for people who are eligible in Sydney.'

Dr Chant warned it would be some time before the lockdown would have its intended impact and reduce case numbers.

'I think it's going to be a number of days before we turn around,' she said.

'And to some extent, we're trying... The numbers might actually increase because we're ramping up testing to get ahead of the transmission curve.'

There are 52 patients being treated in hospital with 15 in intensive care and five on ventilators.

Drivers queue at a Covid-19 testing clinic at Fairfield Showgrounds on Saturday night

Residents will only be able to travel to Greater Sydney to access goods and services that are not available in their area

'Of the 15 people in ICU, one is in their teens, one is in their 20s, one is in their 30s, one is in their 40s, three are in their 50s, five are in their 60s, two two are in their 70s and one is in their 80s,' Dr Chant said.

NSW Police Deputy Commissioner Gary Worboys said 106 infringement notices had been issued in just 24 hours.

'One of those instances was a unit at Marrickville, where police responded to information, they went to that unit and found 15 men in a small unit playing cards,' he said.

'These men were in their 50s, through to just short of 90 years of age. No masks, no social distancing, clearly in an environment that was a huge risk to them, their families and their community.'

Police were also called to break up an 18th birthday party in Auburn, in western Sydney, and disband a group of gamers in a separate incident.

'There were 10 people at this party, clearly organised,' he said.

'They turned up, they were aware of the public health orders and police took action in terms of infringement notices to each of those people.'

Ms Berejiklian reminded Sydneysiders to obey lockdown orders after they were tightened with residents ordered to wear face masks in apartment buildings and everyone outside of Sydney banned from coming in

Non-essential businesses were closed, an 8pm curfew enforced and a ring of steel placed around Melbourne with residents only allowed to leave their homes and exercise within a five kilometre radius (pictured, an empty Flinders Street during the draconian lockdown in September)

'The third incident that I would highlight is one in a garage under a set of units in the Merrylands area. These were young people that were playing PlayStation.'

Under the new restrictions coming into effect this week, residents are only able to travel to Sydney to access goods and services that are not available in their area.

Travelling into the area for exercise or outdoor recreational activities is no longer a valid reason.

They are also only allowed to travel to attend a funeral or memorial service as long as there are no more than 10 mourners.

Sydney residents wanting to leave the area must also carry identification that contains their residential address.

Face masks must also be worn at indoor construction sites at all times.

On Tuesday, the restriction will be extended to all indoor common property areas of residential premises in Sydney, the Blue Mountains, Central Coast, Wollongong and Shellharbour.

The draconian-style lockdown would be similar to the one introduced in Victoria last year - which lasted 111 days (pictured, a deserted Melbourne laneway during the lockdown in September)

A nurse conducts a Covid-19 swab test on a driver at Fairfield Showgrounds on Saturday night

Residents who live in apartments will be required to wear the extra protection when taking the lift or waiting in the lobby.

Epidemiologist Tony Blakely warned the restrictions are not tough enough and suggested the city should be placed into a much tougher lockdown with soldiers patrolling the streets.

Dr Blakely said the state government had three options: Let the Covid-19 outbreak circulate in the community, continue with a partial lockdown, or deploy troops and police to patrol the streets.

'The third option is the only one. It's very hard to say those words: 'We're going into a hard lockdown, we've called in the military, the police and we are going to police it,' he told news.com.au.

'It's not a pretty look but if you want it to be over and done with as quickly as possible that, most unfortunately, is what needs to happen.'

The draconian lockdown would be similar to the one introduced in Victoria last year - which lasted 111 days.

Dr Blakely warned continuing with a partial lockdown meant Sydney might only begin to reopen in September

Non-essential businesses were closed, an 8pm curfew enforced and a ring of steel placed around Melbourne with residents only allowed to leave their homes and exercise within a 5km radius.

Police patrolled the streets and were assisted by military troops during the tough three months.

Dr Blakely warned continuing with a partial lockdown meant Sydney might only begin to reopen in September.

'If they keep going the way they are now, without really stepping it up now it could go on for months,' he said.

The additional face mask and travel restrictions were introduced by NSW Health after it announced it would be tightening lockdown across Sydney from 5pm Friday.

Exercising outdoors has been limited to groups of two from 5pm on Friday under expanded restrictions (pictured: people exercising in Sydney last weekend)

Can you still exercise outdoors?

Yes, but in reduced groups. Locked down residents from Friday evening will only be allowed to exercise outdoors in groups of two - down from the 10 previously allowed.

The only exception to this rule is members of the same household already living together can exercise outdoors together.

How far can you travel to exercise?

Additionally locals can only travel within their own local government area or at most 10km of their homes to exercise.

'Please do not leave your house. Do not leave your home, unless you absolutely have to,' Ms Berejiklian pleaded with Sydneysiders.

What about leaving the house for essential items?

Locals should only leave their house for essential supplies and should not browse, the premier said.

Only one member of a household should be traveling to the shops for essential items and this should not be an excuse to socialise.

Can you visit a partner in another household?

This is still allowed under the new restrictions provided you are in a relationship.

Is carpooling allowed?

Carpooling with other households - whether to the shops, to exercise or work - is also not allowed from 5pm on Friday.

Centennial Park in Sydney was packed with crowds last Saturday morning (pictured)

Can you still travel to work?

Ms Berejiklian restated only people who need to travel for essential work should leave their house.

'Too many people who have continued to go to work, too many people have either misunderstood the rules or not followed them. And that has to stop.'

Is there a curfew?

No. You can leave your house at any hour as long as it is for one of the essential reasons.

What about funerals and weddings?

Health officials have also made the decision to cap funerals at 10 attendees from Sunday.

Weddings were already prevented from going ahead early on in the lockdown.

Exercising is still allowed in groups of two from 5pm Friday in Greater Sydney and surrounds

Only one member of a household is allowed to go to the shops for essential items on each trip

How many people can you have at your house?

Only those providing essential care are allowed to visit another household. This includes caring for elderly family members.

In other cases guests are not allowed to visit other households unless in exceptional circumstances.

'We are still getting questions through Service NSW about how many people you can have into your home. The answer is zero.' Ms Berejiklian said.

'I don't mean these words lightly, or say these words lightly. But we are facing the greatest threat that we have faced in New South Wales and the pandemic started. And it is up to all of us to turn things around'.

Shoppers are pictured in Cabramatta in Sydney's south-west. Only one member of each household will be allowed to go out to shop for essential items from Friday evening

Ms Berejiklian added with the rate of vaccination hovering around 9 per cent, allowing the virus to spread in the community was not an option.

'Unless there is a dramatic change, unless there is a dramatic turnaround in the numbers, I can't see how we would be in a position to ease restrictions by next Friday.'

Of the 44 new local cases in the 24 hours to 8pm on Thursday, at least 29 were in the community for part or all of their infectious period.

It is the highest number of NSW daily infections since the pandemic's first wave in early 2020.

Additional police have been dispatched to some areas from Friday including south-western Sydney (pictured: police at Bondi Beach last weekend)
Advertisement

Federal investigators with the National Transportation Safety Board have released photos of the Boeing 737-200 cargo jet that made an emergency water landing off the Hawaiian island of Oahu.

Transair Flight 810 was found approximately two miles offshore from Ewa Beach, after a the pilot made a ditch landing in the Pacific Ocean. Both crew members were rescued from the water.

The major components of the airplane - the aft fuselage including both wings and tail along with both engines, and forward fuselage - were located on the sea floor at depths between 360 and 420 feet, the NTSB said in a statement on Friday.

The NTSB said the wreckage is too deep to deploy divers for recovery of the flight data and cockpit voice recorders. The investigative team is developing plans to recover the aircraft.

Federal investigators with the National Transportation Safety Board have released photos of the Boeing 737-200 cargo jet that made an emergency water landing off Hawaii

Transair Flight 810 was found approximately 2 miles offshore from Ewa Beach, after a the pilot made a ditch landing in the Pacific Ocean

The plane took off from Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu and was en route to the Hawaiian island of Maui

The plane components were located with a Side Scan Sonar and Remotely Operated Vehicle, the NTSB said.

The safety board said fuel samples from another airplane fueled on the same night were tested and no irregularities were found. The agency released photos of airplane components located on the ocean floor.

The two crew members on Transair Flight 810 were injured after being forced to land in the Pacific Ocean. One was taken to a hospital by helicopter and the other was rescued by boat.

The Boeing cargo plane was built in 1975.

The crew reported engine trouble and plans to turn back shortly after taking off at 1.33am local time from Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu. The plane was en route to the Hawaiian island of Maui.

The NTSB said its investigators have completed more than a dozen interviews including the flight crew, other Transair personnel, and Federal Aviation Administration employees.

The NTSB said the wreckage is too deep to deploy divers for recovery of the flight data and cockpit voice recorders

Earlier this week, the 50-year-old pilot who was critically hurt with a head injury and multiple lacerations in the crash was released from the hospital, as the cause of the incident remains a mystery.

The victim and his co-pilot were rescued by the United States Coast Guard off the coast of Hawaii, as they clutched packages and the tail of the Boeing 737 cargo plane to stay afloat.

The pilots reported that one engine was down. Initial reports suggested that there was not enough altitude to return to Honolulu, prompting the aircraft to ditch into the sea.

The plane was operated by Rhoades Aviation Inc, which does business as Transair. one of Hawaii's largest air cargo carriers. It has been in business since 1982.

'Rhoades 810, we've lost an engine. We're on a 220 heading,' one of the pilots told Honolulu air traffic control, giving the compass reading.

One of the two pilots who were rescued after a Boeing 737 cargo plane that crashed in the water off Honolulu on Friday is pictured being taken to a hospital

It's been reported that a 50-year-old pilot suffered a head injury and was in a serious condition. It is unclear from the photo which of the pilots is pictured being pushed in a wheelchair

The recording was posted on LiveATC, an audio streaming site that broadcasts air traffic control communications.

Several minutes later, the pilot reported: 'We've lost number one engine, we're coming straight to the airport.

'We're going to need the fire department, there's a chance we're going to lose the other engine, it's running very hot.

'It doesn't look good here - you may want to let the Coast Guard know as well.'

They cited a problem with the second engine and attempted to return to Honolulu, the Federal Aviation Administration said.

At around 1.46am, the pilots reported losing their second engine and radioed that they were going down and being forced to land in the ocean. Flight tracking data stops at around 1:45, with a final recorded altitude of 75 feet.

A U.S. Coast Guard cutter patrols the area of debris from the cargo plane that crashed off the coast of Oahu near Honolulu on Friday

Some of the debris found floating from the sunken cargo plane

US Coast Guard Lt. Commander Karin Evelyn said in an email that they received a report around 1.40am of a downed inter-island transport plane.

About an hour later, rescuers in a Coast Guard helicopter spotted the debris field and two people in the water, Evelyn said.

U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Joseph Gerczak arrived at the Coast Guard base in Honolulu with salvage he and others collected from the area where the plane sank

Several boxes of cargo were retrieved from the water off the coast of Oahu

A fleet of stuffed animals was also retrieved from the crash site over the weekend

The loss of both engines in the 46-year-old plane - a workhorse of trans-Atlantic passenger travel with some of the busiest flight routes in the world - has raised worrying questions.

Engines do sometimes fail when hampered by a bird strike or volcanic ash, but it was unclear what caused these engines to malfunction.

Initial tracking data from RadarBox.com showed that the aircraft reached a maximum altitude of just 2,125 feet.

The aircraft's descent path 'looks reasonably slow and steady, suggesting that the pilots could glide the aircraft down to the ocean in a controlled manner,' said SimpleFlying.com.
NSW top doctor Kerry Chant has laughed off wearing her glasses crooked while giving a Covid press conference after they broke minutes earlier.

The chief health officer was asked a question after she announced 77 more cases of coronavirus in Sydney's outbreak and needed her glasses to read her notes.

'Yes, certainly. I'll just turn to that page and put my glasses on because I'm getting old,' she replied. There was one problem - they had just broken.

NSW top doctor Kerry Chant has been forced to ask residents not to be distracted from the 'very serious topic' of Covid-19 after she wore a pair of crooked glasses

As Dr Chant put on the crooked one-armed glasses, she reminded viewers that the massive spike in cases was a 'very serious matter' and asked they not be distracted

As Dr Chant pulled her one-armed pair of glasses from her pocket, a wave of sympathy could be heard from the crowd of reporters.

As she put on the crooked glasses, she reminded viewers that the state's massive spike in cases was a 'very serious matter' and asked they not be distracted.

Dr Chant continued despite the awkward moment, announcing there were 52 Covid patients in hospital, with 15 people in ICU, and five on ventilators.

'Twenty three of the people admitted to hospital at the moment with Covid are under the age of 55, so that dispels the myth that this is only severe for the elderly,' she said.

'Of the 15 people in ICU, one is in their teens, one is in their 20s, one is in their 30s, one is in their 40s, three are in their 50s, five are in their 60s, two two are in their 70s and one is in their 80s.'

Of the 77 new infections, NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian announced 33 of the cases were out in the community while infectious.

Dr Chant earlier in the press conference appeared to be having trouble seeing the assembled media as she was avoiding using her broken glasses

Dr Chant continued despite the awkward moment, announcing there were currently 52 Covid patients in hospital, with 15 of them in ICU and five on ventilators

Dr Chant warned it would be some time before the lockdown would have its intended impact and reduce case numbers

The state premier warned the figure was likely to skyrocket with more than 100 cases expected to be recorded on Monday.

A 90-year-old unvaccinated woman has also died after contracting the virus.

'I want to extend my deepest condolences to their families and loved ones,' Ms Berejiklian said.

Dr Chant said the majority of cases were identified in south-west Sydney - which has recently been targeted by police with extra officers deployed to the area to monitor lockdown compliance.

'I need to give frank advice that the case numbers in south-western Sydney are extraordinarily high,' she said. 'We know transmission is going through households, from household to household.'

More than 50 of the 77 new cases were close contacts of Covid-19 positive cases.

'I've spent a lot of my working life in south-western Sydney and I appreciate the strengths of the family. It's wonderful to see,' Dr Chant said.

NSW state premier Gladys Berejiklian has warned the number of local cases was likely to skyrocket with more than 100 cases expected to be recorded on Monday

Dr Chant said the majority of cases were identified in south-west Sydney - which has recently been targeted by extra officers deployed to the area to monitor lockdown compliance

'But at this time, those close connections between family groups is actually so detrimental to achieving a public health outcome.

'So what we're finding is that we're having to strengthen, you know, strengthen the messaging to get it really clear that... your household is your family group.'

There were more than 48,000 Covid-19 tests conducted within the last 24 hours.

Ms Berejiklian reminded Sydneysiders to obey lockdown orders after they were tightened with residents ordered to wear face masks in apartment buildings and everyone outside of Sydney banned from coming in.

'We can't stress enough the importance of not only following the rules but also realising the risk that the people who will suffer the most - if you don't worry about yourself, that's fine,' she said.

'Even though it's affecting people of all age groups. If you don't worry about yourself, that's your decision.

Ms Berejiklian reminded Sydneysiders to obey lockdown orders after they were tightened with residents ordered to wear face masks in apartment buildings and everyone outside of Sydney banned from coming in

The state premier would not clarify if the lockdown would be extended and would wait to see how the Covid-19 outbreak developed before making any decision

'But think about your closest family members, your closest people in your life, they're the people that are most impacted.'

She would not clarify if the lockdown would be extended and would wait to see how the Covid-19 outbreak developed before making any decision.

'The numbers aren't going in the right direction,' she said. 'That's pretty obvious to everybody.

'And the number that concerns us the most is the number who've been exposed in the community.

'Unfortunately, I know that for a few days, as soon as we have health advice that gives us information on where the numbers are tracking and what we think the future looks like, we'll convey that.'

Dr Chant warned it would be some time before the lockdown would have its intended impact and reduce case numbers.

The chief health officer said it would be 'some days' before the number of daily cases turned around, warning the numbers might increase due to high testing rates

Dr Chant also urged residents to get their second dose of AstraZeneca after six weeks instead of the recommended three months during a press conference on Sunday

'I think it's going to be a number of days before we turn around,' she said.

'And to some extent, we're trying... The numbers might actually increase because we're ramping up testing to get ahead of the transmission curve.'

The health officer also urged residents to get their second dose of AstraZeneca after six weeks instead of the recommended three months.

'While the interval was three months, at this time because the case numbers are high, we want people to come forward and get vaccinated around that 6-week mark,' she said.

'We know that for the Delta variant you need the two doses so by calling people to get a second dose, we might sacrifice a bit of long-term protection but we're making sure you're protected earlier and at this time, that's the strategy we'd suggest.'
Vice President Kamala Harris is facing criticism after suggesting that people who live in rural areas aren't able to make photocopies because they don't have a Kinkos or OfficeMax nearby.

Harris made the remarks in an interview with BET News on Friday as part of an argument against voter ID laws, including those in some states that require a photocopy of ID to vote by mail.

'I don't think that we should underestimate what that [compromise on voter ID laws] could mean,' Harris said.

'Because in some people's mind, that means you're going to have to Xerox or photocopy your ID to send it in to prove who you are. Well, there are a whole lot of people, especially people who live in rural communities, who don't - there's no Kinkos, there's no OfficeMax near them,' she added.

Vice President Kamala Harris is facing criticism after suggesting that people who live in rural areas aren't able to make photocopies because they don't have a Kinkos or OfficeMax

Kamala Harris absurdly says its almost impossible for rural Americans to photocopy their ID pic.twitter.com/J94IuGBFLv  RNC Research (@RNCResearch) July 10, 2021

'Of course people have to prove who they are,' Harris said, but 'not in a way that makes it almost impossible for them to prove who they are.'

The remarks drew mockery from some on Twitter, who said that they were able to make photocopies despite living in rural areas.

'I live on top of a mountain on the WV/VA border and I can photocopy my ID. I mean I do it while moonshining White Lightning while dueling banjos play in the background but I can still do it,' one person tweeted.

'I grew up in a rural community without an OfficeMax or a Kinkos and I managed to successfully make photocopies of things on many occasions,' another wrote.

Another critic called the claim 'insulting and untrue' and added, 'Bottom line: Kamala, you need to start forgetting all about 2024 before the Democrats do it for you.'

Others pointed out that the Kinkos brand has not existed for 17 years, since the chain merged with FedEx.

Harris' remarks come as Congress fiercely debates a proposal to pass a sweeping Democratic bill on elections, which would create universal mail-in voting and same-day registration in every state, among many other changes.

Congressional Democrats are facing renewed pressure to pass their bill after a Supreme Court ruling Thursday made it harder to challenge Republican states that pass election security laws that make it harder to vote.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi called the ruling an 'unprecedented assault' that 'greenlights the brutal, accelerating campaign of voter suppression.'

Speaking in Florida, President Joe Biden said he would have 'much more to say' soon, but largely sidestepped comment.

For their part, Republicans show no sign of willingness to engage with Democrats on the issue.

'The states created the federal government, and its not up to Chuck or Nancy or anyone else in Washington, D.C., to tell Arizona or anyone else how they should conduct an election,' Arizona Attorney General Mark Brnovich, who was a party in the case, said on Fox News.
An 18th birthday party, a game of cards with 90 year olds, and a video game session are among the Covid-19 breaches in just one day of Sydney's lockdown.

NSW Police Deputy Commissioner Gary Worboys said on Sunday that 106 infringement notices had been issued in the last 24 hours.

Police received 1,200 tip offs from the public about Covid-19 breaches across both Sydney and regional NSW - including Orange.

Fifteen men were caught playing a game of cards in a unit in Marrickville, in Sydney's inner west - on a day when 77 people tested positive to Covid.

'These men were in their 50s, through to just short of 90 years of age,' commissioner Worboys said.

NSW Police Deputy Commissioner Gary Worboys said on Sunday that 106 infringement notices had been issued in the last 24 hours

Fifteen men were caught playing a game of cards in a unit in Marrickville, in Sydney's inner west (stock image)

'No masks, no social distancing, clearly in an environment that was a huge risk to them, their families and their community.'

Police also disbanded an 18th birthday party that was being hosted at Auburn, in western Sydney.

'There were 10 people at this party, clearly organised,' commissioner Worboy said.

'They turned up, they were aware of the public health orders and police took action in terms of infringement notices to each of those people and closed the party down and they were directed to returned home.'

Police were also tipped off about a group of gamers playing Playstation in a Merrylands unit.

'Police went along, knocked on the garage door and here were the people sitting outside the public health order, quite clearly, and aware of their obligations,' commissioner Worboys said.

'They were issued infringement notices and told to go back home.'

Commissioner Worboys urged residents to follow stay-at-home orders and only leave the house if it was necessary.

'If you have to leave home, you have to make sure that you take a moment to make sure that you need, in the first instance, to leave your home and then, if you have to, to do that in the shortest possible time frame,' he said.

'We've spoken about browsing at shopping centres. People need to make a decision before they leave home what shop they need to go to and what goods they need to buy.'

Police were also tipped off about a group of gamers playing Playstation in a Merrylands unit (stock image)

Commissioner Worboys urged residents to follow stay-at-home orders and only leave the house if it was necessary

'Police have always said that they will be firm, but fair.'

The infringements come as the state recorded 77 new local Covid-19 cases and one death.

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian said of the 77 new cases in the 24 hours to 8pm on Saturday, only 32 were in isolation for the entirety of their infectious period.

The person who died was a southwest Sydney woman in her 90s. She was a close contact of a locally-acquired case and was deemed virus-positive on Saturday.

She is the first person to die in Sydney's outbreak since it began on June 16 and the 57th casualty in the state over the whole pandemic.

The woman is also the first person to catch Covid-19 locally in Australia in 2021 and die.

'Over 50 of the 77 (cases) are close family members, close family members of those who've been infected,' Ms Berejiklian told reporters.

'When you get COVID, unfortunately those most impacted are those closest to you, and tragically we've seen one older person die and I want to extend my deepest condolences to their family and loved ones.'
Maclay Longhurst, 35, has made a name for himself selling $3 million homes in some of Sydney's wealthiest inner-city suburbs as a director of property group Bresic Whitney

One of Australia's top-earning real estate agents has been exposed as being among the men captured clashing with police in a famous photograph of Sydney's shameful Cronulla race riots.

Maclay Longhurst, 35, has made a name for himself selling $3 million homes in some of Sydney's wealthiest inner-city suburbs as a director of property group Bresic Whitney.

But on Sunday, the high-flying selling agent came crashing to Earth as he was identified among a crowd as furious Australians tried to push people who they believed were immigrants off south Sydney beaches in 2005.

In the fiery photo, a 19-year-old Longhurst can be seen grimacing at the back of a group of largely shirtless men, the Sun Herald's Emerald City reported.

Maclay Longhurst is pictured in the top left corner during the Cronulla riots in 2005. He was 19

Maclay Longhurst (pictured) is one of the nation's top real estate agents, selling multi million-dollar Sydney properties

The crowd appears to be led by an irate man who is in the throes of a shouting match with police, while brandishing an empty beer bottle.

According to the Sun-Herald, Longhurst has long-feared the photo would surface and jeopardise his career.

The extent of Mr Longhurst's involvement in the Cronulla riots beyond being in the photo is not known and it is not suggested he committed any crimes.

Daily Mail Australia contacted Longhurst and Bresic Whitney for comment.

Mr Longhurst declined the opportunity to make a statement when contacted by the Sydney Morning Herald on Friday.

However, he was keen to know who had tipped off the media that he was one of the men in the photograph.

Longhurst (pictured) drives a Porsche and enjoys sailing in super yachts. It is believes he grew up in the Shire

Longhurst (pictured) reportedly feared the photograph would emerge one day and ruin his reputation

Mr Longhurst, who owns a Porsche and enjoys sailing in super-yachts, is believed to have grown up in the Shire.

In 2005, text messages circulated calling on locals to fight back the following weekend including one asking them to 'get down to North Cronulla to support Leb and wog bashing day'.

Mr Longhurst was not the person who sent the text message.

An estimated 5,000 people, many fuelled by alcohol, converged on Cronulla car park for the demonstration and it quickly escalated into a riot.
The federal government will give more financial assistance to struggling businesses and workers who have lost income in Sydney's lockdown.

Chief Medical Officer Paul Kelly announced on Sunday that disaster payments will be made available to both businesses and households in NSW.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Treasurer Josh Frydenberg will virtually meet with Premier Gladys Berejiklian and NSW Treasurer Dominic Perrottet on Sunday afternoon to discuss support options.

The federal government will consider support for businesses in conjunction with the state government, as well as the broadening of support for households.

Chief Medical Officer Paul Kelly announced on Sunday that disaster payments will be made available to both businesses and households in New South Wales

The federal government will consider support for businesses in conjunction with the state government, as well as the broadening of support for households

Treasury put forward support options for Mr Morrison to consider, with the changes to apply nationally to future lockdowns.

The virtual meeting will also investigate what mental health supports will be required for locked-down residents under Sydney's current restrictions.

Professor Kelly said the Commonwealth was meeting daily in the Australian health principal committee, as well as seeking advice and suggestions from NSW Chief Medical Officer Kerry Chant.

'It is very practical support that is happening from the Commonwealth in relation to the situation in Sydney', he said.

'That includes because that is a Commonwealth designated hot spot, there is funding available for aged care, for example, in terms of single site worker payments, there is the disaster, the Covid disaster payment which is also available now for people who are eligible in Sydney.'

A Expenditure Review Committee meeting will take place on Monday, where federal business ministers will consider a submission from Mr Frydenberg on how NSW business can best be supported.

However, the federal government is believed to have ruled out bringing back JobKeeper, instead opting for direct payments to workers and businesses.

The government has long tried to clarify that JobKeeper did not go to businesses to keep them afloat, but went to workers via their employers.

Government sources called the new income support 'almost identical' to JobKeeper in its tangible help of workers and businesses.

The virtual meeting will also investigate what mental health supports will be required for locked-down residents under Greater Sydney's current restrictions

The Treasury have put forward a number of support options for Scott Morrison to consider, with the changes to apply nationally to future lockdowns

Workers who lost income as a result of Sydney's lockdown can already apply for payments of up to $500 a week.

The federal government created a coronavirus disaster payment during Melbourne's fourth lockdown last month, and is also available for Sydneysiders.

People can receive the payments if they can't work from home and can't travel to work as a result of the lockdown, or their workplace is closed.

The City of Sydney, Waverley, Woollahra, Bayside, Canada Bay, Inner West and Randwick were eligible to claim from Friday and the rest of Sydney, the Blue Mountains, Central Coast, and Wollongong now can as well.

Those who lose less than 20 hours of work under lockdown are eligible to receive $325 per week, and those losing more than 20 hours can get $500.

It was announced on Monday that workers who lost income as a result of Sydney's lockdown can now apply for payments of up to $500 a week

Workers must be unable to attend work and prove they lost income up to and including day eight of a Covid lockdown as a result of the restrictions.

Employees also must not be able to already access appropriate paid leave or entitlements through their employer.

They must also not have more than $10,000 in liquid assets they could draw on to get them through weeks of zero wages.

Workers cannot already be getting a government income support payment, state small business payment, or Pandemic Leave Disaster Payment.

It comes as NSW records a staggering 77 new local cases of Covid-19 and one death, a 90-year-old unvaccinated woman who was infected 'within the home setting'.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian said in her daily press conference on Sunday that 33 of the cases were out in the community while infectious.

Workers who lose less than 20 hours of work under lockdown are eligible to receive $325 per week, and those losing more than 20 hours can get $500.

On Sunday NSW recorded a staggering 77 new local cases of Covid-19 and one death, a 90-year-old unvaccinated woman who was infected 'within the home setting'

More than 50 of the 77 new cases were identified as close contacts of a Covid-19 positive case.

The premier warned the figure was likely to keep rising before it fell down again, with more than 100 cases expected on Monday.

She would not clarify if the lockdown would be extended and would wait to see how the Covid-19 outbreak developed before making any decision.

NSW Chief health officer Dr Kerry Chant said the 'vast majority' of cases were identified in southwest Sydney - which has recently been targeted by police with extra officers deployed to monitor lockdown compliance.

There were more than 48,000 Covid-19 tests conducted within the last 24 hours.
Two firefighters died on Saturday after an aircraft they were in to respond to a wildfire crashed in Arizona's Mohave County, officials said.

The Arizona Bureau of Land Management said in a press release that the aircraft crashed around noon while helping perform aerial reconnaissance, command and control over the Cedar Basin Fire near Wikieup.

The Cedar Basin Fire was sparked by lightning and has burned 300 acres near the tiny community of about 100 people.

One of the crash victims was identified as Chief Jeff Piechura. The other victim has not been named.

Jeff Piechura was identified as one of the firefighters by a friend in a Facebook post

Piechura was an inducted to the Arizona Fire Service Hall of Fame in 2015 and had once served as president for the Arizona Fire Chiefs Association among a number of other accolades

The site of the fire and airplane crash are pictured in a map from the Bureau of Land Management

'The Bureau of Land Management is currently working with other local, state and federal agencies to respond to a fatal aircraft accident associated with the Cedar Basin Fire near Wikieup, Arizona,' the press release reads.

'The accident occurred around noon today (July 10) and involved an air attack aircraft performing aerial reconnaissance and command and control over the fire.'

The press release adds: 'Two crew members were on board and we are sad to report there were no survivors. We will provide additional information pending next of kin notification. Our hearts go out to the families of our brave wildland firefighters.'

Piechura was identified by his friend in a Facebook post.

'I'm kind of stunned and not sure what to say right now. A wonderful day just ended in tragedy. A great friend died in an Air Attack plane crash on a wildfire in AZ,' wrote Glenn Brown, the Fire Chief of the Georgetown Fire Department in California.

Brown added: 'A friend that we went to High School together, started with Rural/Metro Fire together and transferred to Scottsdale Fire together. Chief Jeff Piechura. God speed Jeffy. Your legacy will live on. Please pray for him, his wife Donna and his kids.'

Piechura served as assistant chief for the Fire District in Sedona, Arizona and had previously served as the fire chief for the city of Stockton, California and for the Northwest Fire District in Tucson, Arizona, according to his biography on the firefighting industry website Firehouse.

A fire is pictured burning near Globe, Arizona on June7

He held a masters degree in fire administration and a bachelors degree in fire management form Arizona State University.

Piechura was an inducted to the Arizona Fire Service Hall of Fame in 2015 and had once served as president for the Arizona Fire Chiefs Association among a number of other accolades.

Dolores Garcia, a spokesperson for the bureau, told the Arizona Republic that the plane performing aerial reconnaissance helps direct aviation resources responding to a wildfire.

Garcia said these firefighters are one of the earliest personnel responding to a wildfire.

The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the crash.

The NTSB said in a statement posted to Twitter that the plane was a Beech C-90 and that an investigator is responding to the crash scene.
A Southern California event space refused to host an America First rally after learning that Matt Gaetz and Marjorie Taylor Greene were slated as speakers.

Javad Mirtavoosi, the manager of Pacific Hills Banquet & Event Center in Laguna Hills, told The Orange County Register on Friday that the venue had wanted to 'stay clear' of hosting the conservative lawmakers.

The America First rally was scheduled to be hosted at the 30,000-square-foot venue on July 17, and Mirtavoosi noted staff had just expected a 'gathering'.

'We just want to stay clear of that,' Mirtavoosi told the outlet. 'As soon as we found out who the speakers were we immediately canceled it.'

A Southern California event space cancelled an America First rally after learning that Matt Gaetz (left) and Marjorie Taylor Greene (right) were slated as speakers

Javad Mirtavoosi, the manager of Pacific Hills Banquet & Event Center (pictured) in Laguna Hills, told The Orange County Register on Friday that the venue had wanted to 'stay clear' of hosting the conservative lawmakers

Mirtavoosi declined to tell the Orange County Register if political differences or backlash prompted the cancellation, saying: 'We just thought it would be best for our facility to cancel.'

The facility has a grand ballroom and three other rooms available for bookings, with a total capacity of about 1,420 people. It was not immediately clear how many people were expected for the rally.

The Pacific Hills event center brands itself as 'the preeminent multi purpose live event venue, caterer and Bistro serving the greater Orange County and Southern California area.'

DailyMail.com has reached out to Mirtavoosi and the Pacific Hills Banquet & Event Center for more information and additional comment.

A spokesperson for Greene's campaign told the Orange County Register that they are still selling tickets for the rally while trying to find another venue.

'We're very close to securing a location that will proudly host our America First Rally with Congresswoman Greene and Congressman Gaetz,' said spokesman Nick Dyer.

The controversial Republican lawmakers have been hosting America First rallies across the country since May - though have both been hit with a number of scandals causing even some of their colleagues to distance themselves.

Gaetz, a close ally of former President Donald Trump, is being investigated by the Justice Department over whether he paid for sex with a 17-year-old girl.

The Florida age of consent is 18 years old and sexual intercourse with anyone underage is statutory rape. However, the state has a so-called Romeo and Juliet law that allows minors who are 16 or 17 to have sex with someone who is at most 23 years old. Gaetz is 39.

Gaetz has not been criminally charged by federal prosecutors and has always denied having had sex with the underage girl and transporting her across state lines.

His so-called wingman has pleaded guilty to charges including sex-trafficking of a minor in a deal to cooperate with prosecutors, which may spell trouble for the Republican congressman.

Joel Greenberg, a former tax collector in Florida's Seminole County, is central to the federal probe into whether Gaetz trafficked a minor for sex.

Greenberg was arrested last year and immediately started telling the feds about Gaetz and how they 'sex trafficked' together to get himself a deal.

Earlier this year, federal prosecutors recently dropped 27 charges against Greenberg in exchange for his cooperation and testimony.

The controversial Republican lawmakers have been hosting America First rallies across the country since May

Greene, 47, has come under fire for comments she made comparing vaccination cards to the badges the Nazis forced Jewish people to wear during the holocaust.

In the wake of the deadly Capitol riots, Greene was also stripped of her committee assignments after social media posts revealed she had expressed support for conspiracy theories and violence against Democratic leaders.

Both Gaetz and Greene have faced scrutiny for spreading false claims of widespread voter fraud in their efforts to challenge the results of the 2020 presidential election.
A woman was duct taped to her seat on an American Airlines flight after she allegedly tried to open a plane door and bit a flight attendant.

The disturbing incident was caught on camera by a fellow passenger on the American Airlines flight from Dallas to Charlotte on July 6.

The restrained passenger - who has not been identified - was thought to have suffered a 'mental health episode' about two hours into the three hour trip.

A female passenger ended up having 'a mental health episode' on a flight from Dallas to Charlotte and was duct taped to her seat along with having tape placed over her mouth

Part of the woman's meltdown was caught on camera by a TikTok user on the flight

TikTok user @lol.ariee, Arieana Mathena, said that it was clear something was happening toward the front of the plane and began locking the bathroom doors.

She said the crew began frantically running up and down the aisle in an attempt to secure the plane as best they could.

Eventually, the captain made an announcement and told passengers to stay in their seats mentioning only that there was a problem towards the front of the aircraft.

A stretcher was brought on board in order to remove the woman and take her to hospital

Law enforcement officers were also waiting for the female passenger as she deplaned

After the plane landed, the woman could be seen still duct taped to her seat complete with tape placed directly over her mouth.

She was forced to stay in her seat as other passengers were allowed to disembark from the plane.

Paramedics were also seen standing by with a stretcher at the gate.

American Airlines confirmed in a statement that the passenger was 'restrained' after causing crew members concern.

TikTok video footage clearly shows the woman restrained by duct tape over her chest and even across her mouth. Nevertheless she was still able to scream

'While in flight from Dallas-Fort Worth to Charlotte on July 6, the crew on board American Airlines flight 1774 reported a potential security concern after a customer attempted to open the forward boarding door and physically assaulted, bit and caused injury to a flight attendant,' a statement read.

'For the safety and security of other customers and our crew, the individual was restrained until the flight landed at CLT and could be met by law enforcement and emergency personnel,' the statement continued.

The woman was taken to a hospital for a mental health evaluation, before being placed on American Airlines' no-fly list.
A distressing new ad designed to scare Sydneysiders into staying home to prevent the spread of Covid-19 shows a young woman fighting for life on a ventilator.

NSW recorded 77 new local Covid-19 cases and one death on Sunday, with a warning that cases of the highly-infectious Delta variant are likely to be above 100 on each of the coming days.

The severity of the outbreak prompted the confronting Covid-19 advertisement that will air on Sydney TV screens from Sunday evening.

Chief medical officer Paul Kelly described it as 'graphic' and said it would contain three important messages: 'Stay-at-home, get tested and booked in for a vaccination.'

'There will be a new advertisement running from the Australian Government tonight. It is quite graphic. We are only doing this because of the situation in Sydney and it will be running in Sydney,' he said.

The 30-second ad shows a very sick young woman laying in a hospital bed, wheezing heavily and clawing at a ventilator fastened under her nose because she can't breath properly.

A message then pops up that says: 'Covid-19 can affect anyone. Stay-at-home, get tested and booked in for a vaccination.'

Mr Kelly reiterated that the ad is meant to be 'quite graphic' to scare people into following government directives to stay home until the outbreak is contained.

Fifteen people with Covid, including a teenager, are in intensive care in Sydney hospitals.

Pictured: A still from the ad campaign warning Sydneysiders to stay home and get the vaccine

In the ad (pictured), a young woman with Covid-19 can be seen clawing at her ventilator because she can't breath

A new nationwide ad campaign is also asking Australians to 'arm themselves' with the vaccine to protect family and members of the community against the virus - but the message isn't nearly as confronting.

It features a a range of people of different ages lifting their sleeves to reveal bandaids to show they've had the jab.

On Sunday afternoon, Opposition Leader Anthony Albanese said the campaign is so cheesy it will be hard for satirists to poke fun at it.

'It will be very difficult for Shaun Micallef to send this ad up,' he told the ABC's Insiders program on Sunday.

'What we need is taking the expertise Australia has always done so well. We were the best in the world in the campaign against AIDS, we've done drink-driving very well, but after 18 months if this is the best they can do, they need to go back to the drawing board.

'This is a government that has spent [a lot of money] advertising itself, telling Australians how good it is. Maybe they should translate some of that advertising into this.'

Opposition leader Anthony Albanese said the campaign is so cheesy it will be hard for satirists to poke fun at it

Pictured: A still from a nationwide ad campaign encouraging Australians to get vaccinated

The nationwide campaign has been slammed by opposition leader Anthony Albanese

Siimon Reynolds, the man behind the 1980s 'Grim Reaper' AIDS campaign, has also criticised the federal government's advertising calling it 'super weak'.

'You can't simply just have someone's arm with a band aid as a way of changing millions of people's points of view,' he told ABC news.

'The first ad, 'arm yourself against the vaccine' is super weak and it says nothing more than get the vaccine.

'If they've spent $21 million saying what we have been told for weeks and weeks then that is just a colossal waste of money and a terrible missed opportunity.'

But the advertising guru says the second TV commercial, which shows the confronting vision of a young woman on a ventilator is much more promising.

'It shows that Covid can really be painful which a lot of Australians don't really believe and it shows that young people can get it, not just older people,' he said.

'It is 10 times better than the first ad.'

Mr Reynolds also warned that wheeling out celebrities and pop stars to encourage the public to get the jab is not going to work as it may have done in other countries.

'People have been trying to sell everything from watches to cars that way for 100 years, surely when we have a life-threatening disease we can do better,' he said.

'It just reminds people that this isn't such a big deal because here's a pop singer cracking a joke about Covid and it's the exact opposite of what should be done.'

He said that if he was tasked with leading the vaccine campaign he would look at celebrities who have actually battled Covid and speak first hand about its devastating effects.

'What about celebrities like the US pop star Pink. She got Covid so badly that she rewrote her will, so that her two children could be looked after, after she died,' Mr Reynolds said.

'She was that certain she was going to die.

'Now, get a celebrity like that to talk about the pain she was in and the angst she felt and the fear, that's what is going to wake people up.'

Siimon Reynolds (pictured with TV host Kathryn Eisman in 2017) created the famous 1987 advert warning Australians about the grave dangers of HIV and AIDS

But the federal government defended their public health campaign in a statement to Daily Mail Australia.

'The clip encourages people in NSW to book their vaccination, but also to highlight the need to stay home and get tested,' it said.

'The Delta variant is much more infectious and is impacting younger cohorts more than previous variants.

'As of this morning - there are currently 52 Covid-19 cases admitted to hospital, with 15 people in intensive care, five of whom require ventilation.

Seven of the 15 cases in ICU are under 55 including one person in their teens, one person in their 20s, one in their 30s, one in their 40s and three in their 50s.

'People who work in industries like aged care and health care, and people with health difficulties, can all book to get their vaccination right now no matter their age,' the spokesperson said.

'More than nine million doses have been administered in Australia, and anyone 18 years and older can speak to the GP about getting access to an AstraZeneca vaccine.'

New South Wales has recorded 77 new local Covid-19 cases and one death as Premier Gladys Berejiklian warns daily cases are likely to rise above 100 over the coming days

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian said in her daily press conference on Sunday that 33 of the cases were out in the community while infectious.

A 90-year-old unvaccinated woman also died after contracting the virus 'within the home setting'.

'I want to extend my deepest condolences to their families and loved ones,' Ms Berejiklian said.

She is the first person to die in Sydney's outbreak since it began on June 16 and the 57th casualty in the state over the whole pandemic.

The premier warned the figure was likely to keep rising before it fell down again, with more than 100 cases expected on Monday.

NSW chief health officer Dr Kerry Chant said the 'vast majority' of cases were identified in southwest Sydney - which has recently been targeted by police with extra officers deployed to monitor lockdown compliance.

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian announced on Sunday that 33 of the cases were out in the community while infectious

Ms Berejiklian warned the figure was likely to skyrocket with more than 100 cases expected to be recorded on Monday

'I need to give frank advice that the case numbers in south-western Sydney are extraordinarily high,' she said.

'We know transmission is going through households, from household to household.'

The highly-infectious nature of the Delta variant also prompted the chief health officer to urge residents to get their two doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine six weeks apart - instead of waiting the recommended three months.

'While the interval was three months, at this time because the case numbers are high, we want people to come forward and get vaccinated around that six-week mark,' she said.

'We know that for the Delta variant you need the two doses so by calling people to get a second dose, we might sacrifice a bit of long-term protection but we're making sure you're protected earlier and at this time, that's the strategy we'd suggest.'

More than 50 of the 77 new cases were identified as close contacts of Covid-19 positive cases.

'I've spent a lot of my working life in south-western Sydney and I appreciate the strengths of the family. It's wonderful to see,' Dr Chant said.

'But at this time, those close connections between family groups is actually so detrimental to achieving a public health outcome.

'So what we're finding is that we're having to strengthen, you know, strengthen the messaging to get it really clear that... your household is your family group.'

Professor Kelly said the latest figures were a cause of 'concern'.

'There are some concerning signs thereabout still a large proportion of those over 70 cases today in New South Wales had been in the community while infectious,' he said.

'The pleasing part is that the majority of those 77 cases were close contacts of known cases and the New South Wales authorities are continuing to do an extraordinary job at chasing down those chains of transmission and making sure they get to those quickly, doing rapid testing, getting those results and taking any action that is required.'

There were more than 48,000 Covid-19 tests conducted within the last 24 hours.

Ms Berejiklian reminded Sydneysiders to obey lockdown orders after they were tightened with residents ordered to wear face masks in apartment buildings and everyone outside of Sydney banned from coming in.

'We can't stress enough the importance of not only following the rules but also realising the risk that the people who will suffer the most - if you don't worry about yourself, that's fine,' she said.

'Even though it's affecting people of all age groups. If you don't worry about yourself, that's your decision.

'But think about your closest family members, your closest people in your life, they're the people that are most impacted.'

She would not clarify if the lockdown would be extended and would wait to see how the Covid-19 outbreak developed before making any decision.

Home schooling may also be extended beyond next week to avoid 'hundreds of thousands of people leaving home at the same time'.

Epidemiologist Tony Blakely warned the restrictions are not tough enough and suggested the city should be placed into a much tougher lockdown with soldiers patrolling the streets

Dr Kerry Chant said the majority of cases were identified in south-west Sydney - which has recently been targeted by police with extra officers deployed to the area to monitor lockdown compliance

New face mask rules and travel restrictions have been introduced in Greater Sydney with a draconian-style lockdown and troops on the street possibly on the way, a top epidemiologist has warned

'The numbers aren't going in the right direction. That's pretty obvious to everybody,' Ms Berejiklian said.

'And the number that concerns us the most is the number who've been exposed in the community.

'Unfortunately, I know that for a few days, as soon as we have health advice that gives us information on where the numbers are tracking and what we think the future looks like, we'll convey that.'

The Federal Government is holding regular conversations with the State Government to discuss ongoing support for businesses if a lockdown is extended.

They are likely to announce further assistance packages and investigate bolstering mental health support services.

Professor Kelly said he was in close contact with Dr Chant and providing continued support.

'It is very practical support that is happening from the Commonwealth in relation to the situation in Sydney,' he said.

'That includes because that is a Commonwealth designated hot spot, there is funding available for aged care, for example, in terms of single site worker payments, there is the disaster, the COVID disaster payment which is also available now for people who are eligible in Sydney.'

Dr Chant warned it would be some time before the lockdown would have its intended impact and reduce case numbers.

'I think it's going to be a number of days before we turn around,' she said.

'And to some extent, we're trying... The numbers might actually increase because we're ramping up testing to get ahead of the transmission curve.'

There are 52 patients being treated in hospital with 15 in intensive care and five on ventilators.

Drivers queue at a Covid-19 testing clinic at Fairfield Showgrounds on Saturday night

Residents will only be able to travel to Greater Sydney to access goods and services that are not available in their area

'Of the 15 people in ICU, one is in their teens, one is in their 20s, one is in their 30s, one is in their 40s, three are in their 50s, five are in their 60s, two two are in their 70s and one is in their 80s,' Dr Chant said.

NSW Police Deputy Commissioner Gary Worboys said 106 infringement notices had been issued in just 24 hours.

'One of those instances was a unit at Marrickville, where police responded to information, they went to that unit and found 15 men in a small unit playing cards,' he said.

'These men were in their 50s, through to just short of 90 years of age. No masks, no social distancing, clearly in an environment that was a huge risk to them, their families and their community.'

Police were also called to break up an 18th birthday party in Auburn, in western Sydney, and disband a group of gamers in a separate incident.

'There were 10 people at this party, clearly organised,' he said.

'They turned up, they were aware of the public health orders and police took action in terms of infringement notices to each of those people.'

Ms Berejiklian reminded Sydneysiders to obey lockdown orders after they were tightened with residents ordered to wear face masks in apartment buildings and everyone outside of Sydney banned from coming in

Non-essential businesses were closed, an 8pm curfew enforced and a ring of steel placed around Melbourne with residents only allowed to leave their homes and exercise within a five kilometre radius (pictured, an empty Flinders Street during the draconian lockdown in September)

'The third incident that I would highlight is one in a garage under a set of units in the Merrylands area. These were young people that were playing PlayStation.'

Under the new restrictions coming into effect this week, residents are only able to travel to Sydney to access goods and services that are not available in their area.

Travelling into the area for exercise or outdoor recreational activities is no longer a valid reason.

They are also only allowed to travel to attend a funeral or memorial service as long as there are no more than 10 mourners.

Sydney residents wanting to leave the area must also carry identification that contains their residential address.

Face masks must also be worn at indoor construction sites at all times.

On Tuesday, the restriction will be extended to all indoor common property areas of residential premises in Sydney, the Blue Mountains, Central Coast, Wollongong and Shellharbour.

The draconian-style lockdown would be similar to the one introduced in Victoria last year - which lasted 111 days (pictured, a deserted Melbourne laneway during the lockdown in September)

A nurse conducts a Covid-19 swab test on a driver at Fairfield Showgrounds on Saturday night

Residents who live in apartments will be required to wear the extra protection when taking the lift or waiting in the lobby.

Epidemiologist Tony Blakely warned the restrictions are not tough enough and suggested the city should be placed into a much tougher lockdown with soldiers patrolling the streets.

Dr Blakely said the state government had three options: Let the Covid-19 outbreak circulate in the community, continue with a partial lockdown, or deploy troops and police to patrol the streets.

'The third option is the only one. It's very hard to say those words: 'We're going into a hard lockdown, we've called in the military, the police and we are going to police it,' he told news.com.au.

'It's not a pretty look but if you want it to be over and done with as quickly as possible that, most unfortunately, is what needs to happen.'

The draconian lockdown would be similar to the one introduced in Victoria last year - which lasted 111 days.

Dr Blakely warned continuing with a partial lockdown meant Sydney might only begin to reopen in September

Non-essential businesses were closed, an 8pm curfew enforced and a ring of steel placed around Melbourne with residents only allowed to leave their homes and exercise within a 5km radius.

Police patrolled the streets and were assisted by military troops during the tough three months.

Dr Blakely warned continuing with a partial lockdown meant Sydney might only begin to reopen in September.

'If they keep going the way they are now, without really stepping it up now it could go on for months,' he said.

The additional face mask and travel restrictions were introduced by NSW Health after it announced it would be tightening lockdown across Sydney from 5pm Friday.

Exercising outdoors has been limited to groups of two from 5pm on Friday under expanded restrictions (pictured: people exercising in Sydney last weekend)

Can you still exercise outdoors?

Yes, but in reduced groups. Locked down residents from Friday evening will only be allowed to exercise outdoors in groups of two - down from the 10 previously allowed.

The only exception to this rule is members of the same household already living together can exercise outdoors together.

How far can you travel to exercise?

Additionally locals can only travel within their own local government area or at most 10km of their homes to exercise.

'Please do not leave your house. Do not leave your home, unless you absolutely have to,' Ms Berejiklian pleaded with Sydneysiders.

What about leaving the house for essential items?

Locals should only leave their house for essential supplies and should not browse, the premier said.

Only one member of a household should be traveling to the shops for essential items and this should not be an excuse to socialise.

Can you visit a partner in another household?

This is still allowed under the new restrictions provided you are in a relationship.

Is carpooling allowed?

Carpooling with other households - whether to the shops, to exercise or work - is also not allowed from 5pm on Friday.

Centennial Park in Sydney was packed with crowds last Saturday morning (pictured)

Can you still travel to work?

Ms Berejiklian restated only people who need to travel for essential work should leave their house.

'Too many people who have continued to go to work, too many people have either misunderstood the rules or not followed them. And that has to stop.'

Is there a curfew?

No. You can leave your house at any hour as long as it is for one of the essential reasons.

What about funerals and weddings?

Health officials have also made the decision to cap funerals at 10 attendees from Sunday.

Weddings were already prevented from going ahead early on in the lockdown.

Exercising is still allowed in groups of two from 5pm Friday in Greater Sydney and surrounds

Only one member of a household is allowed to go to the shops for essential items on each trip

How many people can you have at your house?

Only those providing essential care are allowed to visit another household. This includes caring for elderly family members.

In other cases guests are not allowed to visit other households unless in exceptional circumstances.

'We are still getting questions through Service NSW about how many people you can have into your home. The answer is zero.' Ms Berejiklian said.

'I don't mean these words lightly, or say these words lightly. But we are facing the greatest threat that we have faced in New South Wales and the pandemic started. And it is up to all of us to turn things around'.

Shoppers are pictured in Cabramatta in Sydney's south-west. Only one member of each household will be allowed to go out to shop for essential items from Friday evening

Ms Berejiklian added with the rate of vaccination hovering around 9 per cent, allowing the virus to spread in the community was not an option.

'Unless there is a dramatic change, unless there is a dramatic turnaround in the numbers, I can't see how we would be in a position to ease restrictions by next Friday.'

Of the 44 new local cases in the 24 hours to 8pm on Thursday, at least 29 were in the community for part or all of their infectious period.

It is the highest number of NSW daily infections since the pandemic's first wave in early 2020.

Additional police have been dispatched to some areas from Friday including south-western Sydney (pictured: police at Bondi Beach last weekend)
NSW Chief Medical Officer Kerry Chant has encouraged Sydneysiders to get their second AstraZeneca dose early despite it 'sacrificing long-term protection'.

Dr Chant made a call out to Sydney residents who had received their first dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine during a press conference on Sunday morning.

The health officer said that though doses were supposed to be 12 weeks apart, due to increasing case numbers people could get vaccinated after just six weeks.

'We know that for the Delta variant you need those two doses,' she said.

'So by calling people to get a second dose, we may be sacrificing a bit of long-term protection, what we're doing is making sure you're protected earlier.'

Dr Chant said residents should check if their booking for a second dose of AstraZeneca could be brought forward by ringing their GP.

'We particularly want to focus on the elderly. We know the vaccines are very effective at preventing illness and death and we know the elderly are most vulnerable. So please make that appointment,' she said.

The AstraZeneca jab requires two doses, which are recommended to be received about 12 weeks apart, but the health advice allows for a shorter period if there is a risk of exposure to Covid-19.

The ATAGI advises the minimum interval between doses be no less than four weeks, while doses of the Pfizer vaccine can be given at least three weeks apart.

NSW Chief Medical Officer Kerry Chant has encouraged Sydneysiders to get their second AstraZeneca dose early despite the move 'sacrificing long-term protection'.

National Chief Medical Officer Paul Kelly said and a subsequent press conference that advice from the Therapeutic Goods Administration from as early as January was that there was a range of times to get the second AstraZeneca dose.

'We know from the clinical trials and real-world experience in other parts of the world, particularly the UK, the longer you wait for that second dose, at 12 weeks seems to be the optimal time to get that for longer term protection,' he said.

'Anyone outside Sydney, stick to the 12 weeks, that is a pretty clear thing from the national picture.

'For those in Sydney, it is licensed from four to 12 weeks so they should have that discussion with their GP.'

On Friday, Prime Minister Scott Morrison also urged Australians to get their second dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine after two months, instead of three.

Mr Morrison said residents should think about getting the second dose early in the eighth week after their first jab, instead of the 12-week waiting period.

'That is consistent with medical advice, the TGA approval does sit and ATAGI advice on eight to 12 weeks', the prime minister said.

His plea came after he spoke of the growing cluster of coronavirus cases in south-western Sydney, where the majority of new cases were recorded on Sunday.

National Chief Medical Officer Paul Kelly said and a subsequent press conference that advice from the Therapeutic Goods Administration from as early as January was that there was a range of times to get the second AstraZeneca dose

New South Wales has recorded 77 new local Covid-19 cases and one death, with a warning that cases of the highly-infectious Delta variant are likely to be above 100 over the coming days.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian said in her daily press conference on Sunday that 33 of the cases were out in the community while infectious.

A 90-year-old unvaccinated woman also died after contracting the virus 'within the home setting'.

The premier warned the figure was likely to keep rising before it fell down again, with more than 100 cases expected on Monday.

NSW Chief health officer Dr Kerry Chant said the 'vast majority' of cases were identified in southwest Sydney - which has recently been targeted by police with extra officers deployed to monitor lockdown compliance.

More than 50 of the 77 new cases were identified as close contacts of Covid-19 positive cases, with more than 48,000 tests conducted within the last 24 hours.
A family pet that mauled a newborn baby boy to death in the family home attacked the neighbour's dog just weeks earlier.

The five-week-old boy was killed by his family's American Staffordshire terrier at their home on Jeffs Close in Kariong on the NSW Central Coast about 2.18am on Sunday.

Police and paramedics tried to revive the little boy after they rushed to the property, but he was declared dead at the scene.

On Sunday afternoon, district commander Detective Superintendent Darryl Jobson described the situation as 'a matter of tragic proportions'.

Pictured: First responders at a home on the Central Coast after a baby boy was mauled to death by a staffy

The American Staffordshire terrier (stock image) attacked a neighbour's dog just weeks earlier

He said the fatal mauling was not the first vicious attack by the family dog - even in the past month.

'A neighbouring dog apparently got into the rear yard and was mauled by this dog, unfortunately,' he said.

'That was a separate incident but that will also form part of our investigation.'

Superintendent Jabson said all first responders who attended the scene will receiving counselling and support after witnessing the devastating scene.

'Our police did perform first-aid upon arrival. They did their best in the circumstances and they are no doubt shaken by the incident,' he said.

The situation unfolded on Jeffs Close in Kariong on the New South Wales Central Coast (stock image of the area)

The family dog attacked the baby at a home on Jeffs Close at Kariong at 2.20am on Sunday

A five-week-old baby boy has died after being mauled by the family dog on the New South Wales Central Coast

'Anything to do with children of any type, particularly of this nature, is absolutely traumatic.'

The boy's parents were at home when their son was attacked by the dog, which has since been locked up.

The situation is not being treated as suspicious and a report will be prepared for the coroner.
Whitehall is 'dead' and civil servants must 'get back to offices', Boris Johnson's former chief of staff has warned.

Lord Udny-Lister voiced concern that there has been 'very little movement' on staff returning to workplace in Westminster and local government.

Although he stressed he was not calling for people to be in crowded offices every day, the peer said there were consequences of having 'corridors of empty rooms'.

The rare intervention, reported by the Sunday Telegraph, came after the PM declared that 'work from home' guidance will be axed from 'Freedom Day' on July 19.

Chancellor Rishi Sunak, the Chancellor, has insisted it is 'really important' for young people to 'be in your workplace and learn from others more directly'.

Lord Udny-Lister voiced concern that there has been 'very little movement' on staff returning to workplace in Westminster and local government

The peer reportedly warned that Whitehall was 'dead'

Lord Udny-Lister - a long-standing ally of Mr Johnson who left No10 earlier this year - said there appeared to be 'very little movement' in terms of a return to Whitehall.

He questioned how civil servants can 'build up relationships' if the majority are working from home.

'There is no indication that they are coming back in force at the moment,' the peer said.

He said that when visiting ministers in their departments he usually saw only a handful of officials.

'There is a problem in government that people are crammed in and obviously they've got to be spread out more. That can be done by working from home some of the time,' he said.

But Lord Udny-Lister insisted that he was not suggesting that 'everybody has to be in the office every day of the week'.

In a speech in the Lords last week, Lord Udny-Lister said: 'I urge the Minister to go a little further and start getting the Government back into their offices in Whitehall and elsewhere and start helping those businesses which are so dependent upon our town centres - and, indeed, even this Whitehall areato get them back together.

'Now is the time to start trusting the vaccines.'
A 90-year-old woman who died after falling ill with Covid-19 was infected with both the UK and South African variants at the same time, scientists in Belgium have revealed.

The woman, who lived alone and received at-home nursing care, had not received the vaccine and was admitted to the OLV Hospital in the Belgian city of Aalst - around 17 miles from Brussels - after a spate of falls in March. She tested positive for Covid-19 the same day.

While her oxygen levels were initially good, her condition deteriorated rapidly and she died five days later.

A 90-year-old woman admitted to OLV Hospital in the Belgian city of Aalst was found to have been positive for both the alpha (UK) and beta (South African) strains of Covid-19

When medical staff tested for the presence of any variants of concern they found that she was carrying both the Alpha strain, which originated in Britain, and the Beta variant first detected in South Africa.

Researchers believe it is the first documented case of its kind and are warning, although rare, dual infections can occur.

Covid-19 infections are currently on the rise in Belgium, with 1,027 new infections reported on average each day, although the death rate is waning, with latest figures showing just two reported deaths in the last few days.

WHAT ARE THE UK AND SOUTH AFRICAN VARIANTS? UK (also known as Kent) variant Real name: B.1.1.7 or Alpha strain When was it discovered? The variant was first found in the South East of England and can be traced back to September 2020. What mutations does it have? It has 23 mutations, some of which change the shape of the spike protein on its outside. The main mutation is known as N501Y. This appears to make it better able to stick to the cells inside the body and makes it more likely to cause infection and faster to spread. How many have been infected? UK studies have shown it is between 50 and 70 per cent more infectious than the regular strain. More than 200,000 cases in Britain have been identified and it has spread to more than 50 countries. ................................................................. South African variant Real name: B.1.351 When was it discovered? Nelson Mandela Bay, in South Africa's Eastern Cape Province, in mid-December. What mutations does it have? The South African variant carries 21 mutations, including E484K and N501Y. Why is it causing worry? Those two mutations suggest it is more infectious than the older version of Covid. However, it has not taken a hold in the UK in the same way as other variants, with the Delta strain now most dominant. Advertisement

There have been 1,093,700 infections and 25,198 coronavirus-related deaths reported in the country since the pandemic began.

Around 51.5 per cent of the population are thought to have been vaccinated so far.

Molecular biologist Anne Vankeerberghen from the OLV Hospital who led the research, said: 'Both these variants were circulating in Belgium at the time, so it is likely that the lady was co-infected with different viruses from two different people,' said 'Unfortunately, we don't know how she became infected.'

Vankeerberghen said it was difficult to say whether the co-infection played a role in the fast deterioration of the patient.

The research, which has not yet been submitted to a medical journal for publication, is being presented at the European Congress of Clinical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases.

While Vankeerberghen said there had been 'no other published cases' of similar co-infections, the 'phenomenon is probably underestimated', she added via a press release.

This is because of limited testing for variants of concern, she said, calling for an increase in the use of fast PCR testing to detect known variant mutations.

In January, scientists in Brazil reported that two people had been simultaneously infected with two different strains of the coronavirus, but the study has yet to be published in a scientific journal.

In comments reacting to the research, Lawrence Young, a virologist and professor of molecular oncology at the University of Warwick, said it was not a surprise to find an individual infected with more than one strain.

'This study does highlight the need for more studies to determine whether infection with multiple variants of concern affects the clinical course of Covid-19 and whether this in any way compromises the efficacy of vaccination,' he added.

New versions or variants of Covid-19 are constantly appearing due to mutations in the virus as it spreads.

Some of these variations give the virus new advantages, such as becoming more contagious or being able to dodge existing antibodies from a past infection or vaccination.

The strains capable of doing this are being monitored by scientists and are called 'variants of concern.'

Researchers have highlighted the case of a 90-year-old woman in Aalst, Belgium, who died after contracting two strains of Covid-19 at the same time

In the UK, the Alpha and Beta strains now only account for a few cases. The latest data from Public Health England shows a rise of 680 cases of Alpha and nine of Beta in the week leading up to 7 July.

This is compared to the Delta variant, which has become the most dominant strain in the UK with 54,268 new cases in the last seven days.

Covid-19 in Belgium is slightly on the rise with an average 1,027 new infections each day

Despite the increasing number of new cases, the death rate continues to fall in Belgium

The Belgian case follows on from two cases of double Covid infection reported in Brazil in February.

Researchers at Feevale University made the discovery after swabbing 90 infected people in Rio Grande do Sul, southern Brazil.

One of the patients tested positive for two Brazilian strains which evolved separately in different states, known as P.1 and P.2.

No research has yet been published in a scientific journal or scrutinised by other scientists however.

In February, Dr John McCauley, director of the Worldwide Influenza Centre at the Francis Crick Institute in London, told MailOnline it was possible for someone to get infected by two strains at the same time, which can happen with the flu.

He warned that, while unlikely, it was also biologically possible the two strains could interfere with one another and swap genetic code.

'Getting one strain up a nostril and another up another nostril doesn't matter...but (the risk is) if they get to the back of the throat and then go into the same cell - then there's an opportunity for this to happen.'
Patients in hospitals across the UK will be able to watch tonight's high anticipated match for free thanks to Health Secretary Sajid Javid.

Mr Javid intervened after patients were at risk of missing the big match as they faced paying up to 10 to use pay-per-view services from their hospital beds.

Staff said that some patients would not be able to afford the charge, and would miss out on seeing England's clash with Italy on Sunday evening.

Patients will be able to watch the big game for free thanks to Health Secretary Sajid Javid

But, thanks to Mr Javid, the charge has been waived for the duration of the final, allowing patients to watch not only the big game, but also Wimbledon.

Mr Javid told The Sun on Sunday: 'I'm delighted that patients will be able to cheer on the team as they bring it home.'

Hospedia, which runs the service consisting of 56,000 bedside terminals in 130 hospitals across the UK, said patients will get free access from 8am today to 6am tomorrow morning.

Hospedia's bedside terminals allow patients to interact with technology in real time and includes TV channels, electronic meal ordering, healthcare education and information and a Dementia orientation screen to help settle patients with Dementia.

Managing Director Jason Cooper said he had decided to waive the fee in recognition and celebration of the England team's progress to the final.

'I'm sure it's going to be an extraordinary  but nervy  occasion,' he added.

Hospedia's bedside terminals allow patients to interact with technology in real time

'We hope everyone who's in hospital tomorrow can get some joy from the big game.'

England are set to play in their traditional white home shirt in this evening's final despite technically being the away team.

Despite the big game being held in London, Italy are technically the home side based on how the draw worked out and have elected to go with their classic strip of blue, leaving England with their traditional choice as well.

Roberto Mancini's men have only worn blue-white-blue once this tournament, in the 1-0 group-stage win over Wales.

England, meanwhile, have only worn white-blue-white for the last two knockout matches against Ukraine and Denmark, having donned an all-white offering for the opening four matches of the tournament.

England and Italy have faced each other 27 times altogether, with the Azzurri winning 11 to England's eight, and the other eight matches ending in draws.
Advertisement

Further pressure is mounting on Met chief Dame Cressida Dick after it emerged bosses at Scotland Yard missed three crucial clues about killer cop Wayne Couzens that could have seen him kicked out of the force before he murdered Sarah Everard.

Couzens, who kidnapped, raped and murdered the marketing executive while she walked home from a friend's house in Clapham in March, was reported to bosses for allegedly slapping a female colleague's bottom at Bromley police station in 2018 - just weeks after he joined the force.

Shortly after starting at Bromley in South London, the married killer allegedly stopped a female motorist and said her tax and insurance were out of date before making a note of her address so he could later pull up outside her house and leer at her, the Sun on Sunday reports.

Couzens, whose former colleagues at the Civil Nuclear Constabulary allegedly nicknamed him 'The Rapist' because of how he is said to have made female colleagues uneasy, is also accused of parking his patrol car by schools so he could watch mothers and sixth-formers.

A Metropolitan Police spokesman told MailOnline that it has no record of the allegations being passed to the Directorate of Professional Standards, and will assess any new allegation it receives 'appropriately'. The force previously told the Sun on Sunday: 'We are not able to respond to queries such as this while proceedings are ongoing.'

Last night it also emerged that police will be told to take offences such as indecent exposure and street harassment - what a Home Office source described to the Sunday Times as 'non-contact sexual offences' - more seriously in the wake of the murder.

The latest allegations are likely to heap pressure on Commissioner Dame Cressida to explain why Couzens was not kicked out of the force - and why he became an armed member of the elite Parliamentary and Diplomatic Protection squad at the time of Miss Everard's killing.

Further pressure is mounting on Met chief Dame Cressida Dick after it emerged bosses at Scotland Yard missed three crucial clues about killer cop Wayne Couzens that could have seen him kicked out of the force before he murdered Sarah Everard

Couzens, who kidnapped, raped and murdered the marketing executive while she walked home from a friend's house in Clapham in March, was reported to bosses for allegedly slapping a female colleague's bottom at Bromley police station in 2018 - just weeks after he joined the force

Couzens seen in a court sketch during a previous hearing relating to the case. He pleaded guilty at the Old Bailey to the murder of the marketing executive on Friday

Shortly after starting at Bromley in South London, the married killer allegedly stopped a female motorist and said her tax and insurance were out of date before making a note of her address so he could later pull up outside her house and leer at her, the Sun on Sunday reports

Police must take flashing more seriously in wake of Sarah Everard killing, Home Office warns The Home Office hinted last night that police will be told to take offences such as indecent exposure and street harassment - what a source called 'non-contact sexual offences' - more seriously in the wake of the murder. Tory peer Baroness Bertin, whose 18-year-old cousin Christine was murdered in France by a stalker, told the Sunday Times last night: 'Police forces have to make sure they do not have a culture where so called 'low-grade' sex crimes are routinely dismissed'. 'I think there needs to be a genuine culture change whereby police forces are thinking: 'Are we tackling this in the right way? Are we confident that if a woman comes into a police station she is going to be treated in the right way and not dismissed slightly with 'there is nothing we can do'?' Emily Spurrell, the Police and Crime Commissioner for Merseyside, said officers should be trained to 'spot signs of misogyny'. 'I speak to so many women, and I myself have had so many experiences where we get to the point where we just normalise it as part of being a woman in this country,' she said. Miss Spurrell is working with UN Women and campaign group Reclaim These Streets to look at solutions which can help women feel safer - including an app allowing women to log areas where they feel at risk. Advertisement

A source told the Sun on Sunday newspaper: 'It is frightening when you think about what happened to poor Sarah. If someone had been doing their job properly three years ago then none of this would have happened.'

After Couzens pleaded guilty to murder at the Old Bailey on Friday, the Independent Office for Police Conduct revealed that his former force Kent Police received a complaint from a male motorist that he allegedly drove around Dover naked in 2015 - three years before he joined the Met.

No arrests were made and the fact it was suspected to be Couzens was kept secret until yesterday when the police watchdog revealed the alleged offence. In total, the IOPC is looking at 12 gross misconduct or misconduct allegations on serving police officers relating to the case.

The IOPC said it had not received referrals from the Met in relation to the three new allegations.

Despite the past cases, Couzens was still a member of the elite Parliamentary and Diplomatic Protection squad at the time of Miss Everard's killing - a role that entitled him to carry a firearm and a Metropolitan Police warrant card.

He was also equipped with a Heckler and Koch G36 rifle while working at the Civil Nuclear Constabulary, as part of the team protecting Sellafield and later Dungeness nuclear power station.

His odd behaviour there is rumoured to have been what made female workers feel uneasy, although the Civil Nuclear Police Federation confirmed there were no official complaints about him.

In total, Couzens had been accused of indecent exposure three times before he abducted Miss Everard in Clapham, south London, on March 3.

He pleaded guilty at the Old Bailey to the murder of the marketing executive on Friday, having previously admitted her kidnap and rape.

Five members of Miss Everard's family were joined by Met Police Commissioner Dame Cressida Dick in court to watch as Couzens, head bowed and shaking, entered his whispered plea by video link from Belmarsh prison.

During the 20-minute hearing Lord Justice Fulford discussed the possibility of a whole-life order as he adjourned sentencing until September 29.

Dame Cressida spoke to the family before making a statement on the steps of the Old Bailey.

She said that she had told the Everard family 'how very sorry I am for their loss, for their pain and their suffering', adding: 'All of us in the Met are sickened, angered and devastated by this man's crimes - they are dreadful. Everyone in policing feels betrayed.'

Couzens' wife of 15 years Elena also told of her horror at the police officer's sickening crimes and her distress at failing to spot any warning signs in the months before Miss Everard's kidnap and murder.

Speaking exclusively to MailOnline, she said: 'I keep on asking 'why?' What Wayne did wasn't human behaviour. If I had any idea what was going on in Wayne's head, then none of this would've happened but I didn't know anything.

'He didn't appear to be acting strangely. I didn't notice anything was wrong. I'm working full time, most of the time I'm dropping the children off at school and picking them up, I have a really busy lifestyle. I can't comprehend it because he never once previously showed any glimpse of violence, he was never that way. I'm just as puzzled as everyone else.

Met commissioner Dame Cressida Dick (pictured) said that she had told the Everard family 'how very sorry I am for their loss, for their pain and their suffering'

'I saw nothing wrong. He had a beautiful family, a good house what else did he need? I'm constantly asking myself 'where I did miss the signs?' How on earth could this have happened?'

Harriet Wistrich, director of the Centre for Women's Justice, is among those calling for a full public inquiry into 'police failures and misconduct and the wider culture of misogyny' following Couzens' guilty plea.

Miss Everard's murder sparked protests by women fearing for their own safety earlier this year.

Ms Wistrich said: 'As protesters made clear, women do not feel safe and it is incumbent on the Government and all criminal justice agencies to now take action over the epidemic of male violence which is the other public health crisis of our day.'

Nick Thomas Symonds, the shadow home secretary, has also urged police to review their vetting process.

A number of areas were searched in Clapham as police tried to look for the missing 33-year-old in March this year before they turned the hunt to Kent

Sarah's family leave the Old Bailey after a previous hearing where Couzens made two guilty pleas. Her father Jeremy is seen on the left, with her sister Katie who can be seen on the right

CCTV footage of Sarah Everard captured earlier on the night she was kidnapped in south London in March this year

The Labour MP said: 'Society puts huge trust in the police to keep us safe and the vast majority of officers who serve their communities so bravely who will all be appalled by this case.

'It is absolutely vital that everything possible is done to ensure this can never happen again.

'The Metropolitan Police and wider policing must look at vetting processes and their own safeguarding systems to ensure people who pose a threat to the public are not able to hold such vital positions of trust.'

The IOPC has launched an investigation into alleged failures by Kent Police to investigate the indecent exposure allegation against Couzens dating back to 2015.

An IOPC probe is also ongoing into alleged failures by the Met to investigate two allegations of indecent exposure linked to Couzens in London in February this year, with two officers under investigation for possible breaches of professional standards.
Nadhim Zahawi today tried to quell a backlash from local leaders on plans to drop mandatory masks on public transport, as a poll found 50 per cent of Britons want 'Freedom Day' delayed.

The vaccines minister insisted people will still be 'expected' to wear coverings in confined spaces under new guidance being issued this week, even though the legal compulsion will go.

But he insisted that the unlocking schedule was set to go ahead as planned on July 19 - with Boris Johnson due to give more details at a press conference tomorrow.

'We're seeing a rise in infection rates in this country, but also in Europe and elsewhere. The difference for us is that the vaccination programme has been so successful,' Mr Zahawi said.

The comments came after Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham warned July 19 could turn into 'anxiety day', complaining that face coverings should remain a legal requirement.

Meanwhile, Sadiq Khan is still considering a bid to force passengers to keep wearing masks on trains, Tube and buses in London.

The level of nerves among the wider public was demonstrated today as research by Opinium found half would prefer the unlocking slated to happen a week tomorrow to be delayed.

Vaccines minister Nadhim Zahawi insisted people will still be 'expected' to wear coverings in confined spaces under new guidance being issued this week

Research by Opinium found half would prefer the unlocking slated to happen a week tomorrow to be delayed

Boris Johnson is due to confirm the government is dropping its law making masks mandatory from July 19

CBI calls for self-isolation rules to be dropped earlier Business leaders have urged the government to drop self-isolation rules earlier than planned. The CBI, which represents 190,000 firms, said the requirement for the double-jabbed to quarantine after coming in contact with positive cases should go on July 19, rather than waiting until August 16. CBI boss Tony Danaker said: 'Learning to live and work with the virus is the right strategy, but we need to ensure this is a confident not an anxious transition, otherwise it won't work. 'Businesses have had a real boost this week with the Prime Minister's plans for the final stage of the reopening. 'What's needed now is a concerted effort between business and government to create widespread confidence from the get go.' Advertisement

Some 31 per cent thought the timing was about right, while just 10 per cent said it should have been earlier.

Health Secretary Sajid Javid struck a harder line on masks in an interview with the Sunday Telegraph today, saying people would be irresponsible not to wear one in a crowded space.

'If someone is not doing that, frankly, they're just being irresponsible, they're not playing their role as a responsible citizen,' he said.

Asked on Sky News about the easings from July 19, Mr Zahawi said: 'I think it is important that we remain cautious and careful and the guidelines that we will set out tomorrow will demonstrate that - including guidelines that people are expected to wear masks in indoor, enclosed spaces.'

Mr Zahawi also suggested the government is looking at a test and release scheme to replace self-isolation for those who come into contact with a positive case, amid fears that millions of healthy people will be doomed to house arrest as infections rise.

The PM is expected to give final approval for Stage 4 of the roadmap tomorrow, with almost all legal restrictions set to be lifted.

But Nicola Sturgeon has already vowed to keep masks and other curbs in Scotland for longer.

Mr Burnham told the Observer: 'The government is simply wrong to frame everything from here as a matter of pure personal choice. It is not.

'Many people who are vulnerable to the virus have to use public transport and do their food shopping in person.

'That is why the wearing of face coverings in these settings should have remained mandatory.

'I will be strongly encouraging the people of Greater Manchester to continue to wear masks on public transport out of respect for others.'

Shadow health secretary Jon Ashworth said: 'Given Sajid Javid now considers it irresponsible to not wear masks then it would be equally irresponsible for his government to carry on with the plan to lift mask requirements while infections are heading to 100,000 a day.

'Reopening the economy must be done in a safe and sustainable way.

'That means continued mask wearing, support for increased ventilation standards in premises, decent sick pay, allowing people to continue working from home and ensuring all can access testing rather than introducing charges for lateral flow tests as Sajid Javid now proposes.'

Labour frontbencher Kate Green told Sky News this morning that she 'hopes' Mr Burnham and Mr Khan will keep mandatory masks on the transport systems in their areas.

Sadiq Khan is still considering a bid to force passengers to keep wearing masks on trains, Tube and buses in London
The culturally-diverse suburbs in Sydney's south-west have become ground zero in the city's fight against Covid, as new data reveals the frightening rate the disease is taking a grip there.

New South Wales Premier Gladys Berejiklian has voiced fears Covid is being spread by large families 'ignoring the rules' while numbers spike.

In just a few days, south-western suburbs including Cabramatta, Edensor Park and Canley Vale have already become the number one infection hotspots in the city.

NSW Health has detected 105 cases in the Fairfield local government area in this latest cluster since it broke out of Sydney's eastern suburbs and moved into the west.

Of the 77 cases announced in Sydney on Sunday, 52 were in south-west Sydney, 11 were in central Sydney and 10 were in south-east Sydney.

The culturally-diverse suburbs in Sydney's south-west have become ground zero in the city's fight against Covid, as new data reveals the frightening rate the disease is taking a grip there

That figure compares to the four-week combined total of just 69 cases from the suburbs around Bondi since this outbreak began there on June 16.

The white knuckle expansion rate in Sydney's south-west prompted renewed pleas from Ms Berejiklian for families there to heed the lockdown rules.

But health experts fear the disease is ripping through the community there because the largely ethnically-diverse profile of the area creates unique challenges.

English is not the first language in 71 per cent of homes in Fairfield, and 50 per cent of the area's 290,000 population were born overseas, according to council figures.

New South Wales Premier Gladys Berejiklian (pictured) has voiced fears Covid is being spread by large families 'ignoring the rules' while numbers spike.

Ms Berejiklian - whose parents emigrated to Australia from Armenia - fears extended family gatherings are accelerating the spread of the disease in the south-west.

And she fears fluid family set-ups - where households regularly mix - will cause the current lockdown to be extended beyond its planned end on Friday.

'Can I say to the communities in those areas, many have a similar background to me, please don't mingle with family,' she said.

WHICH SUBURBS ARE MOST AT RISK? Fairfield: 105 cases Canterbury-Bankstown: 73 Liverpool: 37 Georges River: 29 Cumberland: 19 Parramatta: 13 Campbelltown: 12 Strathfield: 10 Camden: 7 Penrith: 4 Blacktown: 4 *cases since June 16 Source: NSW Health Advertisement

'I haven't seen my parents since the lockdown started  it is hard.

'Can I say to everybody don't mingle with family, don't think it is okay to visit your cousins or have sleepovers. Please do not leave the house.'

The premier's calls were renewed on Sunday by NSW Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant.

'Please stay at home and that means staying within the one household,' she stressed. 'Do not leave that household setting and do not interact with other family members.

'And I know that that can be a difficult concept, given the closeness of family units, but at this point in time in responding to Covid, we need to keep the households as a discrete unit so we don't get that risk of further spread.'

Australia's chief medical officer Paul Kelly also echoed the concern and said he'd been told NSW was trying to get the message across to the communities.

He added: 'I know New South Wales Health have been increasing their reach in many different ways into the multicultural community of south-west Sydney in particular where there is extraordinary and wonderful family groups that are very closely associating with themselves.

'In normal times that is a good thing but these are not normal times and so that message really is, stay within your own house and stay within your own family within that house and don't go out.'

In just a few days, south-western suburbs including Cabramatta, Edensor Park and Canley Vale have already become the number one infection hotspots in the city, closely followed by suburbs in nearby Liverpool (pictured)

However locals believe badly targeted ad campaigns, which don't do enough to keep communities updated with the latest lockdown restrictions, are to blame for the soaring case numbers.

'It's not about the culture,' Kate Hoang, federal president of the Vietnamese Community in Australia told the ABC.

'The south-western Sydney people are following the law and health advice, but sometimes there is definitely an information lag due to language barriers compared to people in other suburbs.

'We want to do the right thing.'

Deputy NSW Police Commissioner Gary Worboys (pictured) said he hoped the different communities would work together to make sure the message got out promptly.

Deputy NSW Police Commissioner Gary Worboys said he hoped the different communities would work together to make sure the message got out promptly.

'It's incumbent on everyone to make sure that people in their family, their friends, that may have difficulty with language or difficulty with the context of where we're at at the moment, to explain to them that they simply need to stay at home for this while, until such time as the risk has moved,' he said.

The Fairfield local government area takes in 27 suburbs: Abbotsbury, Bonnyrigg, Bonnyrigg Heights, Bossley Park, Cabramatta, Cabramatta West, Canley Heights, Canley Vale, Carramar, Cecil Park, Edensor Park, Fairfield, Fairfield East, Fairfield Heights, Fairfield West, Greenfield Park, Horsley Park, Lansvale, Mt Pritchard, Old Guildford, Prairiewood, St Johns Park, Smithfield, Villawood, Wakeley, Wetherill Park and Yennora.

The exploding figures in these suburbs have also spilled into the nearby local government areas too.

Canterbury-Bankstown LGA which both borders Fairfield is also in the new danger zone as Sydney's second-most affected area, with 73 cases in this outbreak.

Canterbury-Bankstown LGA which both borders Fairfield is also in the new danger zone as Sydney's second-most affected area, with 73 cases in this outbreak (pictured, Liverpool on Saturday)

Randwick and Waverley which were the earliest affected suburbs in the current outbreak are the two next most affected, although recent case numbers have dwindled to almost nothing.

But now Liverpool - which also borders Fairfield - is seeing a surge its case numbers that's left it as the fifth most affected area in New South Wales with 37 cases.

It's followed by Georges River (29), Sydney (28), Bayside (24), Cumberland (19), Woollahra (19), Parramatta (13), The Hills Shire (13), Campbelltown (12), Sutherland Shire (11), Strathfield (10), Camden (7), Canada Bay (6), Burwood (5), Penrith (4), Blacktown (4), Hornsby (3), Willoughby (3), North Sydney (3), Inner West (3), Ryde (1) and Hunters Hill (1) from the metropolitan Sydney's LGAs.

Mosman, Lane Cove and Northern Beaches are the only city LGAs not to record a single case in the last four weeks.
The Foreign Office today flatly denied claims Joe Biden's team floated Barack Obama becoming the next US ambassador.

Speculation has been growing over the delay in appointing a permanent representative in London since the new administration took over in January.

The Sunday Express quoted Whitehall and Washington sources saying Mr Obama had been 'informally suggested' for the top diplomatic post.

However, the paper reported claims that Boris Johnson had rejected the idea, after the former president's high-profile intervention during the Brexit referendum battle.

The Foreign Office today denied claims Joe Biden's team (right) floated Barack Obama (left) becoming the next US ambassador

There have been tensions between Mr Obama and Mr Johnson since the Brexit campaign in 2016, when he visited London and warned the UK would be 'at the back of the queue' for a trade deal with the US if it left the bloc.

Mr Johnson was also said to have enraged Mr Obama by writing a column suggesting the then-president's remarks were linked to his Kenyan heritage and British colonial rule.

One senior Whitehall source told the Sunday Express: 'It's absolutely true that the Government has privately objected to an Obama appointment. It's also true that this is why there is a delay.'

But the Foreign Office said the claim was 'categorically untrue'.

'These reports are untrue. Questions on US appointments are for the US,' a spokeswoman said.

There are not thought to be any examples of former president becoming ambassadors in modern times.
The former head of Amazon UK has applied to become the head of the NHS in England.

Douglas Gurr, 57, was a global vice-president and head of Amazon UK from 2016 to 2020.

The applicant, from Leeds, who faced controversy over Amazon's tax practices and access to NHS data, was interviewed by Treasury officials last week.

The successful candidate will replace Lord Stevens of Birmingham, who has been the chief executive of the health firm since 2014.

Douglas Gurr, 57, was a global vice-president and head of Amazon UK from 2016 to 2020 and has applied to become the head of the NHS in England

It is likely to be controversial after Amazon's UK corporation tax bill halved to 4.5million in 2016, when Gurr took over as head of the UK branch, The Sunday Times reported.

The publication also revealed in 2019 that the company had been given free access to data from the NHS, with a partnership going beyond Alexa smart speaker.

Last year, Gurr told the Financial Times that the company was 'very happy to pay all the required taxes'.

In Gurr's time at the global retail giant, which also saw him operate as President of the company's China operations, Amazon also came under criticism in 2019 for not doing enough to fight climate change.

Thousands of Amazon employees signed a letter to the company's chief executive Jeff Bezos demanding an urgent need of leadership regarding its environmental impact.

Unite union executive officer Sharon Graham, who is leading a campaign for trade union rights at Amazon, said: 'Appointing a former Amazon boss as head of the NHS in England is like putting a fox in charge of a hen house.

'It is an alarming signal from this Tory government. Amazon is steeped in corporate irresponsibility, including tax avoidance, poor working conditions and union busting.

'Amazon's values are completely at odds with the values of the NHS. Douglas Gurr should not be allowed anywhere near our prized health service.'

Gurr is also a non-executive director of the UK government's Department for Work and Pensions.

It comes as Sajid Javid warned hospital waiting lists could soar to 13 million in the coming months after more than a year of lockdowns and warnings not to burden the NHS.

The new Health Secretary said internal modelling showed the current record number of 5.3million patients awaiting treatment could more than double this summer.

It comes as Sajid Javid warned hospital waiting lists could soar to 13 million in the coming months after more than a year of lockdowns and warnings not to burden the NHS

He believes the pandemic has had a huge impact on other health problems as well as affecting those who decided not to seek treatment for fear of catching the virus in hospital.

Modelling shown to the Health Secretary showed seven million people who would have normally sought medical treatment did not during the pandemic.

This includes tens of thousands of people who are believed to have missed out on checks for cancer and heart disease treatment, on top of untreated mental health issues.

Javid said clearing the backlog is one of his top priorities and current proposals include more virtual appointments and relying on private hospitals to provide care.
Daily testing could replace self-isolation for people who come into contact with positive Covid cases, a minister said today as the government scrambles to overhaul the NHS app.

Nadhim Zahawi confirmed that the contact tracing app is being reworked amid fears that millions of healthy individuals could be doomed to house arrest as infections rise.

But he made clear the government is also seriously considering doing away with self-isolation for those who are willing to take daily lateral flow tests.

Meanwhile, statistics expert Professor Sir David Spiegelhalter has called for the rules to be brought 'in proportion', warning that life could be 'massively disrupted' by the current quarantine requirements.

The latest data show the app issued more than 350,000 alerts during the last week of June, up 60 per cent on the previous week. People are told to self-isolate even if they test negative for the coronavirus and have already had both vaccines.

The problem is expected to get worse, with Health Secretary Sajid Javid warning there could be more than 100,000 new infections every day next month.

There had been hopes that the double-jabbed would be exempted from the rule on so-called 'Freedom Day', but that will now not happen until August 16.

Pubs, restaurants and shops fear they may have to close because so many staff are being left stuck at home by the warnings, and NHS hospitals in Leeds and Birmingham have even had to cancel routine operations because so many staff are isolating.

People pinged by the app are not legally obliged to isolate. Ministers have been forced to appeal for Britons not simply to delete the software, amid anecdotal evidence that is happening.

Government sources said the app's 'sensitivity' will be reduced to cut the numbers being asked to isolate unnecessarily.

Nadhim Zahawi confirmed that the NHS contact tracing app (pictured) is being reworked amid fears that millions of healthy individuals could be doomed to house arrest as infections rise

The latest data show the app issued more than 350,000 alerts during the last week of June, up 60 per cent on the previous week

Vaccines minister Nadhim Zahawi insisted people will still be 'expected' to wear coverings in confined spaces under new guidance being issued this week

CBI calls for self-isolation rules to be dropped earlier Business leaders have urged the government to drop self-isolation rules earlier than planned. The CBI, which represents 190,000 firms, said the requirement for the double-jabbed to quarantine after coming in contact with positive cases should go on July 19, rather than waiting until August 16. CBI boss Tony Danaker said: 'Learning to live and work with the virus is the right strategy, but we need to ensure this is a confident not an anxious transition, otherwise it won't work. 'Businesses have had a real boost this week with the Prime Minister's plans for the final stage of the reopening. 'What's needed now is a concerted effort between business and government to create widespread confidence from the get go.' Advertisement

Speaking on Trevor Phillips On Sunday on Sky News, Mr Zahawi said the Covid app 'was developed and operationalised at a time when we didn't have vaccines'.

He said: 'The team are looking at how we use that app in terms of alerting people to those around them who test positive.'

He added: 'It's important to look at that in a new context of this massive vaccination programme and make sure that it is fit for purpose for this new world including, for example, being able to take maybe five days, as we have piloted, of lateral flow tests and upload them to the system rather than having to self-isolate.'

Sir David Spiegelhalter told the Andrew Marr show: 'Few people told to self-isolate actually have an infection, and especially if they're vaxxed, and so I do think it makes sense to get this in proportion to actually 'what are the benefits of this massive disruption?''

Asked about stories of people deleting or disabling the NHS Covid app to avoid being 'pinged' and told to self-isolate, he said: 'I'm not going to comment on whether I think that's a good or bad thing to do.'

He added that if people are vaccinated and then pinged by the app it is a 'very low percentage you've actually got the virus'.

Meanwhile, Mr Zahawi today tried to quell a backlash from local leaders on plans to drop mandatory masks on public transport, as a poll found 50 per cent of Britons want 'Freedom Day' delayed.

The vaccines minister insisted people will still be 'expected' to wear coverings in confined spaces under new guidance being issued this week, even though the legal compulsion will go.

But he insisted that the unlocking schedule was set to go ahead as planned. 'We're seeing a rise in infection rates in this country, but also in Europe and elsewhere. The difference for us is that the vaccination programme has been so successful,' he said.

The comments came after Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham warned July 19 could turn into 'anxiety day', complaining that face coverings should remain a legal requirement.

Meanwhile, Sadiq Khan is still considering a bid to force passengers to keep wearing masks on trains, Tube and buses in London.

The level of nerves among the wider public was demonstrated today as research by Opinium found half would prefer the unlocking slated to happen a week tomorrow to be delayed.

Research by Opinium found half would prefer the unlocking slated to happen a week tomorrow to be delayed

Boris Johnson is due to confirm the government is dropping its law making masks mandatory from July 19

Some 31 per cent thought the timing was about right, while just 10 per cent said it should have been earlier.

Health Secretary Sajid Javid struck a harder line on masks in an interview with the Sunday Telegraph today, saying people would be irresponsible not to wear one in a crowded space.

'If someone is not doing that, frankly, they're just being irresponsible, they're not playing their role as a responsible citizen,' he said.

Asked on Sky News about the easings from July 19, Mr Zahawi said: 'I think it is important that we remain cautious and careful and the guidelines that we will set out tomorrow will demonstrate that - including guidelines that people are expected to wear masks in indoor, enclosed spaces.'

Mr Zahawi also suggested the government is looking at a test and release scheme to replace self-isolation for those who come into contact with a positive case, amid fears that millions of healthy people will be doomed to house arrest as infections rise.

The PM is expected to give final approval for Stage 4 of the roadmap tomorrow, with almost all legal restrictions set to be lifted.

But Nicola Sturgeon has already vowed to keep masks and other curbs in Scotland for longer.

Mr Burnham told the Observer: 'The government is simply wrong to frame everything from here as a matter of pure personal choice. It is not.

'Many people who are vulnerable to the virus have to use public transport and do their food shopping in person.

'That is why the wearing of face coverings in these settings should have remained mandatory.

'I will be strongly encouraging the people of Greater Manchester to continue to wear masks on public transport out of respect for others.'

Shadow health secretary Jon Ashworth said: 'Given Sajid Javid now considers it irresponsible to not wear masks then it would be equally irresponsible for his government to carry on with the plan to lift mask requirements while infections are heading to 100,000 a day.

'Reopening the economy must be done in a safe and sustainable way.

'That means continued mask wearing, support for increased ventilation standards in premises, decent sick pay, allowing people to continue working from home and ensuring all can access testing rather than introducing charges for lateral flow tests as Sajid Javid now proposes.'

Labour frontbencher Kate Green told Sky News this morning that she 'hopes' Mr Burnham and Mr Khan will keep mandatory masks on the transport systems in their areas.

Sadiq Khan is still considering a bid to force passengers to keep wearing masks on trains, Tube and buses in London
A 33-year-old man has been charged with attempted murder after a horrifying stabbing onboard an underground train that a left a victim with 'half his head hanging off'.

Ricky Morgan, 33, of no fixed address, is charged with attempted murder and possession of an offensive weapon in a public place.

He will appear at court in connection with the incident, which happened onboard a train between Green Park and Bond Street Underground stations on Friday, July 9.

Police lead away the suspect from Bond Street station shortly after the incident on Friday

Morgan has been remanded in custody to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Monday.

Following the incident, a man was taken to a local hospital where he remains in a stable condition.

Police and paramedics were called to Green Park and Bond Street Underground stations at around 6.45pm on Friday following reports of a stabbing.

The victim was rushed to hospital and a weapon was retrieved, British Transport Police said. Pictured: Heavy police presence at Green Park

Police and paramedics were called to Green Park Underground station at around 6.45pm on Friday following reports of a stabbing (file image)

British Transport Police said they were called to both Bond Street and Green Park tube stations in central London on Friday night to reports of a stabbing. The vicitim remains in a stable condition in hospital

They later arrested a man, who was seen being led away in handcuffs from Bond Street station while flanked by armed police officers.

Shocked witnesses at the scene said they saw a man with a bandaged head and leg being taken to an ambulance in a wheelchair by a paramedic outside the same tube station.

One passenger, in his 30s, who was among those trapped in a carriage with the attacker, said he feared he would be 'hacked to death underground'.

A terrified witness, who did not want to be named, said: 'All of a sudden there was a huge commotion.

'People started screaming, there was a stampede to the front carriage  people got trampled on and pushed into the plastic and stuff.'

Shocked witnesses consoled one another following the incident on the London Underground

The witness said he moved into the next carriage away from the attacker, adding that the victim had a wound on his head which he described as 'a deep gash meaning the side of his head was hanging off'.

'We heard screaming but we don't know what happened,' he said.

'It was completely and utterly terrifying. For about ten minutes I genuinely thought I would be hacked to death underground.

'However, people showed compassion and care to each other - people held other's hands, and a teenage boy saved his mum from being trampled.'

At Green Park station, which is less than a mile away from Buckingham Palace, members of the public were asked to evacuate away from the scene.
Almost 50,000 has been raised for a teacher forced into in hiding after he received death threats for showing caricatures of the Prophet Muhammad in class.

Hundreds of protesters gathered outside Batley Grammar School in March after an RE teacher showed pupils the 'offensive' image during a lesson on 'controversial issues'.

It is understood the cartoon was one previously published by French magazine Charlie Hebdo.

The Batley Grammar School teacher sparked fury by allegedly showing pupils cartoons of the Prophet Muhammad in a RE lesson. Pictured: Protesters outside the school in March

Following two days of protests the teacher was suspended and forced to flee his home with his partner and four children, under police protection, for the family's safety.

Bosses at the school in West Yorkshire apologised and the teacher was reinstated after an internal investigation.

But it is understood he has not returned to work at the 980-pupil school and has fled the local area in fear of his life.



Last month, MailOnline reported that two other members of staff who were also suspended by officials at Batley Grammar School, West Yorkshire have refused to return to the classroom after being reinstated, citing similar concerns that they could be attacked.

The RE teacher was reinstated at Batley Grammar School in West Yorkshire following an internal investigation, but is understood to have fled the area after receiving death threats

Now around 2,000 supporters have made donations to the Go Fund Me online fund, with contributions ranging from just a few pounds to a staggering 5,000.

The fund was set up on March 30 by Batley and Spen politician Paul Halloran, who stood for election in the constituency in 2019.

Posting on social media, Mr Halloran said: 'Nearly 50,000 raised so far.

'Thank you to everyone who has donated and equally as important, thank you to all of you that have publicly supported this fine young man and his family.'

In a post on the Go Fund Me page, Mr Halloran added: 'Many of you will have seen the events over the past few months concerning the teacher in Batley.

'This is not a platform to discuss the whys and wherefores. This page is set up to appeal to the wider public to offer your support.

'Contrary to some public statements, the teacher is not back at work and is still in hiding. Support will be needed in numerous areas.

'None of us can ascertain what costs may have to be met by the teacher, be they relocation, employment, legal or a multitude of other issues.'

Batley Multi Academy Trust, which runs the school, commissioned a report which found the issues could be resolved with 'additional management guidance and training'.

They added that the suspension has now been lifted and the teacher will return to work.

The trust apologised for any 'distress caused' by the controversial image and accepted the findings of the investigation.

Following two days of protests (pictured) in March, the teacher was suspended and forced to flee his home with his partner and four children, under police protection

A spokesperson for the trust said: 'We accept the recommendations of the independent expert investigation and will put them into practice immediately.

'The investigation recommends that the issues raised can be effectively dealt with through additional management guidance and training.

'The findings are clear, that the teaching staff involved did not use the resource with the intention of causing offence, and that the topics covered by the lesson could have been effectively addressed in other ways.

'In the light of those conclusions, the suspensions put in place while the investigation was underway will now be lifted.

'The trust deeply regrets the distress caused by the use of this resource, and we would like to thank all of the Trust's stakeholders for their contributions and support during what has been a difficult period.

'All those in our trust's family - whether parents, staff or members of our wider school community - want us to continue to provide a high-quality education so that our students aspire to excellence and achieve their full potential, both in their academic studies and personal development.'

The investigation found that the school's religious studies class 'follow the national guidance' but noted that difficult issues such as blasphemy were included in the curriculum.

The image in question was used as part of the 'controversial issues' topic in the religious studies scheme of work for year nine, the report said.

A spokesperson added: 'The trust fully recognises the level of concern this has caused.

'The independent investigation has concluded and the Trust has accepted that the teaching staff who developed and delivered the lesson genuinely believed that using the image had an educational purpose and benefit, and that it was not used with the intention of causing offence.'

Following the review, the trust found the school should take more careful account of various factors including 'the need to always promote fundamental humanitarian and British values'.
A man has been charged with murder over the death of a woman in South Australia.

The 44-year-old woman's body was found on Sunday morning by police inside a home in Mount Gambier.

Detectives initially said the woman's death was 'unexplained' and weren't ruling out whether she died of natural causes.

The 44-year-old woman's body was found on Sunday morning by police inside a home in Mount Gambier (stock image)

But a Mount Gambier man, 34, has since been arrested and charged with murder.

He was refused bail and is due to face Mount Gambier Magistrates Court on Monday.
A Sydney nurse has issued an impassioned plea calling on Australians to take Covid seriously as she reveals the terrifying impacts of the illness.

The young healthcare worker, Meg Johnson, took to Facebook to warn Sydneysiders to remain vigilant and abide by lockdown measures as the city grapples with a swelling outbreak of the highly-infectious Indian Delta variant.

The state recorded 77 new cases on Sunday - of which 33 were in the community while infectious - bringing the so-called Bondi cluster to 566 since June 16 when an infected airport driver first tested positive.

So far, there are 52 patients in hospital, including 15 in intensive care - including a teenager - and five on ventilators - with the city's three-week lockdown likely to be extended as some residents continue to flout the rules.

Sydney nurse Meg Johnson has revealed the terrifying impacts patients with Covid suffer, including struggling to breathe then forgetting who they are from the lack of oxygen (pictured, a Covid patient in Melbourne)

Fed up with people not taking the threat seriously, Ms Johnson cautioned the health crisis was 'no joke' after witnessing patients inside the ICU ward die, or become so deprived of oxygen they do not know who they are.

'After surviving the first wave last year  being separated from our friends and families  and wearing PPE (personal protective equipment) for up to 13 hours a day weve been asked to step up again  A lot of us turned up to work and our unit went back in to lockdown,' she wrote on Facebook, News.com.au reports.

'Every day I go in to work watching people struggle to breathe. Assisting in putting patients on life support and hoping they survive your shift. This is not a joke.

'This is only the beginning for us.'

Ms Johnson said her colleagues do not only put themselves at risk of catching the virus, but also have to deal with patients becoming aggressive.

Nurse Meg Johnson has warned Sydneysiders to remain vigilant and abide by lockdown measures as the city grapples with a swelling outbreak of the highly-infectious Indian Delta variant (pictured, a healthcare worker in Sydney)

'If you want to know how quickly and severely it can make you sick  within a 12 hour shift a patient can go from alert and laughing with you to being so severely hypoxic they cant remember who or where they are,' the post continued.

'Sometimes even become violent. My colleagues and I are putting ourselves at risk taking care of these patients every day.'

She begged Australians to follow public health orders so the outbreak could be quashed as quick as possible.

'If people dont start doing the right thing by staying at home and being vaccinated it will only get worse,' she said.

Ms Johnson said she and her colleagues have to face the risk of catching the illness and violent patients each they go to work. Pictured: Health workers conduct COVID-19 tests at the St. Vincents Hospital drive-through testing clinic at Bondi Beach

'Come and take a walk in our shoes. Its not something to joke about.'

Her words struck a nerve with other health care workers, with one recounting similar experiences.

'I can relate. I dont understand that some of our fellow citizens dont want to follow the guidelines,' they commented.

'Im on the frontline too. After expecting my patient to get discharged home in the morning and ending up in ICU in the afternoon. No medical history. I had to go to the staffroom and cry.

'Thinking about these poor families that suffer. It can happen to all of us.

'This wave is definitely different.'

The post was also shared on Twitter where it quickly went viral, racking up more than 1200 shares.

Sunday's 77 new infections marked the largest surge of daily cases in the state since the first outbreak in March 2020.

More than 50 of the cases were identified as close contacts of Covid-19 positive cases.

The state also tragically recorded its first Covid death on Sunday since the outbreak started last month, with a 90-year-old woman who was a close contact of a previous case dying hours after testing positive.

Sydney recorded 77 new cases of Covid in the 24 hours to 8pm on Saturday

Meanwhile, 15 people remain in ICU, including a teenager, three people aged in their 20s, 30s, and 40s, three people in their 50s, five in their 60s, two in their 70s, and one in their 80s.

In NSW, there were more than 48,000 Covid-19 tests conducted within the last 24 hours, with police issuing 106 infringement notices for breaching the public health order.

Those fined included a group of 15 men caught playing cards at a house in Marrickville and ten people who attended an 18th birthday in Auburn.

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian reminded Sydneysiders to obey lockdown orders after they were tightened with residents ordered to wear face masks in apartment buildings and everyone outside of Sydney banned from coming in.

Announcing the latest Covid figures, Ms Berejiklian said on Sunday she expected the cases to soar past 100 on Monday.

She would not clarify if the lockdown would be extended and would wait to see how the Covid-19 outbreak developed before making any decision.
A mother of a two-year-old boy, who was kidnapped by her ex-boyfriend along with her son, has been found dead in the Tennessee woods just hours after her ex-boyfriend was arrested for her son's kidnapping.

Tyler Rios, 27, allegedly abducted his son Sebastian Rios, 2, and the boys mom, 24-year-old Yasemin Uyar on Friday, according to the Union County Prosecutors Office.

The toddler was found unharmed with Rios in Monterey, Tennessee, the next day.

Uyar's body was found later on Saturday in a wooded area nearby.

Rios has since been arrested for abducting his son. It is not clear if he faces charges in connection with Uyar's death.

Tyler Rios, left, the father of Sebastion Rios, has been arrested for his son's alleged abduction, and reportedly told police officers where he hid Yasemin Uyar's body, right

Cops had sent out a widely disseminated Amber Alert on Friday, which was cancelled after the boy was found

Uyar's mother, Karen, told CBS 2 News that Tyler told police where he hid her body.

Uyar was last seen with Sebastian in Rahway, New Jersey on Thursday.

A widespread Amber Alert was issued for the mother and son the next day, when Sebastian did not show up to his daycare and Uyar did not arrive for her scheduled work shift.

Members of the Rahway Police Department conducted a welfare check for Uyar and her toddler son at her home on Friday morning, but found nobody inside.

Sebastian and his mother Yasemin had last been seen in Rahway on Thursday

On Saturday, prosecutor Lyndsay Ruotolo said that her office is 'relieved' that Sebastian was found that his father has been arrested.

'We are still urging anyone with information about the whereabouts of Yasmine Uyar to come forward and tell us what they know, even anonymously,' she said in a statement following his rescue.

Rios will remain in custody in Tennessee until he is extradited back to New Jersey, officials said. Charges are expected to be filed in Union County Superior Court.

Uyar's tearful mother, Karen said she a 'grateful' to have her grandson back.

'I'm so grateful to know that he's okay, but I am just praying every second that we find Yasemin, we call her Yazzi, that we find Yasemin,' Karen Uyar told WABC.

Yasemin's sister Marissa told WABC that she and Rios are not together and he recently became homeless.

Friends have also said that Uyar had a restraining order against Rios.

The grandmother has detailed her daughter's and grandson's alleged abuse on Facebook

Cops are pictured outside of a home in New Jersey after an Amber Alert was issued for the then-missing boy

Police are seen responding to the home where they found Yasemin and her son Sebastian missing

Police are seen responding to the home where they found Yasemin and her son Sebastian missing

Court records reviewed by DailyMail.com show Rios was charged with aggravated assault and strangulation of a domestic violence victim in 2018, as well as theft.

Rios took a plea deal signed in February 2020 in which he was convicted of the domestic violence assault charge but the theft and strangulation charges were dismissed.

The document shows that the court had found 'aggravating factors' that Rios was at risk of committing 'another offense.'

He was sentenced to serve 180 days in jail and three years on probation, and was ordered to attend anger management counseling.

The court also ordered him to have no contact with the victim, while noting that he already had restraining orders against him issued by Family Court.

Grandmother Karen Uyar detailed her daughter's alleged abuse in a post made to Facebook

Karen Uyar had posted screenshots showing that Rios had been charged with crimes in Arizona, and included screenshots of his mugshot

Court records reviewed by DailyMail.com show Rios was charged with aggravated assault and strangulation of a domestic violence victim in 2018, as well as theft

The victim was not named in the court documents but the dates of the legal troubles align with a post Yasemin's mother Karen made to Facebook in 2019 in which she called Rios an 'alcoholic, abusive monster.'

Karen Uyar detailed how Yasemin had 'become involved' with Rios several years before the post was made in 2019.

'His drunken rages have caused him to choke my daughter till she passed out. Leaving her on the floor, he stole her car and fled,' Karen Uyar wrote.

Karen Uyar wrote how Rios had 'given her more black and blues than I can count' and 'continuously pounced on her self esteem with verbal and emotional abuse almost as much as the physical abuse.'

'He would tell her she was crazy and f**ked up and when she would beg to go for help he would walk out for hours and not help/respond to her. Telling her to 'toughen up',' Karen Uyar wrote.

Karen Uyar detailed how Yasemin had 'become involved' with Rios several years before the post was made in 2019

Yasemin, pictured, allegedly struggled for years with getting away from Rios

The concerned grandmother wrote that her daughter suffered from post-partum depression that included insomnia after her son was born.

'He would leave for hours and not answer her. Take the baby and tell her she wasn't a good mother. Tell her how weak and useless she was. It was heartbreaking to see how he treated her. Yet I needed leaving him to be HER CHOICE,' Uyar wrote.

Uyar added that she has feared she would receive phone calls telling her that her daughter is in a hospital or dead.

The concerned grandmother said that, at the time, Rios' criminal history extended across a number of states including: New York, New Jersey, Mississippi and Georgia.

Yasemin 'finally got the strength to leave' in August 2019 - the results of a 'combined effort' to get her and Sebastian into a hotel, where she spent two 'terrifying days' worried that Rios would find her, the grandmother alleged.

'This enraged him. He stalked her. Through their phones, friends, social media. Any way he could find,' Karen Uyar wrote.

At some point, Rios - now seemingly living in Phoenix, Arizona - allegedly convinced Yasemin to let him see their son.

Karen Uyar wrote that Rios was drinking and 'degrading' on 'day one' of her arriving in Arizona with the young boy.

Little Sebastian Rios is pictured in a photo

Uyar said she received an alarming text from her daughter around 8 p.m. on October 22, 2019 telling her to 'call 911' and 'give address.'

The grandmother, remembering that Rios had allegedly been arrested weeks prior for firing a gun in city limits, worried that her daughter and grandson were dead.

Rios finally let Yasemin leave the apartment more than two hours after the call, Karen Uyar alleged in the Facebook post.

But before doing so, he allegedly cut up all of Yasemin and Sebastian's identification documents including the little boy's birth certificate, Yasemin's bank cards and social security cards, and her driver's license.

'I love you too much to let you leave' Rios said at the time, the grandmother alleged.

She added: 'I need people to see this alcoholic, abusive monster for who he is.'

The post from Uyar included screenshots of the Maricopa County Sheriffs Office inmate search database, showing that Rios had been hit with charges including assault and unlawful imprisonment.

Yasemin's sister Marissa told NJ.com that Rios recently broke into her sister's home, and police officers were called.

Before Yasemin's disappearance, she 'was pretty busy packing and trying to get herself together' in order to move and once again get away from Rios.

'Man I just want him to let at least my nephew go. I mean I want my sister to come home, but, I mean, something's got to give, you know?' she told the outlet.
A seven-point plan of how to reinstate Donald Trump as president 'in days, not years' circulated at the Conservative Political Action Conference in Dallas this weekend.

The so-called 'Trump Card' details that the former president's best chances of retaking his seat in the Oval Office before the 2024 election is by getting him placed in the House Speakership post and ultimately leading Congress in impeaching and removing President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris from office.

The card, obtained by Forbes on Friday, appears to have been made and distributed by a group called Patriots SOAR, which is not associated with CPAC organizers.

On the '7-pt. plan to restore Donald J. Trump in days, not years,' readers are prompted to visit a webpage for Patriots SOAR.

At the top of the page, there is a link for a 90-second video with the thumbnail claiming 'YOU can help restore our Commander-in-Chief. (And have fun while doing it!)'.

A so-called 'Trump card' was handed out by a conservative group at CPAC detailing a '7-PT. plan to restore' Trump to office 'on days, not years'. The group Patriots SOAR does not appear to be affiliated with the event organizers

The plan includes making Trump the House Speaker  and third-in-line in presidential succession  and then impeaching and removing Joe Biden and Kamala Harris. Trump, pictured at the UFC fight in Las Vegas on Saturday, will speak at CPAC on Sunday afternoon

" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" width="636" height="550" >

A letter on pages seven and eight of the 13-page document is signed by 'your fellow countryman, Robert J. Antonellis'. He is described as an 'Author, Investigative-Researcher & Engineer' in the letter.

While Antonellis is mentioned several times in the document, it is not clear what other individuals are associated with Patriots SOAR.

The group did not immediately respond to a request for comment from DailyMail.com.

Trump will speak at the conservative gathering in Dallas on Sunday afternoon. The ex-president made his first public post-presidency remarks at CPAC in Orlando, Florida in February 2021.

The far-fetched and unlikely plan would require that Republicans regain control of the House in 2022, which Trump and the GOP are working hard to ensure happens.

The Patriots SOAR card prompts readers to visit a 13-page document online, where a letter from Robert J. Antonellis (pictured) details the plan. It is not clear what other individuals are associated with the group

After current Speaker Nancy Pelosi 'melts like the Wicked Witch of the West,' a 'trusted conservative' needs to be elected into her old post, the information card details.

That new speaker would be responsible for revealing 'Trump legitimately won the 2020 election' and then drafting articles of impeachment for Biden and Harris.

Then the scenario gets even more improbable in describing the speaker would place Trump in the third place in the line of succession to the presidency, which is the House Speaker position.

The group details, finally, that the House and Senate would need to impeach and convict the president and vice president, allowing Trump to rise to the presidency.

The 10-page document from Patriots SOAR includes a slew of conspiracy-related information, like detailing 'secret satanic sacrifices' of Martin Luther King Jr. and John F. Kennedy Jr.

Before this new plot was revealed, rumors circulated that Trump felt he could be reinstated as president by August. MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell, a fervent Trump ally, said he was the one who informed the ex-president this could happen.

Trump's circle, however, denies that he feels he will be reinstated as president later this summer.
A Washington Heights high school principal is facing a probe by the New York City Department of Education for allegedly discriminating against white teachers.

The probe was launched after faculty members at High School for Law and Public Service accused principal Paula Lev of discriminating against staff and conspiring to get a white colleague fired.

Faculty filed a complaint with the Education Department and also voted they had 'no confidence' in Lev's leadership.

The complaint, which was obtained by the New York Post, claims that Lev 'flagrantly but unsuccessfully attempted to divide our school by race' and told an employee that she 'was going to get rid of all these white teachers that aren't doing anything for the kids of our community.'

'She definitely has something against white people,' it adds.

Paula Lev, the principal of the High School for Law and Public Service, is facing a probe by the New York City Department of Education for allegedly discriminating against white teachers, according to a complaint filed with the Department of Education's Office of Equal Opportunity

Faculty members filed the complaint last week, along with a vote of 'no-confidence' against Lev

A faculty member writes in the OEO complaint that Lev, 39, who is Dominican, approached him with a plan to terminate an unidentified white, female employee. Lev asked him to get a state education certification so he would have more qualifications than the white employee and Lev could fire her as 'excess' staff.

'Ms. Lev has asked me to conspire with her on a couple of occasions in getting rid of my colleague,' the faculty member wrote in the complaint.

'She also stated to me in Spanish that she was 'going to get rid of all these white teachers that aren't doing anything for the kids of our community. I believe Ms. Lev is not suited for the position of principal because of the comments she has made to me about white people and the malicious ways in which she thinks and speaks. She is not fit to be a leader of a school.

'As a school staff, we have lost confidence, creditability, trust, and most importantly we have lost hope in Ms. Lev as a principal at the High School for Law & Public Service.'

It is unclear if Lev knew about the complaint, but on the last day of school she laid off the faculty member who filed it and said he was no longer needed at the school and should look for work elsewhere in the DOE.

'He blew the whistle on her and a week later he was (let go),' an unnamed source told the New York Post.

According to DoE Press Secretary Nathaniel Styer, the High School of Law and Public Service qualified to excess a small number of staff at the beginning of next school year. The designation of excess staff is determined by contractual rules regarding seniority. Staff would have received a letter regarding potential excessing, which is not uncommon at this time of year as enrollment, budgets, and staffing needs change. All staff have the opportunity to take jobs on the open market, which the staff members at this school have done.

Regarding the complaint, Styer sent the Daily Mail a statement that reads, We're committed to providing a supportive, high-quality learning environment at all our schools, and the superintendent and executive superintendent are working closely with the principal and the whole community to address concerns. We will work to ensure students and staff continue to receive the support they need.

Tensions first flared between Lev and staff in February, when she publicly accused Nick Bacon, the union chapter leader, of being racist after he filed a routine grievance about a scheduling issue affecting faculty members.

Lev confronted Bacon in front of a room of his colleagues and said, 'I wasn't sure what your problem with me was, maybe it's because I am a woman of color and you're a white man?'

Tensions first flared between Lev and staff in February, when she publicly accused Nick Bacon, the union chapter leader, of being racist

Bacon wrote about the incident on March 2 in a letter signed other staff members and sent to Manny Ramirez, the superintendent of District 6. The grievance was solved in Bacon's favor and Ramirez acknowledged in a staff meeting that Lev's comment was 'inappropriate,' but that the two must work together and move past it.

Lev later apologized to Bacon for publicly calling him out, a course told the New York Post. However, she stood by her comment and said it represented how she felt. She also recommended that Bacon read Robin DiAngelo's 2018 book 'White Fragility: Why It's So Hard for White People to Talk About Racism.'

She then encouraged Bacon to have 'courageous conversations' with her about the themes in the book, referencing a term used by the Department of Education during workshops on implicit bias.

Faculty members said that Bacon reached out to DoE Chancellor Meisha Porter earlier this month and asked for her to get involved.

He also met with dozens of staff members on June 24 to determine the conditions of their 'no confidence' vote. Their reasons, listed in the complaint, included that she had 'disrespected, slandered, and/or arbitrarily gone after respected educators, to the detriment of our entire school community.'

They also asserted that Lev violated their labor contract and left staff out of debates on important school decisions.

'With almost the entire 40+ membership voting, including both tenured and untenured teachers, paraprofessionals, and related service professionals, 83.3percent voted that they no longer have confidence in our principal to lead our school,' reads a statement about the vote, which was obtained by the New York Post.

It's not too common for staff to file votes of 'no-confidence' against school officials. In 2019, faculty at Forest Hills High School in Queens filed a no-confidence vote against Principal Ben Sherman because he allegedly did nothing to stop students from smoking marijuana. Sherman was eventually removed from his position by the DoE.

Lev began her tenure at the High School for Law and Public Service, on the George Washington Educational Campus, in February 2020 and was promoted to principal after her predecessor Nicholas Politis retired.

Before that, she worked for the Department of Education for 13 years in various roles. Since 2015, she has also been an adjunct professor at New York Institute of Technology, specializing in graduate work with students with disabilities.

Lev, whose salary was $165,542 last year, is married to Benjamin Lev, who is an assistant principal with the DoE.
An Arkansas family was finally reunited with their dog, which disappeared a decade ago after an animal rescue group discovered their pet 1,600 miles away thanks to a microchip.

Razzle, a black miniature schnauzer, went missing from the Howard family's home in the town of McRae back in 2011.

Video of the touching scene was posted to Facebook on Friday, showing Razzle's long flight and journey home and the moment he was reunited with his family.

'A little bit older than you probably last saw him,' rescuer Jeremy Wade told the Howard's as he brought the dog out of it's crate on the small single-engine plane.

'Just a little bit,' Aaron Howard responded.

'It's Razzle!' he exclaimed right after, as Rhonda Howard makes her way to him.

The family could then be seen embracing the long-lost pup, who was ultimately found in Stockton, California, 1,600 miles away from where he went missing from his family's home in the Ozarks back in 2011.

Razzle was then taken to a local shelter at some point, where his health had deteriorated significantly and his 'medical state was so fragile' that he wouldn't have survived a commercial flight as animal cargo, according to Wade.

So a local animal lover and pilot, Wade agreed to fly him from California to Arkansas to reunite him with his family. On Tuesday, Vickey Langley and her sister Rhonda welcomed him home in a tearful reunion.

'Getting Razzle back has meant the world to our family,' Langley, who got Razzle microchipped for her sister Rhonda Howard back in 2005, told the news outlet.

'We have been overwhelmed with the kindness from all the people who have helped to get him home.

Pictured: Rhonda Howard reunites with Razzle who went missing from the family's home in 2011, turning up in all the way California where he was discovered at a shelter

Razzle went missing from the Howard family's home in the town of McRae back in 2011. Pictured after his recovery

The Howard family was reunited with their lost dog Tuesday after 10 years apart, following an incredible 1,600 mile rescue mission to bring the pup home from California to Arkansas

Simon and Seth, then 5 and 12-years old, respectively, and their dog Razzle (right) prior to the pup's disappearance. Now, at 18 and 25 years old, the two boys were able to hold him once again

Razzle's microchip led Pilots N Paws, an animal rescue group, to determine his owners, with the group's 'transport queen' Jennifer Colletto then contacting dog rescuer Wade to fly the dog home.

'It was so wonderful to reach in and lift him out of the crate for them to see him for the first time,' Wade told Fox News.

'I'd just like to think of myself as a very small part of a very important chain that has to all work to try to reduce the number of homeless or neglected animals out there,' Wade told Fox News.

Razzle had received 'lots of vet visits... as they tried to stabilize his health a bit,' for the long trip home.

'His health was dire when the shelter found him,' Wade said of the start of Razzle's dramatic cross-country rescue.

Pictured: the Howard family reunited with Razzle after the dog's owners were identified through a microchip scan

Wade said the dog's 'medical state was so fragile' that he wouldn't have survived a commercial flight as animal cargo, so he offered to fly Razzle directly to his home himself

Wade is a dog rescuer and airplane pilot hobbyist with the rescue group Pilots N Pups, which reunites lost dog's with their owners throughout the country

'It is impossible generally to get to Arkansas without a stopover, unless [you're] going to XNA [Northwest Arkansas National Airport] in Fayetteville, where they sometimes have direct flights,' Wade said.

Their journey began around 3:30am on July 6, when Wade flew from San Carlos in the southern part of California to Stockton in Northern California, where Razzle was waiting for him in the shelter.

After a five-and-a-half-hour long flight to Santa Fe, New Mexico for a fuel stop, the two continued along the trip for another five-and-a-half hours to Heber Springs, Arkansas, incidentally the town that Wade grew up in, where Razzle's family awaited their arrival.

'And so it was my pleasure to get to be a part of getting him home,' he said.
A three-month old baby has died and her mother rushed to hospital after they were hit by a train in Melbourne's outer east.

Emergency crews rushed to the horrifying scene at Kumbada Ave in Upwey at 5.10pm on Sunday evening, where a pram was found alongside the tracks.

The child suffered critical injuries and was airlifted to hospital while the mother was rushed to hospital and placed under police guard.

A three-month old baby is fighting for life after her and her mother were hit by a train in Melbourne's east (stock image)

Emergency crews rushed to the horrifying scene at Kumbada Ave in Upwey at abound 5.10pm, where a pram was found alongside the tracks (stock image)

She was been taken to hospital under police guard as detectives investigate 'all possibilities' surrounding the incident.

The site has been cordoned off with police tape as teams from Victoria Police, Ambulance, CFA and SES comb the scene.

Police warned of major delays on the Belgrave line, with buses replacing trains between Belgrave and Upper Ferntree Gully.
Advertisement

Pope Francis has made his first public appearance since undergoing surgery last week, standing on a hospital balcony in Rome.

The 84-year-old has been recovering from surgery to remove a portion of his large intestine at the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic in Rome.

He stood for 10 minutes greeting well-wishers, seen for the first time since the procedure on July 4, at noon on what would have been the hour when he traditionally appears from a window at the Vatican overlooking St Peter's Square.

Pope Francis leads the Angelus prayer from a balcony of the Gemelli hospital

His hospital stay was expected to last seven days. It is not clear when he might be discharged.

Reading from prepared remarks, he told the crowds: 'I thank everyone. I very much felt your closeness and the support of your prayers.'

He described his hospital admission as an opportunity to understand the importance of a 'good health service, accessible to all, as it is in Italy and other countries.

'We mustn't lose this precious thing.'

Pope Francis appeared on the balcony of the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic in Rome on Sunday

People and staff from the hospital gathered outside to listen to the Angelus prayer

He appeared on the balcony with young oncologic patients on Sunday morning

The Pope shakes hands with hospital workers as he is wheeled through the corridors

He greets a nun at the Gemelli Hospital in Rome on his way to address the public from the hospital balcony

Pope Francis leading the Sunday's Angelus prayer from the balcony of his room, at the Gemelli Hospital, in Rome, where he is recovering from colon surgery

Pope Francis speaks with a health worker at the Gemelli hospital, just before addressing the nation from the hospital's balcony

Pope Francis appears with some young oncologic patients while he gives his address from the hospital's balcony

Similar to the NHS, Italy has a national public health service, and residents can often receive treatment at private hospitals, with the costs reimbursed by the government.

He also took the time on Sunday to talk about current events.

He reiterated his closeness to Haiti, recalling the assassination of its president Jovenel Moise and wounding of the first lady Martine Moise last week.

Mrs Moise issued the recorded statement in Creole from the Florida hospital yesterday where she was being treated for wounds suffered in the attack early Wednesday.

'I'm alive, thanks to God,' she said in the recording. 'But I love my husband Jovenel. We fought together for more than 25 years.

'During all these years, love radiated within the home. But suddenly, the mercenaries came and pelted my husband with bullets.

She spoke hours after it emerged that the leader of Haiti's opposition hired a Washington DC lobbyist two days before President Moise was assassinated - and that he is now due to be questioned by cops over his murder.

The Pope is recovering from scheduled surgery at the hospital in Rome

He spoke of topics including the EU, the environment and his relationship with Haiti

Pope Francis is greeted by hospital staff as he sits in a wheelchair inside the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic in Rome

Young cancer patients stand by the Pope as he gives his address from the hospital's balcony

From the balcony of his tenth-floor hospital window Pope Francis delivers his blessing to the crowds gathered below

Francis also spoke about the environment, which has been a major theme of his papacy since it began in 2013.

He urged people to look after 'the health of seas and oceans' and said 'no plastic in the sea!'

He also voiced hope that 'Europe may be united in its founding values'.

It could be a possible reference to tensions between EU leaders and Hungary over LGBTQ rights crackdowns.

The new law is ostensibly designed to crack down on paedophilia, but critics say the law dangerously conflates paedophilia with homosexuality and stigmatises support for the LGBTQ+ community.

The law prohibits the sharing of any content portraying homosexuality or sex reassignment to children under-18 in school sex education programs, films and advertisements.

Earlier this week, European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen warned Hungry to reverse course on its anti-LGBTQ+ policy after pressure mounted on Brussels to cut EU funding to Budapest.

The Pope has been in hospital since July 4. It is not known when he will be discharged

The 84-year-old has been recovering from surgery to remove a portion of his large intestine

Pope Francis is greeted by a nun as he sits in a wheelchair inside the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic in Rome

Pope Francis holds the hand of a hospital worker as he is wheeled to give his address to the nation

Pope Francis appears on a balcony of the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic in Rome

Pope Francis appears with some young cancer patients on the hospital balcony as he addresses the public

The EU is soon set to reveal legal proceedings against Hungary as a result.

According to Bloomberg, the European Commission is planning to send Hungary a letter of formal notice as a last resort before the matter is taken to the EU Courts of Justice.
Boris Johnson is facing a growing backlash over the UK's foreign aid cut amid claims Bill Gates is set to join charities donating millions of pounds to prop up projects.

Labour and the Archbishop of Canterbury have ramped up calls for the Government to reverse its temporary reduction in funding - which comes after coronavirus hammered the economy.

Philanthropists including the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation are expected to give 100million to a one-year plan that would partially make up the shortfall on programmes to tackle disease.

The move by the consortium, which also includes the Children's Investment Fund Foundation, is said to be aimed at embarrassing the PM, according to the Sunday Times.

The UK has long been one of the few countries that sticks to the international target of committing 0.7 per cent of national income to aid spending.

But the government has cut that level 0.5 per cent for the time being, equating to a 4 billion decrease.

Boris Johnson is facing a growing backlash over the UK's foreign aid cut amid claims Bill Gates (pictured) is set to join charities donating millions of pounds to prop up projects

The move by the consortium, which also includes the Children's Investment Fund Foundation, is said to be aimed at embarrassing the PM (pictured)

A group of some 50 Tory MPs  including former PM Theresa May  has been demanding a Parliamentary vote on the decision, which ministers have so far dodged.

Shadow international development secretary Preet Kaur Gill said the philanthropists' decision to step was an embarrassment for Britain.

'This is a shameful moment for this Conservative government,' Ms Gill said.

'As low income countries continue to battle against the pandemic, this contribution to try and plug some of the gap left by the government's slashing of life saving aid programmes is welcome, but it will only be able to prevent the very worst of the damage caused.

'The government's decision to cut the aid budget, against the wishes of Parliament, has already cost lives and they must reverse it or put to a vote as soon as possible.'

The Archbishop of Canterbury, the Most Rev Justin Welby, applauded the philanthropists' move, but said he was still praying for the Government to restore its promises on aid.

'These diseases cause unimaginable suffering and entirely preventable deaths,' he told The Sunday Telegraph.

'This emergency funding is welcome and desperately needed, but I continue to pray for the restoration of our promise to those living in extreme poverty around the world: which was to love them as our neighbour through our commitment to the 0.7 per cent aid spending target.'

Former musician and Live Aid organiser Sir Bob Geldof said it was 'disgraceful' private benefactors were needed to atone for the Government's 'abandonment' of those requiring the aid.

'How disgraceful that in order to prevent the fatal consequences of Boris Johnson's broken word, private individuals need to fill the fatal void of an illegal abandonment of the weakest of the world to their awful, inevitable fate,' Sir Bob said.

The Telegraph reported the temporary funding for neglected tropical diseases will support countries most affected by the cuts, including Bangladesh, Ethiopia, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Nepal, Nigeria, Sudan, South Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda and Zambia.

A group of some 50 Tory MPs  including former PM Theresa May (pictured centre)  has been demanding a Parliamentary vote on the decision, which ministers have so far dodged

The charities told the paper the cuts put at risk sexual reproductive health services and supplies, including contraceptives, and said this undermined the Government's stated goals of helping keep girls in school.

Baroness Sugg, who resigned as a Foreign Office minister in protest at the cuts, added the UK's funding withdrawal for contraception would have led to unintended pregnancies and unsafe abortions, adding the Government 'must return to its promise next year to avoid permanently losing the progress made thanks to the generosity of British taxpayers'.

Kate Hampton, chief executive officer of the Children's Investment Fund Foundation, told the paper: 'We are stepping in so that when the Government returns to its commitments next year as promised, the progress made will not have been lost.'
The Justice Department on Friday released body camera footage recorded by three Washington DC police officers on January 6, showing the moments they were attacked as they tried to rescue a trampled woman.

The woman, Rosanne Boyland, 34, from Georgia, was among four Trump supporters who died as rioters swarmed the U.S. Capitol.

At 4:19pm, the mob can be seen making another push into the doorway of the Capitol, with Boyland among them.

Less than a minute later, the police pushed back, and the mob can be seen tumbling out of the door and down the steps.

The footage shows one of the three officers, identified by the initials A.W., coming out of a tunnel to help Boyland.

Body camera footage from one officer, identified as A.W., shows him coming out of a tunnel to try and assist Rosanne Boyland, who had been knocked to the ground and trampled. A.W. is confronted by Jack Whitton, pictured, who began attacking him

A.W. is wrestled to the flood by Whitton, who then tried to steal his baton

As A.W. lies on his back, Whitton is seen above him shoving other officers out the way

The videos show her body on the ground just outside a door on the Capitol's west side that was the scene of some of the day's worst violence.

Rosanne Boyland, 34, from Georgia, died during the pro-Trump riot on the U.S. Capitol on January 6

A.W. is knocked off his feet by a rioter, Jack Whitton, who leapt over a barricade to attack the officer, trying to steal his baton.

Above A.W.'s head, insurrectionists are seen using flag poles to smash their way into the Capitol.

A.W., lying on his back, is dragged into the crowd. One man screams 'traitor' at him.

A second officer, C.M., tried to help A.W. and an unnamed third officer, who was dragged into the crowd.

C.M.'s body camera footage shows Boyland on the ground.

Another rioter, Michael Lopatic, rushes towards C.M. and punches him in the head.

The officer is lying on his back while rioters attack the U.S. Capitol above his head

One man can be seen kicking at the door and trying to force his way into the building

C.M.'s body camera is knocked to the ground, with a splattering of blood.

C.M. was taken to hospital with concussion, although it was unclear if the concussion was in that attack or a later one.

Lopatic has been charged with assault, among other felonies.

On April 7 the Washington DC medical examiner concluded Boyland died as a result of a drug overdose, listing her death as 'accidental' and the cause as 'acute amphetamine intoxication.'

Boyland was pronounced dead at the hospital at 6pm, around an hour and a half after the bodycam footage was filmed.

The Georgia woman had promised her family that she would not get involved in anything violent as she headed to D.C. for Trump's 'Stop the Steal' rally on January 6.

The family of Rosanne Boyland, pictured, has blamed former President Trump for her death in the riot but friend Justin Winchell who was with her when she died blame 'Antifa'

Boyland had earlier been seen carrying a 'Don't Tread on Me' Gadsden flag, an iconic Revolutionary War flag

Boyland is circled on the ground the right as the man circled left tramples over her

Boyland is seen here lying on the ground on the bottom right as cops face off with rioters. Her friend Justin Winchell, pictured in the light blue hoodie to the right, is heard in bodycam footage of the clash screaming for help as he crys that Boyland 'is dead'

Justin Winchell is pictured here crying for help for his friend Rosanna Boyland

Her family told the New York Post that she had a drug problem but as she began to get clean, got wrapped up the QAnon conspiracy theory and refused to believe that Joe Biden had won the election.

Before her death, she had posted pictures and videos of former president Trump, alongside his unfounded allegations of election fraud.

In an interview with CBS46, Justin Winchell described the terrifying moment as he watched his friend die.

'People were in there to start stuff, but it wasn't supposed to be a violent event,' Winchell said, claiming that a few people began to push others, sparking the riot.

'They basically created a panic, and the police, in turn, push back on them, so people started falling.

'I put my arm underneath her and was pulling her out and then another guy fell on top of her, and another guy was just walking [on top of her],' he continued.

'There were people stacked 2-3 deeppeople just crushed.

'I lost a dear, dear friend, an amazing friend,'.

Boyland's own family have placed the blame with Trump for her death.

The Department of Justice said that six months after the attack, more than 535 defendants had been arrested, and the FBI said they have yet to identify more than 300 individuals believed to have committed violent acts on the Capitol grounds, including over 200 who assaulted police officers.

FBI Director Christopher Wray said late last month: 'This is far from over.'
Fencing surrounding the perimeter of the Capitol was finally removed on Saturday, signaling a return to normalcy six months after the January 6 Capitol riot  but the public is still banned from going inside the building.

'The United States Capitol Police has taken down the fence around the U.S. Capitol,' the agency said in a statement Sunday.

'These changes were made based on the current threat environment and recent enhancements to the USCP's response capabilities,' the statement continued.

Acting U.S. Capitol Police Chief Yogananda Pittman said: 'We are extremely grateful for the support we continue to receive in support of our critical mission. We are prepared to quickly enhance our security posture should the need arise.'

Despite the step toward reopening, the Capitol still remains closed to visitors, which has been the case since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic in March 2020.

Workers took down the remaining fencing surrounding the Capitol Building Friday and Saturday. Here a worker disassembles the fencing in front of the iconic rotunda

'These changes were made based on the current threat environment and recent enhancements to the USCP's response capabilities,' U.S. Capitol Police released in a Sunday statement

Members of the public enter and exit the Capitol plaza on Saturday as workers remove the security fencing, which has been in place since the January 6 Capitol riot

Fencing was put up around the entire Capitol Hill complex in January 2021, after a mob of pro-Trump supporters descended on Congress and breached the building in an attempt to stop the body from certifying the election for Joe Biden.

The large 'outer perimeter fence' was removed in March 2021, but a smaller fence around the actual Capitol Building remained in place. That fencing has now been removed.

'The Department greatly appreciates the community's patience and understanding during this challenging time,' USCP wrote in its statement on the fencing coming down.

Workers were pictured Friday and Saturday removing the remaining black fence surrounding the Capitol.

The public immediately began walking closer to the Capitol than they have been able to in more than half-a-year.

Republicans have been highly critical of USCP and Democrats' reluctance to take down fencing, send home deployed National Guard and reopen the Capitol to visitors.

Visitors, however, are still not permitted inside the building. The Capitol has been closed to the public since the onset of the coroanvirus pandemic in March 2020

The public immediately returned to the Capitol grounds Saturday after the fence was removed

The House sergeant-at-arms released a memo on Wednesday to all members of Congress and staff, which was obtained by DailyMail.com, announcing the impending removal.

'Based on USCP's assessment of the current threat environment and USCP's enhanced coordination with District of Columbia, neighboring state and federal law enforcement partners, the Board supports USCP's recommendation to remove the temporary fencing around Capitol Square. Removal is expected to begin as early as Friday, July 9th and conclude within three days, weather permitting,' it read.

The black perimeter fence is one of the last remaining signs of the January 6 riot. Even with its removal, the Capitol will remain closed to most visitors, the memo said.

Capitol cops initially set up 7-feet steel fences topped with razor wire and road blocks from the Lincoln Memorial to the Capitol in an operation that cost $1.2million, but it has since been scaled back.

The National Guard, which was deployed in the aftermath of the attack, also left in May after months.

The tall, black fencing was installed around the Capitol after the January 6 riot. The larger Capitol Hill perimeter fencing was removed in March 2021, and the remainder around just the Capitol building came down four months later

'Although the temporary fencing will be removed, current building access restrictions will remain in place,' according to the memo.

Federal officials are aware of online chatter from far-right groups and people who believe in conspiracy theories discussing potentially returning to Washington as part of an unfounded and baseless conspiracy theory that Trump will be reinstated in August.

Five people died in the January attack, including a Trump supporter shot and killed by police inside the Capitol and three people who suffered medical emergencies in the crowd.

One police officer, Brian Sicknick, died from a stroke a day later and two other officers later took their own lives.

On April 2, driver Noah Green, 25, rammed into barricades outside the Capitol and killed Capitol Police officer William Evans..

The U.S. Capitol Police will continue to monitor intelligence information and potential threats, and new fencing could be swiftly erected, the memo said.

'The Architect of the Capitol has the ability to and will expeditiously reinstall the temporary fencing should conditions warrant,' according to the memo.

The Capitol has been closed to most visitors for the longest stretch in the nation's history, the one-two hit of the coronavirus outbreak that shuttered operations last spring and the insurrection that kept it off limits.

The perimeter fence around the Capitol has been scaled down in the six months since January 6 to immediately surrounding the building

Capitol cops initially set up 7-feet steel fences topped with razor wire and road blocks from the Lincoln Memorial to the Capitol in an operation that cost $1.2million, but it has since been scaled back

It's now nearing 16 months.

The parklike grounds have been a favorite spot for visiting tourists to snap a photo of the iconic dome, and some 2.5 million visitors typically tour the inside of the building each year, among some 12 million who annually visit the campus-like complex of offices.

The memo came six months after the attack and followed consultations with the Capitol Police Board, the Capitol Police and congressional stakeholders.

Removal of the fence will take up to three days, weather permitting.

Lawmakers have been away for the Fourth of July holiday week, but some are expected to return Monday.

During the virus outbreak, House lawmakers have been working under a proxy voting system that enabled them to avoid travel during the pandemic, though most now vote in person. Senators have mostly been back to business as usual.
Two migrants had to be pulled out of the sea after falling into the water from their inflatable boat, as dozens of other migrants were detained by Border Force as they crossed the English Channel today.

An RNLI inshore lifeboat had to be launched following reports two people wearing lifejackets were in the water after falling off a rigid hulled inflatable boat with around 20 people packed on board.

The voluntary crew of the Ramsgate lifeboat then towed the drifting rib into Ramsgate harbour in Kent where Border Force officers were waiting for them.

Inflatable boats packed with dozens of migrants were seen crossing the English Channel over the weekend as people smugglers took advantage of calm seas

An RNLI spokesman said: 'The Ramsgate inshore lifeboat launched at 10.10am this morning following reports there were people in the water.

'Two people, who were wearing lifejackets, were rescued from the water and the rib, from which the casualties had fallen, was towed into Ramsgate and the relevant authorities informed.'

In a separate incident, pictures posted on social media showed around 15 to 20 migrants apparently coming ashore near Folkestone, Kent after arriving on an inflatable.

People smugglers took advantage of calm seas over the weekend with 225 migrants crossing the treacherous 21-mile Dover Straits in 10 boats on Saturday.

Around 225 migrants travelled across the treacherous 21-mile Dover Straits on Saturday

Nearly 1,000 migrants are thought to have travelled towards UK shores this month alone

A further 131 were intercepted by French authorities before they could reach British waters.

A Border Force officer was also seen carefully carrying a youngster in his arms from a patrol boat to the quayside at Dover harbour as the child's parents walked close behind.

All three were wearing bright orange life jackets with the toddler's parents wearing facemasks.

The group included a number of children and appeared to be mainly African and Middle Eastern.

It brings the number to have made the crossing so far this month to 972.

A total of 6,878 migrants have now made the treacherous trip so far this year - which is almost triple the 2,439 who had arrived by this point in 2020.

A Border Force officer carries a toddler from a migrant boat in Dover, Kent on Saturday

The Home Office is yet to release official figures for crossings made on Sunday.

The latest incidents occurred as Home Secretary Priti Patel is set to announce plans to make it a criminal offence for migrants to attempt to enter the UK without valid entry clearance.

The Borders Bill will attempt to deter illegal entry and crackdown on people smuggling gangs.

It will be introduced next week after June saw more migrants cross the Channel by small boat than in any month ever before.

Border Force detained 2,179 people making the dangerous trip across the world's busiest shipping route in the world in 92 boats.

Home Secretary Priti Patel is set to announce plans to make it a criminal offence for migrants to attempt to enter the UK without valid entry clearance

It smashed the previously monthly record set last September when 1,954 arrived on UK shores.

Clandestine Channel Threat Commander Dan O'Mahoney said: 'We are seeing an unacceptable rise in dangerous and unnecessary small boat crossings, because illegal migration across Europe has led to a significant increase of migrants in northern France seeking to enter the UK illegally.

'The government continues to target the criminal gangs who are responsible for these illegal crossings at every level with intelligence and surveillance, and the joint work with France means we have doubled the number of police officers on the ground in France who are intercepting the crossings and arresting the gangs behind this trade.'

In 2020, 8,410 migrants arrived on UK shores compared to just 1,850 in 2019.
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez lashed out at Lauren Boebert on Saturday as she accused Republicans of wanting to 'strip' Americans' of their unemployment benefits and get rid of 'public safety nets.'

The progressive representative's comments came in response to a video of Congresswoman Boebert at CPAC on Saturday saying: 'We're here to tell government, 'We don't want your benefits. We don't want your welfare. Don't come knocking on my door with your Fauci Ouchi.''

'You leave us the hell alone,' Boebert, the mother of four who represents Colorado's 4th district, told a cheering crowd in Dallas, Texas.

AOC responded with: 'Tell 'em loud and proud girl! GOP will strip your unemployment protections and dismantle any semblance of a public safety net we have left! Then make working people pay way more for everything on low wages while Wall St gets a meal ticket!'

'Good ol conservative values baby!' she sarcastically quipped.

Colorado Rep. Lauren Boebert told a crowd at CPAC on Saturday that government needs to 'leave us the hell alone', and stop dolling out welfare and pushing vaccines on Americans

Progressive Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez responded by saying: 'Tell 'e loud and proud girl!' and claiming that 'good ol conservative values' are 'stripping unemployment' and 'dismantling public safety nets'

Boebert spoke to the Conservative Political Action Conference gathering in Dallas, Texas on Saturday where she pushed for smaller federal government.

She also referenced the 'Fauci Ouchie,' which has become a nickname for the coronavirus vaccine mixed with the president's top COVID-19 adviser Dr. Anthony Fauci.

President Joe Biden announced a new initiative that would 'target' unvaccinated Americans in a door-to-door campaign where neighbors, canvassers and government affiliates would encourage hesitant people to get the jab.

Republicans have excoriated the president on this door knocking plan, claiming it is a way for the federal government to keep tabs on Americans' personal medical decisions  like not getting the coronavirus vaccine.

Boebert is also pushing back against Biden's massive welfare initiatives, including stimulus and relief from the American Rescue Plan and the president's proposed American Families Plan, which includes a slew of tax-payer-funded welfare and social programs.

Boosted unemployment benefits, which last through September, have increased jobless benefits by $300 per week, meaning any American who made $32,000 or less in 2019, could earn more in unemployment benefits in 2021.

Boebert said at CPAC 'Don't come knocking on my door with your Fauci Ouchi' in reference to the new door-to-door campaign urging Americans to get the coronavirus vaccine

Some social programs Biden is proposing in his so-called 'human infrastructure' bill are free community college for all Americans, universal pre-kindergarten and child tax credits for low and middle income families.

Ocasio-Cortez, one of the most progressive members of Congress, is pushing for these initiatives to pass and demanding more climate change provisions are included in sweeping bills.

Boebert, on the other hand, is pushing for a smaller government and less intervention from Washington.

Former President Donald Trump will speak at the CPAC gathering on Sunday afternoon.
Britain has recorded 31,772 new cases of coronavirus and 26 new deaths in the latest government figures.

The figure for this week's new cases is 221,052, representing a staggering 27.3 per cent rise - or 47,390 cases - compared to last week.

The rate per 100,000 people is now 298.1.

The last seven days have seen 203 deaths within 28 days of a positive test result. This is a worrying rise of 66.4 per cent from the week prior.

Last Sunday had 24,647 new cases, so todays new figures are an increase of 7,125.

The new figures come as Nadhim Zahawi today tried to quell a backlash from local leaders on plans to drop mandatory masks on public transport, as a poll found 50 per cent of Britons want 'Freedom Day' delayed.

The vaccines minister insisted people will still be 'expected' to wear coverings in confined spaces under new guidance being issued this week, even though the legal compulsion will go.

Britain has recorded 31,772 new cases of coronavirus and 26 new deaths in the latest government figures

But he insisted that the unlocking schedule was set to go ahead as planned on July 19 - with Boris Johnson due to give more details at a press conference tomorrow.

'We're seeing a rise in infection rates in this country, but also in Europe and elsewhere. The difference for us is that the vaccination programme has been so successful,' Mr Zahawi said.

The comments came after Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham warned July 19 could turn into 'anxiety day', complaining that face coverings should remain a legal requirement.

Meanwhile, Sadiq Khan is still considering a bid to force passengers to keep wearing masks on trains, Tube and buses in London.

The level of nerves among the wider public was demonstrated today as research by Opinium found half would prefer the unlocking slated to happen a week tomorrow to be delayed.

Vaccines minister Nadhim Zahawi insisted people will still be 'expected' to wear coverings in confined spaces under new guidance being issued this week

Research by Opinium found half would prefer the unlocking slated to happen a week tomorrow to be delayed

Boris Johnson is due to confirm the government is dropping its law making masks mandatory from July 19

CBI calls for self-isolation rules to be dropped earlier Business leaders have urged the government to drop self-isolation rules earlier than planned. The CBI, which represents 190,000 firms, said the requirement for the double-jabbed to quarantine after coming in contact with positive cases should go on July 19, rather than waiting until August 16. CBI boss Tony Danaker said: 'Learning to live and work with the virus is the right strategy, but we need to ensure this is a confident not an anxious transition, otherwise it won't work. 'Businesses have had a real boost this week with the Prime Minister's plans for the final stage of the reopening. 'What's needed now is a concerted effort between business and government to create widespread confidence from the get go.' Advertisement

Some 31 per cent thought the timing was about right, while just 10 per cent said it should have been earlier.

Health Secretary Sajid Javid struck a harder line on masks in an interview with the Sunday Telegraph today, saying people would be irresponsible not to wear one in a crowded space.

'If someone is not doing that, frankly, they're just being irresponsible, they're not playing their role as a responsible citizen,' he said.

Asked on Sky News about the easings from July 19, Mr Zahawi said: 'I think it is important that we remain cautious and careful and the guidelines that we will set out tomorrow will demonstrate that - including guidelines that people are expected to wear masks in indoor, enclosed spaces.'

Mr Zahawi also suggested the government is looking at a test and release scheme to replace self-isolation for those who come into contact with a positive case, amid fears that millions of healthy people will be doomed to house arrest as infections rise.

The PM is expected to give final approval for Stage 4 of the roadmap tomorrow, with almost all legal restrictions set to be lifted.

But Nicola Sturgeon has already vowed to keep masks and other curbs in Scotland for longer.

Mr Burnham told the Observer: 'The government is simply wrong to frame everything from here as a matter of pure personal choice. It is not.

'Many people who are vulnerable to the virus have to use public transport and do their food shopping in person.

'That is why the wearing of face coverings in these settings should have remained mandatory.

'I will be strongly encouraging the people of Greater Manchester to continue to wear masks on public transport out of respect for others.'

Shadow health secretary Jon Ashworth said: 'Given Sajid Javid now considers it irresponsible to not wear masks then it would be equally irresponsible for his government to carry on with the plan to lift mask requirements while infections are heading to 100,000 a day.

'Reopening the economy must be done in a safe and sustainable way.

'That means continued mask wearing, support for increased ventilation standards in premises, decent sick pay, allowing people to continue working from home and ensuring all can access testing rather than introducing charges for lateral flow tests as Sajid Javid now proposes.'

Labour frontbencher Kate Green told Sky News this morning that she 'hopes' Mr Burnham and Mr Khan will keep mandatory masks on the transport systems in their areas.
Joshua Manns, 25, is charged with neglecting, abusing and killing a 3-year-old in his care on June 11

A Florida babysitter has been charged with neglecting, abusing and killing a three-year-old boy in his care, after he left the boy's mother a note saying he accidentally drowned in the bathtub - after the autopsy revealed he'd been beaten.

Joshua Manns, 25, reportedly called 3-year-old Jameson Nance's mother on June 11, while she was at work, and told her he had drowned in the bathtub. But when she got back to her apartment in West Melbourne, she found that Manns was nowhere to be seen and had never called for medical assistance.

Instead, authorities say, he left her a handwritten note saying he had a seizure while Jameson was in the tub, resulting in him drowning.

Authorities said he wrote in the letter: 'no one would believe him and he did not want to spend his life in prison for something he did not do.'

The medical examiner, though, did not find any evidence that the young boy had drowned, saying he actually suffered from battered-child syndrome, suffering from weeks-old injuries, including a broken rib, stab wounds to the head and brain swelling.

Jameson had also suffered a broken leg last March, and the Florida Department of Children and Family Services investigated another broken leg he had when he was just 1-year-old, according to WESH.

And shortly before he died, the department had gone to his daycare to investigate 'suspicious injuries,' like burn marks on his arm.

Jameson Nance, 3, was found dead in his bathtub on June 11. A medical examiner later ruled that he died of from battered-child syndrome, suffering from weeks-old injuries, including a broken rib, stab wounds to the head and brain swelling

Manns was seen leaving the Grand Oaks at the Lake Apartments shortly after Jameson was reported dead

The West Melbourne Police Department posted on Facebook asking for any information about Manns' whereabouts, describing him as a person of interest in the case

Manns is not the boy's father, authorities said, but lived in the same apartment building as Nance and his mother.

He reportedly left the Grand Oaks at the Lake Apartments shortly after his phone call with Nance's mother, and was gone by the time police arrived on the scene.

West Melbourne police then put up a post asking for the public's help in locating Manns, describing him as a person of interest in the case.

More than two weeks later, on June 28, he was arrested by United States Marshalls in Georgia, ClickOrlando reports, as he was trying to escape with the help of his family to get back to his home state of West Virginia.

He was arraigned on Friday, standing silently as a Florida judge charged him with first-degree murder as well as neglect and abuse charges.

Manns is now being held without bond as a fugitive.

Manns was located passing through Georgia, where he was arrested by U.S. Marshalls
Donald Trump Jr. previewed his father's CPAC speech by claiming 'you never know' what you'll get with Donald Trump.

'I can assure you it's going to be interesting. I can assure you people will be outraged,' the eldest Trump son told Fox News at the Conservative Political Action Conference on Friday before taking stage for his own speech.

Fox asked Don Jr. if he could tease Trump's speech, to which he said: 'With my father, you never know, right?'

It is known, however, that the ex-president does not plan to use his platform at the largest and most influential conservative gathering to announce a reelection bid for 2024.

He all but told Fox News' Maria Bartiromo on Sunday that he will likely enter the race for the White House, but made clear that he can't officially make his announcement yet.

Donald Trump Jr., in previewing his father's CPAC speech, said 'you never know' what you'll get with Donald Trump, but said: 'I can assure you people will be outraged'

'The question is will you make the run again?' Sunday Morning Futures host Bartiromo asked Trump in a call-in interview Sunday morning.

'Well, I do know my answer but I cannot reveal it yet  and, because that has to do with campaign financing and everything else, you know that,' Trump explained.

He added: 'So I cannot reveal it yet but I absolutely know my answer and we're going to do very well and people will be very happy.'

He then confusing said that mainstream media outlets like CNN and MSNBC, which have had decreasing ratings since Trump left office, will come out to endorse him.

Later Sunday afternoon, Trump will speak at CPAC in Dallas.

Also at the gathering, a seven-point plan of how to reinstate Trump as president circulated.

The so-called 'Trump Card' details that the former president's best chances of retaking his seat in the Oval Office before the 2024 election is by getting him placed in the House speakership post and ultimately leading Congress in impeaching and removing President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris from office.

The card, obtained by Forbes on Friday, appears to have been made and distributed by a group called Patriots SOAR, which is not associated with CPAC organizers.

On the '7-pt. plan to restore Donald J. Trump in days, not years,' readers are prompted to visit a webpage for Patriots SOAR.

At the top of the page, there is a link for a 90-second video with the thumbnail claiming 'YOU can help restore our Commander-in-Chief. (And have fun while doing it!)'.

A so-called 'Trump card' was handed out by a conservative group at CPAC detailing a '7-PT. plan to restore' Trump to office 'on days, not years'. The group Patriots SOAR does not appear to be affiliated with the event organizers

" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" width="636" height="550" >

The plan includes making Trump the House Speaker  and third-in-line in presidential succession  and then impeaching and removing Joe Biden and Kamala Harris. Trump, pictured at the UFC fight in Las Vegas on Saturday, will speak at CPAC on Sunday afternoon

A letter on pages seven and eight of the 13-page document is signed by 'your fellow countryman, Robert J. Antonellis'. He is described as an 'Author, Investigative-Researcher & Engineer' in the letter.

While Antonellis is mentioned several times in the document, it is not clear what other individuals are associated with Patriots SOAR.

The group did not immediately respond to a request for comment from DailyMail.com.

Trump will speak at the conservative gathering in Dallas on Sunday afternoon. The ex-president made his first public post-presidency remarks at CPAC in Orlando, Florida in February 2021.

The far-fetched and unlikely plan would require that Republicans regain control of the House in 2022, which Trump and the GOP are working hard to ensure happens.

The Patriots SOAR card prompts readers to visit a 13-page document online, where a letter from Robert J. Antonellis (pictured) details the plan. It is not clear what other individuals are associated with the group

After current Speaker Nancy Pelosi 'melts like the Wicked Witch of the West,' a 'trusted conservative' needs to be elected into her old post, the information card details.

That new speaker would be responsible for revealing 'Trump legitimately won the 2020 election' and then drafting articles of impeachment for Biden and Harris.

Then the scenario gets even more improbable in describing the speaker would place Trump in the third place in the line of succession to the presidency, which is the House Speaker position.

The group details, finally, that the House and Senate would need to impeach and convict the president and vice president, allowing Trump to rise to the presidency.

The 10-page document from Patriots SOAR includes a slew of conspiracy-related information, like detailing 'secret satanic sacrifices' of Martin Luther King Jr. and John F. Kennedy Jr.

Before this new plot was revealed, rumors circulated that Trump felt he could be reinstated as president by August. MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell, a fervent Trump ally, said he was the one who informed the ex-president this could happen.

Trump's circle, however, denies that he feels he will be reinstated as president later this summer.
The governor of Texas has been accused of attempting to make it harder for people of color to vote, after he moved to end one county's 24 hour and drive-through voting.

Greg Abbott, a Republican, appeared on Chris Wallace's Fox News show on Sunday morning.

Republicans in state legislatures have filed scores of elections-related measures this year, some of which stem from baseless claims by former President Donald Trump and his allies challenging the results of the presidential election.

Wallace asked Abbott about his moves to curtail Harris County's experiment with new voting procedures.

'They would ban 24-hour voting and they would ban drive-through voting,' said Wallace.

Greg Abbott, the Republican of Texas, appeared on Fox News on Sunday and was grilled about his move to end experiments expanding access to the polls

'There was no allegation of any fraud in either of those. Harris county, the Houston area, employed both of those and more than half of the voters who showed up were people of color.

'You say you want to make it easier to vote. That's going to make it harder to vote and the question is why make it harder for some Texans to vote unless the point is to suppress voting by people of color?'

Abbott, governor since 2015, denied that he was deliberately suppressing votes.

He argued that Harris county was exceeding its legal limits in bringing in new voting rules.

'It is the states, not counties, that have the authority to regulate elections,' Abbott said, accusing Harris county of having tried 'to create its own election system that had never been used in the state of Texas.'

Asked why he couldn't simply let Harris county continue with the expanded voting system, Abbott said that the same concerns about disenfranchising people were made when voter I.D. laws were introduced.

Voters are seen lining up to vote in Austin, Texas, on November 3, for early voting. The election saw a record-breaking early voter turnout

With an hour left to vote, people wait in line at Manor ISD Administration building on November 3, 2020 in Manor, Texas

'When Texas passed a voter I.D. Law - everyone said the exact same thing, this is going to disenfranchise people of color, it will reduce voting,' Abbott said.

'And the fact of the matter is after we passed voter I.D., we increasingly saw every election cycle, more people go and vote, they did not make it harder to go vote, it was easier to go vote.

'And the same thing applies here and with 24-hour voting, one thing that we want to make sure that we have is integrity in the ballot box system and we need to have poll watchers and monitors and is can be hard to get people watching the polls 24 hours a day.'

Abbott said that drive-in voting 'violates the fundamentals of the way voting integrity has always been achieved' through 'the sanctity of the ballot box.'

Wallace accused Abbott of trying to prevent people of color from voting - something Abbott strongly denied

Curbside voting is not a new practice, with states like Virginia offering the car service for elderly and disabled voters. Some states, including North Carolina, have expanded curbside voting to anyone who wants to use it.

Drive-through voting, however, is not widely used and Harris County's experiment was controversial, with the state of Texas going to court to try and block it before November's election.

'If you do drive-through voting are you going to have people in the car with you and it could be somebody from your employer or somebody else who may have some coercive effect on the way you may cast a ballot - which is contrary to you going to the ballot box alone and no one there watching over your shoulder,' said Abbott.

'So the way you vote, only you will know what that vote will be.

'And to allow other people to pile into a car with you, it will alter that.'

Abbott said drive-through voting also breaks state law bans on electioneering close to where people vote.

'The bottom line is Harris county, under the constitution, is not allowed to come up with their own rules.

'What Texas is doing, by adding more hours, we're making it easier for people to go and vote,' he said.

Abbott said that in President Joe Biden's home state of Delaware, voters were more limited than in Texas, yet people were not complaining.

'We are providing more hours per day for voting to make sure that in the body of any type of background, any type of working situation, is going to have the opportunity to go vote,' he said.

'If you look at the hours of voting that Texas provides, it is far more hours of voting then exists in the state where our current president voted in where they had exactly zero hours of early voting.

'It's far easier to vote in the state of Texas than it is in Delaware and yet nobody is claiming that there is some type of voter suppression taking place in Delaware.'
BBC chiefs are 'far from united' on the move to appoint ex-Huffington Post editor Jess Brammar to the BBC amid a political row over the decision, a source says.

The BBC is understood to be reviewing Ms Brammar's social media after it was warned her appointment as executive news editor would 'shatter' their relationship with Downing Street.

Sir Robbie Gibb, Theresa May's former aide, attempted to stop Ms Brammar from being handed the key editorial role as he felt it would damage No 10's trust in the BBC, the Financial Times reported.

The BBC said yesterday that 'no recruitment process has been blocked'.

However, sources told the Sunday Times that bosses at the Broadcasting House are 'far from united' over the controversy, adding that 'other dynamics remain at play.'

They also alleged that some employees have complained were 'effectively told not to apply' for the role.

BBC chiefs are 'far from united' on the move to appoint ex-Huffington Post editor Jess Brammar (above) to the BBC amid a political row over the decision, a source says

It is claimed that Sir Robbie (pictured in May 2019), an ex-senior BBC journalist and editorial advisor to GB News, had sent a text message to BBC director for news and current affairs Fran Unsworth saying she 'cannot make this appointment'

While head of HuffPost, Ms Brammar pushed the site's left of centre views on Brexit, the Black Lives Matter movement and Meghan Markle, and clashed with equalities minister Kemi Badenoch.

Her tweets from the last few years on those subjects have since been deleted.

She left HuffPost earlier this year after the site made most of its UK-based reporters redundant after it was taken over by Buzzfeed.

Ms Brammar is now being considered for a role 'overseeing output on the public service broadcaster's domestic and global news channels'.

Following Gibb's alleged intervention, Labour has written to BBC bosses demanding they tell him to resign from his role at Broadcasting House.

Deputy leader Angela Rayner wrote to chairman Richard Sharp and director-general Tim Davie to call for the resignation of Gibb from the board.

Ms Rayner said the claims go 'to the core of both operational and governance matters for the BBC'.

Her letter said: 'Putting pressure on the recruitment process of staff is entirely outside of the remit of the board and a total abuse of position.'

However, a BBC spokesman said 'as a general principle, board members are able to discuss issues with other board members or senior executives'.

Ms Rayner's letter said: 'I cannot believe that a BBC board chair could ever allow a director to act in this way and stay in post. I hope, therefore, that Robbie Gibb's actions were news to you.

It comes at a time when the broadcaster's director-general Tim Davie (pictured in Glasgow in February this year) has attempted to address concerns over its impartiality

'I expect that you will now ask him to resign his position and investigate how this happened.'

Allies of Gibb claim he only intervened after he learned of internal dissatisfaction with the alleged decision to appoint Ms Brammar.

Ms Rayner called for the release of minutes and other correspondence relating to Gibb's appointment, and for an explanation over whether his links to the Conservative Party were properly taken into consideration.

She said: 'Non-executive directors are supposed to be committed to delivering the mission of the BBC, not wielding political influence or lobbying on behalf of the Government on staff appointments.'

Jo Stevens, Labour's shadow digital, culture, media and sport secretary, has also urged Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden to join calls for Gibb to resign.

The FT claims that Gibb, an ex-senior BBC journalist and editorial advisor to GB News, had sent a text message to BBC director for news and current affairs Fran Unsworth saying she 'cannot make this appointment' and that the government's 'fragile trust in the BBC will be shattered' if she did.

It comes at a time when the broadcaster's director-general Tim Davie has attempted to address concerns over its impartiality.

Ms Stevens said: 'These allegations raise very serious questions about Conservative cronyism at the heart of the BBC.

'If Robbie Gibb is in post to further Tory interests rather than the public interest, then he is in the wrong job. Oliver Dowden must join the calls for him to resign or the BBC must sack him immediately for the sake of its own integrity.'

The Sunday Times claims Mr Dowden is refusing to become involved at this stage.

Gibb did not respond to requests for comment yesterday but The Independent newspaper said he had referred the outlet to the BBC's statement on the matter.

A BBC spokesperson said: 'We will respond to the letter in due course. As the BBC has set out, we do not comment on ongoing recruitment processes - which are the responsibility of the executive.

Labour's shadow digital, culture, media and sport secretary, said: 'These allegations raise very serious questions about Conservative cronyism at the heart of the BBC' (file photo)

'For absolute clarity, no recruitment process has been blocked.

'The responsibility for staff appointments rests with the executive, not the BBC board. Board members are able to discuss issues with other board members; they are also able to raise issues with senior executives.

'It is essential that board members can debate and discuss issues. They have an absolute right to do so and it is fully consistent with having a unitary board. What individual board members can't do is make decisions which are for the executive. That hasn't happened. Good governance principles were adhered to.

'As we have clearly stated, the outcome of this specific recruitment process will be announced in due course.

'The letter raises a number of issues around Robbie Gibb's appointment to the BBC board. Non-executive members for the nations (such as Robbie Gibb) are appointed by order-in-council on the recommendation of the UK Government, not the BBC's nominations committee.

'Robbie Gibb has no role advising the Government and he stepped down from the Government's PSB (public service broadcasting) panel when he took up the role at the BBC.'

Sir Robbie, who is now a senior communications adviser at Kekst CNC and director of the Jewish Chronicle newspaper, did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

His brother Nick Gibb is Conservative MP for Bognor Regis and Littlehampton and minister for school standards.
An investigation into the unexplained death of a British soldier whose body was left to decompose in his barracks for three weeks has found serious failings in the Army's duty of care.

The internal probe was launched after the corpse of Lance Corporal Bernard Mongan, 33, was discovered in Catterick Barracks, North Yorkshire, on January 23 last year.

The father-of-one's body was found in a state of decomposition after laying undiscovered for an astonishing 21 days - without anyone realising he was missing.

The delay in discovering the soldier, who had served time in Iraq, was branded 'unacceptable and profoundly regrettable' in a report seen by the BBC.

Part of the Army's Service Inquiry Report, which has not yet been released to the public, reads: 'Failings in the proper management of personnel led to the delay in the discovery of L/Cpl Mongan'.

Lance Corporal Bernard Mongan, 33, (pictured) was discovered in Catterick Barracks, North Yorkshire, on January 23 last year

The damning report also reveals how L/Cpl Mongan had made several complaints of bullying which had not been properly looked into.

Meanwhile, concerns about the Royal Signals soldier's welfare were not adequately passed on.

The panel leading the inquiry said the report 'makes for sobering reading'.

L/Cpl Mongan had been spending his Christmas break in his room at Catterick Barracks ahead of starting an attachment with the Army's 77 Brigade in Berkshire on January 7 last year.

However neither camp realised that he was missing, despite duty officers in Catterick being told to get in touch with those staying in over Christmas to 'ensure they are safe and well.'

The inquiry found the plan had 'not been communicated and implemented as effectively as it should have'.

Despite L/Cpl not showing up to work at Hermitage Camp in the new year, his superiors did not notice his absence as there was no roll call or head count - a fact the report said was 'distressing'.

The tragic soldier had complained that he was being bullied in the run up to his unexplained death and he even kept a record of his 'perceived mistreatment' - but the panel found his allegations had not been sufficiently investigated.

No one realised that L/Cpl Mongan (pictured) was missing, despite duty officers in Catterick being told to get in touch with those staying in over Christmas to 'ensure they are safe and well'

It came after he was seriously assaulted in Catterick in November 2018.

While that attack was being probed by the Royal Military Police, support for L/Cpl Mongan was 'not effective', the report found.

It came after a reported suicide attempt by the soldier in 2016 , which was not passed on to the relevant superiors, the report added.

Meanwhile, one witness recalled how they had seen the corporal 'sat on his bed...uncontrollably crying', as recently as 2019.

After reading the report, L/Cpl Mongan's wife Beth, from whom he was separated, said: 'It's clear Bernie felt bullied and his mental health suffered'.

The pair, who shared a child, had kept in contact.

She added: 'He was telling people he was afraid and he was not checked properly in the days before he died'.

The unexplained death of Bernard Mongan occurred at Catterick Barracks in North Yorkshire

Emma Norton, who runs the Centre for Military Justice, said the failings bear a striking similarity to other cases - including the 2011 death of Cpl Anne-Marie Ellement.

'Despite all the reassurances to the family in that case... the Army now appears to admit that the same thing happened to Bernie,' she said.

In a statement, Brig Edward Chamberlain, head of the Army Personnel Services Group, said: 'There were clearly failings in our duty of care to Lance Corporal Mongan.

'The delay in discovering he was deceased was unacceptable and profoundly regrettable. We are truly sorry that such a situation should have arisen.'

He said the wellbeing of Army servicemen and women was 'critical', adding: 'In this case, we fell short of the standard which our armed forces and their families are entitled to expect, and for that we apologise.

'We will implement all the recommendations in the Service Inquiry to ensure an incident like this does not happen again.'

Anyone seeking help can call Samaritans free on 116 123 or visit Samaritans.org
England fans across the globe have shared the weird and wonderful locations that they will be roaring the Three Lions on from in the Euro 2020 final against Italy.

From the freezing dunes of Antarctica to the sun soaked beaches of Cyprus, England's supporters are ready to roar the Three Lions to victory over Italy.

More than 35 million expectant fans are expected to tune in for Sunday's historic clash, with 60,000 supporters piling into Wembley stadium for the occasion.

But supporters from across the world will also watch on from wherever they are, as England play in their first international final in more than half a century.

Hundreds of English fans living down under in Melbourne celebrated in the Charles Dickens Tavern as Luke Shaw prodded England 1-0 ahead.

England fans celebrate the first goal while watching at the The Charles Dickens Tavern in Melbourne

Antarctic researchers wave flags as they prepare for England's crunch clash with Italy in the Euro 2020 final at Wembley

Fans convene in The Ye Olde King's Head pub in Santa Monica, California, where fans have gathered ahead of the UEFA Euro 2020 Final between Italy and England

In remarkable pictures, eight impassioned Three Lions supporters waved a St George's flag while working at the Rothera Research Station in Antarctica.

The team is working through the harsh, dark Antarctic winter, which comes with bone chilling temperatures of -4F (-20C) and gale force winds.

Due to the station's remote location, they will follow the full match via live UK radio.

Rothera electrician Joe Owen said: We are all really excited about England being in the final and will all watch the big game this Sunday.

At the start of the tournament we only had five to six people watching the matches, but its great to see everyone get into the spirit and come together.

Broadcaster Julia Hartley-Brewer shared a picture of herself and two children draped in St George's Cross while enjoying some summer sun in Mallorca.

Hundreds of fans donned England shirts as they convened in The Ye Olde King's Head in Santa Monica, California.

Steve Barns shared a smiley selfie with a friend as they roared on the Three Lions from Cyprus.

And an expat from Bedford who's now based in Mississippi has decked out his house with Union Jacks, St George's Cross flags and England paraphernalia.

Broadcaster Julia Hartley-Brewer shared a picture of herself and two children draped in St George's Cross flags while enjoying some summer sun in Mallorca

British expats from across America have been sharing their snaps as England take on Italy in the Euro 2020 final

Steve Barns shared this smiley selfie with a friend while watching England from Cyprus

Italy have pegged England back and silenced 60,000 Wembley fans after England led for an hour.

Leonardo Bonucci dealt the hammer blow for the Italians on the 65th minute, leaving the Three Lions shell shocked after Luke Shaw delivered the dream start.

Jordan Pickford appeared to have made a terrific save before the centre-half rattled in the scrappy goal.

Earlier Shaw gave England a lead within three minutes sending the stadium wild.

A jubilant Prince George threw his arms around his mother Kate as Prince William beamed from ear-to-ear.

Boris Johnson went wild beside wife Carrie as thundering chants of 'It's coming home' reverberated around the national stadium.

Millions are trying to steel themselves now as the nerve-jangling minutes tick by with England standing on the brink of history with their first major trophy in 55 years.
This is the moment a Houston man finally snapped after a month-long feud over who won a foot race after spotting his rival outside of a barbershop on Saturday and opening fire.

The gunman had been walking past Mean Kutz in the northeastern part of the city around 3pm on Saturday, when he saw his fellow race runner.

Surveillance footage from a nearby liquor store shows the gunman shooting at his rival from behind a car.

The victim was shot twice in the shoulder, and two bystanders were also hit; one sustained gunshot wounds to their rear end and the other in the arm.

'There were two males that were arguing outside the barbershop here over who ran a race faster,' Houston Police Department Assistant Chief Wendy Baimbridge told KTRK.

'So at that point, one of the victims started walking away from the argument. The suspect then shot him twice in the shoulder.'

This is the moment a Houston man finally snapped after a month-long feud over who won a foot race after spotting his rival outside of a barbershop on Saturday and opening fire

The gunman had been walking past Mean Kutz in the northeastern part of the city around 3pm on Saturday, when he saw his fellow race runner. Surveillance footage shows the gunman shooting at his rival from behind a car

The victim was shot twice in the shoulder, and two bystanders were also hit; one sustained gunshot wounds to their rear end and the other in the arm

The victims and the gunman have not yet been identified.

One of the shooting victims was taken to nearby Kingwood Hospital to be treated, with the other two being taken to Memorial Hospital, none of which suffered life-threatening injuries.

However, all three are expected to survive according to authorities.

The suspect eventually fled the scene in a black Nissan Frontier traveling eastbound from the barbershop, however KTRK reports police do not yet have the car's license plate numbers.

The victims and the gunman have not yet been identified. Pictured is the scene after the shooting

Cops arrived on the scene of the shooting on Saturday. Police say that the suspect is still at large as as they continue to investigate

The gunman had been walking past Mean Kutz when he saw his rival inside

Three people received gunshot injuries during the shooting, which took place around 3pm in the northeast part of the city

'I just came to get a haircut but that didnt go as planned,' one woman who witnessed the shooting told the outlet.

Police say that the suspect is still at large as as they continue to investigate.

Elsewhere in Houston, three other people were injured after a gunman opened fire inside a North Freeway motel around 9am earlier the same day, according to ABC13.

However, the extent of the victims' injuries weren't not immediately released.
A maid at a hotel in Denver has been praised for reporting to authorities a huge weapons stash in one of the rooms, which authorities initially feared could be used for a Vegas-style mass shooting.

Four people have been arrested - with one of the four, a recent divorcee, posting a cryptic Facebook message saying he would 'go out in a big way.'

The maid was commended for reporting the 16 long guns, over 1,000 rounds of ammo and body armor, which were found in two rooms at the Maven Hotel.

On Sunday the FBI in Denver said they did not believe the arrests were connected to Tuesday's MLB All-Star game at Coors Field, but were rather linked to drugs.

'We have no reason to believe this incident was connected to terrorism or a threat directed at the All-Star Game,' they tweeted.

'We are not aware of any threat to the All-Star Game events, venues, players, or the community at this time.'

Officers are seen inside the hotel room at The Maven, where on Friday a maid reported finding 16 long guns, more than 1,000 rounds of ammo, and body armor. Initial fears were that the four arrested were plotting a repeat of the 2017 Las Vegas massacre, when 60 people were shot and killed from a hotel room overlooking a music festival

The white SUV, pictured, was towed away from the scene on Friday night

The Maven hotel in Denver is seen on Friday night after police were called

The Maven hotel in Denver is seen on Sunday, after the raid on Friday night

Video courtesy of KDVR

Initial fears were that there could be a repeat of the October 1, 2017, attack when Stephen Paddock, a 64-year-old man from Mesquite, Nevada, opened fire upon the crowd attending the Route 91 Harvest music festival on the Las Vegas Strip in Nevada.

He shot people from his hotel room, killing 60 in America's worst mass-shooting.

A SWAT team descended on the hotel on Friday night.

Officers took away a white SUV and arrested three men and a woman, who are now believed to have had the weapons in connection with drugs, rather than terrorism.

Piles of cash are seen on the floor as officers comb the room on Friday for evidence

Coors Field on Tuesday will host the MLB All-Star game

The men have been named as Richard Platt, 42, of Colorado, who has been charged with possession of a weapon by a previous offender, possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute (two counts), and a warrant from another jurisdiction.

Gabriel Rodriguez, 48, is charged with possession of a weapon by a previous offender, and possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute.

Ricardo Rodriguez, 44, is charged with possession of a weapon by a previous offender.

And the one woman, Kanoelehua Serikawa, 43, of Colorado, is charged with possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute, and a warrant from another jurisdiction.
Emergency Room doctors throughout the country have seen a surge in young marijuana users having psychotic episodes and vomiting uncontrollably, due to the the extremely high levels of THC.

Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome - now known by doctors as 'scromiting,' a mash-up of the words 'screaming' and 'vomiting,' has become a more frequent diagnosis at hospitals in Colorado, which first legalized weed for recreational purposes in 2012.

Just three years earlier, the ER at Parkview Medical Center in Pubelo reported five 'scromiting' cases, but by 2018 - six years after marijuana was legalized - the ER saw 120 cases - an increase of 230 percent in just nine years.

Reports of the syndrome had also doubled in two different ERs in Colorado shortly after weed became legal, according to NBC News.

More and more young weed smokers are being hospitalized with cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome, otherwise known as 'scromiting,' data shows. The syndrome is characterized by non-stop vomiting and psychotic episode

Those who smoked weed daily were more likely to develop the syndrome

'Scromiting' is more prevalent among daily marijuana users, research suggests, who start smoking at a young age.

A 2017 study, for example, found that 97 percent of those who developed the condition reported using marijuana at least once a week, with 75 percent say

It also showed the median age patients with CHS started smoking was 16, and the median age of symptom onset was 24.

But the condition is also becoming more common as the marijuana industry increases the amount of THC, the main pyschoactive ingredient, in its products.

Experts said marijuana consumed 20 years ago contained around 2 to 3 percent THC, NBC reports, but the cannabis sold in markets like Colorado can have THC levels as high a 90 percent.

The market is also being flooded with concentrates, made with high levels of THC and other substances. According to NBC, concentrates made up 43 percent of Colorado's $2 billion cannabis market in 2020, up from 32 percent in 2019.

Consuming anything with more than 10 percent, however, can increase the odds of a psychotic break, according to a 2019 study, which also said that daily cannabis use was associated with increased odds of having a psychotic disorder.

The odds increase nearly five times if the daily user is smoking high potency weed, the study says, noting that if high potency weed were no longer available 12.2 percent of psychiatric cases could be prevented across the 11 sites they studied, rising to 33 percent in London and 50 percent in Amsterdam.

'Evidence for how cannabis, especially in higher concentrations, impacts mental health is growing stronger, especially on how it relates to psychosis and schizophrenia-like symptoms,' Dr. G Sam Wang, an emergency room doctor and toxicologist at the Children's Hospital in Denver told NBC News.

'These impacts are seen more with higher concentrated products and with more frequent use.'

Experts say the amount of THC in marijuana is increasing, making it more potent and increasing the risk of a psychotic break

Episodes can continue until the patient stops using marijuana, experts say, and those who have had the syndrome said its symptoms could be alleviated with hot showers or baths.

It is unknown why some young marijuana users develop these symptoms, according to NBC, and how the condition develops from a drug that is usually used to treat nausea in chemotherapy patients.

But those who do get severe symptoms may strain hospital resources, as doctors have to rule out other reasons for nonstop vomiting before they could diagnose the patient with CHS.

'We use a lot of medical resources to see if there is anything more seriously wrong with them,' said Dr. Brad Roberts, an ER doctor at the Parkview Medical Center.

A 2018 study also called the syndrome 'an increasingly prevalent and complicated problem for health care providers and patients.'

To combat this, lawmaker in Colorado passed a law at the end of May to prevent people between the ages of 18 to 20 from getting large quantities of high potency pot.

The drug is not legal for anyone under the age of 21 under the state's law, but before the bill passed, doctors said an 18 year old could get a state medical card for marijuana after just a brief phone call with a doctor, allowing them to buy up to 400 doses a day.

The new legislation requires anyone under the age of 21 to visit two separate doctors in person to get a medical marijuana card and limits the amount they can buy from an individual store.

It also restricts the amount of marijuana concentrates that people over the age of 21 can purchase and mandates the creation of a tracking system to prevent people from going store to store to get some weed.

Colorado's cannabis industry actually supported the legislation, NBC News reports, with Truman Bradley, executive director of the Marijuana Industry Group, saying the industry believes young people 'should never use cannabis unless under the strict supervision of a medical professional.'
China pledged to take 'necessary measures' to respond to the U.S. blacklisting of Chinese companies over their alleged role in abuses of its Uyghur people and other Muslim ethnic minorities.

The Commerce Ministry said the U.S. move constituted an 'unreasonable suppression of Chinese enterprises and a serious breach of international economic and trade rules.'

China will 'take necessary measures to firmly safeguard Chinese companies' legitimate rights and interests,' the ministry's statement said.

No details were given, but China has denied allegations of arbitrary detention and forced labor in the far western region of Xinjiang and increasingly responded to sanctions against companies and officials with its own bans on visas and financial links.

Uyghur detainees in a camp in Lop County, Xinjiang, in April 2017. The United States added 14 Chinese companies to its economic blacklist over alleged human rights abuses of Uyghur Muslims and high-tech surveillance in Xinjiang

Workers walk around a camp for Uyghurs Muslims in the Xinjiang region of China. The Commerce Department is punishing companies for their involvement in human rights abuses against Uyghurs

The U.S. Commerce Department said in a statement Friday that the electronics and technology firms and other businesses helped enable 'Beijing's campaign of repression, mass detention and high-technology surveillance' against Uyghurs, Kazakhs, and other members of Muslim minority groups in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region.'.

They include the China Academy of Electronics and Information Technology; Xinjiang Lianhai Chuangzhi Information Technology Co; Shenzhen Cobber Information Technology Co; Xinjiang Sailing Information Technology; Beijing Geling Shentong Information Technology; Shenzhen Hua'antai Intelligent Technology Co., Ltd.; and Chengdu Xiwu Security System Alliance Co., Ltd.

The penalties prohibit Americans from selling equipment or other goods to the firms.

The latest action shows President Joe Biden aims to press China over what the administration says are worsening human rights abuses against the Uyghur population in Xinjiang

The United States has stepped up financial and trade penalties over China's treatment of Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities, along with its crackdown on democracy in the semi-autonomous city of Hong Kong.

The Chinese government since 2017 has detained a million or more people in Xinjiang. Critics accuse China of operating forced labor camps and carrying out torture and coerced sterilization as it allegedly seeks to assimilate Muslim ethnic minority groups.

The U.S. Commerce Department said 14 companies were added to its Entity List over their dealings in Xinjiang, and another five for aiding China's armed forces.

'The Department of Commerce remains firmly committed to taking strong, decisive action to target entities that are enabling human rights abuses in Xinjiang or that use U.S. technology to fuel China's destabilizing military modernization efforts,' Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo said in a statement posted on the department's website.

Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo said the US would take a firm stance on the companies enabling human rights abuses in Xinjiang

The action follows the department's decision last month to add five other companies and other Chinese entities to the blacklist over allegations of forced labor in the far western region of China.

China dismisses accusations of genocide and forced labor in Xinjiang and says its policies are necessary to stamp out separatists and religious extremists who plotted attacks and stirred up tension between mostly Muslim ethnic Uyghurs and Han, China's largest ethnic group.

'The Chinese side will take all necessary measures to safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese companies and rejects U.S. attempts to interfere in China's internal affairs,' said foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin on Friday.

The latest action shows President Joe Biden aims to press China over what the administration says are worsening human rights abuses against the Uyghur population in Xinjiang.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said Friday that China would take all necessary steps to defend its interests

Generally, entities added to the economic blacklist are required to apply for licenses from the Commerce Department and face tough scrutiny when they seek permission to receive items from U.S. suppliers.

This is not the first time the U.S. government has targeted Chinese firms linked to allegations of high-tech surveillance activity in Xinjiang.

In 2019, the Trump administration added some of China's top artificial intelligence startups to its economic blacklist over its treatment of Muslim minorities.

The Commerce Department under Trump targeted 20 Chinese public security bureaus and eight companies including video surveillance firm Hikvision, as well as leaders in facial recognition technology SenseTime Group Ltd and Megvii Technology Ltd.
A group of Colombians and Haitian Americans suspected of assassinating Haitian President Jovenel Moise have reportedly told investigators they were there to arrest him, not kill him.

Moise was shot dead early on Wednesday at his Port-au-Prince home by what Haitian authorities say was a unit of assassins made up of 26 Colombians and two Haitian Americans, plunging the troubled Caribbean nation into deeper turmoil.

'They probably were watching and waiting for the opportunity for them to do it,' said Investigative Judge Clement Noel, who was among the first to question the two Haitian-Americans among the 19 suspects detained so far.

James A. Solages, 35, and Vincent Joseph, 56, both from South Florida, insisted that the plan was not to assassinate him.

Their mission, Noel and another person who debriefed the men said they were told, was to 'arrest the president (at his home) and go to the presidential palace with him.'

The two Haitian Americans 'said they were there, but they didn't go to kill the president,' Noel said, according to The Miami Herald.

'They said they knew what happened, but they didn't participate in the killing. They were there to translate.'

Jovenal Moise, the president of Hait, was murdered in the early hours of Wednesday at his home in the capital city, Port-au-Prince

Haitian President Jovenel Moise and First Lady Martine are pictured together in 2017. Moise was riddled with 12 bullet holes and had his eye gouged out during Wednesday's brutal attack, which killed him and seriously injured his wife

Suspects in the assassination of Haiti's President Jovenel Moise are shown to the media in Port-au-Prince, Haiti on Thursday

Weaponry, mobile phones, passports and other items are being shown to the media along with suspects in the assassination

Police lined up the 17 assassination suspects, including two American citizens and 15 Colombians, behind a table displaying an array of firearms, machetes, sledgehammers and several Colombian passports

Haitian-born American citizens James Solages, 35, (above) and Joseph Vincent, 55, are said to have confessed to being involved in Wednesday's early morning raid at the president's mansion near Port-au-Prince

Solages (pictured) and Vincent - who both live in Florida - told authorities 'they were translators'

The murder and uncertainty about who hatched the plot is the latest in a succession of blows to hit the struggling country, which has appealed for international help.

Washington has so far rebuffed Haiti's request for troops, though a senior U.S. official said on Sunday that Washington was sending a technical team to assess the situation.

Citing people who had spoken to some of the 19 suspects detained so far, the Miami Herald said they said their mission was to arrest Moise and take him to the presidential palace.

A source close to the investigation said the two Haitian Americans, James Solages and Joseph Vincent, told investigators they were translators for the Colombian commando unit that had an arrest warrant.

But when they arrived, they found him dead.

Footage circulating online purportedly taken by a neighbour of the president shows men with rifles arriving outside the property

A car riddled with bullet holes outside the late president's home in the hills near Port-au-Prince on Wednesday

The President of Haiti Jovenel Moise was shot dead in his home in the Pelerin 5 neighbourhood in the hills above Port-au-Prince

Haitian police did not reply to a request for comment.

The news follows reports that some of the Colombians had said they had gone to work as security personnel on Haiti, including for Moise himself.

The Miami Herald reported the detained Colombians said they were hired to work in Haiti by Miami-based company CTU Security, run by Venezuelan emigre Antonio Enmanuel Intriago Valera.

Neither CTU nor Intriago could be reached for comment. One phone number associated with the company in public records sent calls to an answering machine that made a reference to the fictional TV character Jack Bauer, who fought terrorism in the series '24.'

'Thank you for calling CTU security. For Tony Intriago please leave a message or send a text. For Jack Bauer wait for the next season. Thank you for calling and have a great day.'

Footage showed two Colombian suspects being hauled through the streets with ropes around their midriffs, one of the men was shirtless and covered in blood as people shoved him amid shouts and shrieks from the mob.

Another male suspect is seen covered in blood as he was loaded into the back of a police car Thursday - one day on from the deadly raid on the president's mansion

The two men were reportedly found hiding in bushes by civilians who roughed them up before turning them over to police

Haitian police transport two other men in the back of a cop trailer to the police station of Petion Ville in Port-au-Prince. Police said the two men are suspects in the murder of Haiti president Jovenel Moise

The bodies of two of the people killed by police are pictured being transported away in a police vehicle Thursday

Social media profiles that appeared to belong to Intriago included a Facebook photo showing a man in tactical gear pointing a high-powered rifle.

Other photos on Instagram showed ammunition, guns, and people engaged in tactical training.

Photos and X-ray images posted on social media at the weekend said to be from Moise's autopsy showed his body riddled with bullet holes, a fractured skull and other broken bones, underscoring the brutal nature of the attack.

Via social media, Haitians in parts of the capital Port-au-Prince were planning protests this week against the interim prime minister and acting head of state Claude Joseph.

Joseph's right to lead the country has been challenged by other senior politicians, threatening to exacerbate the turmoil engulfing the poorest country in the Americas.

Meanwhile, one of Haiti's top gang leaders, Jimmy Cherizier, a former police officer known as Barbecue, said on Saturday his men would take to the streets to protest the assassination.

Cherizier, boss of the so-called G9 federation of nine gangs, said police and opposition politicians had conspired with the 'stinking bourgeoisie' to 'sacrifice' Moise.

Gunfire rang out overnight on Saturday in the capital, which has suffered a surge in gang violence in recent months, displacing thousands and hampering economic activity.

Moise had been ruling by decree since January 2020, with only 10 senators left in power and an entirely vacant lower chamber.

On Monday Moise had appointed Ariel Henry, a 71-year-old former minister of interior and respected neurosurgeon, as his latest prime minister.

POWER STRUGGLE: Interim Prime Minister Claude Joseph (left) has seized power of the country, declaring a state of emergency, just days before he was due to be replaced by the country's coronavirus tsar Ariel Henry (right), the man Moise had named as Joseph's successor

Joseph Lambert (second from right, pictured with Jovenal Moise and his wife Martine Moise on January 12, 2018) has said that he should be in charge of Haiti

Henry had not taken up the role by the time Moise was assassinated two days later, and so interim prime minister Claude Joseph has remained in power, with the support so far of the United States and UN.

Joseph said that as head of the government 'who is still in function', he and other members of the government held a special meeting of Haiti's security apparatus and decided to 'declare a state of siege throughout the entire country'.

The two-week declaration of martial law permits the police and security members to enter homes, control traffic and take special security measures and 'all general measures that permit the arrest of the assassins'.

The decree also forbids meetings meant to incite disorder.

Elections Minister Mathias Pierre said Joseph would keep that role until presidential and legislative elections are held on September 26.

'This is part of the chaos certain people are trying to create in the country,' said Pierre, blaming Joseph's opponents for destabilizing the country.

'For us, this is a second attempt to assassinate the president. We are doing what we have to do to establish stability and prepare for elections.'

Henry's appointment was made unilaterally by Moise, without political agreement - leading many to question its legitimacy.

To further complicate matters, a third person on Friday then claimed to be the legitimate ruler.

Joseph Lambert, head of Haiti's senate, was on Friday nominated to be interim president.

'I was chosen unanimously,' he told The Miami Herald. 'That doesn't add to the conflict.
Donald Trump delivered a fiery speech at the Conservative Political Action Conference on Sunday where he slammed President Joe Biden for 'bringing the country to the brink of ruin' and vowed to stop Big Tech's 'assaults on our liberties'.

The former president opened his 90-minute address to the conference in Dallas with a rallying cry for Republicans, declaring: 'We are the majority.'

'Never forget that the radical left is not the Majority in this countrywe are the Majority, and it's not even close,' the former president told the friendly crowd.

He warned, 'You are in big trouble Republicans,' as he pushed for the party to focus on regaining a majority in Congress in 2022.

'Like socialist and communist movements throughout history, today's leftists do not believe in freedom, they do not believe in fairness, and they do not believe in democracy,' Trump said. 'They believe in Marxist moralityanything is justified as long as it hurts their political opponents and advances the radical agenda of their party.'

Trump took aim at 'Biden's border crisis', corruption in Big Tech, rising crime, Democrats' proposed tax increases and the too-swift withdrawal of troops from Afghanistan.

Former President Donald Trump spoke to a friendly crowd at a Conservative Political Action Conference gathering in Dallas, Texas on Sunday afternoon

'Never forget that the radical left is not the Majority in this countrywe are the Majority, and it's not even close,' Trump said

'The Democrats know their policies on crime are so unpopular, so radical, and so crazy, they are now trying to pretend they never led the de-fund the police movement in the first place. But everyone knows this is an outrageous lie,' he said.

The 'defund police' movement spread among progressive Democrats after the police killing of George Floyd in May 2020.

Now Biden's administration and Democratic lawmakers are blaming the movement on Republicans after massive crime spikes spread across the country and became vastly unpopular.

Trump also brought up his lawsuit against Big Tech companies, which gained a huge round of applause.

'To protect the Constitutional rights and liberties of every citizen, this week I filed a major Class Action lawsuit  a lot of people are joining  a big class action lawsuit against the Big Tech Giants. We are SUING Facebook, Twitter, and Google,' Trump said.

'We are taking Mark "Zuckerbucks," Jack Dorsey, and the other Silicon Valley billionaires to federal court,' Trump said, 'and we will keep on fighting until we have stopped this assault on our liberties and until we have restored the sacred right to freedom of speech for every single American.'

The former president took aim against 'Biden's border crisis', Big Tech, rising crime and tax increases to an enthusiastic crowd

Those gathered for Trump's remarks in Dallas were responsive, as is usual with the ex-president's most fervent supporters. People decked out in Trump gear cheer as he speaks at CPAC on Sunday

Trump announced at a press conference in New Jersey on Wednesday his lawsuit against Facebook, Twitter and Google's YouTube, along with their CEOs Mark Zuckerberg, Jack Dorsey and Sundar Pichai.

The suit, which demands Trump's accounts be reinstated, claims that conservatives have been wrongfully censored.

'They're immune from so many different things, but they're not immune from this lawsuit because what they've done is such a violation of the Constitution,' Trump told Fox News in a Sunday morning phone interview ahead of his CPAC speech. 'A violation like we've never seen before.'

He also railed against Section 230 protections, which provides immunities for social media platforms from being held responsible for what their users post.

'They're getting the biggest subsidy that any company has ever gotten from a government,' Trump said of the protection in the Communications Decency Act.

Trump added in his CPAC remarks: 'We are a laughing stock all over the world.'

He complained that Republicans are treated unfairly on social media compared to Democratic voices.

Throughout the remarks, Trump had scattered comments about the 2020 election, which he maintained was 'rigged' and made 'too easy' for Democrats to cheat.

'The radical left cheat in elections,' Trump lamented.

He claims that he actually won the election, despite Joe Biden winning the popular vote by more than seven million ballots and 74 Electoral College votes.

In defending his election fraud claims, Trump also went to bat for his attorney Rudy Giuliani.

'Rudy fought as he saw the election was rigged,' Trump praised the former New York City mayor turned personal attorney to the president.

'And because he fought, they took away his law license in New York and Washington D.C.,' Trump said. 'And this was a good man.'

Last month, Giuliani's law license was revoked due to his involvement in Trump's lawsuits arguing against the 2020 election results. The decision to suspend Giuliani's license also was related to the January 6 Capitol attack, with which they claim he was involved for his speech before the riot.

Donald Jr., in previewing his father's CPAC speech, said 'you never know' what you'll get with Trump, but said: 'I can assure you people will be outraged'

Donald Jr. previewed Trump's speech in the days before by claiming 'with my father, you never know' what you'll get.

'I can assure you it's going to be interesting. I can assure you people will be outraged,' the eldest Trump son told Fox News at the Conservative Political Action Conference on Friday before taking stage for his own speech.

Fox asked Don Jr. if he could tease Trump's speech, to which he said: 'With my father, you never know, right?'

When speaking about the state of the GOP, Tump went up against so-called 'RINOs', which stands for 'Republicans in Name Only' and has become a common nickname for anti-Trump Republicans.

He said that these lawmakers are willing to undo the progress the Trump administration made with tax cuts in order to just say they were able to make a bipartisan deal.

'I do not want to see any negotiations of tax increases by Senate Republicans,' Trump said on Sunday, 'because I see certain RINOs, they keep walking over to the White House. They're getting fleeced, I feel so badly. Guys like Romney. There's a couple of them.'

'We had the greatest tax decrease in the history of this country, and we're not going to raise it in order to say, 'We've made a bipartisan deal,' Trump said.

Last month, a group of 10 bipartisan lawmakers stood with Biden when announcing they reached a compromise on an infrastructure package. Right after that the deal fell into chaos as Biden appeared to make it reliant on the passage of his American Families Plan and progressives said the plan didn't go far enough because Republicans held it back.

The ex-president said before the remarks that he didn't plan to use his platform at the largest and most influential conservative gathering to announce a reelection bid for 2024.

He all but told Fox News' Maria Bartiromo on Sunday that he will likely enter the race for the White House, but made clear that he can't officially make his announcement yet.

'The question is will you make the run again?' Sunday Morning Futures host Bartiromo asked Trump in a call-in interview Sunday morning.

'Well, I do know my answer but I cannot reveal it yet  and, because that has to do with campaign financing and everything else, you know that,' Trump explained.

He added: 'So I cannot reveal it yet but I absolutely know my answer and we're going to do very well and people will be very happy.'

He then confusing said that mainstream media outlets like CNN and MSNBC, which have had decreasing ratings since Trump left office, will come out to endorse him.

Later Sunday afternoon, Trump will speak at CPAC in Dallas.

Also at the gathering, a seven-point plan of how to reinstate Trump as president circulated.

The so-called 'Trump Card' details that the former president's best chances of retaking his seat in the Oval Office before the 2024 election is by getting him placed in the House speakership post and ultimately leading Congress in impeaching and removing President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris from office.

The card, obtained by Forbes on Friday, appears to have been made and distributed by a group called Patriots SOAR, which is not associated with CPAC organizers.

On the '7-pt. plan to restore Donald J. Trump in days, not years,' readers are prompted to visit a webpage for Patriots SOAR.

At the top of the page, there is a link for a 90-second video with the thumbnail claiming 'YOU can help restore our Commander-in-Chief. (And have fun while doing it!)'.

A so-called 'Trump card' was handed out by a conservative group at CPAC detailing a '7-PT. plan to restore' Trump to office 'on days, not years'. The plan includes making Trump the House Speaker  and third-in-line in presidential succession  and then impeaching and removing Joe Biden and Kamala Harris

" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" width="636" height="550" >

A letter on pages seven and eight of the 13-page document is signed by 'your fellow countryman, Robert J. Antonellis'. He is described as an 'Author, Investigative-Researcher & Engineer' in the letter.

While Antonellis is mentioned several times in the document, it is not clear what other individuals are associated with Patriots SOAR.

The group did not immediately respond to a request for comment from DailyMail.com.

The ex-president made his first public post-presidency remarks at CPAC in Orlando, Florida in February 2021.

The far-fetched and unlikely plan would require that Republicans regain control of the House in 2022, which Trump and the GOP are working hard to ensure happens.

The Patriots SOAR card prompts readers to visit a 13-page document online, where a letter from Robert J. Antonellis (pictured) details the plan. It is not clear what other individuals are associated with the group

After current Speaker Nancy Pelosi 'melts like the Wicked Witch of the West,' a 'trusted conservative' needs to be elected into her old post, the information card details.

That new speaker would be responsible for revealing 'Trump legitimately won the 2020 election' and then drafting articles of impeachment for Biden and Harris.

Then the scenario gets even more improbable in describing the speaker would place Trump in the third place in the line of succession to the presidency, which is the House Speaker position.

The group details, finally, that the House and Senate would need to impeach and convict the president and vice president, allowing Trump to rise to the presidency.

The 10-page document from Patriots SOAR includes a slew of conspiracy-related information, like detailing 'secret satanic sacrifices' of Martin Luther King Jr. and John F. Kennedy Jr.

Before this new plot was revealed, rumors circulated that Trump felt he could be reinstated as president by August. MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell, a fervent Trump ally, said he was the one who informed the ex-president this could happen.

Trump's circle, however, denies that he feels he will be reinstated as president later this summer.
Help is on the way for struggling businesses and workers financially hit by Sydney's latest coronavirus outbreak.

The federal government is set to announce a Covid-19 rescue package to provide financial support for businesses crippled by a lockdown which is expected to last for weeks as cases continue to soar.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison and federal treasurer Josh Frydenberg held a phone hook-up with NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian and state treasurer Dominic Perrottet on Sunday to discuss financial support, just a week after federal government told state officials to fund their own relief package.

A Expenditure Review Committee meeting will be held on Monday, where federal ministers will consider a submission on how NSW can best be supported.

Australia's Chief Medical Officer Paul Kelly has confirmed disaster payments will be made available to struggling businesses and households devastated by the lockdown which has entered its third week.

The federal and NSW governments are set to announce a joint financial assistance package for affected businesses as the state's Covid-19 crisis worsens

'It is very practical support that is happening from the Commonwealth in relation to the situation in Sydney,' Professor Kelly said.

'That includes because that is a Commonwealth designated hot spot, there is funding available for aged care, for example, in terms of single site worker payments, there is the disaster, the Covid disaster payment which is also available now for people who are eligible in Sydney.'

Sunday's phone hook-up between the Prime Minister, NSW treasurers also discussed mental health supports will be required for locked-down residents under Sydney's current restrictions, which could be toughed in the coming days.

The federal government is believed to have ruled out bringing back JobKeeper, instead opting for direct payments to workers and businesses.

The government has long tried to clarify that JobKeeper did not go to businesses to keep them afloat, but went to workers via their employers.

Government sources called the new income support 'almost identical' to JobKeeper in its tangible help of workers and businesses.

The federal government Covid-19 rescue package will include more financial support for businesses crippled by the latest lockdown in Sydney. Pictured is a deserted restaurant in Circular Quay

The Treasury have put forward a number of support options for Scott Morrison to consider, with the changes to apply nationally to future lockdowns

Workers who lost income as a result of Sydney's lockdown can already apply for payments of up to $500 a week.

The federal government created a coronavirus disaster payment during Melbourne's fourth lockdown last month, and is also available for Sydneysiders.

People can receive the payments if they can't work from home and can't travel to work as a result of the lockdown, or their workplace is closed.

The City of Sydney, Waverley, Woollahra, Bayside, Canada Bay, Inner West and Randwick were eligible to claim from Friday and the rest of Sydney, the Blue Mountains, Central Coast, and Wollongong now can as well.

Those who lose less than 20 hours of work under lockdown are eligible to receive $325 per week, and those losing more than 20 hours can get $500.

The federal government will consider support for businesses in conjunction with the state government, as well as the broadening of support for households

Workers must be unable to attend work and prove they lost income up to and including day eight of a Covid lockdown as a result of the restrictions.

Employees also must not be able to already access appropriate paid leave or entitlements through their employer.

They must also not have more than $10,000 in liquid assets they could draw on to get them through weeks of zero wages.

Workers cannot already be getting a government income support payment, state small business payment, or Pandemic Leave Disaster Payment.

NSW recorded 77 new local cases and the death of a 90-year-old unvaccinated woman on Sunday.

New daily cases are expected to hit triple figures in NSW on Monday. Pictured is a deserted Kings Cross

Around 33 cases were out in the community while infectious while more than 50 were identified as close contacts of a Covid-19 case.

Ms Berejiklian fears Monday's figures will be worse and said she's be shocked if new cases didn't reach triple figures.

The Premier added it was 'highly unlikely' lockdown of Greater Sydney and surrounds will be lifted as scheduled midnight Friday.

NSW chief health officer Dr Kerry Chant said the 'vast majority' of cases were identified in south-west Sydney - which has recently been targeted by police with extra officers deployed to monitor lockdown compliance.

Victoria has closed its borders to all of NSW and the ACT  despite no cases recorded outside Sydney or in the nation's capital in the last 12 months.

Queensland will decide on Monday whether it will slam its its borders shut.

The NRL is preparing to shift clubs into Queensland for at least a month from Wednesday.

Chief Medical Officer Paul Kelly announced on Sunday that disaster payments will be made available to both businesses and households in New South Wales
Donald Trump praised his supporters who stormed the US Capitol on January 6 as 'peaceful', 'patriots' and 'great people' while condemning the fatal police shooting of 'innocent, wonderful' Ashli Babbitt.

The former president fondly remembered the Capitol insurrection during an appearance on Fox News' Sunday Morning Futures, where he said the MAGA fans who gathered that morning to hear him speak before marching on Congress were filled with 'faith and spirit and love'.

However he acknowledged one of the five deaths linked to the riots - that of Babbitt, a former Air Force veteran who was shot dead by an unnamed Capitol Police officer as she tried to climb through a broken door leading to the House Speaker's Lobby.

Trump hinted that 'the head of security for...a Democrat' may have been responsible for Babbitt's shooting, though he offered no evidence to support the claim.

In April, the Justice Department announced that no charges would be brought against the officer.

Describing his 'Stop the Steal' rally that preceded the siege on Congress, Trump said a 'tremendous number of people' came out to hear his 'mild-mannered speech.'

Former President Donald Trump praised his supporters who stormed the US Capitol on January 6 as 'peaceful' and 'great people' who were 'patriots'

Supporters of the then-president breached the barricades of the US Capitol on January 6 in an attempt to stop Congress from certifying President Joe Biden's election victory

Trump went on to claim there were 'over a million people there' though the actual number was far less.

'The crowd was unbelievable and I mentioned the word "love," the love in the air, I've never seen anything like it,' he said of the rally near the White House.

'That's why they went to Washington.'

'Too much spirit and faith and love, there was such love at that rally, you had over a million people.'

He said his supporters 'were there for one reason - the rigged election'.

'They felt the election was rigged,' Trump said. 'That's why they were there.'

'And they were peaceful people. These were great people. The crowd was unbelievable.'

Trump also claimed during the interview that he had told his then-secretary of defense, Christopher Miller, to reinforce the capital with '10,000 National Guardsmen' due to the high turnout.

According to Trump, Miller was 'turned down' by Congress, specifically House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.

National Guard troops did not arrive at the Capitol until around 5.20pm on January 6, more than four hours after the grounds were first breached by the pro-Trump mob.

Trump also condemned the fatal shooting of 'innocent, wonderful' Ashli Babbitt. During an appearance on Fox News on Sunday, the president hinted that 'the head of security for...a Democrat' may have been responsible for Babbitt's shooting, though he offered no evidence to support the claim

Babbitt, the former Air Force veteran, who shot dead by an unnamed Capitol Police officer as she tried to climb through a broken door leading to the House Speaker's Lobby

Lawmakers have held a series of hearings on the federal government's preparations for and response to the attack, leading to finger-pointing between city officials, federal law enforcement agencies, and military leaders.

Senate Republicans blocked legislation to set up a bipartisan commission that would have the power to force witnesses, possibly including Trump, to testify under oath about what happened that day.

Republican opponents said the Senate committees' probe, as well as ongoing prosecutions, were enough investigation.

More than six months after the deadly attack, the remaining high-security fence surrounding the white-domed building has been removed, police said on Sunday.

Workers began removing the last of the eight-foot-high black mesh fencing on Friday, which at one point surrounded several blocks of Capitol Hill and interfered with pedestrian and vehicle traffic.

The decision to take down the remaining fencing was based on the current threat environment and recent enhancements to the Capitol Police's response capabilities, according to a statement released by the agency.

'We are prepared to quickly enhance our security posture should the need arise,' said Acting US Capitol Police Chief Yogananda Pittman in the statement.

More than 535 people have been charged in taking part in the January 6 violence, when Trump supporters stormed the US Capitol in an unsuccessful attempt to stop Congress from certifying Democratic President Joe Biden's election win.

Five people died on the day of the violence and the day after, including a Capitol Police officer.

Two police officers who took part in the defense of the Capitol later took their own lives. More than a hundred police officers were injured.
Former Food and Drug Administration commissioner Dr Scott Gottlieb has urged Pfizer to launch the federal authorization process for its COVID-19 booster shot as soon as possible as the spread of the highly-contagious Delta variant ramps up around the United States.

Gottlieb stressed the importance of starting the process soon on Sunday - three days after Pfizer and its German partner BioNtech announced they are developing an additional booster dose to go with their existing two-shot vaccine.

'You're talking about a process that's probably at least a couple of months long, could take a little bit more time than that,' Gottlieb told CBS News' Face the Nation.

'So, I think starting right now, frankly, is prudent and that's what's happening.'

On Sunday, former commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Dr. Scott Gottlieb (pictured) appeared on 'Face the Nation,' saying Pfizer is currently studying the booster

Pfizer and German bio company BioNTech , announced they are currently in the process of developing a booster shot to accompany their two-dose shot vaccine, which would further protect people from additional variants

Around 93 percent of COVID-19 cases in recent days have occurred in counties with vaccination rates of less than 40 percent, CDC director Rochelle Walensky told a media briefing on Thursday

Pfizer and BioNTech on Thursday announced the development of the booster which would bolster protection from COVID-19 variants - including the Delta strain that now makes up the majority of new cases in the US.

The plan is to have people take the booster jabs six months after they have their second dose.

It comes after Pfizer and BioNTech recently acknowledged that the immunity given by its two-shot combination already appears to be waning.

The companies said data from Israel's world-beating drive has shown 'vaccine efficacy in preventing both infection and symptomatic disease has declined six months post-vaccination'.

Meanwhile, scientific trials of its booster jab show it can generate up to 10 times more neutralizing antibodies than just two doses, Pfizer and BioNTech say.

Pfizer's CEO Albert Bourla has maintained that people will need a third dose, and that the vaccine could be needed annually like the flu shot.

In addition, officials at Moderna Inc are also testing a third dose of its COVID-19 vaccine, making similar comments about Americans needing booster shots.

'Booster shots will be needed as we believe the virus is not going away,' Moderna CEO Stephane Bancel told investors during an earnings call in May.

The total number of COVID-19 infections since the start of the pandemic have reached more than 33.7 million in the US

According to CDC data updated Tuesday evening, the Delta variant, also known as B.1.617.2, makes up 51.7 per cent of all new infections.

Health officials say that the fast-spreading Delta variant first identified in India is racing through areas with low vaccination rates, eroding gains made in beating back the virus.

On Friday, the seven-day rolling average of daily new cases was up 47 percent from two weeks ago, and hospitalizations were up 11 percent, according to a DailyMail.com analysis of U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data.

Around 93 percent of COVID-19 cases in recent days have occurred in counties with vaccination rates of less than 40 percent, CDC director Rochelle Walensky told a media briefing on Thursday.

But while pharmaceutical companies are eager to begin creating booster shots, many health officials argue it would be more beneficial to focus on getting individuals fully vaccinated before attempting to develop a booster.

'It's wonderful to have a booster approved for emergency use authorization on the shelf -- ready to go any time we need it. But I do not think we need it right now,' Dr. William Schaffner, a professor at Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, told CNN Friday.

Furthermore, researchers devoted to studying the pandemic have repeatedly warned there is currently no substantial evidence that a third shot is even needed.

According to CDC data updated Tuesday evening, the Delta variant, also known as B.1.617.2, makes up 51.7 per cent of all new infections

Infections are up from the 26.1 per cent of cases previously linked to the the variant, meaning its prevalence has nearly doubled in two weeks

In an attempt to downplay fears, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said that fully-vaccinated Americans do not need a booster shot just yet.

The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), a committee within the CDC that provides guidance on vaccine-preventable diseases, will be responsible for issuing the recommendation of what groups of people should receive the booster.

Gottlieb said if there is a recommendation on providing boosters, it will likely be for 'a select portion of the population who are more than seven or eight months from completing their original vaccination.'

'It's not going to be a general recommendation," said Gottlieb.

The reason behind that theory is because most individuals, particularly those who are younger, will most likely have sufficient protection from their original vaccination and won't need a booster, Gottlieb said.

Gottlieb's comments come on the heels of the FDA and CDC reporting that 55.8 per cent of Americans over the age of 12 are fully vaccinated, and therefore do not need to concern themselves with a booster yet.

'We are prepared for booster doses if and when the science demonstrates that they are needed', said the CDC and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in a joint statement late on Thursday.

While Pfizer and BioNTech made their announcement without releasing any new data, both companies plan to publish new information soon.
Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot has come under fire after it was revealed she allowed two of her top aides to take time off just before the the city was gripped by violence over the Fourth of July weekend which saw more than 100 people shot and at least 17 killed.

Lightfoot's chief of staff Sybil Madison was out of the office two days before the holiday weekend while the deputy mayor for public safety, John O'Malley, was also out for most of the week beforehand, the Chicago Tribune reported.

Their absences came despite Lightfoot's promise to have 'all hands on deck' to address a sudden surge in shootings across the city prior to July 4.

Police officers were even made to work 12-hour shifts during that weekend to increase their street presence.

Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot had two of her top aides on leave during the deadliest weekend for shootings in the city all year

When Lightfoot took office in May 2019, she introduced a ban on time off during the summer within the police department fearing that it set a 'bad example' for officers.

Her decision to allow to of her top aides to take vacation over the holiday weekend was met with swift criticism from several local officials, including South Side Alderman Anthony Beale.

Beale said that Lightfoot showed 'poor leadership' in approving the leave for the aides 'when we need them the most'.

Southwest Side Alderman Raymond Lopez said the decision shows that the city's leadership is 'disconnected'.

'That she allowed her staff to go on vacation  before what is traditionally the most dangerous weekend in the city of Chicago  is outrageous,' Alderman Ray Lopez, told Fox 32.

'It shows there's a complete lack of commitment toward addressing the violence.'

In a separate interview with the Tribune, Lopez said: 'We've heard about the "whole of government" approach (to dealing with violence) for weeks now.

'But I guess that doesnt apply to the people responsible for actually creating the policies.'

Fellow Alderman Anthony Napolitano called the city a 'war zone' following the holiday weekend and ripped Lightfoot as responsible.

Lightfoot's office responded to the backlash in a statement on Friday, insisting that all members of the mayor's team were 'fully engaged' over the weekend.

'Working in the mayor's office is a 24/7, 365 job, and members of the mayor's senior staff are constantly connected,' the statement read.

'Those responsible for on-the-ground operations continued to execute over the holiday weekend, and the Chief of Staff and Deputy Chief of Staff were fully engaged every day.'

Chicago Police work on a crime scene in a residential neighborhood earlier this week

Law enforcement officers investigate a crime scene in Chicago last week. Two ATF agents and one Chicago Police officer were shot as they worked undercover

Statistics from the police department showed that at least 108 people were shot, 17 fatally, between July 2nd and July 4th.

Eleven children, some as young as five and six, were wounded in what was the most violent weekend of the year. Two cops were among the city's shooting victims.

Chicago's latest crime statistics show the city of 2.7 million people saw 78 murders in June.

That is a 20 per cent drop in the 98 murders it witnesses for June 2020. More than 300 people have been murdered in the Windy City this year, although as of July 1, there have been six fewer murders this year than there were for the same period of 2020.

Police Superintendent David Brown, had stated ahead of the holiday that a City Council emergency meeting called on July 2 would distract from efforts to reduce street crime during what was already believed to be the most violent weekend of the year, Fox 32 reported.

Brown also railed against the 'out of control' court system which he claimed allowed people accused of violent crimes to be released back onto the streets.

'There are too many violent offenders and too little consequence in our courts. There are too many illegal guns in our city and too little consequences in the courts. The courts have created an unsafe environment for large crowd gatherings because you've released people charged with murder back into these same communities where they committed this heinous crime,' Brown said.

Chicago Police Department Superintendent David Brown has railed against the 'out of control' court system which he claimed allowed people accused of violent crimes to be released back onto the streets

Fourth of July weekend in Chicago left at least 100 people shot and 18 killed. (File photo from last week)

Police investigate a crime scene where three people were shot in the Bridgeport neighborhood of Chicago last month

Lightfoot - who last week claimed that 99 percent of criticism of her is based on her gender or race - has blamed joblessness, poverty and out-of-state gun smuggling for the ongoing violence spiral gripping the city she runs.

'We have the strongest and the strictest gun laws in the state, if not the country,' he said, adding neighboring towns have 'nowhere near the amount of crime we do.

Look at my predecessors. Did people say that Rich Daly held tea sessions with people that he didnt disagree on? Ron Emmanuel was a polite guy who was a uniter? No. Woman and people of color are always held to a different standard. I understand that. Ive known that my whole life.

'And the Tribune or whoever could write what they want. What Im doing is fighting for the residents of this city. Im an advocate. Im going to continue fighting. Obviously we need to be focused on uniting people as much as we can, but I was elected and ran on disrupting the status quo. And when you disrupt the status quo, you are gonna make people uncomfortable. Youre are gonna have people criticizing you.
Two families are suing Universal Orlando for $30,000 after an actor dressed as the Despicable Me villain Gru allegedly flashed a 'white power' sign in photos with young girls of color.

The lawsuit - filed in Orange County, Florida on June 23 - includes the photos from February and March 2019 with the character making an upside-down 'OK' hand gesture adopted by white supremacist groups in both.

One of the victims is a six-year-old biracial girl and the other victim is a five-year-old Hispanic girl.

'He openly and pointedly displayed towards them a universally-known and universally-used hate symbol that indicates white power,' the lawsuit states.

'This white power hand signal has become openly and widely used to express hatred towards a segment of the population based upon a person's race, color and national origin, and it has prevalently and commonly been known as a hate symbol for years.'

Two families are suing Universal Orlando for $30,000 after an actor dressed as the Despicable Me villain Gru allegedly flashed a 'white power' sign in photos with young girls of color at the theme park. One of the photos cited in the lawsuit of the character posing with a Hispanic girl in March 2019 is pictured above

A second photo cited in the lawsuit shows the character making the hand gesture with a six-year-old biracial girl in February 2019

The Anti-Defamation League labeled the 'OK' hand gesture a form of hate speech in 2017.

The six-year-old biracial girl ran up to the actor dressed as Gru from one of her favorite movies Despicable Me and asked for a picture in February 2019.

The actor put his arm around the young girl and made the hand gesture above her shoulder and let it linger, according to the lawsuit.

She wanted to show the picture to her classmates but her parents told her she couldn't because 'a man did a bad thing to her because he did not like her because of her race and color,' the lawsuit says.

A month later, the Gru character did the same thing in a picture with a young Hispanic girl.

In both incidents, the lawsuit claims the character's handler or the park did nothing to stop it and are responsible.

The lawsuit claims the character's handler or the park did nothing to stop it and are responsible

The popular theme park didn't disclose the actor's name or say if it was the same person in both instances.

It's unclear if the person or people in the costume are still employed.

The families claim in the lawsuit that their children suffered 'mental anguish, loss of dignity, loss of innocence, emotional distress, humiliation, embarrassment and loss of enjoyment of life'.

Universal Orlando did not immediately return DailyMail.com's request for comment.
Advertisement

The Biden administration has been ridiculed for claiming Cubans are protesting 'rising COVID cases' after thousands took to the streets from Havana to Santiago chanting 'down with the dictatorship' in the biggest anti-government demonstrations on the Communist-run island in decades.

The images of protests in Cuba that went viral on social media on Sunday prompted officials in the United States to call for an American-led intervention to topple the ruling government in Havana.

Cubans marched on Havana's Malecon promenade and elsewhere on the island to protest food shortages and soaring inflation, which some economists believe could hit 900 percent this year.

Many young people took part in the afternoon protest in the capital, which disrupted traffic until police moved in after several hours and broke up the march when a few protesters threw rocks. Special forces vehicles, with machine guns mounted on the back, were seen throughout the capital and the police presence was heavy even long after most protesters had gone home by the 9pm curfew in place due to the pandemic.

Police initially trailed behind as protesters chanted 'Freedom,' 'Enough' and 'Unite.' One motorcyclist pulled out a US flag, but it was snatched from him by others.

The US State Department was criticized for an official's tweet on Sunday claiming that the protests in Cuba were in reaction to 'rising COVID cases'.

'Peaceful protests are growing in Cuba as the Cuban people exercise their right to peaceful assembly to express concern about rising COVID case/deaths & medicine shortage. We commend the numerous efforts of the Cuban people mobilizing donations to help neighbors,' tweeted Julie Chung, the acting assistant secretary for the department's Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs.

Senator Marco Rubio, a Florida Republican, was among those ridiculing the tweet, calling it 'ridiculous' and saying that Cubans 'are protesting 62 years of socialism, lies, tyranny & misery.'

Cuba is going through its worst economic crisis since the fall of the Soviet Union, along with a resurgence of coronavirus cases, as it suffers the consequences of US sanctions imposed by the Trump administration.

It comes months after six decades of the Castro family dominating Cuban politics ended with 89-year-old Raul Castro relinquishing the country's most powerful position - that of party first secretary - to Miguel Diaz-Canel, Cuba's president.

In an address to the country, President Diaz-Canel blamed the US for stoking anger, and said: 'We are prepared to do anything. We will be battling in the streets.'

Earlier, Miami Mayor Francis Suarez appeared at a demonstration in the Little Havana section of Miami, where hundreds gathered outside the famous Cuban Versailles restaurant to denounce the Communist regime on the island.

Thousands of Cubans took part in rare protests Sunday against the Communist government, marching through a town chanting 'Down with the dictatorship' and 'We want liberty'. The image above shows Cubans in Havana on Sunday

A man is arrested during a demonstration against the government of Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel in Havana on Sunday

Security forces loyal to the government detain a protester in Havana, Cuba, on Sunday

Demonstrators are seen above protesting on the streets of Havana on Sunday

Hundreds of Cuban emigres gathered in the Little Havana section of Miami to stage a protest in solidarity with anti-government demonstrators on the island

Singer Yotuel Romero addresses protesters gathered in front of the Versailles restaurant in Miami as they show support for the people in Cuba who have taken to the streets to protest

A man is arrested during a demonstration against the government of Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel in Havana on Sunday

'Cubans are worthy and ready to rule themselves without tyranny,' Miami's mayor said on Sunday. 'It can end today and it must end today. The implications of this moment can mean freedom for millions of people in the hemisphere, from Nicaraguans and Venezuelans and so many more.'

House Rep. Maria Elvira Salazar, a Republican who represents the Miami area, said the protests were the 'beginning of the end' of the Communist regime and that a 'perfect storm' presented an opportunity for the government to be toppled.

House Rep. Ruben Gallego, a Democrat from Arizona, tweeted: 'It's time for the Cuban regime to step down and let Democracy flourish in Cuba.'

Senator Marco Rubio of Florida, a Republican, tweeted: 'I am asking [President Joe Biden] and [Secretary of State Antony Blinken] to call on members of the Cuban military to not fire on their own people.

'The incompetent communist party of #Cuba cannot feed or protect the people from the virus.

'Now those in the military must defend the people not the communist party.'

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, also a Republican, tweeted: 'Florida supports the people of Cuba as they take to the streets against the tyrannical regime in Havana.

'The Cuban dictatorship has repressed the people of Cuba for decades & is now trying to silence those who have the courage to speak out against its disastrous policies.'

Another prominent Republican, Governor Kristi Noem of South Dakota, tweeted: 'The human heart wants to be free. This is as true in Cuba as it is in America.

'I stand with my friend Senator Rubio and all Cubans looking to throw off the yoke of Communism and join the free world.'

House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy of California tweeted: 'After decades of suffering through a communist dictatorship, the Cuban people deserve liberty.

'I am proud to stand in solidarity with the people of Cuba who are calling out for freedom.'

House Rep. Steve Scalise, a Republican from Louisiana, tweeted: 'America stands with the people of Cuba as they fight for their freedom from a tyrannical government.

'Socialism has failed everywhere it's been tried. We can't let America become another failed socialist experiment.'

Scalise ended the tweet with the hashtags #SOSCuba and #FreedomOverSocialism.'

President Miguel Diaz-Canel, who also heads the Communist Party, blamed the United States for the unrest in a nationally televised speech on Sunday afternoon.

Special forces jeeps, with machine guns mounted on the back, were seen in Havana and Diaz-Canel called on supporters to confront 'provocations.'

A pro-government protester is seen during a demonstration against the government of Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel in Havana on Sunday

Cuban police detain an anti-government demonstrator during a protest in Havana on Sunday

Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel (center) walks accompanied by supporters in San Antonio de los Banos on Sunday

Diaz-Canel called on his supporters to take to the streets as a response to the protest against his government

Thousands of people gathered in downtown Havana and along parts of the seaside drive amid a heavy police presence. There were a few arrests and scuffles, but no major confrontations.

The protests broke out in San Antonio de los Banos municipality in Artemisa Province, bordering Havana, with video on social media showing hundreds of residents chanting anti-government slogans and demanding everything from coronavirus vaccines to an end to daily blackouts.

'I just walked through town looking to buy some food and there were lots of people there, some with signs, protesting,' local resident Claris Ramirez said by phone.

'They are protesting blackouts, that there is no medicine,' she added.

Diaz-Canel, who had just returned from San Antonio de los Banos, said many protesters were sincere but manipulated by US-orchestrated social media campaigns and 'mercenaries' on the ground, and warned that further 'provocations' would not be tolerated.

Diaz-Canel (center) is seen during a demonstration held by citizens in San Antonio de los Banos on Sunday

Plainclothes police officers detain a person during protests outside the Capitol building in Havana on Sunday

Cuban demonstrators face down members of the security services in Havana on Sunday

Thousands are seen marching in the streets of the Cuban capital on Sunday

Cubans in the town of San Antonio de los Banos gather to meet with the Cuban president on Sunday

A man is arrested during a demonstration against the government of Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel in Havana on Sunday

Cubans under the effects of tear gas take part in a demonstration against the government of Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel in front of Havana's Capitol

There were protests later on Sunday hundreds of miles to the east in Palma Soriano, Santiago de Cuba, where social media video showed hundreds marching through the streets, again confirmed by a local resident.

'They are protesting the crisis, that there is no food or medicine, that you have to buy everything at the foreign currency stores, and on and on the list goes,' Claudia Perez said.

'We are calling on all the revolutionaries in the country, all the Communists, to hit the streets wherever there is an effort to produce these provocations,' Diaz-Canel said in his broadcast remarks.

The Communist-run country has been experiencing a worsening economic crisis for two years, which the government blames mainly on US sanctions and the pandemic, while its detractors cite incompetence and a Soviet-style one-party system.

The demonstration in Havana grew to a few thousand in the vicinity of Galeano Avenue and the marchers pressed on despite a few charges by police officers and tear gas barrages.

People standing on many balconies along the central artery in the Centro Habana neighborhood applauded the protesters passing by. Others joined in the march.

Hundreds of Cuban emigres gathered in the Little Havana section of Miami to stage a protest in solidarity with anti-government demonstrators on the island

Several of the protesters waved Cuban and American flags as well as signs calling on the US to send forces to the island

One demonstrator in Miami holds a Cuban flag with the words 'Anti-Communist' written on it

Cuban expats in Miami rally against the Communist government in Havana on Sunday

Cuban expats in Miami saw viral images circulating on social media showing protesters taking to the streets of Cuba on Sunday

Miami Mayor Francis Suarez is seen above alongside Cuban exiles at a rally in the Little Havana section of the city on Sunday

A protester in Miami holds a sign that reads: 'U.S. Southern Command Please help my people in Cuba'

A protester holds the Cuban flag over his head during a demonstration in the Little Havana section of Miami

Cuban expats in South Florida wave their native country's flag during a demonstration against the Communist government on Sunday

Jorge Lieva (center) holds a sign calling on President Joe Biden to 'help Cuba' on Sunday

Jorge Hechavarria (center) holds a sign that reads 'SOS Cuba' during a demonstration in the Little Havana section of Miami on Sunday

Although many people tried to take out their cellphones and broadcast the protest live, Cuban authorities shut down internet service throughout the afternoon.

About two-and-a-half hours into the march, some protesters pulled up cobblestones and threw them at police, at which point officers began arresting people and the marchers dispersed.

A group of government supporters also arrived in the area shouting slogans in favor of the late President Fidel Castro and the revolution. Some of them assaulted a cameraman and an AP photographer.

Diaz-Canel had been touring San Antonio de los Banos, where people protested power outages. He entered a few homes and he took questions from residents.

Afterward, though, he accused Cuban-Americans of stirring up trouble.

'As if pandemic outbreaks had not existed all over the world, the Cuban-American mafia, paying very well on social networks to influencers and Youtubers, has created a whole campaign ... and has called for demonstrations across the country,' Diaz-Canel told reporters.

Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez echoed the president's comments.

'President @DiazCanelB is in San Antonio de los Banos with the revolutionary people that are mobilized against the imperialist campaign and its salaried agents,' he wrote on Twitter.

'We appreciate the international solidarity and support of Cubans living abroad #EliminatetheBlockade.'
Boris Johnson will today warn that people should 'expect' to keep wearing masks in enclosed spaces such as supermarkets and trains even after Covid restrictions are lifted on July 19.

The Prime Minister will use a Downing Street press conference this afternoon to confirm plans to end most Covid laws next Monday, despite surging cases.

But last night he said that the plan to restore our freedoms 'must come with a warning'.

The PM said that cases will inevitably continue to rise as restrictions are eased, adding: 'Caution is absolutely vital, and we must all take responsibility so we don't undo our progress, ensuring we continue to protect our NHS.'

It comes as Susan Hopkins, of Public Health England, insisted people should continue to work from home and try to social distance after July 19.

The 'Freedom Day' was meant to herald a return to normality but the PM will also publish new 'guidance' setting out precautions people should continue to take.

Mr Johnson will say England is 'tantalisingly close to the final milestone in our road map out of lockdown, but the plan to restore our freedoms must come with a warning.'

He will insist that vaccinations have 'weakened' the link between Covid infections and hospital admissions, while warning 'the global pandemic is not over yet.'

However, the PM has dropped claims that the end of Covid restrictions is 'irreversible' following warnings from top scientists that easing restrictions could end in disaster.

Boris Johnson will today warn that people should 'expect' to keep wearing masks in enclosed spaces such as supermarkets and trains even after Covid restrictions are lifted on July 19

The latest Covid development comes as:

No 10 issued figures showing Covid vaccines have saved 30,000 lives and prevented 8.5million infections in England alone.

Dr Hopkins warned that hospitalisations could soar to 4,000 a day by the end of the summer, the same level as at the peak in January.

Another 31,772 new Covid cases were recorded but there were signs the rate of growth is slowing and the 26 deaths recorded in the past 24 hours are a fraction of the toll seen at the peak of the pandemic.

Vaccines minister Nadhim Zahawi yesterday said there would now be a clear 'expectation' that people should continue to wear face masks in crowded indoor settings.

He added that it is 'important that we remain cautious', but insisted he is 'confident that we can proceed with this step forward' because 87 per cent of adults have now had a first vaccine dose.

Labour have warned that dropping laws requiring masks is a 'recipe for confusion' that risks potential confrontations between those with differing views on the matter.

But Mr Zahawi said vaccinations had 'severely weakened' the link between Covid infections and hospitalisations. He did, however, refuse to repeat Mr Johnson's assertion it had been 'severed.'

Last week, Mr Johnson said that mask wearing would become 'a personal choice' after July 19

The Prime Minister will use a Downing Street press conference this afternoon to confirm plans to end most Covid laws next Monday, despite surging cases

He added that Britons should 'do the right thing' in regards to face coverings, telling Times Radio: 'Indoors, in crowded carriages, the very clear guidelines will be that you're expected to wear a mask.'

Health Secretary Sajid Javid struck a harder line on masks in an interview with the Sunday Telegraph today, saying people would be 'irresponsible' not to wear one in a crowded space.

'If someone is not doing that, frankly, they're just being irresponsible, they're not playing their role as a responsible citizen,' he said.

Former Tory leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith last night accused ministers of 'losing their nerve' over the lifting of restrictions.

He said: 'This is not freedom at all. Ministers are being beaten up by the scientists in the media and they are beginning to wobble.

Vaccines minister Nadhim Zahawi yesterday said there would now be a clear 'expectation' that people should continue to wear face masks in crowded indoor settings

Britain has recorded 31,772 new cases of coronavirus and 26 new deaths in the latest government figures

'The question for the scientists is: do they believe the vaccines work?

'If they work  and they clearly do to reduce hospitalisations and deaths  then we should not be continuing to sacrifice the economy on the altar of some misguided zero Covid policy.'

CBI calls for self-isolation rules to be dropped earlier Business leaders have urged the government to drop self-isolation rules earlier than planned. The CBI, which represents 190,000 firms, said the requirement for the double-jabbed to quarantine after coming in contact with positive cases should go on July 19, rather than waiting until August 16. CBI boss Tony Danaker said: 'Learning to live and work with the virus is the right strategy, but we need to ensure this is a confident not an anxious transition, otherwise it won't work. 'Businesses have had a real boost this week with the Prime Minister's plans for the final stage of the reopening. 'What's needed now is a concerted effort between business and government to create widespread confidence from the get go.' Advertisement

While Steve Baker, deputy chairman of the Covid Recovery Group of lockdownsceptic Tory MPs, accused ministers of a 'shift in policy' and said that it was 'torturing the nation'.

Arguing that for some people wearing a mask is a 'terrible thing', he added: 'Its not fair snatching away peoples hope, its psychologically, profoundly destructive.'

Last week, Mr Johnson said that mask wearing would become 'a personal choice' after July 19.

Several senior ministers, including Chancellor Rishi Sunak and Environment Secretary George Eustice said they would be ditching their masks at the earliest opportunity.

But Mr Zahawi said yesterday: 'The guidelines that we'll set out tomorrow will demonstrate that, including guidelines that people are expected to wear masks in indoor enclosed spaces.'

He also suggested the government is looking at a test and release scheme to replace self-isolation for those who come into contact with a positive case, amid fears that millions of healthy people will be doomed to house arrest as infections rise.

'If you do test positive you have to and should rightly then self-isolate but it is important to look at that in a new context of this massive vaccination programme and make sure that it is fit for purpose for this new world,' he said.

Meanwhile, Sadiq Khan is still considering a bid to force passengers to keep wearing masks on trains, Tube and buses in London.

The level of nerves among the wider public was demonstrated today as research by Opinium found half would prefer the unlocking slated to happen a week tomorrow to be delayed.

Some 31 per cent thought the timing was about right, while just 10 per cent said it should have been earlier.

The PM is expected to give final approval for Stage 4 of the roadmap tomorrow, with almost all legal restrictions set to be lifted.

But Nicola Sturgeon has already vowed to keep masks and other curbs in Scotland for longer.

Research by Opinium found half would prefer the unlocking slated to happen a week tomorrow to be delayed

Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has warned July 19 could turn into 'anxiety day', complaining that face coverings should remain a legal requirement.

He told the Observer: 'The government is simply wrong to frame everything from here as a matter of pure personal choice. It is not.

'Many people who are vulnerable to the virus have to use public transport and do their food shopping in person.

'That is why the wearing of face coverings in these settings should have remained mandatory.

'I will be strongly encouraging the people of Greater Manchester to continue to wear masks on public transport out of respect for others.'

Shadow health secretary Jon Ashworth said: 'Given Sajid Javid now considers it irresponsible to not wear masks then it would be equally irresponsible for his government to carry on with the plan to lift mask requirements while infections are heading to 100,000 a day.

'Reopening the economy must be done in a safe and sustainable way.

'That means continued mask wearing, support for increased ventilation standards in premises, decent sick pay, allowing people to continue working from home and ensuring all can access testing rather than introducing charges for lateral flow tests as Sajid Javid now proposes.'
The wait is almost over as Gareth Southgate's England side look to etch their name in the history books forever with victory over Italy in the Euro 2020 final.

The Three Lions are on the cusp of glory after overcoming Denmark in a nerve-jangling semi-final at Wembley on Wednesday, with Harry Kane scoring the all-decisive goal in extra-time.

However, the Italians are out to spoil the party at Wembley - having secured their spot in the showpiece final following a dramatic penalty shoot-out win over Spain on Tuesday.

Follow Sportsmail's DAN RIPLEY for live Euro 2020 coverage of England vs Italy, including build-up, team news and scoreline.
Crystal Palace manager Patrick Vieira is looking to bring in Arsenal's Eddie Nketiah and Nice's Kasper Dolberg as he aims to strengthen his side's attacking options.

As reported by The Sun, Vieira wants to add more goals to the Palace team and is planning to raid his former clubs Arsenal and Nice.

Nketiah, who has one year left on his deal, reportedly refused the offer of a new contract from Arsenal recently, with the 22-year-old eager to play regularly. He is reportedly available for 20million.

Crystal Palace boss Patrick Vieira is considering strikers Eddie Nketiah and Kasper Dolberg

In the second half of last season Nketiah was frequently left out of the matchday squad by Mikel Arteta and he could end up leaving this summer.

Dolberg, meanwhile, impressed for Denmark at Euro 2020 as he scored three goals and is valued at 25million.

Vieira signed Dolberg from Ajax in 2019, with the forward having found the net 17 times in 55 appearances for Nice.

Nketiah could leave Arsenal for 20million this summer following a lack of playing time

Dolberg, who played under Vieira at Nice, was impressive for Denmark at Euro 2020

It appears likely that Vieira would only be able to sign one of Nketiah and Dolberg.

Since being appointed as Palace boss a week ago, Vieira has already made one signing, bringing in midfielder Michael Olise from Reading.

Vieira faces a considerable task in attempting to rebuild Palace's squad with a host of players out of contract after their deals expires at the end of June.
UFC boss Dana White has said that Conor McGregor and Dustin Poirier will meet for a fourth time after their trilogy fight at the T-Mobile Arena ended early when the Irishman suffered a broken leg at the end of the first round.

McGregor's left leg was in a protective cast as he was wheeled out of the arena on a stretcher and brought to a local hospital, where White said he would be operated on Sunday morning.

'It sucks, it's brutal, it's not the way you want to see fights end. Dustin Poirier will fight for the title and when Conor is healed and ready to go, you do the rematch, I guess,' White told a news conference.

Dana White has said that Conor McGregor and Dustin Poirier will meet for a fourth time

McGregor and Poirier fought at a frenetic pace during the first five-minute frame before doctors called a halt due to McGregor's leg break.

Poirier, who was already the number one contender for the lightweight title, will now meet Brazilian Charles Oliveira, who won the belt in May when he defeated Michael Chandler.

The UFC 264 lightweight match-up was supposed to bring what had become a bitter rivalry to an end, but White said the pair still had unfinished business in the cage.

The Irishman will have surgery on Monday to repair the damage that was sustained

'The fight didn't get finished. You can't have a fight finish that way. We'll see how the whole thing plays out. I mean, who knows how long Conor is out? Poirier will do his thing until Conor is ready.'

Former United States president Donald Trump was among the 20,062 fans in a sold-out T-Mobile Arena that heard McGregor launch an expletive-ridden post-fight tirade at Poirier, insulting the American's wife in the process.

'I don't like that. That's not good. Leave people's families and wives and all that stuff out of it. Family has nothing to do with it,' White said.
Advertisement

I'm staying in one of the greatest hotel suites in Scotland - and discovering there are actually hardships well-heeled guests must endure here.

There's the slog from the loo to the rain shower, which is in an alcove at the far end of a dressing room on the opposite side of the vast space.

Decisions must be made about which window seat to occupy  the small padded one for views north across Loch Faskally or the semi-circular banquette by a trio of windows that afford views of the magnificent 2,759ft-tall Ben Vrackie mountain.

Dreamy: The Castle Penthouse (pictured) at Fonab Castle Hotel & Spa features a seven-foot 'And So To Bed' Dickens Nickel Bed worth 10,000

Fonab is an imperious red-sandstone 19th-century Baronial-style castle in Pitlochry, Perthshire

Fonab, which has just had a 2.5million refurb, is certainly historical, but it has a polished swagger, writes Ted

THE JOYS OF THE TRAIN JOURNEY TO SCOTLAND The most thrilling way of reaching Scotland from England is undoubtedly by train. Our journey to Fonab Castle Hotel begins with the 9am LNER Azuma from Kings Cross to Edinburgh. The Royal Border Bridge at Berwick-upon-Tweed On the way we take in some incredible sights from our seats - the impressive York station, the magnificent Durham Cathedral and the striking Angel of North, just before Newcastle. The arrival into the station there is breathtaking, with amazing views of the city and the River Tyne as the train crosses the mighty King Edward VII Bridge. An LNER Azuma passes Alnmouth As the train hurtles further north, we gaze at the coast at Alnmouth, spot Lindisfarne Castle on Holy Island and are then hypnotised as the train crosses the Royal Border Bridge (which is actually three miles south of the border) before pulling up in Berwick-upon-Tweed station. After this, amazing views of rugged coastline keep us transfixed before the train arrives at Edinburgh Waverley. Six minutes early. An LNER Azuma train at Hilton Junction, south of Perth, as the line enters the Moncrieffe Tunnel. Measuring 1,220 yards, it is the longest railway tunnel in northern Scotland We reach Perth via a ScotRail HST service via the showstopping Forth Bridge. Unforgettable. On the way home, we catch a direct LNER Azuma service from Perth to Kings Cross, which doesn't go along the Forth Bridge, but does skirt past the awe-inspiring Stirling Castle. Advertisement

And then there's the toil of bedtime. Plush drapes need to be pulled down over each of the aforementioned windows and an attempt made on the summit of the seven-foot 'And So To Bed' Dickens Nickel Bed.

It's outrageously huge  and vertiginous. Vast enough to accommodate two Hagrids and tall enough to warrant a small run-up and jump to get on top.

Our ravishing chamber is the Castle Penthouse, a mini kingdom with a vaulted ceiling at the top of the imperious red-sandstone 19th-century Baronial-style Fonab Castle Hotel & Spa in Pitlochry, Perthshire. And I really am quite taken with it, despite the hard work involved.

The bed, worth around 10,000, is as comfortable as it is gargantuan, relaxing in the standalone oval bathtub (in a turret with the loo) a wonderful indulgence and those views... mesmerising, whatever the weather.

Fine views, it turns out, are there for the taking from multiple locations at this most beguiling property, including the Lounge Bar and the Fonab Brasserie, which both have floor-to-ceiling windows through which guests can drink in a fine slice of Scottish geology.

The former is a drinks-only establishment, the latter where breakfast, lunch and dinner are distributed, with the quality consistently impressive.

At breakfast we enjoy top-notch porridge, with sugar and cream for it served in mini saucepans, to the particular delight of my three-year-old daughter. We also love the elegant afternoon-tea-style cake stands populated by fruit, pastries, and pots of yoghurt and berries.

For lunch and dinner we try pan-roasted hake with squid-ink risotto (25); plaice with mussels, cider and chervil sauce (25), and the Fonab burger (17.95). Top marks all around. The meat for the burger is excellent, the risotto bursting with flavour and my plaice beautifully presented.

At the hotel's three-AA-rosette restaurant, Sandemans, the cuisine demands a new set of superlatives.

Cocooned in a bewitchingly boutique-y dining room we work our way through a tasting menu of exquisite dishes and amuse-bouche, with superb wines to match.

What's on offer is an experience easily worthy of a Michelin star  a mini culinary odyssey of cleverly combined flavours, temperatures and textures.

The journey begins with crab rillettes with pickled cucumber and gazpacho; duck foie gras with riesling jelly; West Coast scallops with wild garlic, pea puree and bellota ham, and confit salmon with oyster and Oscietra caviar.

Then it's on to breast of Peking duck, an ingenious dessert containing a yogurt mousse fashioned into a bright red strawberry and another consisting of heavenly dark chocolate with caramelised popcorn for a bit of crunch.

Wine-wise our palettes are treated to a Burgundian Volnay Pinot Noir, a velvety Chateau Beau-Site red Bordeaux and a sweet Sybille Kuntz Riesling.

The wine list actually spans both Sandemans and the Brasserie and in the latter I'd already quaffed a delightful 'Saskia' Chenin Blanc/Viognier and a knock-out 'Polish Hill' Riesling from Australia.

The service purrs in Sandemans and is courteous and spritely in the Brasserie. It isn't always perfect, with a 20-minute wait for the taking of a breakfast food order one morning, but it's a dropping of the ball. Apologies are issued and faultless waiter and waitressing resumes thereafter.

Outside the food and beverage realm, the staff are also rather smashing.

For instance, one of the maintenance men spontaneously takes time out of his schedule to show my daughter how to feed the hotel chickens, which roam the grounds and supply the eggs for the chefs.

And we meet the affable spa staff when we go for a splash about in the enticingly-tiled 15-metre indoor pool.

So, is this the Scottish castle-hotel of your dreams?

Not if you're dreaming of a rustic, step-back-in-time experience.

Fonab, which has just had a 2.5million refurb, is certainly historical, but it has a polished swagger  like some of its guests. And their cars.

A group of Lamborghini-owning friends are using the hotel as their touring base during our stay, so we rise in the morning to the sound of cockerels crowing and V12 engines roaring.

No self-respecting castle is complete without a set of commanding spiral stairs

At Fonab's three-AA-rosette restaurant, Sandemans (pictured), Ted works his way through a tasting menu of 'exquisite dishes'

Fine views are there for the taking from multiple locations, including the Fonab Brasserie (above, with Loch Faskally beyond)

The Lounge Bar, pictured, is perfect for drinking in the scenery with a dram or two

I'm not surprised they're drawn to Fonab, given that it's positioned just to the south of the Cairngorms National Park amid, as we discover, some of the very best driving roads anywhere in Britain.

We arrive in Scotland from London via a thrilling high-speed LNER train ride from Kings Cross to Edinburgh, then a ScotRail service across the mighty Forth Bridge to Perth, where we pick up a very cool Mercedes AMG C200 hire car.

We cruise from the castle up the A9, snaking between dramatic peaks to Aviemore, where we turn right and head a few miles along the road to Loch Morlich and the Cairngorm Reindeer Centre, which manages Britain's only wild herd of reindeer.

Ted's plaice with mussels, cider and chervil sauce, which he enjoys at the Fonab Brasserie

Pictured left is an amuse-bouche served at Sandemans of seaweed cones filled with salmon mousse and caviar accompanied by Parmesan Gougere. Pictured right is the eatery's exquisite strawberry dessert

The image on the left shows Ted's Sandemans confit salmon with oyster and Oscietra caviar. On the right, duck foie gras with Riesling jelly

They were introduced to the sub-Arctic Cairngorm mountains in 1952 by Swedish reindeer herder Mikel Utsi.

There are now 150 of the Christmassy beasts living freely on the slopes above Loch Morlich.

We join a guided tour and hang out with a group of them for half an hour as one of the Centre's experts fills us in on the reindeer way of life and how they are cunningly adapted to cold weather (they're so well insulated that if they lay down on snow, it won't melt).

It's a magical experience.

I also take the C200 over from Fonab to Braemar, a journey that ranks as the most spectacular drive of my life.

The Cairngorm Reindeer Centre manages Britain's only wild herd of reindeer (pictured)

Ted takes his Mercedes AMG C200 hire car along the A93 through glorious Glenshee and past the ski station. He ranks the journey as the most spectacular drive of his life. The image on the left shows the road on the north side of the ski centre and the image on the right shows Ted's hire car and the Glenshee valley on the south side

Double rooms at Fonab Castle Hotel & Spa start from 295 per night on a B&B basis

The wine at Fonab is excellent. Ted enjoys several fine glasses, including a velvety Chateau Beau-Site red Bordeaux and a sweet Sybille Kuntz Riesling

The scenery is glorious for the duration but becomes mind-blowingly epic at Glenshee on the A93. I actually struggle to contain my excitement as I power up the 12-per-cent-gradient climb to the Glenshee ski station, the imposing mountains on either side making me feel totally insignificant.

Back at the hotel there is yet another summit to conquer  the bed.

It's a hard life... and I can't wait to tough it out again.
Danielle Fogarty has welcomed her first child with fiance Ross Worswick.

The 29-year-old fashion entrepreneur took to Instagram on Sunday to share the joyous news, as she rejoiced that she'd welcomed her son in time for the Euro 2020 final.

Revealing she has named their baby boy Mason, the new mum shared a slew of snaps in the hospital with her newborn.

'He came home!' Danielle Fogarty welcomed baby boy Mason with fiance Ross Worswick in time for the Euro 2020 final on Sunday

Danielle penned: 'He came home. Mason Fogarty Worswick Born 09/07/21 20.45pm.

'You have completed us, I could burst with the love I have for you. You gave mummy a tough ride but I couldnt be happier to have you finally home.

'@rossworswick I could not have done that without you, your already the best Daddy'.

Baby joy: Ross and Danielle took to Instagram to share adorable snaps of their newborn son who they welcomed on Friday evening

Sweet: Ross and Danielle shared their excitement at welcoming their little one ahead of the England match

Also taking to Instagram with a collage of shots, Ross added: 'Its Coming Home and So Are We

'Mason Fogarty Worswick born 20.45 on 09/07/21 weighing 6lbs 6oz. We are absolutely over the moon and all home safe and sound, what an emotional rollercoaster the last couple of days have been.

'I cant even put into words how amazing @danielle_fogarty1 was  Thank you for bringing our baby boy into the world'.

Danielle penned: 'He came home. Mason Fogarty Worswick Born 09/07/21 20.45pm. You have completed us, I could burst with the love I have for you'

She added: 'You gave mummy a tough ride but I couldnt be happier to have you finally home. @rossworswick I could not have done that without you, your already the best Daddy''

Danielle announced she was pregnant on Christmas Eve of last year, two months after telling fans her partner Ross, 31, had proposed during a romantic trip to Dubai.

During a Q&A session with fans on Instagram in December, Danielle revealed that she wasn't pregnant when she got engaged in Dubai on October 3, explaining she thinks she must have conceived about a week later.

She said: 'It happened probably a week after. It wasn't planned. I was off the pill for about three months just to see how my body would react.. a little miracle happened!

'It was an amazing surprise. I found out about three or four weeks after we got back from Dubai.

Ross penned: 'We are absolutely over the moon and all home safe and sound, what an emotional rollercoaster the last couple of days have been'

Ross added: 'I cant even put into words how amazing @danielle_fogarty1 was  Thank you for bringing our baby boy into the world'

Speaking about finding out, Danielle said: 'I did a test because I was late and was super bloated, which I don't usually get. I was at work on my own and I did a test.

'Then I came home early and told Ross ''I don't think we can get married anymore'', I mean, because we were going to in 2021, and his little heart sank... Then I told him I was pregnant!'

In December, Danielle explained that she discovered the baby's sex early on in her pregnancy after having a NIPT test.

Danielle also said that she had been 'lucky' during her first trimester and just had a little bloating and no sickness.

Baby news! The star and her beau Ross announced they were expecting their first child on Christmas Eve, sharing a sweet snap with their baby's ultrasound

Bump: Throughout her pregnancy, the fashion entrepreneur shared snaps of her baby bump

The star and her beau Ross announced they were expecting their first child on Christmas Eve, sharing a sweet snap with their baby's ultrasound.

Danielle and Ross couldn't hide their joy as they shared the festive image, alongside the caption: 'Mine, yours, Ours. Merry Christmas from the three of us, we can't wait to meet you little one.'

In October, Danielle revealed she was engaged to her boyfriend, Ex On The Beach star Ross, after two years of dating.

Lucky: Danielle said she had been 'lucky' during her first trimester and not had any sickness

The blonde beauty looked radiant in a sweet selfie that showed off her dazzling engagement ring and captioned the post: '03/10/2020 I said yes!!'.

In another cute snap at the moment he got down on one knee, the loved-up pair revealed they dined al fresco on the beach in front of the illuminated Burj Al Arab luxury hotel on their special night.

Danielle looked incredible in a silk white dress while Ross donned a smart shirt and shorts for the dinner, where the table was adorned with red roses.

The roped-off beach area was lined with fairy lights, candles and flaming torches that created an incredible atmosphere.

Moving fast! During the candid Q&A, Danielle explained how she believed she conceived around a week after Ross proposed to her in Dubai in October

Big plans: Back in December, as the COVID-19 pandemic was at its height Danielle said her wedding plans had been pushed back to 2022, particularly with their baby on the way

Expecting: She explained how she had been off the pill for around three months when she fell pregnant in October

Danielle - whose father is motorbike star Carl Fogarty - also shared a video of the dazzling ring as she stood on the beach and a family shot with her parents after the proposal.

Reality star Ross also shared the news on his social media, writing: 'I promised her when she was 17 I'd marry her before she's 30, I wasn't going to break that,' along with a heart emoji.

Danielle and Ross became an item back in August 2018 but have known each other for several years.

Danielle was previously engaged to Jake Quickenden, but their three-year relationship ended in April 2018.
Lady Clara Paget's celebrity pals threw her the wildest hen party I've ever seen last week  in fact, it was so debauched the whole thing was 'raided'!

Clara's chums, including model Cara Delevingne and actress Jaime Winstone, threw a crazy party called 'Claztonbury' before limos whisked guests off to the Cotswolds, where they all dressed up.

Clara, daughter of the 8th Marquess of Anglesey, donned a bridal gown while Cara dressed as Alicia Silverstone in the film Clueless.

Lady Clara Paget's celebrity pals threw her the wildest hen party I've ever seen last week  in fact, it was so debauched the whole thing was 'raided'!

Clara's chums, including model Cara Delevingne and actress Jaime Winstone, threw a crazy party called 'Claztonbury' before limos whisked guests off to the Cotswolds, where they all dressed up

The 32-year-old bride-to-be was filmed having a sword fight with a man dressed as a monk  then things came to a head when men stormed in yelling: 'Everyone get on the floor  this is a raid!' Thankfully it turned out to be a prank.

At least Clara's wedding to concert producer Oscar Tuttiett can go ahead as she won't be facing jail any time soon. Phew!

Josh's US love enjoys his blanket coverage

Here's a familiar storyline  a prince quits London for America to be with the love of his life.

No, not that one again  it's Josh O'Connor, who plays Prince Charles in The Crown, who is heading to New York to move in with girlfriend Margot Hauer-King.

The couple have been separated due to Covid travel curbs and Margot, daughter of top restaurateur Jeremy King, has been reduced to snuggling up with a 'Covid comfort blanket' made by London-born artist Jess Warby.

Josh O'Connor, who plays Prince Charles in The Crown, is heading to New York to move in with girlfriend Margot Hauer-King (left together). Margot has been reduced to snuggling up with a 'Covid comfort blanket' (right) made by London-born artist Jess Warby

It features a cartoon of Josh wearing bright yellow sunglasses and trousers, and big boots.

Josh could have done with the blanket himself to cover his modesty in his new film Mothering Sunday, which debuted at Cannes last week.

Cinema-goers were shocked to see he goes full frontal in it!

She's been unlucky in love since splitting from James Middleton and later property tycoon Ben Carrington.

But now Donna Air has found a hot new flame  vaping millionaire Gunnar Winbergh, whose vitamin vapes come with a claim that 'inhaling your supplements supports your health'.

He has three children with ex-wife Saskia, who once dated Theo Osborne, colourful younger brother of former Chancellor George.

Saskia and Gunnar parted ways a few months after the birth of their third child and Saskia went on to date Nick Johnston, an Old Etonian pal of David Cameron, to whom she is now married with a daughter.

Donna, 41, previously dated Damian Aspinall, with whom she has a daughter, Freya, and went on to date James Middleton.

She split from him and it emerged she was in a romance with Carrington but that soon fizzled out.

Let's hope Donna and Gunnar can light up each other's lives!

Hot new catch alert!

Dara Huang, who had been living for more than a year with a mystery boyfriend in Knightsbridge, is single again and attracting attention in St Tropez after the couple split.

I'm told he was Dara's first serious boyfriend since former fiance Edo Mapelli Mozzi  the father of her young son Wolfie  left her and began dating Princess Beatrice, whom he married last year.
I did a double-take when I spotted one of Hollywoods most famous faces working in a kitchen in Somerset for a New Years Eve party... in July!

Friends actress Courteney Cox was serving up pasta at Babington House, part of the Soho House empire, along with pals including Alan Carr and John Bishop.

Im sure theyre nice, but hardly superstars Id expect Courteney to be mixing with

Friends actress Courteney Cox was serving up pasta at Babington House, part of the Soho House empire, along with pals including Alan Carr and John Bishop

Im sure theyre nice, but hardly superstars Id expect Courteney to be mixing with Pictured: Babington House, Somerset

I hope all is well with George Osborne and Thea Rogers as she prepares to give birth to their first child.

I only ask because Paul Staines, founder of the Guido Fawkes political website, told The Spectator podcast last week that George was 'going through a very difficult stage' with his fiancee.

Perhaps wisely, podcast host Fraser Nelson steered the conversation away from the subject, but the comment has not been edited out.

The former Chancellor is aware of the claim but has not, seemingly, done anything about it. Meanwhile, Thea has been relaxing at their Somerset home.

I hope all is well with George Osborne and Thea Rogers (seen together in 2013) as she prepares to give birth to their first child

At least 'Nine Jobs' George is passing on his work ethic to son Luke, who has become a club promoter in the Cornish resort of Newquay.

The 20-year-old student is director of an events company, The Constitution, and is promoting a 9-a-ticket drum and bass event at Bertie's this month, billed as an 'immersive, genre-fluid experience'.

Perhaps Luke was inspired after attending Ibiza super-club Pacha  famous for its spacious loos  with his father.

Celeb's spouting nonsense

Is Georgia Jagger aware of the homelessness crisis in our capital? Apparently not.

Claiming that 'London is so different to New York,' Sir Mick Jagger's supermodel daughter says of the problem in the Big Apple: 'People are so numb to it in West Village I saw this homeless man the other night and I couldn't sleep all night.

'I went and gave him some cash. You don't see things like that where I live in London.'

Clearly Georgia, 29, doesn't often venture far from the leafy suburb of Richmond where she grew up.

It's A Sin writer Russell T. Davies wants a new TV ban on actors mauling the Welsh accent.

Swansea-born Russell says: 'I get angry when non-Welsh people are cast as Welsh because that accent is so hard to do. The rubbish we've had to sit through! I've made protests and made people promise never to do it again. It drives me mad!'

The scriptwriter has previously insisted only gay people should play homosexuals.
A former NCIS actress by the name of Zoe McLellan has an active arrest warrant for reported kidnapping.

McLellan's ex Jean-Pierre Gillain, 51, claims that Zoe, 46, vanished with their son Sebastian, eight, as far back as April 2019, and he has neither seen nor heard from them since that time, per TMZ.

In January 2020 however, J.P. was booked into a Louisiana prison 'for first-degree rape and aggravated crime against nature charges,' with McLellan claiming the abuse victim was none other than their son.

Wanted: Former NCIS actress Zoe McLellan, 46, is wanted on an arrest warrant in LA County for reportedly kidnapping she and ex J.P. Gillain's son Sebastian, now eight years old, as far back as April 2019; pictured 2015

Court records obtained by TMZ show that an active arrest warrant for kidnapping was issued in May.

Gillain's attorney Lawrence Markey told the publication that the child has been missing for nearly two years and is believed to be with Zoe somewhere near New Orleans.

The actress also reportedly has outstanding charges of 'kidnapping, child custody deprivation and child stealing' alleged against her, for an issue that occurred while the former spouses warred over custody of Sebastian in 2017.

That year the Castle actor claimed Zoe took the then-four-year-old to Toronto while she filmed Designated Survivor without his permission or consent.

In December 2020 he also posted a 'wanted' poster to his instagram with the caption reading: 'Please share and reach out if you know anything about where this person is! She's abducted my son.'

Rape charges: In January 2020 her ex Gillain was booked into the Parish Prison on 'first degree rape and aggravated crime against nature charges,' with McLellan telling WDSU that the victim was their son Sebastian; J.P. pictured June 29

Seeking Sebastian: In December 2020 he also posted a 'wanted' poster to his instagram with the caption: 'Please share and reach out if you know anything about where this person is! She's abducted my son.'

Complicated: The off the grid actress also has outstanding charges of 'kidnapping, child custody deprivation and child stealing' alleged against her, for an issue that occured while the former spouses warred over custody of Sebastian in 2017

To complicate matters more, in January 2020, Gillain was extradited from California and booked into the Parish Prison in Jefferson Parish, Louisiana on 'first-degree rape and aggravated crime against nature charges,' per records obtained by WDSU.

Zoe alleged at that time that the victim was none other than their son and the abuse  which he reportedly described to her in detail and is in therapy for  occurred between 2014 and 2016.

'There's no script I've ever read that's been as awful as this,' McLellan told WDSU. 'However, I always tell my son that we are warriors, not worriers, and we are fighting for him and that I will be able to keep him safe.'

'There are other victims,' she also maintained in a phone call. 'I am hopeful that they will step forward, that they will have the courage to step forward because there are other victims.'

The pair were married from 2012 to 2016.
Like many parents, Angelina Jolie has been known to use a basic day of shopping as a means to spend quality time with her six children.

And on Saturday, Jolie's daughter Zahara got the leading lady treatment when they headed out for a dose of retail therapy at a toy store in the Los Feliz neighborhood of Los Angeles.

While out, the mother-daughter tandem made several purchases, including a HABA grocery shop play tent.

Quality time: Angelina Jolie, 46, enjoyed some one-on-one time with daughter Zahara, 16, while out shopping for toys in the Los Feliz neighborhood of Los Angeles on Saturday

Jolie, 46, may have been empty-handed when they went into the store, but on the way out she was carrying the box for play tent toy.

And as usual, the actress and director had a touch of class in the fashion department when she stepped out in a white summer dress, which she covered up in a brown raincoat by Everlane.

The Oscar-winner rounded out her ensemble with a pair of brown open-toe heels and her dark brown tresses style long and flowing well past her shoulders and a part near the middle.

Classy: The mother of six stepped out in a white summer dress, which she covered up in a brown raincoat by Everlane

Her 16-year-old daughter followed close behind carrying with a yellow bag.

Zahara opted for a much more casual and sporty outfit in dark brown leggings with a black top and matching sneakers.

In keeping with her go-to style throughout her young life, the teen had her raven tresses styled in long braids that she pulled back off her face and had flowing on her shoulders.

Easy does it: Zahara, 16, opted for a much more casual and sporty outfit in dark brown leggings with a black top and matching sneakers

Purchase: Jolie carried a HABA grocery shop play tent when she headed out of the toy store

Both mother and daughter decided to keep up with their safety first mentality and wore protective face masks over their mouths and noses amid the still dangerous COVID-19.

Jolie has made a point of also spending one-on-one time while out shopping with Zahara's five brothers and sisters: Maddox, 19, Pax, 17, Shiloh, 15, and twins Vivienne and Knox, 12.

Accompanied by her partner at the time, Brad Pitt, the Girl, Interrupted star adopted Zahara from an orphanage in Addis, Ababa, Ethiopia in July 2005 when she was just six-months-old.
Gaby Roslin has claimed her children find her a 'total embarrassment' for faking an orgasm on daytime TV.

The TV presenter, 56, spoke with The Sun on Satuday about her racy interview with Billy Crystal on Channel 4's The Big Breakfast, in which she recreated the scene where Meg Ryan faked an orgasm at a restaurant in When Harry Met Sally.

While Gaby admitted her children find it embarrassing that she did that on national television, she is firm in the belief that daytime TV should be 'naughty, irreverent and risque.'

Honest: Gaby Roslin said on Saturday her kids think she's an 'embarrassment' for faking an orgasm on The Big Breakfast but claims daytime TV should be 'naughty' (pictured in 2019)

Looking back at the interview, Gaby told the publication: 'He came on the show and I had to fake that famous Meg Ryan orgasm scene with him. That clip is still on YouTube. To my kids I'm a total embarrassment.

'But I'd like to see more naughty television. Naughty always sounds like I'm saying, "woohoo television". I don't mean naughty rude.

'I mean naughty, irreverent and risque. I've thought for a long time we need riskier TV. A lot of television these days is a bit safe.'

Gaby is married to publisher David Osman and they share daughter Amelie, 14, and she shares daughter Libbi-Jack, 20, with ex-husband Colin Peel.

Racy: Gaby (pictured in the When Harry Met Sally play in 2005) recounted how she 'had to fake that famous Meg Ryan orgasm scene' with Billy Crystal on The Big Breakfast

The Big Breakfast originally ran from 1992 to 2002, with Gaby presenting the show alongside Chris Evans from the show's inception until 1996.

In 1993, the programme was the highest rated breakfast show in the UK, with around two million viewers tuning in per episode.

Gaby remained on the show until 1996 when Zoe Ball took her place, other famous names to present the programme include Kelly Brook and Denise Van Outen.

Candid: While Gaby claimed she's a 'total embarrassment' to her kids for it, she said: 'I'd like to see more naughty television' (pictured on The Big Breakfast with Chris Evans in 1994)

Speaking with The Mail On Sunday last year about the programme, Gaby said: 'Chris and I hit it off from the moment we first worked together.

'He was incredible to work with  hes thinking all the time. We never had a script, we just bounced off each other, making stuff up as we went along.'

As a girl, Gaby used to sit alongside the screen during broadcasts of Blue Peter, taking on the role of an imagined fourth presenter, getting her father -former BBC newsreader Clive Roslin- to pretend to film her.

Reflecting on finally getting to live her childhood dream she added: 'I can still remember that moment when I heard in my earpiece "Ten seconds to live" the first time. It was everything I hoped it would be. Ive loved every moment since.'
Sharon Stone enjoyed some quality time with her son Roan, who she shares with ex-husband Phil Bronstein, in Beverly Hills on Friday afternoon.

After shopping for sunglasses at Optometrix, the Basic Instinct star, 63, appeared in high spirits as she shared a laugh with her rarely-seen 21-year-old.

For their outing, the Golden Globe winner rocked a sleeveless black blouse, a pair of cuffed jeans with an edgy wallet chain and leather combat boots.

Sharing a laugh: Sharon Stone enjoyed some quality time with her son Roan, who she shares with ex-husband Phil Bronstein, in Beverly Hills on Friday afternoon

Her short and spiky blonde hair was slicked back and she completed her casual look with cool retro shades and zebra-patterned handbag.

Meanwhile, Stone's son, who she adopted as a baby in 2000, styled in long hair in a messy top knot and sported a white tank and Off-White sneakers.

In April during an interview with Saga magazine, she revealed she 'couldn't function' after losing custody of her Roan, and would spend her days crying.

Shopping spree: After shopping for sunglasses at Optometrix, the Basic Instinct star, 63, appeared in high spirits as she shared a laugh with her rarely-seen 21-year-old

Cool girl: For their outing, the Golden Globe winner rocked a sleeveless black blouse, a pair of cuffed jeans with an edgy wallet chain and leather combat boots

'After I lost primary custody of Roan, I couldn't function. I just lay on the couch. I was so damn tired. I would cry,' she told the outlet.

Stone continued: 'I couldn't focus on anything but having my son back in my arms. Nothing else mattered, just getting him back.'

Stone has since then signed a confidentiality agreement about the custody battle.

The star was married to Roan's father, now 70, from 1998 to 2004.

Looking good: Her short and spiky blonde hair was slicked back and she completed her casual look with cool retro shades and zebra-patterned handbag

Aspiring actor: Meanwhile, Stone's son, who she adopted as a baby in 2000, styled in long hair in a messy top knot and sported a white tank and Off-White sneakers

At the height of his career, Bronstein was a well-known war correspondent and investigative journalist, who was a finalist for the Pultizer Prize for reporting on the fall of Filipino dictator Ferdinand Marcos in 1986.

Stone wanted a family with Phil, but had trouble conceiving. The star suffered three miscarriages before the couple adopted Roan in 2000.

After her life-changing stroke in 2001 and the end of her marriage three years later, the couple entered a bitter custody battle, which Stone lost.

Phil was awarded primary custody, with Sharon getting visits from her son every month.

Now 21, Roan is making his first steps in the acting world, and will star in What About Love, with Andy Garcia playing his on-screen father.

Stone and Roan are due to star in a film together in 2022. Now 21, Roan is making his first steps in Hollywood (pictured in 2019)

Following the divorce, Sharon went on to adopt her son Laird in 2005 and son Quinn in 2006.

She hasn't remarried since, and made headlines in 2019 when she was blocked from dating platform Bumble after creating a profile that was thought to be a catfish.

Reflecting on love in the Saga interview, Stone said she felt she 'deserve a loving relationship,' and said: 'I have a greater understanding of what that is than ever before.

She added she had learned from her years of dating, quipping the most successful men are often the 'least available for a relationship.'

Family: Sharon and Phil adopted their first and only child together in 2000 before they split just three years later; pictured 2002

Speaking candidly of her dating experience, she also said she dated 'liars and charlatans.'

'I learned a lot about men and their behavior  that men who are the most successful are often the least available for a relationship, and the least thoughtful. Some were quirky, and nice and interesting. Others were liars and charlatans.'

Her book the Beauty of Living Twice, which was released on March 30 caused a stir upon its publication.

The actress left no things unsaid in the work, which spanned her career, personal life and family life.
Advertisement

All eyes were on Nina Dobrev as she put on a very busty display at the ESPY Awards at Rooftop At Pier 17 in New York City on Friday night.

The Canadian actress, best known for her portraying Elena Gilbert on The Vampire Diaries for six seasons, wore a skintight red gown with a plunging necklace.

She accessorized with a gold clutch, matching hoop earrings and a pair of opened-toe pumps in the same metallic hue.

Arrivals: All eyes were on Nina Dobrev (left) and Alexandra Daddario (right) as they walked the red carpet at the ESPY Awards in NYC on Saturday

Alexandra Daddario also commanded attention as she arrived to the red carpet wearing a midriff-baring black and white jumpsuit.

While posing for pictures at the star-studded event, the 35-year-old Percy Jackson star looked incredible as she rocked a bold red lipstick and gold heels.

She completed her one-shoulder ensemble with a gold necklace as she flashed a glimpse of her toned midriff.

Red hot: The Canadian actress, best known for her portraying Elena Gilbert on The Vampire Diaries for six seasons, wore a skintight red gown with a plunging necklace

Glam: Dobrev opted to wear a glossy nude lipstick, blush and a lightweight foundation on her flawless skin

Golden girl: She completed her one-shoulder ensemble with a gold necklace as she flashed a glimpse of her toned midriff

Commanding: Alexandra Daddario also commanded attention as she arrived to the red carpet wearing a midriff-baring black and white jumpsuit

Stunning: While posing for pictures at the star-studded event, the 35-year-old Percy Jackson star looked incredible as she rocked a bold red lipstick

Sweet memories: Daddario was seen with her boyfriend Andrew Form, who looked dapper in a white button down shirt and black two-piece suit

Hot date: The pair started dating one another in 2020, following Andrew's divorce from Jordana Brewster

Naomi Osaka looked refreshed and glamorous in a zebra poncho with shoulder pads and gold studs, which she paired with a fitted blue skirt and black heels.

Her appearance comes after she withdrew from the French Open and announced her plans to skip Wimbledon to focus on her mental health.

The 23-year-old tennis superstar wore her dark hair in a low ponytail and added a pair of chic earrings for a touch of glamour.

Edgy: Naomi Osaka turned to the side to flaunt the navy back of her flowing blouse, which was tucked in to her skirt

Tennis superstar: Osaka looked refreshed and glamorous in a zebra poncho with shoulder pads and gold studs, which she paired with a fitted blue skirt and black heels

Hot couple: The Bachelor's Rachael Kirkconnell and Matt James attended together

Fierce: Kirkconnell opted to wear a low-cut black gown and drop earrings, while her man sported a plaid tuxedo

Best foot forward: Kirkconnell put her best foot forward in a pair of strappy black heels

Staying positive: Sprinter Sha'Carri Richardson looked beautiful as she made her first appearance since it was announced she will not be competing in the Tokyo Olympics following her 30-day suspension after she tested positive for THC earlier this week

Big job: Ally Love will be at the star-studded event as the behind-the-scenes host

Sprinter Sha'Carri Richardson looked beautiful as she made her first appearance since it was announced she will not be competing in the Tokyo Olympics following her 30-day suspension after she tested positive for THC earlier this week.

The 21-year-old sported fiery red tresses and and a glitzy black gown, which displayed dragon tattoo on her left arm, which she revealed she got because the creatures are largely 'misunderstood.'

'It's seen as evil and destructive and everything. But the meaning of my dragon is fortune, authority, and good luck,' she told NBC in June.

The Bachelor's Rachael Kirkconnell and Matt James looked happy in love as they attended together and packed on some subtle PDA, which included the reality star wrapping his arm around his girlfriend's trim waist.

Kirkconnell opted to wear a low-cut black gown and blingy drop earrings, while her man sported a plaid tuxedo.

TikTok stars Charli D'Amelio and sister Dixie coordinated in light blue minidresses and silver high heels, which showed off their legs.

Younger sister Charli, 17, modeled a beauty look that was created by Meghan Markle's longtime makeup artist Daniel Martin, who revealed that he wanted to 'make dewy hydrated skin' the focus of the finish.

'I wanted to play off the sequins of the Balmain dress, so it was all about summer, sunkissed skin and glowing pinks,' he said. 'A trick for getting that radiance that Charli has is making your highlighter pop.

'After applying Morphe Gleamcatcher Illuminator in First Light with a powder brush, I spray a skin spray or mist, like Tatchas Luminous Dewy Skin Mist, onto sponge and dab over the highlighted areas  this will amplify your glow and that radiance will show up even more in pictures.'

Superstar siblings: TikTok stars Charli D'Amelio and sister Dixie coordinated in light blue minidresses and silver high heels, which showed off their toned legs

Massive following: The duo are the stars of their own reality series The D'Amelio Show

TikTokers: The D'Amelio sisters looked gorgeous, with Charli modeling a makeup look created by Meghan Markle's longtime friend and beauty pro Daniel Martin, who used Tatcha products to prep the starlet's complexion for the red carpet

Doting dad: Tracy Morgan arrived with his daughter eight-year-old daughter Maven, who wore a white frilly dress and silver flats

Out and about: For the event, the 52-year-old actor looked handsome in a black suit and tie as he soaked in some quality time with his youngest

Gorgeous: Iliza Shlesinger looked incredible in a low-cut black gown with open-toed heels from Dee Ocleppo

Host: Anthony Mackie hosted the annual international sports award show, which will be broadcast live on Saturday at 8 p.m. ET from NYC

Wow: The stars and athletes looked incredible as they made their way down the red carpet; Anthony Mackie (left) and Maya Moore (right)

Hot date: Virginia defensive back D'Angelo Amos wore a blue vest over a white t-shirt as he attended with James Madison University's star softball pitcher Odicci Alexander

Looking good: Taye Diggs, best known for his role in Private Practice, wore a black suit and a pair of color-blocked Superga sneakers

Pop of color: Diggs gave his ensemble a pop of color by throwing on a muted orange dress shirt

Suited up: Football defensive end Chase Young and Devonta Smith proved the power of a well-fitting suit

Red, white and blue: Jocelyn Alo, Giselle Juarez, and Shannon Saile posed for photos together at the event

Red, white and blue: Jocelyn Alo, Giselle Juarez, and Shannon Saile posed for photos together at the event

White hot: Jocelyn Alo wore a white dress and clear shoes

Football quarterback Justin Herbert, 23, wore a navy suit, light blue button-down and brown loafers

Unlike her older sibling, 19, who styled her dark hair in a sleek updo, Charli, 17, opted for some glamorous loose curls.

Tracy Morgan looked every inch the doting father as he arrived with his adorable eight-year-old daughter Maven, who wore a white frilly dress and silver flats.

For the event, the 52-year-old actor looked handsome in a black suit and tie as he soaked in some quality time with his youngest.

Happy in love: Tampa Bay Buccaneers' Rob Gronkowski and Camille Kostek showed off their silly sides as they playfully posed for photos

Gorgeous: Two-time Olympic Gold Medalist and World Cup alpine skier Mikaela Shiffrin stunned in gorgeous black dress

Posing away: Aleksander Aamodt Kilde attended with Mikaela

Major bling: Jason Pierre-Paul, who serves as the outside linebacker for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, showed off his '90' necklace

Hot couple: Jared Butler looked incredible in a blingy black suit as he arrived with his date, who wore a lacey gown

Gonzaga Bulldogs forward Drew Timme, 20, looked dapper in a navy suit at the event

Sporty: UConn Huskies' Paige Bueckers rocked a pair of studded sneakers with her black dress with a thigh-high slit

Looking sharp: Trumpeter Spencer Ludwig wore all white and silver shoes

An honor: Tara VanDerveer, the head women's basketball coach at Stanford University since 1985, wore a glam blazer

He also walked with a cane and wore a foot brace, but it is unknown how he was injured.

Jason Pierre-Paul, who serves as the outside linebacker for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, showed off his '90' necklace as he made a bold statement in a black and white cheetah suit.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers' Rob Gronkowski and Camille Kostek, who began dating in 2015, showed off their silly sides as they playfully posed for photos.

Fun night in the Big Apple: Sabrina Ionescu also attended the event with a guest

Dude Perfect's Coby Cotton, Cody Jones, Tyler Toney, Garrett Hilbert, and Cory Cotton of Dude Perfect posed together

Good night: DeAndre Hopkins smiled brightly with his two guests as he sported a burnt orange suit

Pals: Tyler Campbell, Jaime Jaquez Jr., and Johnny Juzang were all in attendance

Selfie! Kostek snapped a selfie with her man

Pierre-Paul showed off his wild side in a cheetah suit

Reality stars: The D'Amelio sisters posed for photos with their parents Heidi and Marc D'Amelio

Anthony Mackie hosted the annual international sports award show, which will be broadcast live on Saturday at 8 p.m. ET.

Former NFL star Vernon Davis served as the voice of the ESPYS as he introduces presenters Kane Brown, DaBaby, Nina Dobrev and more.

Ally Love was at the star-studded event as the behind-the-scenes host.

Chris Nikic and Maya Moore were honored respectively with the Jimmy V Award for Perseverance and the the Arthur Ashe Award for Courage.

Eye-catching: Wrestler Sasha Banks rocked a sexy dress, which showed off her toned midriff

LeSean McCoy wore an Hermes belt, studded black Louboutin shoes and a white blazer

Winning streak: Zaila Avant-garde, 14, made history as the first African American winner in the bee's 96-year history on Thursday

Wild side: Soccer player Sarah Fuller ditched her cleats for the night for a pair of open-toed black pumps and a plunging cheetah-print gown with a plunging neckline to accentuate her stunning curves

Blissful: Montez Ford and Bianca Belair looked smitten with each other

Stylish: Derrick Henry, who is the running back for the Tennessee Titans, wore a $6,492 jacket Louis Vuitton jacket and matching trousers

Happy guy: Vernon Davis shot two peace signs at the camera as he walked down the red carpet

Friendly: Zachary Levi and Kurt Warner posed for pictures together

Tropical: Rosalyn Gold-Onwude rocked a patterned dress that aroused dreams of a tropical vacation

Gronkowski also ceased the opportunity to pose for some solo shots in addition to a few with his model girlfriend

High spirits: Snowboarder Chloe Kim wore a black sequined minidress as she showed off her tanned and toned legs

Kurt Warner and Brenda Warner appeared happy in love as they walked the red carpet together

Black tie: 22-year-old Chris Nikic, who is the the first person with Down syndrome to finish an Ironman triathlon, wore a suit and glasses

Celebrating Nikic posed with Tim Tebow after accepting the Jimmy V Award for Perseverance

Brothers: Basketball brothers Christian and Johnny Juzang arrived together and both sported fitted suits with sneakers
Jono Castano has candidly admitted he doesn't use a teeth aligning product he's endorsing - despite being an ambassador for the brand.

On Sunday, the celebrity trainer, 30, was questioned about his partnership with SmileDirectClub, which offer customers clear aligners to place on their teeth to straighten them within a matter of months.

But when it was pointed out by the The Sydney Morning Herald that had porcelain veneers fitted in 2017, Jono said of his ambassadorship: 'Nowhere have I stated that I have used the product from them.

Scroll down for video

Bizarre: Jono Castano has admitted he doesn't use a teeth aligning product he's endorsing - despite being an ambassador for the brand

'I have a partnership with Smile Direct on the premise that a good smile can bring confidence to a person.'

Indeed, Jono - like celebrities such as Roxy Jacenko and Francesca Packer - has achieved his smile thanks to receiving upper porcelain veneers by Dr Fadi Yassmin of FY Smile in Double Bay.

The company shared a video of his results back in 2017, with Jono later describing the transformation as one which 'changed his life'.

'I cannot thank Fadi enough, amazing,' Jono said in footage posted a year later.

Game changer: FY Smile shared a video of Jono's results back in 2017, with Jono later describing the transformation as one which 'changed his life'

Pumping iron: Jono is best known for helping actress Rebel Wilson (right) get in shape amongst a whole host of other celebrities

Daily Mail Australia have contacted Jono and SmileDirectClub for further comment.

The Sydney-based fitness instructor previously admitted he'd struggled with insecurities about his smile when he was growing up.

'Speak to me five years ago, I would put my face down when chatting to you,' he told Daily Mail Australia in March.

'I was ashamed of my smile. It's such a deep topic, I guess. I wasn't confident in my ability.'

Jono said that correcting his teeth, growing his fitness brand and working with famous clients had helped him become more confident.

Happy: 'Confidence comes from being able to go into a room and speak to everyone in that room,' he explained

'It's tough, a lot of us go through many things in life, and something as simple as changing your smile can help you towards becoming confident,' he said.

'Confidence comes from being able to go into a room and speak to everyone in that room,' he explained.

'And for me, having the perfect smile was such a key boost to being able to do that.'
EastEnders star Jake Wood is reportedly in advanced talks to appear on the upcoming series of I'm A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here!

The actor, 48, who departed his role as Max Branning earlier this year, has allegedly met with show bosses about entering the jungle, and feels it would be a 'great challenge for him.'

It comes after reports in May that ITV bosses were given the green light for I'm A Celebrity to return to the Australian jungle later this year, after being relocated to Wales in 2020 due to the Covid pandemic.

Heading to the jungle? EastEnders star Jake Wood, 48, is reportedly in advanced talks to appear on the upcoming series of I'm A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here

A source told The Sun: 'He would love to go into the jungle. He thinks it would be a great challenge for him and he has of course seen how well other EastEnders stars have done on the series.'

Another added: 'The casting team have booked half of the campmates already and have been bragging about some phenomenal names.'

MailOnline has contacted representatives for Jake Wood and I'm A Celebrity for comment.

Exciting! The actor has allegedly met with show bosses about entering the jungle, and feels it would be a 'great challenge for him

Exit: Jake departed his longtime role as Max Branning on EastEnders earlier this year, after over a decade in Albert Square

It comes following reports that I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here has been given the green light from Australian border force to return to the jungle.

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? It comes following reports that I 'm A Celebrity ... Get Me Out Of Here has been given the green light from Australian border force to return to the jungle.

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.
Selma Blair told TMZ that she is 'fine' with comedian Rob Schneider voicing his controversial 'my body my choice' stance on the COVID-19 vaccine.

The 49-year-old actress  who is immunocompromised herself and currently in remission following a battle with multiple sclerosis (MS)  confessed to getting two rounds of the Moderna shot but said she can 'understand the concern,' regarding the COVID-19 vaccine.

The Hot Chick actor, 57, went on a Twitter rant on Saturday in which he urged his followers 'just say no' to the vaccine and called it an 'unapproved experimental gene therapy,' before writing: '#2ndAmendmentIsForThis.'

Understanding: Selma Blair told TMZ that she 'is fine' with any vaccine-hesitant statements made by people, including comedian Rob Schneider, who unleashed his thoughts on Twitter, Saturday; pictured June 16

The Cruel Intentions star was seen grabbing coffee and doing a little shopping in a striped romper and hat with her boyfriend Ron Carlson on Melrose.

Afterwards she was asked her thoughts about the upcoming third vaccination  which Rob vehemently spoke out against as well as any 'vaccine acceptance.'

Selma shared that she had incurred backlash from some people for getting the first two Moderna shots, as she still undergoes chemotherapy for her MS, had undergone a bone marrow transplant, and has an 'immune system problem.'

After speaking about her vaccine experience, the conversation then switched to Schneider  which prompted a few giggles from Selma  as a TMZ reporter summarized his statements, namely his adoption of the women's rights phrase 'my body my choice,' with regards to the vaccine.

One of Schneider's many tweets read: 'Just say no... And keep saying no... Over Half of the US population is continuing to say no to this unapproved experimental gene therapy! 'My body, my choice!''

Twitter rant: The Hot Chick actor, 57, went on a Twitter rant in which he urged his followers 'just say no' and called the jab 'unapproved experimental gene therapy,' before writing: '#2ndAmendmentIsForThis'

Third shot: 'Just say no... And keep saying no... Over Half of the US population is continuing to say no to this unapproved experimental gene therapy! 'My body, my choice!',' one of his anti-vax statements read

More thoughts: 'And these a**holes are going "To keep track of who doesn't want the experimental gene therapy...'"Remember, a government that fears it's citizens is a better government,' he wrote

Trial incompletion: The Hot Chick actor seconded a notion from a Canadian user who said that the vaccine 'trials that were performed weren't done fully'

Privacy: He continued to hit out on the prospect of door to door visits to increase 'vaccine acceptance'

Another statement: He also penned a statement in the notes app to which he wrote about 'body autonomy' and the 'unprecedented coercion of professional health workers'

And a second continued to hit back at the government's possible door-to-door 'soliciting' for 'vaccine acceptance.'

'And these a**holes are going "To keep track of who doesn't want the experimental gene therapy...'"Remember, a government that fears its citizens is a better government.'

Schneider also seconded a notion from a Canadian user who said that the vaccine 'trials that were performed weren't done fully,' before penning a statement in the notes app about 'body autonomy' and the 'unprecedented coercion of professional health workers'

'I should just walk away because I'm gonna say something wrong. I'm fine  I'm fine with whatever people say,' Selma said. 'We appropriate everything, so I'm not great with the cancel culture mentality...I have respect for everything.'

Immunocompromised: Selma shared that she had incurred backlash from some people for getting the first two Moderna shots, as she still undergoes chemotherapy for her MS, had undergone a bone marrow transplant, and has an 'immune system problem'; pictured with Ron Carlson October 2020

Vaccine injury: Blair continued to say that her son Arthur had a 'vaccine injury when he was very young,' so she can 'understand the concern people have'

Selma continued to call the whole situation a 'minefield' that she couldn't 'navigate.' 'I don't mind what he says at all, but at the same time it's hard when everyone is hurting from something that's so oppressive...these shutdowns and businesses.'

And Blair then said that her son Arthur had a 'vaccine injury when he was very young,' so she can 'understand the concern people have.'

'...But I never went anti-vax  not that I mind  i totally understand, but I think we're in a really tricky spot in the world. Those that can have a responsibility, but I have nothing bad to say about what anyone's saying.'

Her boyfriend Ron then broke up the heavy conversation with a small dig at Schneider. 'But if Rob Schneider says it then we should live by it,' which prompted an outburst of laughter from both.

Schneider had previously spoken out on numerous occasions against California Governor Gavin Newsom, gathering limitations and mask wearing. 'Vote every Democrat out.'
Melissa George was a vision in white as she posed for photos on the Cannes Film Festival red carpet on Saturday evening.

The Paris-based Australian actress, 44, wore an elegant white Armani ensemble as she attended a screening of De Son Vivant (Peaceful) in the resort town on the French Riviera.

Melissa oozed elegance in the delicate number, which featured sparkling white flared trousers that showed off her slender pins to perfection.

Stunning: Melissa George was a vision in white as she posed for photos on the Cannes Film Festival red carpet on Saturday

She teamed these with a lace bodysuit, which was enhanced by a black scarf and dangling necklace which draped down across her waist.

She complimented the look with a silver blazer which was draped across her shoulders, and accessorised with a black clutch bag and gold bracelet.

Melissa wore her hair in a formal up-do, which drew attention to her sculpted cheekbones and striking features.

Gorgeous: Melissa oozed elegance in the delicate number, which featured sparkling white flared trousers and a that showed off her slender pins to perfection

Peaceful, also known as De Son Vivant in French, is directed by Emmanuelle Bercot, and stars Catherine Deneuve, Cecile de France, and Benoit Magimel in the leading roles.

The film follows three characters, a son (Magimel) who is diagnosed with cancer, his mother (Deneuve) and her struggle with being unable to help him, and the nurse (de France) trying to do her job.

Cannes Film Festival is now on its fifth day after been cancelled last year due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Natural beauty: Melissa wore her hair in a formal up-do, which drew attention to her sculpted cheekbones and striking features

Melissa currently lives in Paris with her two sons, Raphael, seven, and Solal, five.

Back in 2012, Melissa famously told The Sydney Morning Herald that she wouldn't return to Australia because she was sick of local media being 'disrespectful' by mentioning her role on Home and Away.

'I don't need credibility from my country any more, I just need them all to be quiet. If they have nothing intelligent to say, please don't speak to me any more,' she said.

Lovely: She teamed the look with a silver blazer which she draped across her shoulder, and accessorised with a black clutch bag and gold bracelet

'I'd rather be having a croissant and a little espresso in Paris or walking my French bulldog in New York City.'

However, she later changed her tune after temporarily returning Down Under to film the drama Bad Mothers for Channel Nine.

During a promotional interview for the series in 2019, Melissa gushed to TV Week magazine: 'Whenever I come to Australia, I feel complete.'

Family: Melissa currently lives in Paris with her two sons, Raphael, seven, and Solal, five

She had spent 10 days filming Bad Mothers in Melbourne in 2018, and believes the short stay helped her 'reconnect' with the Australian culture.

'This was a great opportunity to come home and be amongst Australian talent. That's why I wanted to do this,' she explained.

'I'd say a lot of Australian talent gets forced to go overseas  that's the way things work. But when we come home, it's like the last piece of the puzzle to fit.'
Tom Holland's relationship with longtime Spider-Man co-star Zendaya was recently confirmed during a loved up outing.

But on Saturday the 25-year-old actor was seen flying solo for a day of errands in the Encino neighborhood of Los Angeles wearing a marigold colored T-shirt.

The sighting comes a day after Zendaya, 24, called growing up on-screen with Holland 'pretty special,' in conversation with E!'s Daily Pop.

Solo outing: Tom Holland, 25, steps out in a marigold T-shirt and jeans for a Walgreens run in LA after girlfriend Zendaya called growing up on screen with him 'pretty special'

Holland caught the eye in a rich yellow T-shirt and light washed jeans with a pair of Reebok sneakers.

His hair was slicked back and he kept safe with a face mask while grabbing a Starbucks coffee and popping into Walgreens.

The UK-born Spider-Man: Homecoming star was seen walking to his Audi  the same car he and the Euphoria actress were spotted kissing in on July 1.

A week after they confirmed their romance, Zendaya talked about getting the opportunity to make a third Spider-Man film with Holland and the rest of the cast to E!'s Victor Cruz.

Easy to spot! His hair was slicked back and he kept safe with a face mask while grabbing a Starbucks coffee and popping into Walgreens

'We were all just absorbing and taking the time to just enjoy the moment, being with each other and being so grateful for that experience,' she said of Spider-Man: No Way Home  which is set for release in December.

'It's pretty special to have grown up all together,' she said of the last five years, adding that it has been a little 'bittersweet' because 'we don't know if we're gonna do another one.'

And keeping it in the Marvel family, Tom threw his support behind the highly anticipated Black Widow film on July 9. 'Been waiting ages for this film and it was worth the wait. This film is so awesome!!! So exciting and so funny,' he said in an Instagram post.

Though their time on-screen may be coming to and end following three Spider-Man films, their relationship is just starting to heat up.

Tom had previously said however that dating in the public eye was something he 'worried about most,' in his career.

Experience of a lifetime: 'It's pretty special to have grown up all together,' Zendaya told E! of the franchise, adding that it has been a little 'bittersweet' because future franchise films are currently not known; pictured 2018

Romance confirmed! The pair had denied romance rumors since 2017, but they seemed to seal their relationship with a kiss on July 1, before escaping to Santa Barbara for a romantic get away

Both had maintained over the last four years that they were just really good friends, before they sealed things with a kiss on July 1, ahead of a romantic weekend getaway to Santa Barbara.

In 2017 she told Variety: 'He's literally one of my best friends. This past how many months we've had to do press tours together. There's very few people that will understand what that's like at 20 years old.'

And he told GQ in April that Zendaya had 'helped him a lot' with fan encounters. 'I used to come across sometimes as a bit of a dick to fans, mainly as I was always so surprised that they'd want a picture with me or signature or whatever.

'Zendaya spotted this and quickly told me that this sort of reaction was going to be more aggro than just smiling and taking the picture. She totally changed the way I am able to be more comfortable in public,' he revealed.
Music mogul Scooter Braun has allegedly separated from his wife Yael Cohen after seven years of marriage.

A source told Page Six that although they are spending time away from the relationship 'They're friends' and do not intend to get divorced.

Meanwhile insiders informed TMZ that the pair may not even be living apart at the moment despite more than a month of marital trouble.

Trouble?: Music mogul Scooter Braun has allegedly separated from his wife Yael Cohen after seven years of marriage; they are pictured last month at the Dave season two premiere in LA

Scooter represents such top flight pop stars as Justin Bieber - whose career he helped launch - as well as Ariana Grande, J Balvin and Demi Lovato.

He and Yael, a mining heiress who hails from South Africa, share three children - Jagger, six, Levi, four, and Hart, two.

According to sources who spoke to TMZ the couple are hoping to repair the rift in their relationship and avoid a permanent break.

Scooter, whose real name is Scott, posted a black-and-white snapshot from his and Yael's wedding to mark their wedding anniversary this Tuesday.

However: A source told Page Six that 'They're friends' and do not intend to get divorced; they are pictured at the Grammy Awards in January 2020

Top of his game: He represents a slew of top-flight pop stars including Justin Bieber whose career he helped launch and whom he is pictured with in January 2020

Longtime partnership: His clientele also includes Ariana Grande whom he is pictured with attending the MTV Video Music Awards back in 2014

'If just for the kids you have given me everything. But thanks to you I have grown, I have been pushed to be the best version of myself and to continue growing and learning,' he gushed in his caption.

'That all happened because you came in to my life. 7 years. The adventure is just beginning. Thank you Yael. I love you . Happy anniversary.'

On last week's episode of The Real Housewives Of Beverly Hills Erika Jayne denied rumors that she had an affair with Scooter.

She could be seen dismissing reports that she 'was seeing my old Dancing with the Stars partner [Gleb Savchenko], and then I was seeing Scooter Braun.'

Family matters: He and Yael, a mining heiress who hails from South Africa, share three children - Jagger, six, Levi, four, and Hart, two

Trying: According to sources who spoke to TMZ the couple are hoping to repair the rift in their relationship; they are pictured at the Vanity Fair Oscar Party in 2020

Deriding the conjecture as being 'silly as f***' she insisted: 'I haven't seen either one of them in four-and-a-half, five years.'

Erika, 50, filed for divorce from her husband Tom Girardi, 82, last November and has claimed she did so without even warning him.

Tom has been facing mounting legal troubles - including a lawsuit claiming has not paid the settlement money he owes to families of victims of the 2018 Lion Air crash.

A bankruptcy trustee is investigating Tom's assets amid allegations that he and Erika jointly embezzled the settlement money.

'The adventure is just beginning': Scooter, whose real name is Scott, posted a black-and-white snapshot from his and Yael's wedding to mark their wedding anniversary this Tuesday

Last month People reported that Erika's financial records have been court-ordered from her divorce lawyer, landlord and accountant.

Meanwhile Scooter has been locked in a notorious feud with Taylor Swift after his company bought the label that owned the masters to her first six albums.

Over the course of the dispute Taylor slammed Scooter as a 'manipulative bully' and he accused her fans of sending death threats to his family.

His company is said to have sold off the masters for $300 million to an investment company, according to a report in Variety.

'Silly as f***': On last week's episode of The Real Housewives Of Beverly Hills Erika Jayne denied rumors that she had an affair with Scooter

Embattled: Erika, 50, filed for divorce from her husband Tom Girardi, 82, last November and has claimed she did so without even warning him

In her latest broadside Taylor is moving to reacquire ownership of the songs on her first six albums by cutting new recordings of all of them.

Yael meanwhile is a co-founder of the organization F*** Cancer which was launched in 2009 and subsequently helped her meet her husband.

While attending an event for F*** Cancer with Yael in 2019 he told Hollywire that he first became aware of her when he saw her promoting the initiative.

Scooter shared that 'I saw a TED Talk of Yael talking about F*** Cancer and it made me wanna meet her so, you know, the whole experience - this organization got me married. I got babies because of this organization.'

Superstar: Meanwhile Scooter has lately been locked in a notorious feud with Taylor Swift who is pictured at the Brit Awards in London this May

The duo got married in Whistler, British Columbia at a celebrity-strewn affair where they walked down the aisle as Justin sang All You Need Is Love by the Beatles.

Tom Hanks and his wife Rita Wilson were among the couple's famous wedding guests as was Sophia Bush, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

During an interview with British GQ last year Scooter compared his business affairs to his relationship in the sense that 'marriage is all about compromise.'

'The dashing tycoon said: 'If shes shutting down on me, then I did something to make her shut down. So we talk through it and we get through it.'

As seen at the 2018 Met Gala: Yael meanwhile is a co-founder of the organization F*** Cancer which was launched in 2009 and subsequently helped her meet her husband
Kourtney Kardashian and her boyfriend Travis Barker have somehow topped themselves in the PDA department.

The couple were captured engaging in a shameless makeout session during the star-studded UFC 264 fight in Las Vegas on Saturday.

Meanwhile, Kourtney's ex Scott Disick opted for a relaxing night in with the former pair's three children, sons Mason, 11, and Reign, six, and daughter Penelope, nine.

Woah! Kourtney Kardashian and her boyfriend Travis Barker have somehow topped themselves in the PDA department by making out during the UFC 264 fight in Las Vegas on Saturday

During the big fight, which saw Conor McGregor take on Dustin Poirier at the T-Mobile arena, the UFC crowd cam landed on Kourtney and Travis in their seats.

Acting on instinct, the pair turned to one another and locked lips - with Travis taking things up a notch by turning it into a French kiss.

Kourtney, 42, looked ultra glamorous for the fight, wearing her lengthy raven strands in a sleek high ponytail, with a new set of diamond earrings that read 'Hate you.'

The POOSH founder showcased her ample cleavage in a black velvet one-sleeve top and a pair of leather trousers to match her rockstar beau's edgy style.

Caught! During the big fight, which saw Conor McGregor take on Dustin Poirier at the T-Mobile arena, the UFC crowd cam landed on Kourtney and Travis in their seats

Babysitter: Meanwhile, Kourtney's ex Scott Disick opted for a relaxing night in with the former pair's three children, sons Mason, 11, and Reign, six, and daughter Penelope, nine

Kourtney's brown eyes were accentuated with a bit of eyeshadow, while her pout was subdued with a nude lip gloss.

Travis, who started dating the reality TV personality in late 2020 after years of friendship, rocked his go-to motorcycle jacket covered in patches and layered over a white tee.

The 45-year-old Blink-182 drummer's tattooed head was covered with a black beanie and he had a chain with numerous skull pendants hanging from it.

Insatiable: The Blink-182 drummer looked ready to pounce on the Poosh founder before they heated up the fight with a saliva swap

Leaning in: The loved up couple were not shy about airing their piping hot romance to the world

Carefree: The reality star looked busty in a black corset and a new set of earrings that said 'hate you'

Travis looked ready to pounce on his brunette girlfriend as he was seen insatiably gazing at her before they leaned in and swapped saliva.

Kourtney certainly obliged and the two were seen lighting up the big screen with their piping hot romance.

Since confirming her relationship with Travis, Kourtney has been acting a bit out of character with regards to their affection.

Kravis kiss! Kourtney has been boldly alluding to their booming sex life with Poosh tips about kinky sex, orgasms and vaginal health

Laughing it off: The usually demure reality star has been acting out of character since going public with Barker

She also continued to allude to their booming sex life  sharing tips to her wellness website about kinky sex, achieving the best orgasm and vaginal health.

Before and after their steamy kiss the loved up couple were seen sharing a laugh, not shy about airing their romance to the world.

Other ultra famous attendees included Travis and Kourtney's fellow couple pals Megan Fox and Machine Gun Kelly, who were seen grasping hands with matching black manicures.

And the VIPs didn't stop there.

Also among the attendees were former President Donald Trump, Justin Bieber, Jackass' Steve-O, Mel Gibson, Game Of Thrones' Kit Harrington, singer Sia, Oscar-winner Jared Leto, Vegas showman Jeff Beacher, England Patriots owner Robert Kraft, up-and-coming fighter/top YouTuber Logan Paul, comic Dave Chapelle, and rapper/chef Action Bronson.

Ringside: The Hollywood A-listers naturally snagged one of the best seats in the house

Famous pals: Megan Fox and her beau Machine Gun Kelly were pictured at the star-studded fight as well

Wow: Megan looked sensational in a busty bodice dress, while MGK - real name Colson Baker - donned a sequinned bomber jacket

Details: Kourtney debuted a brand new set of edgy diamond earrings presumably from the rocker at the fight

Toe to toe: In social media snaps she lovingly rested her feet on top of his converse

The fight ended in the second round after McGregor broke his ankle, with the ref declaring Poirier 'winner via doctors' stoppage,' as per TMZ.

He was seen slumped over in the ring before medical staff provided him with a brace before he was wheeled off in a stretcher.

And Poirier said he 'felt something for sure,' of his injury early on in the fight. 'I felt something, for sure,' Poirier said. 'He fractured it on one of the kicks at the beginning of the fight, and then he broke it.'

McGregor refused to accept defeat as he screamed: 'This is not over!' despite his crippling injury.

Injured: The fight ended in the second round after McGregor broke his ankle, with the ref declaring Poirier 'winner via doctors' stoppage

'This is not over!' McGregor shouted 'This is not over!' despite getting injured and losing the fight

Whisked away: The Irish boxer was seen being whisked away on a stretcher

End of the night: The happy couple were later seen leaving the venue as MGK puffed on a cigarette while Megan carried a bottle of water, making sure to stay hydrated in the Vegas heat

Standing tall: Megan added height to her frame in a towering pair of platform stilettos, and wore her glossy raven-tresses loose

Nails looking good: MGK's peroxide blonde hair peeked out from beneath his beanie, and his nails were painted with jet black nail varnish

Beautiful: Doting mother Megan wore her glossy raven tresses loose for the much-anticipated fight

Despite a very exciting evening for 'Kravis,' and other stars including Justin Bieber, Kevin Durant and even former President Donald Trump, Disick enjoyed a quiet evening in what he called a 'gangsta's paradise.'

Though he had given his blessing to Kourtney and Travis on the Final Curtain Pt. 2 of Keeping Up With The Kardashians reunion, he uttered under his breath that he wanted to 'kill' any of her suitors that were not him.

'I think if you really love somebody, you want them to be happy no matter what,' he told host Andy Cohen. 'So I do give her a blessing to be happy,' he said while looking downtrodden.

As the final season of the hit E! show was being filmed, the couple's relationship was very much in full swing though she had forbid her sisters from mentioning it on camera which sister Khloe Kardashian said 'frustrated' the whole family.

Signature move! She seems to have a predilection for straddling photos

Bedroom talk: At one point she had posted a photo of her backside during which she confessed that they couldn't keep their hands off each other

Thumb suck: They all but broke the internet on her 42nd birthday when Barker shared a very steamy video of her sucking his thumb

Shameless: He had called her a 'woman of many talents,' which many took as a bedroom confession

But now that filming has wrapped the longtime friends turned lovers have aired everything to the world.

They went instagram official just after Valentine's Day and on her 42nd birthday he professed his love for her publicly with a racy kissing snap and a video of her sucking his thumb, accompanied by the caption: 'I F***ING LOVE YOU!'

He also tagged her in a post with the caption: 'All day I dream about sex with you,' and she had posted a photo of her backside with the caption: 'watching movies but we ain't seen a thing tonight.'

And as the two continue to plan for the future in a more permanent way  they splashed out on a $12M Palm Springs house together, with both of their names listed on the deed.

A source told Us Weekly last month that an engagement 'could be right around the corner,' for the pair who continue to blend their families.
MAFS groom Jake Edwards' ex-girlfriend Sophie Guidolin has deleted an Instagram post after failing to disclose that it was sponsored.

The 32-year-old Gold Coast influencer was found to be in breach of Australia's advertising rules, according to a case report published by Ad Standards.

The report published last month claims that Sophie had shared a gallery of photos of a woman and a boy believed to be her son dressed in activewear standing on a deck overlooking the ocean.

Breach: Jake Edwards' ex-girlfriend Sophie Guidolin, 32, (pictured) has been caught breaking the advertising watchdog's code of ethics with a sponsored activewear post

Sophie tagged Adidas-owned sportswear brand Reebok in the post.

The complaint states that Guidolin's post was 'misleading as to wether it is an ad and did not say sponsored or include any hashtags'.

Daily Mail Australia understands that at the time Sophie shared the post as part of her long-term collaboration with Adidas.

New rules: The Gold Coast influencer, right, was found to be in breach of distinguishable advertising rules, according to a case report published by Ad Standards. Pictured with ex-boyfriend Jake Edwards

'We have not provided Ms Guidolin with any statements to make in relation to our products and therefore cannot be said to have control over the post,' the brand said in defence of the claim.

The Australian Association of National Advertisers (AANA) considered that while it was not known whether Ms Guidolin received the advertised product for free, the post could be seen as an extension of her existing commercial relationship with the advertiser.

It comes just weeks after AANA revealed that they would be cracking down on paid-to-post influencers.

Not clear: The complaint states that Guidolin's post was 'misleading as to whether it is an ad and did not say sponsored or include any hashtags'. Sophie pictured on Instagram

Sophie has since deleted the post from her Instagram feed.

It comes just weeks after Sophie and Jake announced that they have parted ways after a short stint together.

The pair first met on March 10 and started dating weeks later.

Sophie had been the target of trolling since going public with Jake, and this may have put a strain on their romance.

'It's sad because they seemed really in love, but they just couldn't make it work,' a source told Daily Mail Australia.
Jake Cornish's ex-girlfriend has reportedly accused him of 'gaslighting' her and showing 'toxic behaviour'.

The Love Island star, 24, who is currently romancing Liberty Poole on the show, was in a seven-year relationship prior to the ITV2 series.

According to The Sun, Jake's former flame took to social media in a now deleted post to hit out at her ex when he claimed he had been single throughout the Covid-19 pandemic.

Claims: Jake Cornish's ex-girlfriend has reportedly accused him of 'gaslighting' her and showing 'toxic behaviour'

She wrote: 'Lonely and single for eight months? Have a day off.

'A note to those who have told me/ messaged me to "be kind", I'm a good person with a good heart, hurt mine and I'll hurt yours.

Jake's ex reportedly went on to claim she was unaware he would be going on Love Island and said 'being angry' with him doesn't mean she is 'being hateful'.

She wrote: 'I wasn't aware he had applied or been accepted onto Love Island.

Romance: The Love Island star, 24, who is currently romancing Liberty Poole on the show, was in a seven-year relationship prior to the ITV2 series

'I realise how my comment may be viewed as being damaging, but it's damaging when you're being gaslighted. Toxic behaviour, denying and making you question facts and feelings.

'Being angry doesn't mean I'm being hateful it means I am loving myself enough to get upset at my own mistreatment.

'Those of you who want to form an opinion are more than welcome to and I can only blame myself for the response to my post. However, I am a human being who is hurting, angry and upset.

'I shouldn't have to keep quiet about it along with anyone else who might feel the same way toward someone.

Unimpressed: Jake's former flame took to social media in a now deleted post to hit out at her ex when he claimed he had been single throughout the pandemic (pictured with Liberty)

'Everyone is entitled to share their own, personal stories and that was mine.'

A source told the publication: 'This bears no resemblance to the Jake we know and love, who we hope viewers are seeing for themselves on screen.'

Meanwhile, a Love Island spokesperson told MailOnline: 'Jake has no means of defending himself from these labels, which are no doubt hurtful for his family and friends to read.'

On Friday's episode of Love Island, Liberty, 21, admitted she's 'falling in love' with Jake after going on her first date with the hunk.

Her realisation about the water engineer sparked shock among fans, who have seen Jake's eyes wandering at 'every blonde girl' in the villa, and warned the blonde beauty that 'a storm is coming' if he strays.

The blonde beauty made the confession to Kaz when she returned to the villa, saying: 'Hes just such a sexy man. I might be a little bit falling.'

And when Kaz asked her to clarify exactly what she meant, Liberty added: 'I think I might be falling in love.'

Speaking out: Jake's ex reportedly went on to claim she was unaware he would be going on Love Island and said 'being angry' with him doesn't mean she is 'being hateful'

While on her date with Jake, Liberty admitted she 'didnt expect' to find a strong connection with someone so soon after entering the villa.

She told him: 'I didnt expect to come into "Love Island" and literally find what weve got from day one. I do obviously like you a little bit.'

And Jake agreed, insisting that theres no other girls in the villa he would rather be with despite admitting to Liberty earlier in the series that if there was another blonde that came into the villa, he wouldn't rule out a possibility with them.
They went official with their romance earlier in this year.

And Megan Fox and her rocker beau Machine Gun Kelly proved they're more loved-up than ever on Saturday, when they clasped each other's hand while posing for photos at the star-studded UFC 264 fight in Las Vegas.

Megan, 35, looked sensational in a busty bodice dress, while 31-year-old MGK - real name Colson Baker - donned a sequinned bomber jacket, black beanie and brown trousers for the big fight, which saw Conor McGregor take on Dustin Poirier at the T-Mobile arena.

Loved-up: Megan Fox, 35, and her rocker beau Machine Gun Kelly, 31, proved they're more loved-up than ever on Saturday when they held hands at the UFC 264 fight in Las Vegas

Megan added height to her frame in a towering pair of platform stilettos, and wore her glossy raven-tresses loose.

MGK's peroxide blonde hair peeked out from beneath his beanie, and his nails were painted with jet black nail varnish.

The happy couple were later seen leaving the venue as MGK puffed on a cigarette while Megan carried a bottle of water, making sure to stay hydrated in the Vegas heat.

The pair joined the likes of Kourtney Kardashian and her boyfriend Travis Barker at the event.

Wow: Megan looked sensational in a busty bodice dress, while MGK - real name Colson Baker - donned a sequinned bomber jacket

End of the night: The happy couple were later seen leaving the venue as MGK puffed on a cigarette while Megan carried a bottle of water, making sure to stay hydrated in the Vegas heat

Standing tall: Megan added height to her frame in a towering pair of platform stilettos, and wore her glossy raven-tresses loose

Kourtney, 40, and her rocker beau Travis, 45, were captured engaging in a shameless makeout session on the night after the UFC crowd cam landed on Kourtney and Travis in their seats.

Acting on instinct, the pair turned to one another and locked lips - with Travis taking things up a notch by turning it into a French kiss.

Other notable guests at the fight included Former President Donald Trump, Justin Bieber, Jackass' Steve-O, Mel Gibson, Game Of Thrones' Kit Harrington, singer Sia, Oscar-winner Jared Leto, Vegas showman Jeff Beacher, England Patriots owner Robert Kraft, up-and-coming fighter/top YouTuber Logan Paul, comic Dave Chapelle, and rapper/chef Action Bronson.

Megan and Machine Gun Kelly's fun night out comes after the actress discussed the 'unfair' way her and her boyfriend's four year age difference is portrayed in the media.

Nails looking good: MGK's peroxide blonde hair peeked out from beneath his beanie, and his nails were painted with jet black nail varnish

Beautiful: Doting mother Megan wore her glossy raven tresses loose for the much-anticipated fight

'He's 31, and I'm 35.... No one would blink twice if George Clooney was dating someone four years younger,' said the actress known for her films Jennifer's Body and Transformers.

Megan added: 'Four years? Go f**k yourself. We would have been in high school together. That's so ridiculous that women are treated that way,' while speaking in the August issue of InStyle magazine.

The brunette bombshell also insisted the romance with MGK had nothing to do with her decision to leave her husband Brian Austin Green whom she has three kids with: Noah Shannon, eight, Bodhi Ransom seven, and Journey River, four.

Woah! Kourtney Kardashian and her boyfriend Travis Barker have somehow topped themselves in the PDA department by making out during the UFC 264 fight in Las Vegas on Saturday

Machine Gun Kelly had 'nothing to do with it,' she told the fashion magazine.

And her beau Kelly also spoke to the publication saying he and the Hollywood siren have a 'real great love.'

The musician said: 'She's like the earth. When it's summer, it's the hottest summer. When it's winter, it's the most amazing chill. In the fall and spring, it's a beautiful transition.'

He then added: 'She is unlike any person I have ever met in my life. I just want people to understand this is real  I don't think people get the opportunity to believe in real great love, and that's what we have together.'
Actor Luke Mitchell rose to fame on Home and Away playing teenager Romeo Smith from 2009 to 2013.

But the 35-year-old now looks every inch the Hollywood leading man after spending years stateside for his career.

Luke took to Instagram recently to share a photo of himself posing in a grey turtleneck and heavy blue blazer.

Now and then: Actor Luke Mitchell, 35, now looks every inch the Hollywood leading man after spending years stateside for his career. (R) On Home and Away

The actor shot the camera a steely look as he posed with his hair stylishly pushed up, while rocking designer stubble.

Luke is currently appearing as Danny in the CW series, Republic of Sarah.

The handsome hunk was seen in Sydney this month after completing quarantine with his wife, Rebecca Breeds.

Remember me: Luke Mitchell rose to fame on Home and Away playing teenager Romeo Smith from 2009 to 2013. He remains one of Summer Bay's favourite alum

In a 2019 interview, Luke revealed what he missed about Australia the most.

'I miss the beach, fresh air, green grass and the laid-back lifestyle,' he said.

'You get used to living over there [in the US] but when you come back home you realise how lucky we are to be Australian.'

Luke went on to say that he will always consider Australia and Sydney home.

Agent of shield: Luke is currently appearing as Danny in the CW series, Republic of Sarah. Here with Stella Baker

Luke and Rebecca were fan favourites on Home and Away.

The couple regularly share snaps of themselves on holiday for their adoring fans.

Luke proposed in 2012 before the lovebirds tied the knot a year later at a ceremony in New South Wales' Kangaroo Valley.
She never fails to impress with her unique sense of style.

And Vogue Williams, 35, stayed true to form on Sunday as she wowed in an all-white look while leaving work at Heart FM.

The model looked stunning as she stepped out in a mini skirt and silk blouse combo while walking through the streets of London.

Radiant: Vogue Williams put on a very leggy display in a white mini skirt and matching top on Sunday as she left work at Heart FM on Sunday morning

With a smile on her face, Vogue put her enviably toned legs on display in the thigh-skimming mini skirt from valle&vik.

She accessorised her ensemble with a vibrant yellow handbag from Aspinal London and nude River Island heels.

Vogue completed the look with delicate gold jewellery and a pair of shades.

On the go: The model looked stunning as she stepped out in a matching skirt and shirt combo while walking through the capital

Recently, Vogue laughed off trolls who took aim at her for her style.

During her podcast My Therapist Ghosted Me, she discussed how she was ambushed with cruel comments after wearing a green and white striped Ganni dress worth 245 that some social media users took issue with.

The television personality refused to let the online bullies get the better of her as she cackled at their remarks in which they compared the dress to a tablecloth and a tent.

Glowing: With a smile on her face, Vogue put her enviably toned legs on display in the thigh-skimming mini skirt from valle&vik

All about the accessories: Vogue completed the look with delicate gold jewellery and a pair of shades

She explained to co-host Joanne McNally: 'The other day I wore this green dress which is stunning by the way, stunning.

'It's not a dress a man would find sexually attractive because it is pretty much like a parachute but I love it. Yes, it looks like a tent but it is a tent that I love.

'I don't like reading comments about certain things but I did read these comments, but some of them went like this, "Wow that's a dress I thought she had stolen a deck chair."

'"That dress cost 245? Someone has a sense of humour," and, "Anything for attention and clicks she is well aware she looks absolutely awful in that tablecloth."'

Unable to contain her laughter, she repeated: '"There is a deck chair somewhere with just the wood left."'

Sharing a clip of the conversation on Instagram on Thursday, she wrote: 'You call it a deckchair I call it fashion.'
They have been dating for two years now, with their relationship continuing to go from strength to strength.

And Molly-Mae Hague has sparked speculation that she and boyfriend Tommy Fury may have taken the next step in their relationship and secretly wed.

The Love Island star, 22, headed out for a date night with her reality star beau on Saturday and was seen dropping a subtle hint the pair could have tied the knot.

Wedding bells? Molly-Mae Hague sparked speculation she and Tommy Fury have tied the knot as she dropped a hint while heading to the theatre on Saturday night with her beau

Posting to her Instagram story, Molly revealed that she and Tommy were heading to the theatre to see their 'favourite horror film' Woman In Black on stage.

She shared a snap of her theatre ticket with fans and gushed: 'Can't believe we managed to get tickets to see this tonight... one of our fav horror films in the theatre!'

'Always wanted to see a show together,' Molly added.

However, eagle eyed fans will have noticed the ticket reference listed Molly's name as 'M Fury' - using Tommy's surname.

Mr and Mrs: Eagle-eyed fans will have notice Molly's name on the ticket was listed as 'M Fury' using Tommy's surname and sparking marriage rumours

Sparking speculation: It's not the first time Molly and Tommy have been forced to deny rumours they have secretly tied the knot, as the couple hit back at claims in May

No proposal yet: The couple denied claims they were married or that they had sneakily got engaged, after fans questioned the pair when they spotted Tommy wearing a ring on his finger

MailOnline have reached out to Molly's rep for comment.

It's not the first time Molly and Tommy - who are not yet engaged - have been hit by speculation they are set to wed.

Earlier this year, the couple were forced to deny claims Tommy had proposed, after he was seen wearing a ring.

When one fan asked the pair if there had been a 'sneaky engagement', Molly cleared up any speculation and said: 'Do you really think we'll announce to you that we're engaged by a sneaky picture of Tommy wearing a ring?'

'This really makes me laugh because I did see a few of you commenting on Tommy's last picture saying "he's wearing a ring".

Loved-up: The reality star couple have been dating for two years now and recently celebrated their anniversary together with a lavish spa break

'Like, do you guys really think we'll announce to you that we're engaged by a sneaky picture of Tommy wearing a ring? Like...no.'

It came after Tommy teased his Instagram followers as he revealed he is planning on proposing to girlfriend Molly 'sooner than you think' and said he would like the couple to have kids 'sooner rather than later'.

He and Molly first met on ITV2 dating series Love Island in 2019. While Tommy was an original islander, Molly was a latecomer to the villa.

They made their relationship official during their time on the show and finished in second place behind series' winners Amber Gill and Greg O'Shea.

Since the show, the pair have moved in together in Manchester and were recently seen celebrating their two-year anniversary.

Love: Throwing it back to a recent trip to Dubai, Tommy gushed, 'Today marks 2 years of laughter and love. Thanks for the amazing memories, can't wait to make more with you my girl'

Going strong: The boxer and Molly first on the 2019 series of Love Island where they found love in the villa in Majorca and finished in second place on the show

To celebrate, the pair enjoyed a lavish spa break and Tommy pulled out all the stops as he gifted Molly a bouquet of flowers and a Maison Francis Kurkdjian fragrance worth 215.

Molly shared a series of throwback photos of the pair and gushed: '2 years of loving each other unconditionally [heart emoji] how did we get so lucky? 07/07/2021.'

Proving just how smitten she is with Tommy, Molly added: 'I'll be obsessed with you forever.'

Tommy, meanwhile, penned: 'Today marks 2 years of laughter and love. Thanks for the amazing memories, can't wait to make more with you my girl.'

He later shared black and white snaps of the couple looking seriously loved-up and added: '2 years down, forever to go,' with Molly-Mae commenting: 'You're everything. Happy Anniversary baby.'
Advertisement

Penelope Cruz continued to enjoy her family holiday to Sardinia on Saturday when she splashed around in the water while lapping up the sunshine with her husband Javier Bardem and their two children Leo, 10, and Luna, 7.

The Spanish screen star, 47, looked sensational in a plunging black swimsuit, showcasing her enviable physique while making the most of the Mediterranean sunshine.

Wearing her brunette hair loose, the mother-of-two kept the sunshine at bay behind a chic pair of sunglasses before slicking back her wet tresses after enjoying a dip.

Wow: Penelope Cruz, 47, continued to enjoy her family holiday to Sardinia on Saturday when she splashed around in the water while lapping up the sunshine with her husband Javier Bardem

Stunning: The screen star looked sensational in a plunging black swimsuit, showcasing her enviable physique while making the most of the Mediterranean sunshine

The Blow actress wrapped up in a striped towel while strolling across the sandy beach.

Javier, 52, donned black swimming trunks and was seen doting on his children, cuddling them in the water before letting the siblings jump on him for a piggyback ride.

The actor later strapped on a pair of black goggles so that he could better see beneath the waves.

Javier is in Sardinia to shoot the new The Little Mermaid film, which will be directed by Rob Marshall.

Enjoying a dip: 52-year-old Javier - who is in Sardinia to shoot the new The Little Mermaid film, which will be directed by Rob Marshall - donned black swimming trunks

Soft glow: The Pirates Of The Caribbean star was sporting an enviable tan after holidaying in the sunshine

Bundle! The actor doted on his children while enjoying a beach day with his wife, cuddling his son and daughter in the sea with a smile on his face

He will undertake the role of King Triton in the re-make alongside Halle Bailey who is set to star as Ariel.

Penelope, who married Javier in 2010, recently spoke about her family life and approach to motherhood in an interview with Marie Claire Greece.

The actress said that she and her husband are careful not to let their careers seep into their family life.

Looking good! Javier had clearly been making the most of the Sardinian sunshine and was rocking an impressive suntan

All in the details: Penelope was sporting a stylish pair of silver hoop earrings and chose not to remove her jewellery while enjoying a dip

Nice in there? The screen star appeared to be having a whale of a time while taking a dip in the beautiful Mediterranean waters with his stunning partner

'Like any couple, we talk about our jobs, and consequently about our characters, about the way we handle this or that scene,' she clarified.

'Sometimes we exchange ideas, but when it comes to our jobs generally, we're not obsessed with work, we try to leave it at the door of the house.

Penelope also revealed that motherhood made her less worried about other people's opinions, confessing: 'When I was young, the way others saw me, be it positive or negative, had an enormous importance.'

Sun-kissed: The star's famous brunette hair appeared to have been lightened by her time spent in the sun, with blonde streaks visible amongst her dark tresses

Fun in the sun: Penelope looked serene as she soaked up the sunshine on her family holiday

She continued: 'But becoming a mother made me aware that this was the most important mission of my life and that I wanted to accomplish it as best I could.'

As she has grown older she has also adopted a different attitude to her work life, allowing herself more time to recharge.

'In my 20s, I was a total workaholic, I would even wake myself up in the middle of the night to respond to emails and things like that, and then I had to learn patience, rest, silence.

'The things that I appreciate a lot now,' she explained.

Candid: Penelope recently said that she and her husband are careful not to let their careers seep into their family life

Wrapping up: The mother-of-two wrapped up in a striped towel while strolling across the grass-speckled beach
She's one of Australia's highest-profile WAGs, known for her innate fashion sense.

And Bec Judd nailed it again on the weekend, posing up a storm in a J'Aton Couture backless gown on Instagram.

The 38-year-old's dazzling display even caught the eye of top models Jennifer Hawkins and Megan Gale, who commented favourably on her post.

All that glitters: Bec Judd nailed it on the weekend, posing up a storm in a J'Aton Couture backless gown on Instagram on Saturday

Referring to the city's recent lockdowns, Judd captioned the post, 'It's been a minute Melbourne,' before revealing she was on her way to a Bird In Hand event.

Megan Gale led the comments on the dress, calling it 'amazing,' while Nadia Bartel said that the backless garment was 'beyond hot'.

J'Aton Couture commented 'finally' on the post, after Judd revealed she was collaborating with the fashion house.

Night out: Referring to the city's recent lockdowns, Judd captioned the post, 'It's been a minute Melbourne,' before revealing she was on her way to a Bird In Hand event

High praise: The 38-year-old's dazzling display even caught the eye of top models Jennifer Hawkins and Megan Gale, who commented favourably on her post

The glammed up images follow a Friday post in which Bec modelled a collection of unusual, futuristic winter coats from the brand along with her sons - Oscar, nine, and four-year-old twins Tom and Darcy.

The model donned a bizarre pink and white garment with puffer details, which created a curvy silhouette and a cinched waist line.

The former Postcards host was also joined by her beaming boys who modelled other versions of the spacesuit-inspired attire alongside her.

Fashion forward: On Friday, Rebecca flaunted her trim and toned figure as she modelled another garment by J'Aton

The doting mother captioned the sweet picture: 'Glow worms.'

In further photos, Bec posed in a long, white jacket, which she said was perfect for 'snow brides'.

One more image showed the model in a similar, space-themed coat with puffy sleeves, and scalloped edging.

Frozen: In further photos, Bec posed in a long, white jacket, which she said was perfect for 'snow brides'

UFO: One more image showed the model in a similar, space-themed coat with puffy sleeves, and scalloped edging

Lastly, she posed in a slightly less edgy puffer with a blue and black marbled design.

The garments are a collaboration between J'Aton and Italian brand KMpiumini.

Missing from the family photo session was Bec's husband, former AFL star Chris, and their seven-year-old daughter Billie.

Space cadets: The former Postcards host was also joined by her beaming boys who modelled other versions of the spacesuit-inspired attire alongside her. All pictured

A look: Lastly, she posed in a slightly less edgy puffer with a blue and black marbled design

It comes after Bec revelated she had purchased a candle worth an eye-watering $250.

The Jaggad creator shared a picture of Diptyque's three-wick Roses candle burning away in her kitchen, claiming 'just a whiff of it makes me happy'.

'Roses by Diptyque is my absolute fave. It's a sweet, zingy rose as opposed to an old lady rose and just a whiff of it makes me happy. I just bought this big one and it lives in my kitchen,' she captioned the image.

Love: Missing from the family photo session was Bec's husband, former AFL star Chris (pictured), and their seven-year-old daughter Billie

Bec and Chris, 37, have raked in the money with their many endeavors over the years.

Chris was at one point one of the highest paid AFL stars, earning about $1million-a-year at the height of his career.

Meanwhile, Bec co-owns activewear line Jaggad with her husband, has a slew of ambassador roles, and earns thousands of dollars a week sharing sponsored posts with her 816,000 Instagram followers.
They were one of the most beloved couples ever to appear on Married At First Sight.

However, it appears the romance between wholesome sweethearts Belinda Vickers and Patrick Dwyer, who appeared in season eight, may be over.

Fans have noticed that Patrick, 27, unfollowed Belinda, 29, on Instagram recently.

Split? They were one of the most beloved couples ever to appear on Married At First Sight. However, it appears the romance between wholesome sweethearts Belinda Vickers and Patrick Dwyer, who appeared in season eight, may be over. Both pictured

As of Sunday, Patrick is not following Belinda, or for that matter, anyone - his 'following' count is at zero.

Victorian door-to-door saleswoman Belinda however is still following Patrick as of Sunday.

The pair first sparked concerns when they stopped posting loved-up images to social media.

No! Fans noticed that Patrick, 27, unfollowed Belinda, 29, on Instagram recently. As of Sunday, Patrick is not following Belinda, or for that matter, anyone - his 'following' count is at zero

Still in: Victorian door-to-door saleswoman Belinda however is still following Patrick

The last time the couple appeared together in person on Patrick's social media was on June 9, in photos and videos showing them having a stroll in a park.

However, he did share a romantic compilation video showing some of their sweet moments on Married At First Sight last week.

Belinda's last post with Patrick is even older, showing the Victorian personal trainer kissing his love on the cheek all the way back on May 24.

Daily Mail Australia has reached out to Belinda Vickers and Patrick Dwyer for comment.

Delay: The pair first sparked concerns when they stopped posting loved-up images to social media. The last time the couple appeared together on Patrick's social media was on June 9 (pictured). However, he did share a compilation video of the pair last week

Long time: Belinda's last post with Patrick is even older, showing the Victorian personal trainer kissing his love on the cheek all the way back on May 24 (pictured)

Last week, Belinda and Patrick revealed they have been torn apart by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

In a post shared to Instagram, Patrick said he and Belinda - who recently underwent a makeover - have been temporarily separated because she's in quarantine.

'Bel is currently in quarantine, so I can't see her for a while. But here's a short cute video of our time on MAFS,' he wrote, alongside a compilation of the couple together.

The personal trainer didn't specify why Belinda was in quarantine or if she had contracted Covid-19.
Salma Hayek looked typically glamorous when she stepped out alongside her husband Francois-Henri Pinault in the South Of France on Saturday.

Teaming a plunging patterned dress with a timeless pair of open-toe horse bit loafers, the actress, 54, put on a radiant display while lapping up the sunshine with her husband of eleven years amid the coveted Cannes Film Festival.

French businessman Francois-Henri, 59, looked dapper in a crisp white T-shirt layered beneath a black jacket and covered his nose and mouth with a face mask in keeping with pandemic protocol.

Glamorous: Salma Hayek, 54, looked typically glamorous when she stepped out alongside her husband Francois-Henri Pinault in the South Of France on Saturday in a plunging dress

Mask on: French businessman Francois-Henri, 59, looked dapper in a crisp white T-shirt layered beneath a black jacket and covered his nose and mouth with a face mask

Salma wore her raven-tresses loose and her bright red pedicure could be seen peeking out from her leather shoes.

The star toted her belongings in a luxury black handbag and kept the sunshine at bay behind a pair of chic sunglasses.

Francois-Henri teamed his T-shirt with dark jeans and was also sporting sunglasses.

The happy couple's outing comes days after Salma wowed in a flowing purple silk dress as she arrived at the Balenciaga Haute Couture Show as part of Paris Fashion Week on Wednesday.

Hair down: Salma wore her raven-tresses loose and her bright red pedicure could be seen peeking out from her leather shoes

Dapper: Francois-Henri teamed his T-shirt with dark jeans and was also sporting sunglasses when he stepped out over the weekend

She once again was joined by her husband, posing alongside her billionaire partner, who looked dapper in a charcoal grey suit and navy blue tie.

Last month, Salma said she was working on losing the weight she put on for her role in House Of Gucci, admitting he was worried about what people 'expect' her to look like.

In an interview with InStyle, she insisted her main goal was to keep healthy, but the Mexican-born beauty admitted she was also worried about 'what's expected for a woman who people consider good-looking'.

'As you get older, you're expected not to age,' she explained.

Radiant: Teaming a plunging patterned dress with a timeless pair of open-toe horse bit loafers, the actress put on a radiant display

'I don't think I am some hot tamale, but I know that for my age, for the lifestyle that I lived, I'm not doing too badly.'

The actress plays psychic Pina Auriemma in Ridley Scott's House Of Gucci, which explores the 1995 murder of Italian fashion heir Maurizio Gucci, played by Adam Driver.

Based on a non-fiction of the same name, the movie tells the saga of how Maurizio's jilted ex-wife Patrizia Reggiani, played by Lady Gaga, organised a hit on her ex-husband.

She was eventually tried and convicted of orchestrating the assassination.

As Patrizia's best friend, Pina also had a hand in organising the murder-for-hire, also serving time in a Milan prison.

House Of Gucci - which also stars Jared Leto, Jeremy Irons, Jack Huston, Reeve Carney, and Al Pacino - is planned for a November 2021 release.

All in the details: The star toted her belongings in a luxury black handbag and kept the sunshine at bay behind a pair of chic sunglasses
John Cena took a solo stroll around the Vancouver set of the upcoming DC Comics-based series Peacemaker on Thursday.

The 44-year-old actor was covered in fake blood and flashed a peace sign as he made his way around the production area of the forthcoming show.

The project is based on the character of the same name and serves as a spinoff of the soon-to-be-released superhero feature, The Suicide Squad.

Just another day on set: John Cena was covered head-to-toe in fake blood while strolling around the production area of the upcoming HBO Max series Peacemaker on Thursday

Cena showed off his imposingly chiseled arms in a form-hugging red spandex top that featured his character's insignia across the chest.

The professional wrestler tucked his top into a pair of beige pants that also bore the aftermath of what appeared to be a very intense fight scene.

The F9 actor pushed the bottom of his trousers into a set of high-top black boots, both of which were covered in more than a little bit of fake blood.

He notably wore a black facial covering to protect himself from COVID-19 as he strolled around the upcoming series' set.

Ready to go: Cena showed off his imposingly chiseled arms in a form-hugging red spandex top that featured his character's insignia across the chest

Development on the project began in 2020 when series creator James Gunn was working on The Suicide Squad during his period of quarantine.

The 54-year-old filmmaker then began writing Peacemaker as a distraction from his other work before he was approached about potentially creating a show after the movie ended production.

Gunn and James Safran, who had worked on several DC Comics-based films previously, both serve as executive producers on the project.

The former will also direct five out of eight episodes of the program and wrote all of their scripts.

Pet project: Series creator James Gunn began working on Peacemaker out of boredom during his period of quarantine; he is pictured in 2017

Cena signed on to the series in September of last year and also retained a co-executive producer credit for the show.

Other performers set to appear in the program include Danielle Brooks, Freddie Stroma and Steve Agee, who reprises his role as John Economos from The Suicide Squad.

Peacemaker will be centered around the origins of the eponymous character, who straddles the line between being a superhero and a supervillain.

Physical production on the series began this past January, with filming taking place predominantly in Vancouver, and it is currently set to conclude later this month.

The superhero-based show is currently set to make its debut on the HBO Max streaming service next January.

Seriously involved: Cena signed on to the series last year and also serves as one of the project's co-executive producers

Storyline: The show will focus on the origins of the eponymous character as he learns how to straddle the line between being a superhero and a supervillain

Gunn spoke about Cena's character during an interview with Empire, where he noted that the show would be focused on an individual with a very clear moral compass.

He said: 'Peacemaker has a clear set of ideals that I find really interesting. You know: "I want peace no matter how many men, women and children I need to kill to get it."'

The Guardians Of The Galaxy director also noted that, while working on the program, he visibly saw how its leading man was able to express that divide in responsibility in a very clear way.

'Sounds like nonsense, but it also makes a lot of sense. And you see in John's performance how he does not feel good about it  something I thought was the seed of an entire eight-episode show,' he remarked.
Kelsey Grammer shared in a new interview that his upcoming Frasier reboot would find its title character living a charmed life he never expected.

The 66-year-old actor told WNBC New York earlier this week that Dr. Frasier Crane would end up 'rich beyond his dreams' in the upcoming Paramount+ reboot next year.

He also clarified that the rest of Frasier's principal cast had been invited back to the show, though none of the other actors had yet signed on to make it official.

Success story: Kelsey Grammer, 66, revealed in a WNBC New York interview this week that Dr. Frasier Crane would be 'rich beyond his dreams' in the upcoming Frasier reboot

Grammer, who appeared remotely in a smart white button-up shirt, compared Frasier to George Bailey, the iconic character played by James Stewart in Frank Capra's classic It's A Wonderful Life.

'He's like the George Bailey of television,' he said. 'He thinks he's gonna go off and do one thing, and sure enough, his life takes him in another direction.

'And he ends up rich beyond his dreams,' Grammer added, seeming to get choked up a bit.

The character originally debuted as a supporting player on Cheers in its third season, before being bumped up to the main cast in season five and staying through the eleventh and final season.

Classic character: Grammer compared Frasier to the lead character in It's A Wonderful Life. 'He's like the George Bailey of television,' he said. 'He thinks he's gonna go off and do one thing, and sure enough, his life takes him in another direction'; still from Frasier

Change of scenery: 'Frasier's gonna move town, he's gonna change cities again. There's some surprise there,' he revealed

He followed the series with his spin-off Frasier, which saw the character moving to Seattle, where the psychiatrist took on a new job as a radio advice show host.

He landed in Chicago for the final episode of that series, and Grammer confirmed that Frasier wouldn't be Seattle-based in the new revival.

'Frasier's gonna move town, he's gonna change cities again. There's some surprise there,' he revealed.

Back for more: The Expendables 3 star confirmed that the reboot was seeking to get David Hyde Pierce (Niles), Jane Leeves (Daphne) and Peri Gilpin (Roz) back in the cast

Reunited: 'We've reached out to everybody. Roz and Niles and Daphne,' he explained. 'It is my hope that everybody comes back, and it always was my hope, because it's a third act for everyone'

The Expendables 3 star confirmed that the reboot was seeking to get David Hyde Pierce (Niles), Jane Leeves (Daphne) and Peri Gilpin (Roz) back in the cast, though they hadn't made anything official yet.

'We've reached out to everybody. Roz and Niles and Daphne,' he explained. 'It is my hope that everybody comes back, and it always was my hope, because it's a third act for everyone.'

Grammer also said the show planned to address the loss of actor John Mahoney, who played Frasier and Niles' father Martin Crane and died in 2018.

'Of course, John's gone, and we intend to deal with that some in the first episode,' he shared.

Saying goodbye: Grammer also said the show planned to address the loss of actor John Mahoney, who played Frasier's father Martin Crane and died in 2018 'We intend to deal with that some in the first episode'; still from Frasier

Frasier was originally on the air from 1993 until 2004.

During that time, it was a hit both with critics and audiences, and it took home the Emmy for Outstanding Comedy Series its first five years in a row.

Grammer won four lead actor Emmys for the title role, while his costar David Hyde Pierce earned four, and Jane Leeves was nominated for one.

Frasier set a record with 37 total Grammy wins throughout its 11 seasons, a record at the time.
She's no stranger to bringing the glamour to a red carpet.

And Lady Victoria Hervey didn't disappoint as she stepped out for the Tre Piani (translated as Three Floors) screening during the 74th annual Cannes Film Festival on Sunday night.

The socialite, 44, stunned in a sheer Grecian-inspired gown that made a statement thanks to its leggy design and striking tail that trailed along behind her as she made her way along the carpet.

Wow factor: Lady Victoria Hervey made sure to bring the glamour as she stepped out for the Tre Piani screening during the 74th annual Cannes Film Festival on Sunday night

Victoria turned heads in her beautiful one-shouldered dress that featured a revealing sheer panel on one-side of the bust.

The white and gold number also boasted a huge slit in the skirt that revealed a sheer trouser leg to match the top of the dress.

Covered in gold lace the gown accentuated Victoria's honed pins and came with a pretty backless design as well as a long tail that fanned out dramatically behind her as she walked.

Victoria teamed her red carpet look with complementing gold sandals and toted her essentials in a metallic purse clutch.

Beautiful: The socialite, 44, stunned in a sheer Grecian-inspired gown that made a statement thanks to its leggy design and striking tail

Revealing: Her red carpet number featured revealing sheer panels on the bust and leg

Stunning: The gown was covered in gold lace and featured a huge slit in the skirt

Flawless: Victoria added diamonds to her look with gorgeous drop earrings and a cuff

Glowing: Victoria channeled an old-Hollywood inspired look on the beauty front

Opting for an old-Hollywood inspired look on the beauty front, Victoria sported flawless make-up finished with a natural looking lipstick.

She wore her blonde locks pinned up into a chic up-do, leaving a few curls loose to frame her face.

On arrival to the screening, the former 'It girl' was seen showcasing her modelling credentials as she worked the camera from all angles.

Victoria was seen cheekily lifting up her skirt to reveal the unusual trouser design of her dress and posed up a storm, before heading inside.

Lovely: She sported flawless make-up that was finished with a natural-looking lipstick

Rosy: She opted for a slightly smoky eye and blusher to highlight her cheeks

Cheeky: Victoria cheekily lifted up the skirt of her dress to flash a glimpse at her incredibly honed pins and reveal its unusual trouser design underneath

Hair envy: The British model wore her blonde locks up into a chic up-do

She's a pro: Victoria showcased her modelling credentials as she worked the camera

Finishing touches: She teamed her dress with complementing metallic heels

Earlier that day, Victoria had turned heads in a plunging white playsuit and colourful animal print trainers as she headed out in Cannes.

The socialite was spotted enjoying the sun in Croisette prior to getting glammed up for her latest red carpet appearance.

Victoria showcased her svelte figure and toned legs in the short playsuit while walking along the French Riviera.

All eyes on her: Victoria commanded attention as she made a glam arrival to the film festival

Centre of attention: The star is no stranger to red carpets and looked right at home as she stopped for photos

Captivating: Victoria's dress no doubt turned heads as she walked the carpet

All in the details: Her outfit was perfectly planned with Victoria toting her essentials in a gold purse box for the evening

She flashed her cleavage in the V-neck long-sleeve item which came together in a bow just above her navel.

Victoria added a long gold necklace with a large pendant which drew attention to her ample cleavage.

On her feet she donned a pair of eye-catching blue animal print high-top trainers to add a pop of colour to the outfit.

Chic: Lady Victoria Hervey, 44, turned heads in a plunging white playsuit and colourful animal print trainers as she headed out in Cannes on Sunday

Casual: Victoria showcased her svelte figure and toned legs in the short playsuit while strutting her stuff in the French Riviera

The blonde beauty looked fresh faced after her appearance at the Cannes Film Festival on Saturday evening.

She wore a sparkling gold sequinned playsuit and matching heels as she stepped out of the Martinez Hotel.

The previous day she donned a light pink gown that had a plunging neckline and layered skirts in a lace floral pattern.

Cheeky: She flashed her cleavage in the low V-neck long-sleep item which came together in a bow just above her belly button

Victoria was not wearing a mask on her outing after earlier this year admitting she doesn't agree with them.

'I'm not going to lie, I never wear one,' she told The Daily Mail, adding that she 'storms out' of any shops that ask her to put one on.

Even so, she went into business supplying PPE at the start of the pandemic but insisted that she isn't a hypocrite.

'I did a little bit of a pivot,' she said. 'But no, it doesn't! I was selling it to hospitals, not to people out walking their dogs or shopping.'

Asked if she would ever take the Covid vaccine, she scoffed: 'No way! It's a personal thing, and my mother's had hers, but at my age I really believe in natural immunity.'

She admitted that Project Baby had also influenced her thinking  as she has a prospective sperm donor/father lined up.

Six of her eggs were frozen and stored three years ago, at a cost of 11,000, and she spent the time afterwards looking for a donor.

'I had a friend who was going to be my sperm donor. He was going to be involved in my child's life, but as a friend, not a partner,' she explained.

'And I was supposed to be pregnant now. But then Covid happened, which was a big blow, but looking back I'm really grateful I didn't do it with that person. He just wasn't right.'

Victoria revealed she has since found someone, but is keeping their identity secret.
Advertisement

The Cannes Film Festival has been a sea of glittering premieres and parties after being cancelled last year amid the coronavirus pandemic, and a whole host of stars stepped out for the event's sixth day.

Bella Hadid stole the show as she hit the red carpet alongside Kimberley Garner and Taylor Hill for the premiere of Three Floors on Sunday.

The supermodel, 24, turned heads in a very racy scoop neck dress and covered her breasts with a gold lung necklace.

Wow: Bella Hadid set pulses racing as she took to the red carpet in a very racy scoop neck dress and covered her breasts with a gold lung necklace at the premiere of Three Floors for the Cannes Film Festival on Sunday

Busty: Bella left little to the imagination as she went braless in the plunging figure-hugging black dress with the statement lung necklace covering her modesty

Bella's striking ensemble framed her cleavage with its plummeting neckline, while she covered her modesty with a huge gold lung that hung from a chunky chain necklace.

The supermodel looking stunning in the black long sleeved midi dress which clung to her slender physique and featured a thigh-high slit, teasing a glimpse of her supermodel legs.

Bella completed her glamorous red carpet outfit with a pair of diamante stilettos, while her raven tresses were swept up into a sleek high bun with intricate curl details.

Here come the girls: The supermodel attended the glittering event alongside Kimberley Garner and Taylor Hill

Racy: Bella's striking ensemble framed her cleavage with its plummeting neckline and corset detailing on the back

Upbeat: The catwalk queen beamed as she took to the red carpet in the South of France. The model looked flawless as she worked her angles for the cameras before the screening

Tresses: She swept her raven tresses up into a sleek high bun with intricate curl details

Runway ready: Bella oozed confidence as she strutted down the red carpet

Tresses: She swept her raven tresses up into a sleek high bun with intricate curl details

Working it: The fashionista commanded attention in the statement lung necklace as she sauntered down the red carpet

Bella beamed as she took to the red carpet in the South of France. As she walked along the red carpet, Bella looked every inch the catwalk queen and struck a number of poses for the cameras ahead of the screening.

The model put on a confident display but occasionally covered her cleavage with her hands. She threw out a catwalk worthy smoulder as she strode along the red carpet with her head held high.

The brunette bombshell accessorised with a pair of glittering purple earrings. Bella accentuated her natural beauty with a smokey eye make-up look and emphasised her cheekbones with a dramatic contour.

Best foot forwards: She strode along the red carpet with her head held high

Finishing touches: Bella accessorised with a pair of glittering purple earrings and accentuated her natural beauty with a smokey eye make-up look and emphasised her cheekbones with a dramatic contour

High spirits: She threw out a kiss to onlookers as she climbed the stairs to the screening

Bella was joined at the star-studded event by Kimberley who wowed in a thigh-split gold dress.

The former Made In Chelsea star, 30, put on a leggy display as she hit the red carpet in the statement number.

The blonde beauty dazzled in the textured floor length gown which featured ruffled detailing on the bust and tulle underskirt.

Bella was joined at the star-studded event by Kimberley Garner who wowed in a thigh-split gold dress

Legs out: The former Made In Chelsea star put on a leggy display as she hit the red carpet in the statement number

She let her straight blonde tresses cascade over her shoulders in a relaxed side parting. The bombshell dazzled onlookers as she ran her hands through her hair.

Kimberley accentuated her natural beauty with a smoky winged liner look and a slick of plum-toned lipstick. She added a glittering bangle to the ensemble for added glamour with a sprinkling of diamonds.

Beauty: Kimberley accentuated her natural beauty with a smoky winged liner look and a slick of plum-toned lipstick

Pins: She flashed a glimpse of her toned pins with the thigh-split dress as she took to the red carpet

Meanwhile, Taylor looked stunning in a plunging short sleeved white crop top. She paired the stylish shirt with a striking green skirt which flaunted her model pins with a mini fit at the front.

The American model looked flawless with charcoal eyeshadow and added some glitz with a blue choker necklace and matching rings.

Taylor's long skirt trailed behind her as she posed for photographers at the movie premiere. She accentuated her endless pins with a pair of metallic stilettos.

Gorgeous: And Taylor Hill looked stunning in a plunging short sleeved white crop top

Red carpet: The American model looked flawless with charcoal eyeshadow and added some glitz with a blue choker necklace and matching rings

Event: Taylor's long skirt trailed behind her as she posed for photographers at the movie premiere with her endless legs on full display

Happy: Taylor looked upbeat as she threw out a wave to onlookers while walking along the carpet

The model wore her caramel tresses in a tousled side swept style as she kept her beauty regime laidback.

Also in attendance was Victoria Silvstedt who put on a busty display in a lavender strapless dress.

The model, 46, looked stunning in the floor-length sequin embroidered dress and posed with her hand on her hip.

Meanwhile, Lady Victoria Hervey cut a glamorous figure in a white and gold asymmetric dress with a racy mesh detail across the chest.

Three Floors is directed by Nanni Moretti and follows the lives of the inhabitants of a apartment building in Rome as they co-exist.

It is based on the 2017 novel Shalosh Qomot by Israeli writer Eshkol Nevo, moving the setting from Tel Aviv to Rome, and also marking Moretti's first adaptation of the work of another artist.

The story of three families living on different floors of the same middle-class apartment building.

It is scheduled to be released in Italy on 23 September.

Night out: Also in attendance was Victoria Silvstedt who put on a busty display in a lavender strapless dress

Green with envy: Blanca Blanco showcased her sartorial style on the red carpet in a velvet green floor-length gown

Bringing the glamour: Hofit Golan, Camila Coelho, Marina Ruy Barbosa (L-R) were also in attendance

In attendance: Spike Lee and Tonya Lewis Lee attended the premiere on the sixth day of the festival

Golden: Meanwhile, Lady Victoria Hervey cut a glamorous figure in a white and gold asymmetric dress with a racy mesh detail across the chest
A former reality television contestant has a case to answer over an alleged multi-million dollar 'boiler room' telemarketing scam.

Former Married At First Sight groom Daniel Phillip Webb was committed in Brisbane Magistrates Court on Friday to stand trial with four others.

The prosecution argues the scam raked in about $24million from hundreds of victims in 2013 and 2014.

Court: Married At First Sight groom Dan Webb (pictured) is set to face a Brisbane court over an alleged scam that raked in $24million

It is alleged the scammers ran a call centre, referred to as a 'boiler room' by police, involving sales people pressuring unsuspecting victims to invest money thinking they would make good returns.

Victims were allegedly cold-called and offered investments in products or packages that did not exist.

'In fact the monies were not so invested, and monies were dispersed to a number of the defendants within the operation,' Magistrate Belinda Merrin said of the prosecution case on Friday.

Co-accused: The 36-year-old will stand trial with four others

Police allege companies would disappear to be rebranded and replaced by another entity that continued to operate the apparent scam.

The court was told of instances of 'dummy' directors, the use of false names by staff, the shredding of 'mountains' of paperwork and the withdrawal of cash before a business was shut down.

During a committal hearing in February, the court heard those running the operation allegedly used associates as signatories behind companies and bank accounts into which money was deposited and then withdrawn.

Webb has been charged with dishonestly gaining benefit to a value of over $30,000 and was committed to stand trial in the Brisbane District Court.

Kirsty Maria Lester, brothers Patrik Rasmus Goransson and Charlie Mikael Goransson and Nicholas John Forbes were committed to stand trial alongside Webb on Friday.

No date has been set for the trial.
Support local journalism

Now, more than ever, the world needs trustworthy reportingbut good journalism isnt free. Please support us by making a contribution.
Culture and development specialist Professor Carolyn Cooper is again lamenting the fact that more than 70 years after Jamaicans from Kingstons inner-city invented the sound system the revolutionary art form has still has not received the critical acclaim which it deserves in its home country.

The University of the West Indies professor, who is a linguistics lecturer and the author of Sound Clash: Jamaica Dancehall Culture at Large, was writing against the background of the University of Londons Goldsmiths College Seventh Sound System Outernational (SSO) conference, which is to run online from July 12 to 16.

Professor Cooper who is author of the books, Sound Clash: Jamaica Dancehall Culture at Large and Noises in the Blood, noted in her weekly column in The Sunday Gleaner that, among other things, that people who ascribe onto themselves elite status, continue to disparage sound systems as being unworthy of academic or national respect, but that the Southeast London-based Goldsmith College has established its credentials as a focal point for sound system scholarship.

If The University of the West Indies, Mona, Jamaica had taken the initiative to establish an academic programme on sound systems, there would have been such a hue and cry about the waste of resources on foolishness, Professor Cooper wrote.

The Jamaican elite routinely dismiss sound systems as pure noise. They do not calculate the contribution that the multilayered culture of the sound system makes to the Jamaican economy. Nor do they understand the psychological and social benefits of the sound system as a way of building community, she added.

Professor Cooper, who is a teacher of English language and literature said that even the global reach of sound system culture usually goes unacknowledged in Jamaica, even though there are more sound systems in operation around the world than ever before including more womens sound systems, more aficionados, more practitioners and more interest across different countries around the globe.

Sound systems are treated with such contempt that some of us simply cannot understand how this buguyaga sound could possibly appeal to audiences across the world, she said.

Sound System Outernational has hosted six academic conferences which demonstrate just how big an broad Jamaican popular culture is, she wrote, noting that the theme of the first conference in 2016 was Sonic Entanglements: Jamaica, Europe and Brazil, Professor Cooper added.

This weeks Sound System Outernational conference, will be held under the theme Sound Systems At the Crossroads, and will assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the sector.

The conference which was first held in 2015, in Southeast London, the historic centre of the capitals sound system culture, launched what Professor Cooper describes as an innovative research project led by Professor Julian Henriques and which is an ongoing initiative of practitioners and researchers dedicated to recognising, stimulating and supporting sound system culture worldwide.

Professor Cooper will be presenting a paper at this years conference which will zone in on what has been described as the COVID-19 lockdowns devastating consequences which has silenced the streets worldwide, freezing sound system activities and depriving practitioners and the wider community of their primary source of income.

In her Sound Clash book, Professor Cooper who was one of the chief architects of the Reggae Studies Unit at the UWI Mona Campus in Kingston, which he directed for 15 years, had explored the internationalization of the Dancehall music genre, in what has been described by critics as a definitive study of dancehall culture.

The 10-chapter book, covers a myriad of topics including religion, music, gender roles and sexuality drawing from a wide repertoire of dancehall artistes and their musical archives.

In its review of Coopers publication, Volume! the French journal of popular music studies, noted that Cooper emphasizes the importance of understanding Jamaican Dancehall culture, which has been frowned upon privileged people especially those whose area code remains well within Kingstons so-called Golden Triangle which spans Hope Road, Trafalgar Road, Old Hope Road and stops at Liguanea.

Volume! also noted that the ever present Eurocentrism at play in the writings and arguments of those privileged individuals in their attempts to construct and deconstruct Dancehall culture, was also trashed by Cooper.
DARIEN  Staying in business for a century is a rare accomplishment, but the Palmer family says its so much easier when customers are like family.

Weve always been entrenched in the community, Greg Palmer, whose great grandfather, Rocco Palmierie (who later changed his name to Palmer), first opened Palmers Meat Market on the Noroton Green in the Heights in 1921. ... They know us from being up front and at the door. We know the customers. Were spending a few moments to stop and say hello. It doesnt matter how busy you are.

Greg and his cousin, Cindy Palmer Dean, are the fourth generation of Palmers operating the business, and the fifth and sixth generations are already in the wings waiting for their turn to continue the familys long history of service to the Darien community.

Its all about the community, Greg said.

The Palmer familys focus on the community was highlighted even more during the pandemic.

Cindy said because they are a privately owned store, they were able to respond quickly to the situation. They had a catering staff with no events, so they decided to do a grocery concierge service for homebound seniors, having people shop for them and deliver.

She recalled how amazed they were at the volunteerism from the community to help shop for the groceries.

It was an incredibly scary time, and we were already terrified at the beginning, and all these volunteers were sacrificing, Cindy said. We had more volunteers than we knew what to do with.

She said the elderly were so happy because they were afraid to come out of their homes.

The community just rallied around each other, Greg said. We just got letter after phone call thanking us. It really has been such an awful year, but some wonderful things have come out of it. Im honored were able to help out in such a tough time.

Palmierie, the family says, was an enterprising meat butcher who emigrated from Italy in 1902. He opened a butcher shop in the Bronx, N.Y., built it up, sold it and started again in Stamford. In 1921, he opened Palmers Meat Market in Darien.

Al Palmer said his grandfather started by butchering meat in his basement for his friends. He had a small store in Stamford and then moved to the Noroton Heights neighborhood. He said his father used to deliver groceries in a horse and buggy.

The store was really small at first, Al said, and not self-service. Everyone had to ask for what they wanted, and everything was in bulk.

Palmieries son and Als father, Joseph, took over the business in 1937. Over the years, he helped develop the business from a meat market into a full-service food store, making home deliveries throughout Darien.

The family recalls that Joe inherited huge relocation problems when the turnpike was created through Darien, and the Noroton Green was buried under the center of I-95 beneath the Noroton Avenue overpass.

The business website states, Banding together with his fellow businessmen, they formed the Noroton Heights Business Association. Palmers Market was part of the first building block of the new NHSC in the mid 1950s (where Darien Fabricare and Barrett Bookstore are today). Eventually the Palmers built a larger supermarket in its present location. Of the original businesses bulldozed by the thruway, only Palmers survives.

Obviously, it took 100 years or close to it, but I think my mother and father worked very hard. They were well-established, they were part of the fabric of the community, Al said.

The lessons instilled from his parents were again about customer service.

Always give the customer what they want, not what you want. Give them what they want. It was always about being nice to people, being generous to people, and giving back to the town  whether its little league or all these other things for all these years. Not to mention I dont know the amount of monetary donations weve made over the years  weve been very supportive to all parties in town, he said.

Palmers continued to grow, and Al reflected recently on his pride as the generations continue to work and keep the family business going. He said the ability to evolve with each generation has been part of the stores success formula.

Every generation, starting with my father, theyve always brought something new. My two brothers added to it, I added to it, Greg and Cindy added to it. Megan is doing a fantastic job. Everyone has added their own flavor to the store. Thats why its been successful, no question.

Joes son, Rocco, then took over the business, with Greg and Cindy now at the helm.

Throughout its years, the family says Palmers has put an emphasis on working with local producers and supporting local farmers. In some cases, the business has given some powerhouse companies their start, such as Barenaked Granola, founded by Darien natives, who started out selling their product at Palmers.

In earlier years, Greg said he heard a woman was starting a company making fresh bread out of Norwalk; she would stop by Palmers off the train with it. That company later became Pepperidge Farm, which is still based in the neighboring city.

Palmers has always tried to carry specialty items one cant find at other markets  like pomegranate molasses, or being one of the first shops to carry Ben & Jerrys ice cream. Customers also enjoy products including truffle parmesan dip, and Aunt Claras Fruit Cake. The cake is only made during the holidays and it is a family recipe now passed down to Cindys daughter, Megan, who runs the bakery. Megan is now teaching her daughters.

This desire to carry specialty items while focusing on customer service has resonated with the community.

I love the fact that theyre so convenient, Steve Hardy, of Darien, said while recently shopping at the store. And we use a lot of their catering as well, and the food is just terrific.

Anne Snyderm, of New Canaan, agreed.

The people, the service, the selection of fresh produce, Snyder said. Its just a great store.

I love coming here because theyre part of the community, Laura Holly, of Darien, said. When you come here people know you. ... It was never a chain store. ... Theyre just always nice and theyre always helpful. Its a friendly environment. ... I prefer going here than any other store in town.

Greg emphasized that the Palmers legacy is defined by customer service.

It is most important thing that we as small business owners can provide: Excellent customer service. People really appreciate it. People are so disconnected with one-on-one experiences. And you can go into a business and have a face-to-face conversation, he said.

To maintain that level of customer service, new employees go through an extensive training process that enables them to handle any kind of customer situation with a high level of professionalism, Cindy said.

How many businesses make it to their fifth generation? Greg said.

brian.gioiele@hearstmediact.com
Thank you for reading!

Please purchase a subscription to read our premium content. If you have a subscription and are still unable to access our content, please link your digital account to your print subscription If you have a subscription, please log in or sign up for an account on our website to continue.
When Bhagyashree, the heartthrob actress from the 1989-super-hit Maine Pyaar Kiya, joined her first schedule of her upcoming film Radhe Shyam with Prabhas in Hyderabad last year, her first impressions of the actor was of amazement. For starters, she was floored at his hospitality. On the sets, Prabhas gave me this box of pootharekulu sweets, and it was so delicious, remembers the actress.

The actress even asked Prabhas where he got the sweets from and if he could get more of those. Then she forgot all about it. But recently, upon resuming the shoot for the final schedule of the period drama in Hyderabad, she was in for a pleasant surprise when Prabhas welcomed her with several boxes of pootharekulu sweets.

Bhagyashree

I took home some more boxes of the sweet, and my family loved it all, says Bhagyashree, thinking back at how she was captivated with Prabhas humility and warmth. In fact, most of our on-the-sets conversations have been about food. Hed even shared his lunch, which most of the times, he got packed from his house.

Its not surprising that Bhagyashree thinks youngsters should learn from Prabhas on how to stay grounded and humble despite attaining stardom. Any person who grows in stature yet remains humble will always become a better human being. So it feels nice when you have a star like Prabhas who doesnt have any airs and always remains down to earth. He proves that you can stay normal despite attaining superstardom, shares the actress.

Bhagyashree

Comeback excitements

All talks of her co-star aside, Bhagyashree has been feeling wonderful about being on the sets again and that too after such a long time. Naturally, she couldnt wait to meet everyone on the sets and has a good word about the whole process.

I love the way my shootings take place in Hyderabad; it has always been a great experience. I dont have to wait (too long) for my scenes, states the actress with a chuckle. Then, she informs us that she has almost wrapped up dubbing for the Hindi version of her part and is quite excited about it.

Bhagyashree

Set talk aside, Bhagyashree has of late been endorsing organic farming. As we were home most of the time because of the lockdown, my husband Himalaya and I thought of giving organic farming a try. One day, he said, Let me make some nice sabji for you, and I thought why not! Since then, weve been consuming home-grown vegetables, and let me tell you, its a great feeling to savour home-grown stuff, she shares. Incidentally, even shes been trying her hand at gardening whenever she gets time.

The actress has also been pretty active on her social media, keeping her fans updated about her goings-on, be it workouts, yoga, parties, films, her interest in organic farming, etc., almost as if celebrating every moment she does something.

We always live for tomorrow and regret the time thats gone by. But I believe in enjoying the moment without worrying about what will ensue. For instance, when I am shooting I enjoy the process and am not worried about whether the film will be a success or not, she expresses.

The actress also enjoys travelling. She further says shed rather spend her leisure time travelling and meeting people, and discovering life thus. "I believe travelling is very important in life because it helps you understand different people even as you experience various cultures and practices. These experiences open up the mind and make us become more receptive," she says.
Although the government has pledged to vaccinate 900 million citizens by the end of the year, the campaign has so far been hampered by the slow pace of rollout, supply shortage and vaccine hesitancy.

India has sadly joined the United States and Brazil as only the third country in the world to reach the grim milestone of 400,000 lives lost to Covid-19.

The news comes as experts caution that even this fatalities figure may be an underestimate and predict that the country  which has recorded 30 million cases  could soon suffer a deadly third wave unless its vaccine campaign is significantly accelerated.

A huge task lies ahead, however. Less that 5 percent of Indias population has been fully vaccinated since the program began in January. Although the government has pledged to vaccinate 900 million citizens by the end of the year, the campaign has so far been hampered by the slow pace of rollout, supply shortage and vaccine hesitancy. All these shortcomings will need to be addressed if India is to avert a humanitarian disaster.

Vaccine supplies arent keeping pace with demand.

India needs more vaccines, period. The nation has yet to receive its share of the doses donated from the US and, at the same time, has failed to ensure enough home-grown supplies, leading to dramatic shortages. Indias domestic producers, including Serum Institute of India (SII), need urgent support to ramp up production.

So far, the government has been deploying the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine (branded Covishield), together with its own domestically developed vaccine, Covaxin. Russias Sputnik vaccine and the Moderna vaccine have also been greenlit recently by drugs regulators. A local version of the Novavax vaccine is in the pipeline for production by the SII.

Part of the problem lies in the fact that the government didnt order enough doses at the right time: the order for the first batch of vaccines from the SII in January numbered just 11 million, in a country of almost 1.4 billion. What, in retrospect, appears like appalling complacency, probably looked more like effective tactical management at a time when production levels were buoyant and Covid infections were at record lows.

However, with Covid cases  and panic  rising in April and May, the stories hitting the international headlines werent of Indias successful vaccine manufacturing operation but of ambulance services being overwhelmed and hospitals running out of oxygen. With Covid testing collapsing, observers could only guess the number of fatalities  acknowledging that the real figures were likely to be higher still.

As the death rate climbed, the Indian government rapidly re-routed SII-produced vaccines to its domestic inoculation program, rowing back on a previous commitment to supply the WHOs COVAX initiative. It still wasnt enough to meet burgeoning demand.

The vaccine approval process needs to accelerate

A multi-faceted approach is needed to increase vaccine supply in the mid-term. Swifter approval of vaccines already in widespread use elsewhere  like Pfizer  is essential. In order to expedite vaccine rollout, overseas manufacturers are requiring that purchasing governments agree to protect them from any legal liability over vaccine complications. Its this indemnification process thats holding up the vaccine supplies that India so desperately needs.

India also needs to prioritise the rapid adoption of new, so-called second-generation vaccines from a variety of manufacturers deploying multiple vaccine technologies. Specifically, India needs vaccines which can be rapidly and affordably produced and stored at room temperature for areas with infrastructure gaps  such as the promising candidate by Akston Biosciences.

Akston recently announced positive results for the Phase I trial of its second-generation vaccine, AKS-452. Following the successful conclusion of the 60-subject Phase I trial, which found that the vaccine was generally well-tolerated and yielded a 100% seroconversion rate following a single 90 microgram dose, AKS-452 will now move into a Phase II trial of both one- and two-dose regimens at the University Medical Center Groningen, one of the Netherlands largest hospitals.

Akstons second-generation vaccine is expected to be shelf stable at ambient temperatures for extended periodseven able to be kept at 37C for a montha factor thats likely to be critical if vaccination programs are to be successful in areas where refrigeration is unreliable or unavailable. Furthermore, the Akston vaccines low-cost antibody manufacturing techniques allow optimal dose capacity on standard production lines, meaning that a single 2000 litre production line could produce more than one billion doses a year.

Overcoming vaccine hesitancy

Its not just vaccine availability thats threatening Indias Covid response, though. Vaccine hesitancy among the countrys vast population is also proving an intractable problem.

A recent survey showed vaccine hesitancy rates of between 19 and 40 percent across Indias states. The reluctance of some to engage with the national vaccination program stems largely from lack of trust in the safety and efficacy of the vaccines, as well as concern over potential side-effects, fuelled by a low-risk perception of Covid itself.

Unfounded rumours  such as those suggesting that people are dying or becoming impotent as a result of receiving the vaccination  are damaging and persistent, especially in Indias many rural districts. That the vaccine could cause individuals to fall ill and forfeit their income are very real concerns for those already struggling to make both ends meet.

Threats to withhold food rations or restrict access to public areas for the unvaccinated are likely to exacerbate existing structural inequities, further punishing families who are already among the most marginalised.

Overcoming these fears will, instead, require a targeted approach that addresses anxieties and misconceptions in individual communities through better public health communication. A bespoke public health campaign on a massive scale, designed to overcome the barriers and misunderstandings that are preventing people from getting lifesaving vaccines, is urgently required.

Only carefully coordinated efforts  between the government, health care providers and community leaders  that empower citizens to make more informed decisions have a chance of improving the picture for India. The survival of millions may depend upon it.

Disclaimer: No Deccan Chronicle journalist was involved in creating this content. The group also takes no responsibility for this content.
SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir authorities on Saturday sacked eleven more government officials including two sons of Hizb-ul-Mujahideen chief Muhammad Yusuf Shah alias Syed Salahuddin in the interest of the nation.

Pursuing a tough policy against what it sees as their anti-national activities, their being in the government service a threat to the security and integrity of the country or their violating Government Servants Conduct Rules, the J&K government has in the past two years dismissed a large number of its employees including teachers, revenue officials, engineers and policemen.

The official sources said that in the latest spell Salahuddins sons, and nine others were terminated in the interest of the nation as per the Constitutional provision. The sources said that action against the brothers-duo Syed Shakeel Ahmed and Syed Shahid Yusuf was taken in the light of the investigations done by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in a terror funding case. The NIA had in January 2018 filed a charge-sheet in a Delhi court against Syed Salahuddin, amir or chief of Jama'at-ud-Da'wah, Hafiz Saeed, and ten Kashmiri separatist activists in an alleged money laundering and terror funding case.

The J&K government has claimed that the NIA tracked terror funding trails of both the brothers and found them involved in raising, receiving, collecting, and transferring funds through hawala transactions to the Hizb, which has been declared a terrorist organisation in India and also by the US State Department.

Syed Shakeel who worked as a senior laboratory technician at Srinagars Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) was arrested by the NIA on August 30, 2018, during a raid at his residence in the Citys Rambagh area in connection with a 2011 terror funding case. The NIA had claimed that he used to receive funds through a US-based international wire transfer company from one Aijaz Ahmed Bhat, another accused in the case who is absconding and is presently based in Saudi Arabia.

The agency had in October 2017 arrested his brother Syed Shahid in connection with the same case. An employee of J&Ks horticulture department, Syed Shahid is currently lodged in Delhis Tihar jail.

A senior government functionary added that the Enforcement Directorate (EC) had on August 26 last year filed a charge sheet before Delhi court against Syed Salahuddin and 11 others for allegedly laundering money for financing terror activities in J&K. The prosecution complaint, EDs equivalent to charge sheet, had urged the court for confiscating attached assets totalling to 1.22 crores in the case, besides other punishment under Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

The Hizb chief who is a resident of Soibug village of J&Ks central district of Budgam but operating from PoK and Pakistan for the last nearly three decades had denied the charges levelled against him by the NIA and ED.

The J&K government under Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha, had in April this year constituted a Special Task Force (STF) for identifying and scrutinizing its employees involved in any activity detrimental to the security of the country or deemed as anti-national, evoking sharp criticism from various political parties, employees trade unions and human rights activists.

The government sources said on Friday that separately a designated official committee responsible for scrutinizing and recommending cases under Article 311(2)(c) of the Constitution, in its 2nd and 4th meeting, recommended three and eight cases for their dismissal from the government service, respectively.

They apart from Syed brothers include an orderly of ITI from frontier district of Kupwara accused of being an Over Ground Worker (OWG) of proscribed Lashkar-e-Tayyaba, two teachers from southern Anantnag district allegedly involved in anti-national activities including participating, supporting and propagating the ideology of Jamaat-e-Islami and Dukhtaran-e-Millat organisations and two police constables accused of supporting separatism and terrorism from within the police department and providing inside information to militants and also logistic support.

Another police constable Abdul Rashid Shigan has been accused of having himself executed attacks on the security forces. Naaz Muhammad Allaie, a fourth-class employee of the J&K Health Department, has been sacked for allegedly being an OWG of the Hizb whereas two Education Department officials Jabbar Ahmad Parray and Nisar Ahmad Tantray were found actively involved in furthering the secessionist agenda.

Shaheen Ahmad Lone, an Inspector of the J&K Power Department has been allegedly found involved in smuggling and transporting arms for the Hizb. He was found traveling with two terrorists on Srinagar-Jammu National Highway and carrying arms, ammunition, and explosives in January last year.
According to experts, the steady rate of COVID infection in Kerala would help the state to fight off the virus and ensure medical facilities are not overwhelmed, but the more it prolongs the more stressful it would be for doctors and healthcare workers. (PTI)

Thiruvananthapuram: Rising COVID-19 cases in Kerala, coupled with the recent outbreak of the Zika virus, is causing concern to the health authorities here as the southern state battles to bring down the fresh infections.

After winning accolades for its "Kerala model" of combating the contagion about a year ago, the state is now seeing daily fresh cases between 12,000 to 15,000 with no end in sight to the 'prolonged surge', as some experts put it.

The state had reported 14,087 fresh covid infections on Saturday and 109 deaths taking the total caseload to 30,39,029 and toll to 14,380. The active cases touched 1,13,115.

Health Minister Veena George had recently said the virus numbers spiked due to certain unlock measures and that they were expected to go down.

While on June 1 this year, Kerala reported 19,760 positive cases, there was a slight decline for a week with 9,313 new cases being recorded on June 7.

However, two days later it again shot up to 16,204. For over a month, the state has been reporting cases between 11,000 to 13,000 on a daily basis.

Incidentally, India's first Covid-19 case emerged from the state in January 2020 when a third year medical student from Wuhan, the epicentre of the virus in China, tested positive.

Two other Wuhan returnees from the state had also tested positive and all the three had subsequently recovered.

According to experts, the steady rate of COVID infection in Kerala would help the state to fight off the virus and ensure medical facilities are not overwhelmed, but the more it prolongs the more stressful it would be for doctors and healthcare workers.

While the medical experts who spoke to reporters praised the Kerala government for its preventive measures which helped keep the infection rate from peaking drastically, some opined the administration's inability to enforce COVID appropriate behaviour after the unlock phase came into effect was one of the reasons that the numbers have not gone down.

Vaccination was the key and the state government should try to procure the vaccines by whatever means instead of just relying on the central government for supply, they said.

Dr T S Anish, who specialises in community medicine, said the present situation has its pros and cons.

A prolonged infection rate would put stress on the doctors and other healthcare workers and in case a third wave comes, the medical system which is partially filled could be overwhelmed.

He also said it was a matter of concern that the government was unable to reduce the rate of infection.

According to him, some of the measures taken by the government were unscientific, like allowing overcrowding at shops and liquor vends and not making available services online that could be.

"Crowding has to be prevented at any cost," he said,adding, while people wear masks out in the streets, they do not do so in their workplaces or during a celebration.

Virologist Dr Sarada too said people were not following COVID appropriate behaviour which was also a reason for the cases not declining.

She and Anish were of the view that vaccination was the key, the only solution and the state government should try to get the vaccine in more quantities by whatever means.

Sarada also said that other states may not be showing such high numbers as they probably were not testing their rural population unlike Kerala.

Citing the positive side of the situation, Dr Anish said the government was able to prevent a sharp increase during the peak of the second wave of COVID by putting in place a lockdown and thereby, ensured the healthcare system was not overwhelmed.

This steady rate of infection could also help to prevent a third wave as the health system or machinery would be vigilant and would quickly detect any new variant or mutation.

According to him, if the cases go down substantially, the system would be less vigilant as there would be less testing and therefore, by the time a new variant or mutation is detected the third wave would have already hit.

Dr Amar Fettle, the state nodal officer for COVID-19, said that the Kerala government was carrying out extensive testing to ensure no one who is infected is missed out and it was taking measures to ensure elderly people and children, who would be vulnerable to infection, are protected.

Testing is being carried out in high risk groups, he added.

Fettle said that after a long period of lockdown, when the unlock phase comes into effect people venture out and therefore, the infection re-enters homes.

A prolonged surge is better than a short spike or wave, as then the healthcare system will not be overburdened, he said.

However, he said it cannot be predicted how long this trend will go on and when the numbers will go down.

Health Minister Veena George had on Friday had said "the government's endeavour was to ensure the number of infected persons never goes above the medical capacity of the state, so that no one dies due to non-availability of beds or oxygen."

Vaccination was the only way to prevent spread of the virus, she had asserted.

She had also said preventive mechanisms like enforcing lockdowns, earmarking containment zones, aggressive testing and tracing by the state government ensured large number of people susceptible to the infection were protected.

According to the minister, the Health department with the help of the police would be taking steps to ensure people follow the COVID protocols like social distancing and wearing of masks when they step out of their homes.

On Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had expressed concern over the persistently high number of COVID cases coming from Maharashtra and Kerala.

The opposition Congress and BJP in Kerala have attacked the ruling dispensation over the covid-related casualties, alleging a 'mismatch' in their numbers while George has maintained the government has nothing to hide and all deaths were being reported.

Former health minister K K Shailaja had also been slammed when the COVID cases had gone up steadily during her tenure.

To add to its woes, the state now has 14 active Zika virus cases and a Central team would reach here later to assist the government in handling the situation.
Hyderabad: More than 1,600 nurses, who were recruited as outsourced employees and posted in government hospitals, to fight the Covid-19 pandemic in March 2020, were shunted out of their jobs without any notice on Tuesday.

The nurses, who have been on protests since then, were on Saturday barricaded from entering Dharna Chowk, to continue their protests.

Incidentally, immediately after getting the termination notice when they went to question the Director of Medical Education, whose office had recruited them, they were detained. The following day they tried to enter Pragathi Bhavan to meet the Chief Minister, but were met with similar treatment. When they took the protest to Gandhi Bhavan on Thursday and Friday, they ended up in the police station.

Undeterred by the setbacks to their protest programmes, they are demanding the government to take them back and that too as permanent employees.

Ajay Ellandula, one of the 1,620 whose sevices were terminated, said, After giving a letter to the police commissioner seeking permission, we went ahead to gather at Dharna Chowk on Saturday but the police did not allow us to stage the protest.

Another nurse, Gurram Ruth, said We demand that the services of all 1,620 nurses should be restored. This time not on an outsource basis but on permanent rolls. There are over 1,800 permanent posts that remain vacant.

Nurse Perumalla Madhavi said, Government should consider our case. Our diligence as frontline warriors, and putting our lives in peril, has won appreciation of ministers and higher authorities. We deserve to be treated compassionately.
Hyderabad: Though 20 days have passed since lockdown has been fully lifted, footfalls at tourist destinations in Hyderabad remain low.

Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), which is the custodian of Hyderabads two key monuments  Charminar and Golconda, started allowing visitors from June 20 after a gap of 66 days. Owing to second wave of Covid-19, the ASI had shut down the two monuments on April 15. The monuments remained shut to tourists for five months last year too when the pandemic started.

Authorities are allowing tourists and visitors at Golconda only after thermal scanning and ensuring that they are wearing masks. At Charminar, however, visitors could be seen without masks and gathering in groups for taking selfies.

According to ASI, Golconda Fort draws more than 5,000 visitors daily. But currently, visitors are barely 2,500 every day. The number of visitors on Friday, Saturday and Sunday is slightly more.

Charminar, which is must-see for most tourists visiting Hyderabad, is recording barely 1,200 to 1,500 visitors every day and 1,500 to 2,000 on weekends. Before the lockdown visitors had been between 4,0005,000 on weekdays and over 5,000 on weekends.

Salarjung Museum, another tourist attraction of the city, has seen no surge in visitors. Their number is still below 1,000 per day. Most tourists are domestic. Foreign tourists are almost negligible.

Syed Siraj, a guide at Golconda Fort, said visitors from northern and eastern states are very few. Most visitors are from Telangana or neighbouring states.

Biswas Shankar, who hails from Assam, said his family has taken advantage of decrease in number of Coronavirus cases in the country to visit Hyderabad. We will see Golconda Fort today and later visit Charminar, Salarjung Museum and other places, he told Deccan Chronicle.
Kurnool: The Kurnool Government General Hospital (KGGH) which has become a nodal hospital for treating mucormycosis (black fungus) cases has set a record by performing 175 surgeries in 35 days. Of them 155 patients were discharged and they had no post-operational complications, said hospital superintendent Dr G. Narendranath Reddy.

He told media persons here on Saturday that black fungus was a disease that is observed in post-Covid patients. Surgical intervention alone provides a life-saving treatment.

Around 275 patients from Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Karnataka were admitted in the hospital for black fungus treatment, he said.

We have already performed 120 surgeries and the remaining 112 were provided treatment as surgeries were not required. There has been no black fungus death here, he said. All mucormycosis patients were treated at the German Hangar sheds.

On the issue of enumerating Covid deaths, particularly after the Supreme Court directed National Disaster Management Authority (NMDA) to frame guidelines for classifying Covid deaths with the proximate cause being the infection despite comorbidities, he said that would follow government directions.

A special committee led by ENT unit head Dr. A Sesha Prasad has been monitoring black fungus cases, he added. He said that the hospital is geared up for the third wave.
SRINAGAR: National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Sunday conducted raids at multiple locations across Kashmir Valley and arrested six persons including head of an Islamic seminary in connection with a jihadi terrorism case.

The agency said that the case was registered by it on June 29 this year under various sections of the Indian Penal Code and Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 in connection with the conspiracy of the ISIS (Islamic State) to radicalize and recruit impressionable youth in the country to wage violent jihad against the Indian state.

This comes a day after the J&K government sacked its eleven employees including two sons of Hizb-ul-Mujahideen chief Muhammad Yusuf Shah alias Syed Salahuddin on charges of being involved in anti-India activities. The Hizb chief's sons were fired based on the investigations done by the NIA in an alleged terror funding case, the government had said.

The NIA sources said that its teams assisted by J&K police and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) raided 'Siraj-ul- Uloom seminary in Srinagar's Dalal Mohalla, Nawab Bazaar area and seized some office records and a laptop and also took its chairman Adnaan Ahmad Nadvi into custody. The institution is reportedly affiliated with an Islamic seminary of Uttar Pradesh. Soon raids were conducted in Pushroo, Sunsooma, and Achabal villages of Anantnag and five persons identified as Javaid Ahamad Mir, Umar Bhat, Ovais Ahmad Bhat, Tanveer Ahmad Bhat and Zeeshan Ameen Malik were detained.

The NIA in a statement here said the searches were conducted at seven locations in Anantnag and Srinagar districts in ISIS voice of Hind case registered by it in New Delhi under sections 124A, 153A, and 153 B of IPC and sections 17, 18, 18B, 38, 39 and 40 of UA(P) Act 1967.

In order to execute its nefarious plan, an organized campaign has been launched over the cyber space which is supplemented by on ground (militant) financing activities, it said.

The statement read, ISIS operating from various conflict zones along with ISIS cadres in India, by assuming pseudo- online identities, have created a network wherein ISIS related propaganda material is disseminated for radicalizing and recruiting members to the fold of ISIS. It added, In this connection an India-centric online propaganda magazine the Voice of Hind (VOH) is published on monthly basis with an aim to incite and radicalize impressionable youth by projecting a skewed narrative of imagined injustices in India to arouse a feeling of alienation and communal hatred.

The NIA claimed that the searches led to recovery and seizure of a large number of incriminating documents and digital devices such as mobile phones, tablets, laptop, hard disks and T-Shirts having ISIS logo.
Chief Justice of the Karnataka High Court Justice Abhay Shreeniwas Oka administering him the oath of office. (Photo: ANI)

Bengaluru: Veteran BJP leader and former union minister Thaawarchand Gehlot on Sunday took oath as the 19th Governor of Karnataka succeeding Vajubhai Rudabhai Vala.

The Chief Justice of the High Court of Karnataka Justice Abhay Shreeniwas Oka administered Gehlot the oath of office and secrecy in the presence of outgoing Governor Vala, Speaker of the Karnataka Assembly Vishweshwar Hegde Kageri, Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa, his cabinet colleagues, MPs, MLAs, Chief Secretary P Ravi Kumar and senior officials of the state government.

Dressed in a white suit and sporting a Himachali cap, Gehlot took the oath of office and secrecy in the name of God inside the imposing glass house of the Raj Bhavan.

After the oath taking ceremony, Justice Oka, Vala and Yediyurappa greeted the new Governor with bouquets and congratulated him.

The 73-year old Gehlot was the Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment at the centre, and was leader of the House in Rajya Sabha.

The President had announced the appointment of Gehlot as the new Governor of Karnataka on July 6.

Born in a Dalit family on May 18, 1948 to Ramlal Gehlot and Suman Bai at Rupeta in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, Gehlot did his BA from Vikram University, Ujjain.

Gehlot, who was involved with the RSS, took a plunge into politics in 1962 through the Jan Sangh and held several key positions in the BJP.

His electoral politics began in 1980 and he was elected MLA thrice before becoming a member of Lok Sabha in 1996 and served there for four consecutive terms till 2009.

He was also a Rajya Sabha member.

He is familiar with Karnataka as he served as the state in-charge for years between 2006 and 2014 when he was party general secretary.

Gehlot had been to jail several times between 1968 and 1971 for raising workers' issues as well as during the Emergency in the 1970s.

Though the 83-year old Vala's five-year term had ended in August, 2019, he continued in the post as his successor was not named by the centre.

Politically, Vala came under attack in May 2018, for inviting the BJP to form the government much to the chagrin of the Congress-JD(S) coalition, which had termed his action as that of a "Gujarati businessman."

He was also targeted by Congress-JD(S) during H D Kumaraswamy's trust vote in July 2019, for repeatedly seeking to interfere with assembly proceedings, by setting deadlines.
New Delhi: The Congress on Saturday launched a scathing attack on the Center over the creation of the new ministry of cooperation. Senior Maharashtra Congress leader and former chief minister Prithviraj Chavan questioned the need for carving out a separate ministry since there was already a department of cooperation. He said, Administratively it makes no difference. Cooperatives are important for Gujarat and Maharashtra primarily. Both states are very important for the BJP, and added that it's not clear in what way they will promote cooperatives. "It is only to control the cooperatives, because cooperative institutions hold massive influence locally," he said.

Several Opposition leaders feel that the move is to hijack the cooperative movement that currently falls under the state governments. Senior Congress leader and MLA from Kerala, Ramesh Chennithala, said, Cooperatives is a state subject under entry 32 of the state list under the Schedule 7 of the Constitution. How can they create a ministry without an Act of Parliament? The BJP wants total control of the cooperative movement across the country. The cooperative model has been a source of political power in states such as Maharashtra, Kerala, Gujarat, parts of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh and West Bengal.

As the monsoon session of Parliament is going to start at the end of July, the government can expect uproar over the creation of the new ministry in Parliament. One of the senior Congress leaders said that the party will be speaking to other Opposition parties so as to build a consensus on how to collectively take on the government over this issue. Several Congress leaders have already termed the creation of the ministry of cooperation as "an attack on federalism as cooperatives is a state subject". Congress leaders have questioned the need for the ministry when even the multi-state cooperative societies are already governed by a Central Act the multi-state Cooperative Societies Act of 2002.
People's uprising loyal to Ata Mohammad Noor, chief of Jamiat-e-Islami and a powerful northern warlord, stand guard at their office in Mazar-e-Sharif north of Kabul, Afghanistan. (AP)

New Delhi: India has pulled out around 50 diplomats and security personnel from its consulate in Kandahar in Afghanistan in view of the deteriorating security situation and the Taliban gaining control of new areas around the southern Afghan city, people familiar with the development said on Sunday.

A special aircraft of the Indian Air Force was sent on Saturday to bring back the Indian diplomats, officials and other staff members including a group of Indo-Tibetan Border Police personnel, they said.

India's move to temporarily shut the consulate in Kandahar came in view of Taliban fighters rapidly seizing control of a number of key areas in the region as well as in western Afghanistan triggering huge security concerns.

On Tuesday, the Indian embassy in Kabul said there was no plan to close the embassy and the consulates in Kandahar and Mazar-e-Sharif.

Two days back, the Ministry of External said India was carefully monitoring the deteriorating security situation in Afghanistan and its implications on the safety and security of Indian nationals.

"Our response will be calibrated accordingly," External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said at a media briefing on Thursday.

Afghanistan witnessed a series of terror attacks in the last few weeks as the US looked to complete the withdrawal of its forces from Afghanistan by August-end, ending a nearly two-decade of its military presence in the war-ravaged country.

There were reports that at least two foreign missions in Mazar-e-Sharif, the capital of northern Balkh province, have closed their operation in view of escalating violence in the region.

Amid growing concerns in India over the deteriorating situation in Afghanistan, Afghan Ambassador Farid Mamundzay on Tuesday briefed Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla on the situation in Afghanistan.

The Indian embassy last week asked all Indians visiting, staying and working in Afghanistan to exercise the utmost caution with regard to their security and avoid all types of non-essential travel in view of rising incidents of violence in various parts of the country.

In an advisory, the embassy said the security situation in Afghanistan remains "dangerous" and that terror groups have carried out a series of complex attacks including targeting civilians, adding Indian nationals additionally face a "serious threat" of kidnapping.

India has been a major stakeholder in the peace and stability of Afghanistan. It has already invested nearly USD three billion in aid and reconstruction activities in the country.

India has been supporting a national peace and reconciliation process which is Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled.

In March, Afghan Foreign Minister Mohammad Haneef Atmar visited India during which Jaishankar conveyed to him India's long-term commitment towards a peaceful, sovereign and stable Afghanistan.
Joe Biden's pull-out from Afghanistan has stunned with its speed, but Washington already decided four years ago that it was fed up with "forever wars" and turned its attention to traditional great power competition with China and Russia.

Fighting stateless terror groups like Al-Qaeda and Islamic State consumed the US security establishment, and trillions of dollars, since the September 11, 2001 attacks.

Biden predecessor Donald Trump came to office in 2017 promising to quit Afghanistan, calling the war there a "mess" and a "waste."

The conflicts there and in Iraq had come to be characterized by unending troop deployments, persistent levels of violence, and no ability to conclusively defeat the enemy.

By 2020, Trump had overcome resistance and laid the ground for pull-outs, leaving only 2,500 troops in each country by the time he stepped down in January. Biden accepted that trajectory, announcing Thursday that US military involvement in Afghanistan would conclude by August 31.

Also read: Why both Russians and Americans got nowhere in Afghanistan

"We are ending America's longest war," he said. "The United States cannot afford to remain tethered to policies created to respond to a world as it was 20 years ago."

The 9/11 attacks blindsided the US security establishment, forcing a whole-of-government refocus and the launching of the "War on Terror."

The US and NATO allies invaded Afghanistan to oust the Taliban government, which had protected Al-Qaeda.

And then-president George W. Bush took advantage to also invade Iraq to overthrow strongman Saddam Hussein, hoping to remake the Middle East and snuff out a broader threat.

The initial assaults largely succeeded quickly, with Al-Qaeda fractured and on the run in Afghanistan, and Saddam deposed and captured in Iraq.

But in both cases the United States and allies remained on the ground, hoping to rebuild each country, and unable to pull out without risking a return to the pre-9/11 situation.

Then, starting in 2013, US security leaders rebooted their views when new Chinese President Xi Jinping began aggressively expanding his country's military.

Seeking to counter and surpass US military strength, China began building armed bases on disputed islets in the South China Sea, added a base in Djibouti and planned other bases around Asia and the Middle East.

Meanwhile in 2014 Russian President Vladimir Putin sent forces to seize Ukraine's Crimea and supported an insurgency in eastern Ukraine.

Two years later Moscow mustered an aggressive campaign to influence the US presidential elections.

During the same period, young North Korean leader Kim Jong Un embarked on an ambitious plan to develop nuclear weapons with missiles that could threaten the United States.

Trump's 2017 National Security Strategy confirmed the pivot.

"China and Russia challenge American power, influence, and interests, attempting to erode American security and prosperity," it said.

"They are determined to make economies less free and less fair, to grow their militaries, and to control information and data to repress their societies and expand their influence."

Also read: Afghanistan to rush troops to border as Taliban extend gains

Reminiscent of the Cold War, the reorientation meant a Pentagon push to expand its navy, build stronger long-range bomber and submarine strike forces, and update its nuclear weapons.

It has also meant countering the Chinese and Russian challenge in new domains, with the Pentagon establishing both Space Command and Cyber Command.

The new priorities took root under Trump, and Biden confirmed them in March in his own national security policy.

"The distribution of power across the world is changing, creating new threats. China, in particular, has rapidly become more assertive," it said.

"Both Beijing and Moscow have invested heavily in efforts meant to check US strengths and prevent us from defending our interests and allies around the world."

Instead of Afghanistan and Iraq-Syria, Ukraine and Taiwan are the new flashpoints.

Both have recently received more and more advanced US weaponry to deter, respectively, Russia and China.

The Pentagon created a new office focused on China. US naval vessels regularly sail the waters around Taiwan and in the South China Sea, implicitly challenging China's territorial claims.

As for Russia, Biden has sought to strengthen bonds with NATO allies.

Over the past week, too, US vessels took part in exercises in the Black Sea where Russian forces were conducting their own manuevers.

Counter-terrorism doesn't end with the Afghanistan pull-out, the Pentagon stresses.

But it is turning more remote-directed -- using air and missile strikes from remote bases and vessels to act in Afghanistan where Al-Qaeda still operates.

"We are repositioning our resources and adapting our counterterrorism posture to meet the threats where they are now," Biden said.
Rising Covid-19 cases in Kerala, coupled with the recent outbreak of the Zika virus, is causing concern to the health authorities here as the southern state battles to bring down the fresh infections.

After winning accolades for its "Kerala model" of combating the contagion about a year ago, the state is now seeing daily fresh cases between 12,000 to 15,000 with no end in sight to the 'prolonged surge', as some experts put it.

The state had reported 14,087 fresh Covid infections on Saturday and 109 deaths taking the total caseload to 30,39,029 and toll to 14,380. The active cases touched 1,13,115.

Health Minister Veena George had recently said the virus numbers spiked due to certain unlock measures and that they were expected to go down.

Also read: Here's all you need to know about Zika virus

While on June 1 this year, Kerala reported 19,760 positive cases, there was a slight decline for a week with 9,313 new cases being recorded on June 7.

However, two days later it again shot up to 16,204. For over a month, the state has been reporting cases between 11,000 to 13,000 on a daily basis.

Incidentally, India's first Covid-19 case emerged from the state in January 2020 when a third year medical student from Wuhan, the epicentre of the virus in China, tested positive.

Two other Wuhan returnees from the state had also tested positive and all the three had subsequently recovered.

Also read: Explained: What is driving the spike in Kerala's Covid-19 cases?

According to experts, the steady rate of Covid infection in Kerala would help the state to fight off the virus and ensure medical facilities are not overwhelmed, but the more it prolongs the more stressful it would be for doctors and healthcare workers.

While the medical experts who spoke to PTI praised the Kerala government for its preventive measures which helped keep the infection rate from peaking drastically, some opined the administration's inability to enforce Covid appropriate behaviour after the unlock phase came into effect was one of the reasons that the numbers have not gone down.

Vaccination was the key and the state government should try to procure the vaccines by whatever means instead of just relying on the central government for supply, they said.

Dr T S Anish, who specialises in community medicine, said the present situation has its pros and cons.

A prolonged infection rate would put stress on the doctors and other healthcare workers and in case a third wave comes, the medical system which is partially filled could be overwhelmed.

He also said it was a matter of concern that the government was unable to reduce the rate of infection.

According to him, some of the measures taken by the government were unscientific, like allowing overcrowding at shops and liquor vends and not making available services online that could be.

Also read: 15 Zika virus cases so far in Kerala

"Crowding has to be prevented at any cost," he said, adding, while people wear masks out in the streets, they do not do so in their workplaces or during a celebration.

Virologist Dr Sarada too said people were not following Covid appropriate behaviour which was also a reason for the cases not declining.

She and Anish were of the view that vaccination was the key, the only solution and the state government should try to get the vaccine in more quantities by whatever means.

Sarada also said that other states may not be showing such high numbers as they probably were not testing their rural population unlike Kerala.

Citing the positive side of the situation, Dr Anish said the government was able to prevent a sharp increase during the peak of the second wave of Covid by putting in place a lockdown and thereby, ensured the healthcare system was not overwhelmed.

This steady rate of infection could also help to prevent a third wave as the health system or machinery would be vigilant and would quickly detect any new variant or mutation.

According to him, if the cases go down substantially, the system would be less vigilant as there would be less testing and therefore, by the time a new variant or mutation is detected the third wave would have already hit.

Dr Amar Fettle, the state nodal officer for Covid-19, said that the Kerala government was carrying out extensive testing to ensure no one who is infected is missed out and it was taking measures to ensure elderly people and children, who would be vulnerable to infection, are protected.

Testing is being carried out in high risk groups, he added.

Fettle said that after a long period of lockdown, when the unlock phase comes into effect people venture out and therefore, the infection re-enters homes.

A prolonged surge is better than a short spike or wave, as then the healthcare system will not be overburdened, he said.

However, he said it cannot be predicted how long this trend will go on and when the numbers will go down.

Health Minister Veena George had on Friday had said "the government's endeavour was to ensure the number of infected persons never goes above the medical capacity of the state, so that no one dies due to non-availability of beds or oxygen."

Vaccination was the only way to prevent spread of the virus, she had asserted.

She had also said preventive mechanisms like enforcing lockdowns, earmarking containment zones, aggressive testing and tracing by the state government ensured large number of people susceptible to the infection were protected.

According to the minister, the Health department with the help of the police would be taking steps to ensure people follow the Covid protocols like social distancing and wearing of masks when they step out of their homes.

On Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had expressed concern over the persistently high number of Covid cases coming from Maharashtra and Kerala.

The opposition Congress and BJP in Kerala have attacked the ruling dispensation over the Covid-related casualties, alleging a 'mismatch' in their numbers while George has maintained the government has nothing to hide and all deaths were being reported.

Former health minister K K Shailaja had also been slammed when the Covid cases had gone up steadily during her tenure.

To add to its woes, the state now has 14 active Zika virus cases and a Central team would reach here later to assist the government in handling the situation.
It would seem like being a Kashmiri is a sure-fire way to get booked under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967. There is no other way to explain the detention of Bashir Ahmad Baba. Eleven years ago, Baba, who was 33 at the time, had gone to Gujarat to attend a camp on post-cancer care, when the Gujarat Anti-terror Squad arrested him, accusing him of being a Hizbul Mujahideen talent-hunter.

Only last month, he was acquitted by a local court after the police had no evidence to support the charges. But life had already changed a lot for Baba  he lost his father during his decade-long struggle to prove his innocence, leaving him nursing a life-long regret. I could not attend the last rites of my father, who died of cancer, Baba said, having been denied bail to attend his fathers funeral.

In another case in Maharashtra, Mohd Ilyas and Mohd Irfan were released after nine years in jail last month, as a court said the police did not have any evidence to prove that they were Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists.

Read | Excellent judgements, but do police care?

Official statistics on UAPA tells the whole story  police managed just a 29 per cent conviction rate in 2019 and 95 per cent of cases that reached courts in that year are still pending. Despite this poor track record, an increasing number of cases are being registered each year  901 in 2017, 1,182 in 2018 and 1,226 in 2019. Of the 2,361 cases that went to trial in 2019, only 113 saw completion of which just 33 cases saw conviction.

In the recent past, activists, academicians, students and journalists have all been jailed under the draconian UAPA; some were jailed for protesting against the Citizenship Amendment Act and during the Delhi riots, while some others were imprisoned in the Bhima Koregaon case.

If suspected terrorists were charged with UAPA earlier, over the years the law has become a tool for the State to terrorise activists and dissenters. Anti-CAA protester and transparency activist Akhil Gogoi spent 18 months in jail on charges of having links with Maoists before being cleared by the courts. He accused the BJP-led governments in Assam and at the Centre of using the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to keep him in jail to contain anti-CAA protests, so that it has no impact on the Assam Assembly elections.

DH Exclusive | Opposing undemocratic policies not anti-national, says Akhil Gogoi

Gogoi, who launched the Krishak Mukti Sangram Samiti and won an election from jail said, The best option for them was to book me under a draconian black law, brand me Maoist and keep me inside jail. That is exactly what they did.

Presumed guilty

UAPA presumes a person is guilty until proven innocent, contrary to the spirit of the Constitution. The provisions make it almost impossible to get bail, former Karnataka Public Prosecutor and human rights lawyer B T Venkatesh told DH. That there is no proper disclosure of evidence makes it more challenging, he says.

Take the case of 84-year-old Jesuit priest Father Stan Swamy. Charged under the UAPA, he died in a hospital on July 5, fighting for his bail. His crime, his supporters and admirers say, was to stand up for the rights of tribal communities in Jharkhand. Curiously, NIA never sought his custody for questioning after his arrest in the Bhima Koregaon case on October 8 last year.

Swamy's co-accused, revolutionary poet Varavara Rao, was luckier. After a prolonged legal fight, he managed to get bail for medical treatment, while other co-accused like Sudha Bharadwaj, Surendra Gadling, Shoma Sen, Rona Wilson and Anand Teltumbde are yet to get bail. All were working for the underprivileged, highlighting human rights issues and questioning the government.

Read | Activists released: An indictment of Delhi Police, its masters

As academicians and activists were booked under UAPA, the Bhima Koregaon case sent shivers in the civil society. There was some fear. Nonetheless, organisations continue to keep working, People Union of Civil Liberties Karnataka president Y J Rajendra told DH.

In Uttar Pradesh's Mathura Jail, Malayali journalist Siddique Kappan is fighting his incarceration under UAPA. He was arrested on October 5 last year, while on his way to Hathras to cover the developments involving a young rape-murder victim. Police accused Kappan and three others of being Popular Front of India (PFI) activists who were headed to create trouble.

After he contracted Covid-19 and suffered from various ailments, the 41-year-old journalist was chained to a hospital bed, his wife Raihanath told DH. He worked in Thejas daily of PFI till 2018. That does not make him part of PFI. Travelling with one does not make him a Popular Front activist. Also, it is not a banned organisation. So there is a sinister design. One should also not forget that this sends a message to the media to keep away from controversies. This is to scare journalists. Who will now go to such places? Raihanath asked.

Misused law

Rajendra says laws like UAPA only abuse the provisions under the IPC. Citing the UAPA cases in the 2020 Bengaluru riots, he said, These cases were communally motivated, with the intention of targeting the minority community. These laws are meant to create fear psychosis.

Under the UAPA, authorities never see the end of the proverbial long rope, with activists highlighting several instances of the courts granting the NIA more time to file a chargesheet and subsequently denying bail to the accused.

Anis Ali Khan, one of the counsels for the accused in the Bengaluru riots case in which over a dozen people were arrested under UAPA, told DH, When it comes to UAPA, one of the first responsibilities of a lawyer is to mentally prepare both the accused and their families for a prolonged jail period and court battle.

With relaxed timeline for the State to file chargesheets and more stringent bail conditions, the UAPA offers greater scope for misuse compared to the Indian Penal Code.

Even an acquittal won't be helpful for many. People see the accused as a "terrorist" even before their conviction, as they believe the investigation by police and other agencies to be true, says Gulzar Azmi, Secretary of Legal Aid Department of the Jamiat Ulama-e-Maharashtra.

Read | My case proves gross misuse of UAPA, NIA Act: Akhil Gogoi

Not just that: Whenever there is a terror-related case, even people acquitted under the law face unnecessary harassment. Rasik Rahim, who was acquitted in the Panayikulam (Kerala) SIMI Camp case, says, "Once my house was surrounded by police when a blast took place in Kochi, adding that UAPA accused face trouble as jail authorities would not act immediately even on medical problems.

The Delhi High Court order that granted bail to three student-activists Devangana Kalita, Natasha Narwal and Asif Iqbal Tanha in Delhi riots case raised several questions on the UAPA, though the Supreme Court later said the HC's comments would not be considered precedent.

Precedent or not, the HC order rebukes the government invoking the UAPA at the drop of a hat, We are constrained to say, that it appears, that in its anxiety to suppress dissent and in the morbid fear that matters may get out of hand, the State has blurred the line between the constitutionally guaranteed right to protest and terrorist activity. If such blurring gains traction, democracy would be in peril.

(With inputs from Shruthi H M Sastry in Bengaluru, Zulfikar Majid in Srinagar, Mrityunjay Bose in Mumbai, Sumir Karmakar in Guwahati and Arjun Raghunath in Thiruvananthapuram)
Highlights of this day in history: America normalizes diplomatic ties with Vietnam; Aaron Burr mortally wounds Alexander Hamilton in a duel; Skylab makes a fiery return to Earth; Babe Ruth's major league debut; Laurence Olivier dies. (July 11)
You are the owner of this article.
Afghan militiamen join Afghan defense and security forces during a gathering in Kabul, Afghanistan, on June 23. Taliban gains in north Afghanistan, the traditional stronghold of the country's minority ethnic groups who drove the insurgent force from power nearly 20 years ago, has driven a worried government to resurrect militias whose histories have been characterized by chaos and widespread killing.
Evelyn Sharma and Tushaan Bhindi are expecting their first child; actress calls it the best birthday gift

Actor-model Evelyn Sharma and her Australia-based husband, dental surgeon Tushaan Bhindi, on Sunday announced they are expecting their first child. The couple got married on May 15 in Brisbane, Australia, after being engaged for over a year.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Evelyn Sharma (@evelyn_sharma)

The Frankfurt-born actor, who turns 35 on July 12, said the pregnancy is the "best gift" she could ask for. "We are over the moon with happiness and it's simply the best gift I could wish for on my birthday, that's why we decided to share the news with the world on this special day. We hope this brings a smile to everyone's face today," Sharma said in a statement.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Evelyn Sharma (@evelyn_sharma)

The actor, best known for films like Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, Saaho and Yaariyan, last month on Instagram revealed that she had tied the knot with Bhindi. The couple opted for a low-key wedding in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. On the work front, Sharma is currently attending a filmmaking course and will also produce a mini-series in Australia.
Ken Ghosh addresses his fallout with Shahid Kapoor after a decade says, "We are too old for that stuff"

Filmmaker Ken Ghosh has addressed decade-old his fallout with actor Shahid Kapoor. The filmmaker who gave Shahid his break in Bollywood with the collage romance Ishq Vishq way back in 2003, collaborated with the actor again for Fida and Chance Pe Dance and they have since never worked together again.

According to rumors Shahids clashing schedule while working on Chance Pe Dance became the reason for their fallout. For Ken Ghosh, however, it is all in the past, and in an interview with News 18 said There are always ups and downs in every relationship now we are too old for that stuff.

The two might not be holding onto the past grudges but asked if he plans to collaborate with the Kabir Singh actor again, Ken said that for right now there he has no plans as such.

The filmmaker has directed the recently released Akshaye Khanna starrer Zee 5 film State of Siege: Temple Attack. The movie is based on the September 2022 terror attack on the Akshardham temple in Gandhinagar and gives a fictionalized account of the whole incident.

As for Shahid, the actor has the Jersey remake yet to release. He is also all set to make his web series debut with an untitled project with filmmakers Raj & DK.
Manoj Bajpayee was blown away by Samantha Akkinenis prep for The Family Man 2; recalls their first meeting

The second season of Raj Nidimoru and Krishna D.K.s espionage action thriller The Family Man was undoubtedly one of the most awaited web shows of the year. While the very talented Manoj Bajpayee reprised his beloved character of Srikant Tiwari in The Family Man 2, South beauty Samantha Akkineni made a smashing debut on the digital platform with the series. She wonderfully portrayed the role of the antagonist named Raji and blew fans away with her gritty performance.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Samantha Akkineni (@samantharuthprabhuoffl)

Well in a recent interview with Spotboye, Manoj shared that while Samantha prepared for her character, he watched some of her films to know more about her as an actor. He stated that he is a film buff and explained that he loves to recognize, acknowledge and bond with talented colleagues. So he did see her work. Remembering their first meeting, he shared, The first thing I did when I met Samantha in Chennai was to congratulate her on her performance in Super Deluxe where she was magnificent.

Talking about Samantha as a co-star, Manoj shared, Her preparation for The Family Man is amazing. Ive seen her videos where she is seen practising her martial arts and all. This is what I like about my co-stars. When they show so much passion for their roles I get enthused to do my best. When they dont I try to talk to them. Really, I came away with so much respect for Samantha Akkineni.

While season 2 won hearts, fans are now eagerly waiting for news on The Family Man 3.
Naseeruddin Shah wanted to visit Dilip Kumar as they were in the same hospital: "Unfortunately, the day I left, he also left"

Naseeruddin Shah was recently discharged from the hospital after recovering from pneumonia and the veteran actor reveals that he was in the same facility as late actor Dilip Kumar and was even paid a visit by Saira Banu. The legendary died last week after being admitted to the hospital for a week due to repeated complaints of breathlessness.

The Masoom actor was discharged on the same day as Dilip Kumar's death, July 7. Naseeruddin Shah while talking to author Saif Mahmood for The Quint, recalled Saira Banus visit to him hospital and said, She put her hand on my head and blessed me and said  Sahab was asking about you. I was deeply moved. I wanted to meet him before I left. But unfortunately, the day I left, he also left.

Naseeruddin Shah was who like many Indian actors harboured Bollywood dreams watching Dilip Kumar shine on the screen said that the legendary actor had once discouraged him from becoming an actor. As a young aspiring actor, Naseeruddin Shah reveals he went from studio to studio looking for work while his family had no idea where he was.

He was finally tracked down by Dilip Kumar after his father reached out to the star who he knew through family acquaintances. The legendary actor sent him packing but not before dismissing him when he confessed his desire to be an actor. I think you should go back and study. People from good families should not try to become actors, Naseeruddin Shah was told by Dilip Kumar.

The two actors finally did get to share screen space in Karma in 1986. Naseeruddin Shah confesses that it was the only time he felt nervous as an actor.
Minister Byrne travels to Spain

Press release

Meeting with Spains Secretary of State for the EU

Address to the Spanish Parliaments EU Committee

Visit to Ornua plant

The Minister for European Affairs, Thomas Byrne T.D., travels to Madrid on Monday 12 July to meet with Juan Gonzalez-Barba Pera, Spanish Secretary of State for EU and to address Spains Joint Parliamentary Committee on the EU, including the Committees Chair, Deputy Susana Sumelzo Jordan.

Minister Byrne said I am so pleased to visit Madrid for the first time in my role as Minister for European Affairs. This is an excellent opportunity to discuss key EU issues, and is a demonstration of the excellent relationship between Ireland and Spain. The friendship between our two countries is one that has strong roots in history. We want this to continue to grow and adapt to new opportunities. In that regard, I am delighted to invite Secretary Barba to make a reciprocal visit to Ireland in the autumn, depending on his commitments.

A wide range of issues will be discussed in the meetings, including EU-UK relations, European economic recovery, COVID-19, rule of law issues, the EU-Mercosur Agreement and the Conference on the Future of Europe.

The Minister will also travel to Avila, a provincial capital northwest of Madrid, to visit an Ornua factory there. Ornua, which employs over 120 staff in the region, is an Irish agri-food cooperative which markets and sells dairy products on behalf of Irish dairy processors and Irish dairy farmers.

ENDS 12 July 2021

 Previous Item | Next Item 


However, the company has not yet confirmed the wider roll out date of this change, but still, it is hoped that it will be launched soon. Google still needs to create a default option for hiding notifications especially when people are recording their desktop screens instead of every time users have to go to the option to enable it.



H/T:



Read next: However, the company has not yet confirmed the wider roll out date of this change, but still, it is hoped that it will be launched soon. Google still needs to create a default option for hiding notifications especially when people are recording their desktop screens instead of every time users have to go to the option to enable it.H/T: CS Read next: Chrome is experimenting with related Google search results in top bar for Android users

There is no doubt that people get irritated when they are trying to stay focused on their work but see a bunch of notifications coming on their screen to distract them. Especially during the COVID-19 people have started working more online and it has become inevitable to launch such tools for the sharing of the screen during the work which do not spam notifications so that people get divert. People can also share their work through Google Meet or MS Team. However, Chrome is bringing some of the coolest changes to help people keep on their track. Google is experimenting on its Chrome browser to dismiss notifications while the screen recording or sharing is on. Chrome said that it aims to lessen the notifications disruptions from the screen of the user. However, users already had the option to dumb the content so that they do not view them during their work but the problem was that the card could slip into the vision of users presentation which can get users diverted. Chrome has now included the latest Snooze option for notifications with cards that will hide the notifications from the screen until users stop the recording of screen work. After finishing the recording, all notifications will appear so that users do not miss any alerts. This latest option will endure being entirely clear to websites. If you are interested in testing this feature try using latest version of Chrome Canary (93 and above) and enable this flagto see this feature in action (but there's no guarantee that it'll work as the feature is in the development phase).Earlier, the Chrome browser used to eradicate all the alerts from the screen when users turn on the screen recording but the browser could not fix the cards which get people irritated but now the upcoming update will make their job easier. Users who regularly record their screen need to go to enable the above mentioned flag to turn on the disruption-free experience.It is a good step by the company because many students are taking online classes, submitting their presentations, and many office workers are attending their meetings and at least the upcoming option will help them to stay on their track while sharing the screen work instead of going for the do not disturb way.
Would you like to lead a team of experts running Nordeas cutting edge IT services? We are now looking for a IT Service Manager in Group Functions, Gdansk to do just that.

In Nordea, were harnessing the power of technology to reinvent the future of banking. A tech revolution is underway  and you can make an impact. Though were a Nordic bank, were also a large IT employer in Tricity and Warsaw. Working with international teams in an inspiring working environment, youll have lots of opportunities to expand your skills and advance your career.

About this opportunity

Welcome to the Group Finance-Fin Report & Procurement team. As IT Service Manager in Group Functions, Gdansk youll play a valuable role in providing our customers to the best banking in the world.

What youll be doing:



You will oversee the external vendors to allow cutting edge IT services for internal and external customers.



You will manage portfolio of applications to ensure stable delivery of IT services in line with budgets, KPIs and SLAs.



You will lead IT operations in accordance with ITIL best practices, lean philosophy and agile principles.



You will be practicing BizDevOps, collaborating closely with business, development and other stakeholders.



You will provide technical expertise on complex technical issues and guide your team in solving problems.



You will automate processes and drive continual service improvement, based on application performance.



You will safeguard applications' availability, stability and compliance with internal and external requirements.



You will maintain documentation, knowledge articles and records in configuration management database.



You will be responsible for all aspects of IT service delivery provided by application support team.



Youll join a growing team where professionalism, team work and continuous learning are appreciated.

The role is based in Gdansk.

Who you are

Collaboration. Ownership. Passion. Courage. These are the values that guide us in being at our best  and that we imagine you share with us.

To succeed in this role, we believe that you:



Have a strong technical and leadership background with direct exposure to the senior management



IT service management experience following incident and problem management in ITIL framework



Technical competence with Hadoop, Python or Scala, along with scripting, SQL and familiarity with tools like JIRA, Splunk, Jenkins, Docker



Experience working within 2nd line technical support and BizDevOps setup using agile methods



Understanding data management technologies and business intelligence tools and processes



Strong communication and interpersonal skills, fluent in English, verbally and in writing



International exposure, working in multicultural environment with multiple vendors



Your experience and background:



Bachelor Degree



Excellent communication skills with very good level of English



Good organizational skills



If this sounds like you, get in touch!
ADA [ndash] Services for Patsy Ruth Blansett, 85, of Ada are 3 p.m. Tuesday at the Criswell Funeral Home Chapel. Rev. Tony Folger will officiate. Burial will follow at East Hill Cemetery. Mrs. Blansett died Tuesday, July 13, 2021, at a local assisted living center. She was born June 24, 1936
A millionaire British banker has sold the landmark Abbey Leix House mansion in Laois to a young Irish tech billionaire.

The co-founder of Stripe, John Collison, has reportedly paid a massive asking price of 20 million to buy the house and majestically big estate on the outskirts of the Laois heritage town.

Formerly in the ownership of the de Vesci family, the house was saved from dereliction and brought back to its former glory by Sir David Davies after he bought the house and 1,200 acres of the demesne from Viscount Tom De Vesci in 1995

Click the 'Next >' arrow above or 'Next Story' below to browse through the photo gallery

The sale was handled and marketed internationally by the famous Sotheby's. It listed the property at 26,910 square foot property at 20 million.

According to the Irish Times, a statement issued through Sothebys from Mr Davies said he was pleased to confirm that his trust has contracted to sell the house and the majority of its contents to a private buyer.

"The selection of the buyer was made because of their ambition and interest in preserving the integrity of the estate, including buildings and importantly the trees, and their ability to invest in the estate, he said.

Collison, who is aged just 30, is a native of Dromineer, Co Tipperary but grew up in Limerick. He is President of Stripe which he co-founded in 2010 with his brother Patrick. According to Bloomberg Billionaires Index, his net worth was estimated at US$11.4 billion making him one of the wealthiest people from Ireland.

Apart from Sir David Davies and the Desci family, Collison will join French Monks, OMore Princes, Ormonde Earls as the latest custodian of this gem of Laois.
Peter Pan  the panto starring panto favourites Alan Hughes, Rob Murphy and Jake Carter - will fly onto the silver screen this July at the Omniplex Cinema in Dundalk.

In a first for this much-loved panto, audiences will not only have the chance to take a hilarious and magical journey to pantoland during the summer but also from the comfort of their cinema seat with popcorn in-hand.

Running from 9 July in the Omniplex Cinema in Dundalk and across the country tickets are on sale now.



Alan Hughes, Johnny Ward, Michele McGrath, Rob Murphy join Jake Carter as the mischievous boy who refuses to grow up in this hilarious family adventure.

The panto was lovingly filmed and plays out like a live show.

Directed by funnyman Simon Delaney and written by Karl Broderick, it combines the magic of panto with the immediacy and immersion of the huge cinema screens at Omniplex.

Sammy Sausages and Buffy are bigger than ever.



"Will my bum look big on that?", asks a nervous Buffy.

"I can't wait to see all the boys and girls and the mammys..but especially the daddies.

"They're usually in their Christmas jumpers, so I'm very excited to see them in their Summer attire."

Producer Karl Broderick said: "It's really a dream come true to see our panto in cinemas nationwide: reaching a wider audience than ever before.

"You get so much out of panto, even long after you've seen it and we are very proud that Omniplex Cinemas want to share our panto throughout Ireland".



Omniplex has a wide scope of safety measures in place including:



In-Cinema Seat Separation  2 metre bubble around each cinema booking. Families and friends may sit beside each other up to a maximum of 5 guests.

Online Ticketing and Shop  tickets may be purchased online and pre-ordering of cinema treats online, for collection, is encouraged.

Limited capacity  maximum of 50 per screen, with social distancing also in place in foyers and toilets.

Enhanced cleaning regimes  including screen protection at all customer touchpoints.

Sanitisation stations in foyers.

Reduced showtimes  only one movie will start and end at a time to facilitate social distancing and extra cleaning



Peter Pan  the Panto will run from Fri 9 July at Omniplex Cinemas in Dundalk, Arklow, Cork, Limerick, Rathmines, Salthill and Sligo

To book tickets go to https://bit.ly/ ThePantoOmniplex




Readers Survey

As our valued readers, we want to hear from you. Please take a moment to fill out the survey below. - Thank you, Eastern Arizona Courier Click Here
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (AP)  Former Illinois football star Bobby Roundtree, who was paralyzed from the waist down in a swimming accident two years ago, died Friday, the university said. He was 23.
PORTALES  A man who allegedly stole his fathers car in Albuquerque, then threatened drivers and shot at vehicles in Guadalupe County ended up Wednesday in the Roosevelt County Jail in Portales.

New Mexico State Police arrested the man, Adam Romanek, 26, of Albuquerque, Wednesday morning after he was apprehended on foot after abandoning the apparently stolen car along Interstate 40 near Santa Rosa.

Romanek has been charged with four felonies including aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, possession of a stolen vehicle, shooting at or from a motor vehicle, and possession of a firearm by a felon.

He was also charged with two misdemeanors, including resisting, evading or obstructing a police officer and negligent use of a deadly weapon.

Romaneks transfer to a jail facility outside of Guadalupe County is not that uncommon a Guadalupe Sheriffs department employee said. We have contracts with several jails.

A state police news release said Romanek stole his fathers 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt on Tuesday night and drove it to a rest stop east of Santa Rosa, where he apparently showed a firearm as he tried, apparently unsuccessfully, to get parked motorists to leave their vehicles. He then drove through Santa Rosa and onto U.S. Route 84, where he stopped in front of a residence and shot at vehicles. At least one vehicle was damaged.

Police then found Romanek on I-40 east of Santa Rosa. Romanek fled on foot but was captured with assistance from the state polices Tactical Team and the Albuquerque Police Air Unit, according to the release.
CLOVIS  When cannabis dispensaries open up shop next year in Clovis, theyll probably have to do so more than 300 feet from existing schools, churches, rehab centers, playgrounds or public parks, and more than 500 feet away from other dispensaries.

Thats according to an ordinance that will soon make its way through the Clovis city commission. The citys planning and zoning commission met Wednesday to discuss the planned ordinance, which city officials want in place before the state begins accepting dispensary applications Sept. 1.

The Wednesday meeting took place after a June 30 study session including the city commission and the planning and zoning commission. It focused on zoning and where cannabis businesses will be able to sell their product.

The more restrictive we make this, Chairman Steve North said, the more difficult it is for businesses to open these establishments, ultimately pushing them into the county and (thus denying) the city and municipality the benefit of the gross receipts tax.

After North brought up the gross receipts tax issue, Commissioner Candace Morrison asked how much GRT cannabis sales could actually bring in for the city.

Its an unknown thing, District 1 City Commissioner Juan Garza said, but just given the fact that were close to the border with Texas theres going to be a lot.

Also discussed were operation hours. City Attorney Jared Morris suggested an 8 a.m.-8 p.m. window of operation. Some of the commissioners expressed their discomfort with having the business being open that early in the day.

P&Z Commissioner Travis Cline expressed his initial discomfort with the time frame, but then went on to explain that he had begun to think of it like alcohol sales, which are allowed that early in the morning.

Garza stated that part of his concern comes from the idea that schools are also opening at 8 am.

Is mama dropping the kids off, Garza said, and going to the dispensary right at 8 oclock? I find that a little problematic for me to understand, but its possible.

Commissioners ultimately decided on a 9 a.m.-8 p.m. window.

Morris told commissioners any restrictions have to be made in relation to traffic, pedestrians, safety, or children, and cant simply be made because they dont like marijuana.

It has to be based on health and safety of the community, Morris later told The News. So keeping the amount of congested areas where theres a lot of traffic and pedestrians, I think the rational there would be public safety.

You dont want impaired driving near a lot of people and businesses. Keeping (cannabis establishments) away from schools, I think the rationale is you dont want kids to be exposed to it and see the signs and to smell it and see people using it.

The ordinance will be introduced to the city commission in its Thursday meeting. If introduced, the commission would then consider final adoption in its Aug. 19 meeting to allow time for public input.
Lakes in central eastern New Mexico have been looking less thirsty as the region has enjoyed a reawakening of the monsoon season.

The level rise at Conchas Lake, about 30 miles west of Tucumcari, was just short of a foot from June 30 to Wednesday, according to information from the U.S. Geological Survey, which tracks water depth and lake volume daily.

The new water in Conchas was enough to reopen some boat ramps that had been shut down this summer because of low water level, according to Toby Velasquez, deputy director of New Mexico State Parks.

The rise was more dramatic at Lake Sumner near Fort Sumner, where a depth gauge showed the lake had risen about 7.3 feet, according to USGS data.

Velasquez said Lake Sumner benefits from the flow of both the Pecos River and Alamogordo Creek. Along the Pecos alone, Santa Rosa Lake upstream from Lake Sumner noted a rise of about 6.5 feet, as did Brantley Lake, near Carlsbad, downstream from Lake Sumner.

Ute Lake at Logan, downstream along the Canadian River from Conchas, noted a rise of 2 feet between June 29 and Wednesday, USGS data shows.

By far the largest elevation rise among lakes along the states eastern border was recorded at Clayton Lake, near Clayton, which rose 12 feet from June 29 to July 2, resulting in reopening of docks and boat ramps, there, according to State Parks officials.

I hate to give an estimate of how much water levels would increase in total, Velasquez said on Wednesday. Theyre still rising.

Velasquez said increasing water depth is good new for boaters, not only because it is easier to get boats in the water, but because there are fewer navigation hazards.

On the other hand, he said, with more water flowing in, debris floats in as well.

That he said, is reason for caution when boating.

If the weather looks like its getting inclement, you should not take the boat out, he said. Lightning strikes can be deadly on the water, Velasquez added, and being stranded on a lake in a storm increases the danger.

The http://www.weather.gov website showed that stormy weather could return to much of eastern New Mexico as early as Saturday, with wider storms predicted for today.

Overall, Velasquez said, the results of the rainstorms is beneficial, and the benefits extend to the shoreline.

There are fewer fire restrictions, he said, which is good news for campers.

We were sorely in need of rain, Velasquez said, and the good outweighs the unintended consequences attached to the increased water flow.
Judith Glikas enjoys a nuzzle on Wednesday from Darwin, the official therapy dog for the Ninth Judicial District Attorney's office. Glikas, who retired last week as administrative assistant to Andrea Reeb, the district attorney, was also Darwin's handler.

CLOVIS - Judith Glikas, who began her career in Curry County as a police dispatcher in 1988, retired last week with the titles of administrative assistant to Ninth Judicial District Attorney Andrea Reeb, paralegal with New Mexico Bar Association credentials, and dog handler.

For the past two years, Glikas has been most important to a big, shambling, affectionate Labrador retriever named Darwin, the DA office's resident therapy dog.

On Wednesday, the DA's office staff, members of Glikas' family, a few judges and other friends filled a meeting room in the DA's office suite to send Glikas off to retirement with lots of food and many kind words.

In the world of criminal prosecutions, tempers and passions run high, Brian Stover, chief deputy district attorney, said. Glikas, Stover continued, always showed "grace and dignity" where "tensions and selfishness" tend to prevail.

In a speech to the standing-room-only crowd, Stover said, "Many times when people retire, there are some embarrassing stories to be told. Judith doesn't have any."

Glikas stayed even tempered even when things got difficult with witnesses, attorneys, and victims in emotionally charged criminal cases.

Reeb described Glikas as "honest, trustworthy and loyal."

She was the first choice among many deputy DAs to be their personal administrative assistant.

"That speaks well of her character," Reeb said.

Most of all, she said, Glikas has been "a friend for 25 years."

Stover remembered Glikas was assigned to learn how to use the state's online case management system and helped transition the office to a "paperless" status.

He also expressed admiration for Glikas' organizational skills.

During one six-month period when there was a large turnover of attorneys in the DA's office, Stover said, the office also handled an unusually large 378 cases.

"We had more jury trials in that time than in any other six-month period," he said, but the main reason the DA's office made it through was Glikas' organizational skills.

As administrative assistant, Glikas has handled the court calendar, administrative duties, and preparation of cases and witnesses for trial.

"It's not an easy job," she told the assembly, "but I have loved every minute of it."

Two years ago, she said, Darwin entered her job and her life.

Darwin gets called in, she said, to give "comfort and calm to victims and witnesses in criminal cases, especially with little kids."

Darwin stays around for interviews and will even go to court to calm a young witness on the stand.

Like his human coworkers, Darwin must undergo training regularly to refresh skills and learn new ones.

While Glikas enters retirement, she said, "Darwin will go home with me, but he will continue to come to work."
U.S. Sen. Martin Heinrich, D-N.M., during a multi-day tour through the state, paid a visit Wednesday to New Mexico State University's Agricultural Science Center just outside of Clovis.

Heinrich spoke with The News following the tour.

Q: What are your immediate takeaways from the center tour?

A: That we are just now starting to use agriculture as an additional tool, particularly as a climate tool. For years, we've been focused on energy. But land use and agriculture, horticulture, grazing, all of these things directly relate to the potential to make farmers the people solving many of our climate challenges. We're just starting to scratch the surface on that, but I think New Mexico State is well-positioned as any university to figure that out and put those tools in the hands of our agricultural committee.

Q: What do you see as the biggest issues with climate change for New Mexico agriculture, and New Mexico in general?

A: Water stress. That's the biggest issue. I don't even use the word drought anymore, because we're just in a different climate now where we're more arid and when the water comes we get more than we can handle. That, in many ways, is one of the biggest limiting factors for what we can accomplish in terms of production of crops and carbon sequestration. Learning to manage water better, like we just saw on the center pivot operation, where we're able to not only use less water and use it more productively, but also capture more of the rainfall when it does come. You don't just view the productivity of the groundwater, but also how we can use every inch of rainfall we can to supplement.

Q: What can we expect to see change regarding agriculture under the Biden administration?

A: My hope is as we're able to put together some of these investments in infrastructure, that we see the opportunities in reinvesting in agricultural infrastructure as well - especially in research and development. The more hard science we're doing, the more tools we put in the hands of our farmers and ranchers.

Q: Do you believe bipartisanship is still possible in Washington?

A: Especially post-Jan. 6, it's a challenge. That said, there are still many people who are interested in finding those bipartisan solutions. I don't think because it's more challenging it means you give up. It means you find those people who want to get to yes and work together to find those areas.

Q: We're in an area with low COVID-19 vaccination rates compared to the rest of the state and nation. Is there anything the federal government can do to change that?

A: We can provide more resources and we're happy to do that, but so much of this is about having spokespeople who have local credibility. I would just urge people who do have that trust and that following to create the trust in their neighbors and family and friends to embrace the vaccine. What we're seeing with this Delta variant - for those folks who were vaccinated it's not a big deal, and for those people who weren't it's potentially fatal. It's more important than ever to have leadership around getting vaccinated.

Q: Our military is currently withdrawing forces from Afghanistan, with Air Force officials noting that Cannon Air Force Base's 27th Special Operations Wing would fly the last aircraft out of the country. What should be done with those assets, both in personnel and equipment?

A: We need to make sure we bed them down in the right places and continue to view all of our assets here in New Mexico through the lens of what we are going to need in the coming years. The Special Operations assets are some of the most flexible we have. That's a good investment in the future of warfare, in the sense that we want to embrace those missions we think are going to be in demand in the future. I think those Special Operations assets are incredible from that viewpoint. Getting back to water, that's the thing I think about all the time. When I think about the Air Force footprint here, I'm thinking about military construction projects and water in order to make sure this is a viable asset decades into the future.

- Compiled by Editor Kevin Wilson
Another year, another 50th ranking for New Mexico in the annual Kids Count report. And this dismal ranking doesnt even take into account the negative impact of COVID 19 and Gov. Lujan Grishams harsh lockdowns and over a year of lost in-person schooling.

The average U.S. child has lost the equivalent of five to nine months of learning during the pandemic, according to a report from McKinsey & Company. With New Mexicos high poverty rates and lack of broadband access relative to other states (combined with more lost classroom time than all but five other states), the picture is indeed bleak for New Mexicos youth.

Normally, this is where some wiseacre would say Thank God for Mississippi! But at 50th, we cant even say that anymore. In fact, while the Magnolia State shares many of New Mexicos deep-seated poverty issues and social problems, the reality is that in the all-important area of fourth-grade reading, Mississippi is rapidly moving in the right direction while New Mexico remains stuck in neutral.

The National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) is the widely recognized gold standard for educational performance. It is given to a representative sample of students in every state at various grade levels every two years.

While all aspects of learning are critically important, fourth-grade reading scores are widely recognized to be the most important. Thats because up until fourth grade, students are learning to read while after that they need solid reading skills in order to learn in all manner of subject areas.

Back in 2013, Mississippis fourth-grade reading scores were comparable to New Mexicos with Mississippi holding a slight advantage 209 to 206. By 2019, Mississippis fourth-grade reading scores had risen to 219 while New Mexicos barely budged up to 208. Mississippi has opened up a significant (and growing) gap between itself and New Mexico in getting its most important group of students to read.

So, what happened in Mississippi that didnt happen in New Mexico?

We wanted to find out, so we talked to education experts in Mississippi and heard about some education reform efforts that probably sound familiar to many New Mexicans. Mississippis reforms included a 2013 law called 3rd grade reading gate, which included resources for early childhood reading AND training for teachers in those grade levels in phonics-based teaching. Substantially, Mississippi also stopped social promotion (with intensive intervention for failing students) and adopted an A-F school grading system based on improving student outcomes.

If this all sounds familiar, thats because it is. Mississippis reforms are based on successful reforms implemented in Florida more than a decade ago under then-Gov. Jeb Bush. Floridas reforms were also the basis for New Mexico Gov. Susana Martinezs reforms when she came into office in January of 2010.

The main difference between Mississippi and New Mexico is the former had the political will to fully implement the reforms while Martinez and her Education Secretary Hanna Skandera had to fight tooth and nail against hostile legislators and the unions. The Florida Model was abandoned immediately upon Michelle Lujan Grisham taking office.

The Florida (or Mississippi) model may not have had the same success in New Mexico as it did in those states, but it would have been nice to have tried. The current administrations approach involves a lot of new spending. Unfortunately, it also involved New Mexico students missing a lot of class time relative to their peers in other states during the COVID pandemic thanks to political decisions made by the Lujan Grisham administration.

New Mexican children desperately need a high-functioning school system right now. If throwing money at a problem will fix it, then by all means lets fix it, but we cant be myopic about other possible solutions that have demonstrably worked elsewhere. This approach has left the Land of Enchantment dead last in educational outcomes. We must be open to new approaches.

Edwin Aybar Lopez is director of Education Coalitions at Opportunity for All Kids New Mexico. Contact him at:

[email protected]
Oregon OSHA enacts temporary rules, but some worry if they go far enough
Lara Ellingson, a board member, asked if T-shirts with political views would be allowed; yes, she was told.
By Jonathan McCambridge, PA

Northern Irelands deputy First Minister Michelle ONeill said she wanted her attendance at a Battle of the Somme wreath-laying ceremony in Dublin to send a clear message that she respects all traditions.

Ms ONeill laid a laurel wreath as she joined First Minister Paul Givan at the Irish National War Memorial at Islandbridge in a special ceremony of commemoration to remember those who lost their lives in the Battle of the Somme 105 years ago.

It is the first time the Sinn Fein politician has attended a Royal British Legion wreath-laying ceremony.

Ms ONeill said: The Battle of the Somme was a hugely significant event in our shared history and it is right that we commemorate it in a respectful and inclusive way.

Thousands of people from across this island died at the Somme and it had a profound impact on their families and society over generations.

In laying a laurel wreath today, I was paying my respects to all those who lost their lives and remembering the enormous loss felt by so many.

I hope my attendance here demonstrates my commitment to the principles of equality and parity of esteem for all identities and traditions on this island.

She added: We have different narratives in terms of the past but what we share in common is how we can build into the future.

I hope it sends out a very clear message that I respect all traditions on this island.

Mr Givan said: It is a privilege to lay a wreath on behalf of the people of Northern Ireland in honour of all those who gave their lives for our freedom.

So many brave young people, soldiers, airmen, doctors, nurses and clergy were lost over the course of the five months of the Battle of the Somme, causing devastation to families and communities back home.

Today we recognise their unity of purpose and spirit of sacrifice and renew our pledge never to forget.

The event was addressed by representatives from the Royal British Legion districts in Dublin and Northern Ireland.

Sinn Feins former Stormont Speaker Mitchel McLaughlin attended the same commemoration in 2015.

The Battle of the Somme was one of the largest and bloodiest battles of the First World War.

Ms ONeill will attend the National Day of Commemoration in the National Museum of Ireland on Sunday along with Taoiseach Micheal Martin.
Michael G. Sutterfield, 71, of Effingham, IL, passed away on Monday, July 12, 2021 at HSHS St. Anthony's Memorial Hospital in Effingham. As per Michael's wishes, cremation rites will be accorded. Johnson Funeral Home in Effingham is assisting the family. Memorials may be made to Effingham Co
Thank you for reading!

Please purchase a subscription to read our premium content. If you have a subscription, please log in or sign up for an account on our website to continue.
Washington, MO (63090)

Today

Sunny to partly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 82F. Winds light and variable..

Tonight

A few passing clouds. Low 66F. Winds light and variable.
Athens, AL (35611)

Today

Thunderstorms likely this morning. Then a chance of scattered thunderstorms this afternoon. High 81F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 70%..

Tonight

Scattered thunderstorms this evening, then cloudy with rain likely late. Low near 70F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 70%.
Now that Virgin Galactic has flown its founder to the edge of space, it's ready to give everyday people a chance at a similar trip. Virgin and Omaze have announced a sweepstakes that lets you win two seats aboard "one of the first" commercial spaceflights. While you can enter for free, donating to Space for Humanity (a charity making spaceflight more accessible) will give you more entries.

The sweepstakes ends September 1st, and the companies will reveal the winner on September 29th. Just be ready to take some time off from work if you do win. You'll have to go through the same training as any other Virgin Galactic passenger. You do get a tour of Spaceport America for your trouble, though.

Yes, this is a not-so-subtle way to capitalize on Virgin's spaceflight and drum up hype for the company's space tourism efforts. All the same, it's a significant moment for private spaceflight. The notion of winning tickets to space wasn't imaginable in the days when NASA and other government agencies were the only organizations traveling to space  now, it's entirely logical.
Enid, OK (73701)

Today

Sunshine and clouds mixed. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 89F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 69F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph.
Click for the latest, full-access Enid News & Eagle headlines | Text Alerts | app downloads

Mullin is an award-winning writer and columnist who retired in 2017 after 41 years with the News & Eagle. Email him at janjeff2002@yahoo.com or write him in care of the Enid News & Eagle at PO Box 1192, Enid, OK, 73702.

 The News & Eagle has traditionally published personal opinions of writers and readers through editorials, columns and letters to the editor on its Opinion Page. The opinions shared are those of the writers and not the newspaper.

 Submit your opinion for publication to editor@enidnews.com. Find out more about submitting letters to the editor at https://www.enidnews.com/opinion/.
Using an existing drug for late-stage kidney cancer at an earlier stage of the disease could reduce the risk of cancer recurring by a third, according to new research.

The findings from the Phase III trial are presented today at the European Association of Urology congress (EAU21). There is a high risk of kidney cancer returning, following surgery to remove tumours, but there is currently no treatment to help prevent this.

The KEYNOTE study involved just under 1000 patients with kidney cancer who had undergone surgery. Half of them were given the immunotherapy drug pembrolizumab, or pembro, and the other half a placebo.

Pembro is used to treat a number of cancers, including late-stage kidney cancer, where the disease has spread to other organs. The international trial across 20 countries was the first time the drug had been used with patients at an early stage of the disease.

The team found that over two years, patients on pembro were a third less likely to see their disease return than those on the placebo. Follow-up with patients is continuing, to determine the impact of the treatment on survival rates over a five-year period.

The study also showed that the side effects from the drug were similar to those normally expected with a cancer treatment.

Co-investigator on the study, Professor Thomas Powles of Barts Cancer Institute at Queen Mary University of London, said: "This early data from the trial is very promising, with a clear reduction in the disease recurring in patients on pembro. There are signs as well that the drug may improve survival rates, but we can't be sure of that for another few years. We're hopeful that this trial, when complete, will provide a strong case for this drug to be approved for use by the medicines regulator."

Combination immunotherapy promising for advanced bladder cancer

Professor Powles is presenting further findings at EAU21 today from another trial, which also involves a new use for an existing cancer immunotherapy drug. The DANUBE study looked at durvalumab in patients with late-stage bladder cancer, where the disease had already spread to other parts of the body. Durvalumab is used widely as a lung cancer treatment, particularly in the USA.

Over 1000 patients were recruited to the trial, with a third of them receiving durvalumab, a third receiving durvalumab combined with a new immunotherapy drug, tremelimumab, and a third receiving standard chemotherapy.

They found that overall, the immunotherapy drugs did not increase survival more than standard chemotherapy.

However, in exploratory analysis, in a subset of patients (those who had a raised level of a specific biomarker (PD-L1) and who weren't eligible for the chemotherapy drug cisplatin) the activity of durvalumab was increased by the addition of tremilimumab.

Professor Powles said: "While we weren't comparing durvalumab against other licensed immune therapies in this clinical situation, we could see the new combination of immunotherapies did show some additional promise that warranted a more detailed look."

Two large randomised controlled trials are now underway, testing durvalumab and tremelimumab against the existing immunotherapy treatments, both in late-stage and early-stage bladder cancer, in patients with high levels of the LD-P1 biomarker who can't be given cisplatin. The results from the first trial should be reported later this year, while the other is still recruiting.

###
Obese patients with a form of advanced prostate cancer survive longer than overweight and normal weight patients, new research has found.

The study, presented today at the European Association of Urology congress, EAU21, followed more than 1500 patients over three years. Patients classed as obese - with a BMI over 30 - had a ten percent higher survival rate than thinner patients over 36 months.

Although obesity is usually associated with an increased risk of death from many cancers and some other chronic diseases, there is some evidence in a few cancers of a survival advantage for patients with high body mass index. This phenomenon is known as the 'obesity paradox'.

Nicola Fossati, Alberto Martini and colleagues at San Raffaele University in Italy wanted to test whether the 'obesity paradox' held true for patients with metastatic castration resistant prostate cancer - an advanced form of the disease that no longer responds to testosterone lowering treatments.

They looked at survival rates in 1,577 patients involved in three different clinical trials, with an average age of 69 and average BMI of 28. They found that BMI was a protective factor in both overall and cancer-specific survival, with 4% higher overall survival probability and 29% cancer-specific survival probability. Even when they adjusted for higher doses of chemotherapy given to larger patients, the team found the protective effect remained. Over 36 months, around 30% of obese patients survived compared to 20% of overweight and normal weight individuals.

Dr Nicola Fossati, a urologist at San Raffaele University says: "Looking at patients with metastasis of prostate cancer, we found that obese patients are living longer. This means that BMI could be used to predict survival in these patients.

"This obesity paradox has been seen in some other cancers, possibly due to the relationship between tissue fat and cancer genomes, and more research is needed in this area. It's also possible that improved survival may be due to the interaction of chemotherapy with other drugs. Obese patients in this older age group tend to be taking medication for other conditions and we do not fully understand how these medicines interconnect.

"Nevertheless, we would not recommend weight gain to anyone with this or another disease. Obesity is a risk factor for many cancers and other diseases and patients should always aim for a healthy BMI of 18 to 24."

Professor Peter Albers, from Dusseldorf University, who chairs the EAU Scientific Congress Office, said: "There are many possible explanations for the association of body weight with positive outcome in metastatic cancers. It might be that patients with higher BMI are able to tolerate the toxicity of the treatments and their side effects better; in prostate cancer it might be due to the protective impact of hormones found in tissue fat; and it is known that healthy men with slightly higher BMI have a higher overall life expectancy compared to very slim ones.

"However, at the moment, these are just hypotheses. Further research is needed to identify the biological mechanism behind these different outcomes. Until that mechanism is proven, we can't recommend any change to treatment for patients with advanced prostate cancer."

###
Researchers in Belgium report on the case of a 90-year-old woman who was simultaneously infected with two different variants of concern (VOCs) of COVID-19, in a Case Report being presented at the European Congress of Clinical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases (ECCMID) held online this year.

On March 3 2021, the woman, whose medical history was unremarkable, was admitted to the OLV Hospital in the Belgian city of Aalst after a spate of falls. She tested positive for COVID-19 on the same day. She lived alone and received nursing care at home, and had not been vaccinated against COVID-19.

Initially, there were no signs of respiratory distress and the patient had good oxygen saturation. However, she developed rapidly worsening respiratory symptoms, and died five days later.

When the patient's respiratory sample was tested for VOCs with PCR, they discovered that she had been infected by two different strains of the virus--one which originated in the UK, known as B.1.1.7 (Alpha), and another that was first detected in South Africa (B.1.351; Beta).

The presence of both strains was confirmed by PCR on a second respiratory sample, by sequencing of the S-gene and by whole genome sequencing.

"This is one of the first documented cases of co-infection with two SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern", says lead author and molecular biologist Dr Anne Vankeerberghen from the OLV Hospital in Aalst, Belgium. "Both these variants were circulating in Belgium at the time, so it is likely that the lady was co-infected with different viruses from two different people. Unfortunately, we don't know how she became infected."

On December 14, 2020, the UK authorities informed WHO that a variant (B.1.1.7; Alpha) had been detected in the south east of England (Kent). Within a few weeks, this variant took over from the viral strains circulating in this region, and has since spread to more than 50 countries, including Belgium. On December 18, 2020, the South African authorities reported that a variant (B.1.351; Beta) had been detected and was spreading rapidly throughout three provinces of South Africa, and has now been identified in at least 40 countries, including Belgium.

In January 2021, scientists in Brazil reported that two people had been simultaneously infected with two different strains of the coronavirus--the Brazilian variant known as B.1.1.28 (E484K) and a novel variant VUI-NP13L, which had previously been discovered in Rio Grande do Sul. But the study has yet to be published in a scientific journal [1]. Previous research has reported people infected with different influenza strains [2].

"Whether the co-infection of the two variants of concern played a role in the fast deterioration of the patient is difficult to say", says Vankeerberghen. "Up to now, there have been no other published cases. However, the global occurrence of this phenomenon is probably underestimated due to limited testing for variants of concern and the lack of a simple way to identify co-infections with whole genome sequencing."

She continues, "Since co-infections with variants of concern can only be detected by VOC-analysis of positive samples, we would encourage scientists to perform fast, easy and cheap VOC-analysis by PCR on a large proportion of their positive samples, rather than just whole genome sequencing on a small proportion. Independent of the technique used, being alert to co-infections remains crucial."

###
Amarillo retiree Vicky Richmond readily takes her preventive vaccines for flu and shingles and other illnesses people in their 60s worry about.

But shes digging in her heels on the COVID-19 shot.

Her main reason is that she tested positive for the virus antibodies in recent weeks and believes that she has natural immunity. But she is also wary of a vaccine she believes was rushed into production  and mistrustful of the overwhelming pressure shes feeling from the government to get it.

For those reasons and others, Richmond is steadfast in her choice not to be vaccinated against the coronavirus.

Im a rebel, Richmond, 69, said with a chuckle.

Shes also a target of efforts by the health community in the Amarillo area to boost a flagging vaccination program that started off so strong that it outpaced the rest of the state in the first weeks of the vaccine rollout and earned accolades for its efficiency, access and supply.

These days, this Panhandle city of nearly 200,000 and its surrounding counties rank near the bottom of the states population centers in the percentage of residents who are fully vaccinated, and well below the overall state rate.

In the Amarillo metro area, which includes nearly 264,000 people in Carson, Oldham, Armstrong, Potter and Randall counties, 30 percent of residents were fully vaccinated, far below the statewide mark of more than 41 percent, by the end of the holiday weekend. Laredo was the metro area with the highest percentage of residents fully vaccinated, at 55 percent, while Beaumont/Port Arthur was below Amarillo at 28 percent.

Its not for lack of trying, said Dr. Richard Jordan, regional dean of the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Medicine in Amarillo. But I think maybe this is a good wake-up call for Amarillo that we need to try harder and do what we can to further underscore that the fights not over, and that COVID is still something that is dangerous, and we have no idea what the virus variants might do to us.

Those in the health community believe that people like Richmond are part of the reason the vaccine rate fell off a cliff after such a successful start. There just arent many fence-sitters in this uniquely rural-yet-metropolitan, mostly white, highly conservative area, they say.

We have vaccine coming out of our ears that were trying to get people to take, but were having a hard time talking people into it, said Dr. Rodney Young, regional chair of Family and Community Medicine at the health sciences centers School of Medicine in Amarillo. We have a good system of getting it to everybody who wants it. We just need a better system for getting people to want it.

The phenomenon is particularly worrisome for local health officials because while there are many rural counties with lower vaccination rates than Potter and Randall, which Amarillo straddles, the city is more densely populated than surrounding counties and therefore more susceptible to another COVID-19 surge.

The larger the group of people you have, the bigger the chance that youll see the disease spread, said Kelly Northcott, deputy regional director for the Panhandle region at the Texas Department of State Health Services. And from there, it will spread out across the region. And so I do think that Amarillo has a higher risk because people are in closer contact.

That is especially true now that the delta variant of the virus, which is considered more dangerous and more transmissible, is tearing through the country at a rate that doubles every week.

Amarillos infection and death rate have fallen dramatically since February, and the hospitalization rate for Potter and Randall counties is under 9 percent. Those two counties currently have 176 active cases, down from about 350 a month ago.

A strong start

When Amarillo resident Caroline Woodburn, 72, learned that the shot would be available at Texas Techs pharmacy school, she didnt hesitate.

I got it because I have chronic asthma; and I knew that if I got COVID, it would be real dangerous, Woodburn said. It was very, very easy. People just came down to either the civic center or the pharmacy school, and you just got in line.

In the first few months after COVID-19 vaccines became available, the states largest cities struggled with short supply, crashed appointment systems, hours-long lines and waiting lists that took days or weeks to join.

Meanwhile, rural Texas was struggling to get any vaccine at all, beset by problems with data entry, storage requirements and geographic limitations.

But Amarillo, known as a health care hub for the hundreds of square miles of rural Panhandle that surround it, sat comfortably in the middle.

The university and the citys public health department worked early and diligently to begin getting the vaccine as soon as it was sent to Texas in mid-December. Plenty was available immediately, officials said.

Vaccinations were administered right away to older residents and health care workers through the pharmacy school and the medical school, Jordan said. And a robust walk-in operation at the Amarillo Civic Center opened before New Years, with free city transportation and supplies flowing in from the state at a steady rate.

Locals were also especially motivated after the area became a hotspot when the virus ripped through area meat-processing plants early in the pandemic and again when a deadly surge in November gave Amarillo some of the highest infection rates in the state, nearing 800 new cases per day, officials said.

Those things fueled Amarillos surge to the front at that point in time, Young said.

By the end of February, more than 10 percent of the Amarillo area had been fully vaccinated. At the time, that was double the rate of vaccinations statewide.

Amarillo got a lot of kudos in those first few weeks of vaccinations, Jordan said.

And then, the bottom fell out.

Sharper drop than the state average

By April, about 20 percent of Amarillo area residents were fully vaccinated. Thats when the rest of the state began to overtake the Panhandle, in spite of a reported drop in demand for the vaccine statewide and across the nation.

While data shows that Texas continued a fairly steady, if slower, climb in the percentage of residents fully vaccinated, Amarillos rate slowed down much more quickly.

Local health experts are at a loss to explain it. Jordan called the sharp, sudden drop in demand a significant mystery, given that vaccines are plentiful and the effort to reach unvaccinated people is as strong as it was in the early days  and likely to get stronger.

Officials with the mayors office and city public health department who oversee public health efforts declined to be interviewed or did not return repeated requests for comment.

Jordan, the regional dean of Techs medical school in Amarillo, said that it may also be a reflection of what he calls an age of distrust  in government, big pharmaceutical companies and the media  exacerbated by social media and inconsistent messaging by federal health authorities early in the pandemic.

Woodburn, who got her vaccine early, said it may be partly because so many people in the region were already infected and have antibodies. Richmond, the Amarillo resident who hasnt gotten her shot, suggested its also because the recent infections, deaths and hospitalizations have dropped so low that the fear factor is gone.

Young, the Tech medical schools family and community medicine regional chair, said he noticed a sharp drop in interest and trust in the vaccine after the Johnson & Johnson shot was briefly paused in the spring while scientists reviewed its safety. It was resumed shortly after with no widespread problems reported.

He and others theorize it also has a lot to do with good old-fashioned stubbornness.

The Panhandle is fiercely independent; and if someone doesnt want a shot, youre not going to tell them theyre going to get it, and youre not going to be able to talk them into it, said Dallam County Judge Wes Richie, who has been involved in several efforts to get his constituents vaccinated.

In a recent analysis by the Washington, D.C.-based data research group Citizen Data, Amarillo was rated one of the top 10 most vaccine-resistant areas in the country, based on its demographics, vaccination rate and conservative political leanings.

The data suggests that rural areas are a hard sell for vaccines, and particularly for the COVID vaccine, Young said. And the other side of that coin is that a lot of these people feel like, Hey, you know what, I can live a relatively solitary life, I only go to the store on occasion, and I can wear my mask and keep my distance.

Once the motivated people were able to easily get their shots, there werent a lot of people left who were uncertain, Northcott said.

Theyve made the decision for whatever their personal reasons are, and getting them off that stance is difficult, he said.

Were going to keep working at it

But officials are determined to keep working at it, saying its more important than ever to get residents in Amarillo and surrounding areas vaccinated.

Techs health sciences center will include COVID-19 vaccine messaging when it pushes awareness of the flu shot, as it does every year, through social media and other public awareness efforts.

The center also is planning to convert a mobile unit typically used for educational purposes into a clinic and take it into Amarillo neighborhoods that have lower vaccination rates, Jordan said.

University officials have noticed that locals seem to have more trust in younger medical students who arent doctors yet  one reason may be their lack of connections to big pharmaceutical companies or other perceived conflicts of interest  and so the school is looking for ways to get those students more involved in vaccinations efforts as well, Jordan said.

The city of Amarillo also has been hosting mobile clinics in libraries, churches, the courthouse, activity centers and other places where people congregate to try to reach more people, officials said.

Northcott said health officials also are pushing hard to boost vaccinations in areas outside of Amarillo by targeting truck drivers at truck stops, reaching migrant worker communities through their jobs and advocacy programs, and setting up clinics anywhere that will let us come in, he said.

Its constant work, Northcott said. We are going to continue our efforts to get people vaccinated  one by one, two by two, ten by ten, whatever  but we are going to keep working at it.

Richmond, an Amarillo native who describes herself as extremely conservative, knows that the government, the health community and even her peers want her to get vaccinated against COVID-19. Even her husband has gotten the shot, she said.

But shell get it if and when she is good and ready.

I think its very strange that the government is bribing people to get the vaccine, and they seem upset about it, that all these people are not getting it, she said. But thats where I am, and there are a lot of people like that, and do we get judged? Yes. But I dont care, because I have to take care of myself.

Disclosure: Texas Tech University and Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center have been financial supporters of The Texas Tribune, a nonprofit, nonpartisan news organization that is funded in part by donations from members, foundations and corporate sponsors. Financial supporters play no role in the Tribune's journalism.

The Texas Tribune is a member-supported, nonpartisan newsroom informing and engaging Texans on state politics and policy. Learn more at texastribune.org.
Public health officials are concerned about an uptick in coronavirus cases in San Antonio and Comal County in recent weeks and are warning residents that the dangers of the pandemic arent over.

In the past three weeks, we have seen a slow and steady increase, said Dr. Anita Kurian, assistant director of San Antonio Metropolitan Health Districts communicable disease division. We know that the cases are increasing  we know that transmissions are occurring in our community. So we know for a fact not to let our guard down completely.

The citys positivity rate  the percentage of coronavirus tests that come back positive for infection  increased to 5.8 percent last week, up from 3.8 percent the previous week.

Hospitalizations for COVID-19 are also up  155 patients with the virus were being cared for in San Antonio hospitals last week, up from 135 the previous week. And the seven-day rolling average of new cases jumped 21 percent to 126 new cases per day.

Metro Health is reporting an estimated 2,243 active cases of the virus in San Antonio alone.

The citys risk level is still classified as low but now is worsening.

So long as we continue to see an increase in our case count, it is not safe to assume we are on the other side of the pandemic, Kurian said.

In nearby Comal County, the home of New Braunfels, the number of diagnosed cases is also going up.

We are seeing a little bit of an increase, said Connie Alaniz, an epidemiologist with Comal County Public Health. Its not huge, but its there.

Comal County reported 167 new cases last week  up from 136 the previous week and nearly double the 89 reported in the first week of June.

Every time the virus changes, were concerned, Alaniz said. So were watching it. Were cautious. We want people to protect themselves as much as possible and not get too relaxed. Have fun this summer, but protect yourself at the same time.

On ExpressNews.com: When and where San Antonio area residents can get the COVID vaccine

The delta variant, a mutated version of the virus, has been causing concern as it circulates across the country. That variant has turned up in about 20 percent of Bexar County cases sequenced locally  and it accounts for 51 percent of new cases nationwide, Kurian said.

We know that this variant is now fast emerging as a dominant strain in the nation, Kurian said. It seems to be spreading more easily and quickly than other variants.

She said its likely the delta variant plays a role in San Antonios increasing case numbers but noted its difficult to quantify that with certainty.

The variant hasnt yet turned up in Comal County, where 295 cases of the virus remain active. But that doesnt mean the mutation hasnt arrived there, Alaniz said. Thats because only a random sampling of cases are sent for genomic sequencing.

If its not here today, its just a matter of time, Alaniz said of the variant.

COVID-19 vaccines offer the best protection available, Kurian and Alaniz said. The shots greatly reduce the risk of contracting the infection. While its possible that vaccinated people still could catch the virus, the shots reduce the severity of the symptoms and drastically curtail the chances of hospitalization or death, Kurian noted.

What weve documented in the past month nationwide is that almost all COVID-19 deaths have occurred in unvaccinated people  which means that nearly all of COVID-19 deaths can be prevented with vaccination, she said. So there is no good reason not to get vaccinated at this time.

The shot almost certainly guarantees that your risk for hospitalization is minimal, Kurian added. And it almost certainly guarantees that you dont die from the virus.

On ExpressNews.com: Pandemic damage makes summer school in San Antonio busier than ever

More than 100,000 Bexar County residents have received a first dose of vaccine and failed to return for a second dose, Metro Health officials reported. The health department is urging them to get both doses. Those who didnt return for their second doses account for 9 percent of county residents vaccinated so far.

To be fully protected, people must receive two doses of the Moderna or Pfizer-BioNTech vaccines. Only the Johnson & Johnson shot can be given in one dose.

Kurian emphasized that people  even those fully vaccinated  should continue to be tested for COVID-19 if they experience symptoms of the virus. In the past several weeks, the number of people being tested in Bexar County has dropped by 61 percent, a decline that Metro Health officials described as significant.

Those who arent vaccinated should continue wearing face masks, Kurian said. Everyone is advised to stay home if they are sick. Residents also should continue washing their hands regularly and stay 6 feet away from others, especially if they are indoors at a social gathering or event where lots of people are unmasked, she said.

In Bexar County, 54 percent of people 12 and older have been fully vaccinated, while 64 percent of that population has received at least a first dose, according to state health department data.

Most county seniors 65 and older have received their shots  74 percent of them have been fully vaccinated, while 83 percent have received at least a first dose, state health data shows.

In Comal County, 52 percent of residents 12 and older have been fully vaccinated, while 60 percent of that population has received at least one dose. Among Comal County seniors 65 and older, 80 percent have been fully vaccinated, while 88 percent have received at least one dose.

We know vaccination is the best defense that we have, Alaniz said. Although we do have cases where people are vaccinated and they get COVID, its proven to be less severe. A vaccinated person is much less likely to be hospitalized or die from COVID if they do get sick.  We are understanding that there is some vaccine efficacy against the variants as well.

pohare@express-news.net | Twitter: Peggy_OHare
SURFSIDE, Fla. (AP)  When the coronavirus ravaged Florida, Gov. Ron DeSantis defiantly bucked mask mandates. He later cracked down on protesters advocating racial justice, blasted President Joe Biden on immigration, jumped into the fight over transgender athletes and signed sweeping legislation to toughen voting rules.

But after a deadly building collapse, the Republican governor is largely hitting pause on the culture wars.

In the two weeks since a 12-story condo tower in this coastal community suddenly crumbled, killing at least 78 people, DeSantis has stood somberly with local officials, including Democrats, as they assessed the damage. He nodded in agreement when Biden visited and hailed their joint appearance as a sign that those with opposing political views can work together in a crisis. And he even skipped a rally in Sarasota headlined by former President Donald Trump, whose early endorsement was crucial in helping DeSantis win the governor's race in 2018.

Since that victory, DeSantis has often taken his cues from Trump. But as he prepares for a reelection bid next year that could propel him into a presidential campaign, the tragedy in Surfside is exposing voters to a different side of the governor. He's still the conservative populist who rarely parts with Trump. But unlike the former president, DeSantis is showing that he can tone down some of his most extreme partisan rhetoric during a disaster.

The governor has been decisive. Hes been constant. Hes been collaborative, Miami-Dade County Mayor Danielle Levine Cava, a Democrat who has sparred with DeSantis in the past, said in an interview. "Hats off to the governor for how he has supported us in this crisis.

Charles Burkett, the nonpartisan mayor of Surfside, called the level of cooperation astounding, even surprising.

DeSantis isnt ushering in a new era of bipartisanship or leading the election deniers in his party back to reality. The governor has dodged direct questions on whether Biden's victory in last year's election was fair. A day after the collapse, DeSantis promoted an unusual plan to deploy officers from Florida to the southern border, a move Democrats dismiss as political theater.

Still, DeSantis' actions present a sharp contrast with Trump. The former president often threatened to withhold aid to Democratic officials who criticized him, including Govs. Gavin Newsom of California and Andrew Cuomo of New York. At other times, he appeared insensitive or clumsy in his response to people's suffering. During a visit to hurricane damaged Puerto Rico, for instance, Trump tossed rolls of paper towels into a crowd of residents.

Mac Stipanovich, a former Republican campaign strategist, said DeSantis is less frightening than Trump" to some voters even as he steadily courts the former president's base.

DeSantis has a finely tuned sense of what is the best red meat, on any given day, to throw to the MAGA base and he does it with some skill and no shame, Stipanovich said. Soon as were beyond the window of this tragedy, everybody will be at each others throats once again.

Indeed, the debate could swiftly move to how the state and local governments manage aging infrastructure. Officials in Miami-Dade County are moving forward with a 30-day audit of buildings that are more than 40 years old. DeSantis has questioned the necessity of a statewide review of older buildings.

While effective responses to catastrophes can help burnish a governor's political reputation, the boost can sometimes prove fleeting. Former Govs. Jeb Bush of Florida and Chris Christie of New Jersey were widely praised for their response to devastating storms. But Trump, who never held political office before running for president, defeated both men for the 2016 Republican nomination.

DeSantis' handling of the tragedy appears to have caught some Democrats off guard, leaving them with no unified response.

Rep. Charlie Crist, a Democrat hoping to challenge DeSantis next year, didn't respond to requests for comment on the governor's response to the collapse. Nikki Fried, Florida's Democratic agriculture commissioner who has also announced a bid for governor, praised local officials, Biden and the Federal Emergency Management Agency. But she knocked DeSantis for wading into the politically charged immigration debate by sending Florida law enforcement to the border with Mexico.

Although the Florida Division of Emergency Management has been working around the clock to support search and rescue efforts, it was unfortunate that Governor DeSantis diverted first responders to the southern border during this incredibly difficult time for the Miami community and our entire state, she said.

Rep. Val Demings, a Democrat seeking to challenge GOP Sen. Marco Rubio, said she was glad to see productive partnership between local, state, and federal officials as we work to save lives.

In times of crisis, she said, we need to set partisanship aside and do whats right for our communities.

For his part, Rubio has also appeared at the scene of the condo collapse multiple times with local officials, including Democrats, and has worked with the Biden administration to expedite visas for family members of victims.

DeSantis is gaining national attention at a critical juncture for Republicans. While Trump decides whether to run again in 2024, those with presidential ambitions are making aggressive moves to position themselves as his heir should he opt against a campaign.

For now, Trump remains happy to be aligned with DeSantis. But several people in touch with the former president and his team said he has paid close attention as DeSantis has wooed donors at Trumps Mar-a-Lago club in South Florida and gained traction in some conservative circles. If DeSantis popularity rises and he threatens Trumps status as the undisputed leader of the party, many Republicans privately expect Trump to turn on the governor.

Friction between the two spilled into the public for the first time last week when Trump rebuffed DeSantis entreaties to postpone the rally in Sarasota. Trump, who opened his remarks with a moment of silence for the victims in Surfside and their families, told the conservative network Newsmax that he and DeSantis had mutually agreed that the governor should skip the rally.

Trump has sought to keep the upper hand in the relationship, bringing up his early endorsement in several recent interviews. He has also said he would consider DeSantis as a potential running mate if he chose to run again for president.

DeSantis has said he is focused more on winning reelection next year than the 2024 contest. He is one of the few leading Republicans who has not yet visited Iowa, home to the leadoff presidential caucuses and a state dominated by conservative evangelicals who can sway the GOP's direction.

DeSantis has instead spent part of his summer traveling to political fundraisers in states including Pennsylvania and California. Tony Krvaric, who helped arrange an event on DeSantis' behalf in San Diego, said the excitement surrounding the governor was sky high and his response to the collapse has further helped his reputation.

He's handled it professionally and with empathy, Krvaric said.

___

Sloan reported from Washington. Associated Press writer Jill Colvin in Washington contributed to this report.
British Wool is launching a new 100% traceable wool scheme that traces the origin of the product from the farm gate to the shop floor.

Traceability and the provenance of products are becoming increasingly important to the socially and environmentally conscious consumer.

To meet this growing demand, British Wool said it was keen to help the public understand the origin of their wool product.

The scheme will also show whether the producer has received a premium payment for their wool.

It will initially include wool from three of largest depots; Bradford, Newtown and South Molton who between them handle nearly 50% of the wool handled by British Wool.

Graham Clark, director of marketing said: "Although this is the first year for the scheme we anticipate that over  million kgs of traceable wool, from a wide range of types, will be sold through our auctions.

"Those producers whose wool has been selected to be part of the scheme this year will receive a premium for their 2021 wool.

The new scheme is designed not only to give full transparency to consumers but to also maximise the price the producer receives for their wool.

Mr Clark added: As a farming co-operative our primary aim is to maximise the value of our producers wool, this scheme allows us to do exactly this.

"We are able to obtain a premium from the brands we are working with which we will be making sure the producer receives."

British Wool are initially launching the scheme in the sleep product category working with two leading brands in this market.

These include Devon Duvets who supply 100% British wool bedding, and Harrison Spinks the premium mattress manufacturer who use wool for their luxury natural mattresses.

A wider range of wool processors and manufacturers could be included over the next few years, British Wool said.
Image: Shutterstock You read the words, screen time and involuntarily brace yourselves for yet another wave of reasoning as to why its harmful.But, this isnt exactly about that.Yes, screen time has ballooned as a result of the pandemic.Yes, schools have shifted online.Yes, a lot of it is out of our hands (with lockdowns and staying indoors)Yes, parks, beaches, play dates and visits have been curtailed.No, its not a pandemic thing.In fact, its been a long time coming.A study conducted back in 2016 established that convicts in maximum security prisons spent more time outdoors than children. So, while the times have definitely had a hand in the massive uptick in screen time for children, somewhere in the background, that storm was already brewing.Yes, screen time is essentially a part of our lifestyle now. But it shouldnt be the centre of it.And if youre looking for ways and means to get kids to engage in non-screen activities, heres some ways to do it and some things to keep in mind while having a go at it.


Kartik Aaryan lost his maternal grandfather today whom he fondly called Nanu. The actor, to express his grief, took to his social media and shared a picture.







In the post shared by Kartik Aaryan, we see the actor as a tiny tot in his Nanus arms. The actor as a kid in a bright red jumper looks super adorable while his Nanu looks handsome in a grey suit. The actor captioned this picture saying, Hope I get your swag some day." He added an old man emoji and a baby emoji indicating how he wants his grandfathers swag and to express his love for his Nanu, he even added a red heart emoticon. Going by the picture, it looks like the actor was close to his maternal grandfather.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by KARTIK AARYAN (@kartikaaryan)

Bhumi Pednekar, Nimrat Kaur, Amruta Subhash and Aniata Shroff Adajania dropped their condolences on his comment section by commenting RIP and dropping heart emojis.

The actor will soon resume work on Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2. He has Ram Madhvanis Dhamaka waiting to be streamed on the OTT giant and then he has Sameer Vidwans's next untitled musical love story. Rumours has it that he has also bagged Ala Vaikunthapuramuloos remake and Hansal Mehtas next.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - July 10, 2021) - TransCanna Holdings Inc. (CSE: TCAN) (FSE: TH8) (the "Company") is pleased to announce that its wholly-owned subsidiary Lyfted Farms has entered into a Producer-Distributor Agreement with Green Rocket Design and Technology LLC ("Green Rocket") to facilitate the brand's rapid expansion into the Southern California cannabis retail market.

Lyfted Farms' products are currently sold in 100 retail locations throughout California, but the Company has yet to maximize its distribution potential in the massive Southern California market, including the most populous and cannabis-friendly cities of Los Angeles and San Diego.

"Prior to growing our cultivation capacity this year, we were not equipped to meet and serve market demand in Southern California," said Bob Blink, CEO for TransCanna. "But now with cultivation already underway at our new facility, four additional cultivation rooms scheduled to come online next month, and our largest harvest ever expected this fall, the time has come to set our sights on SoCal."

To facilitate rapid Southern California expansion, Lyfted Farms has entered a multi-year, renewable Producer-Distributor Agreement with Green Rocket, which has demonstrated expertise in efficient, large scale cannabis distribution. Green Rocket will help fulfill Lyfted's largest SoCal accounts, including the Cookies retail chain, in addition to landing new accounts.

The Agreement grants Green Rocket the right to distribute Lyfted Farms cannabis flower and concentrates throughout the State of California with a primary focus on Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego and surrounding areas.

This strategic partnership will allow for rapid growth of the Lyfted Farms brand in Southern California as cultivation capacity at scale comes online at the Company's Daly Ave facility.

"I am so excited to finally get our flower into the hands of consumers in SoCal," said Mr. Blink. "Our proprietary genetics offer a superior cannabis experience in taste and flavor and it's been a lifelong dream to have Lyfted Farms' products enjoyed across the entire State on a massive scale."

California continues to be the largest cannabis market in the United States, with $4.4 billion in sales in 2020, up 57% from the year prior.

"The Company also announces that it will be granting an aggregate of 2,248,334 stock options to directors, officers, employees and consultants of the Company, exercisable for a period of 5 years at an exercise price of $1.00. The stock options are being granted pursuant to the terms of the Company's stock option plan and are subject to regulatory approval."



About Green Rocket

Green Rocket Design and Technology Corp, LLC is a privately held distribution, logistics and supply chain company headquartered in Long Beach, California. With roots in corporate large-scale liquor distribution, Green Rocket leverages strategic data and metrics to serve retailers and wholesalers efficiently and at scale.

About TransCanna

TransCanna Holdings Inc. is a California-based, Canadian-listed company building cannabis-focused brands for the California lifestyle, through its wholly-owned California subsidiaries.

TransCanna's wholly owned subsidiary Lyfted Farms is California's authentic cannabis brand whose pioneering spirit has been continuously providing the finest cannabis flower genetics and cultivation methods since 1984. The Lyfted Farms brand of exclusive cannabis flower is sold at premium retailers throughout the state. With its new cultivation facility in Modesto, California, the company is now poised to become one of the largest and most efficient vertically integrated cannabis companies in the California market.

For updated information with respect to our company, please see our filings on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and on the CSE at www.thecse.com, or visit the Company's website at www.transcanna.com. To contact the Company, please email info@transcanna.com.

On behalf of the Board of Directors

Bob Blink, CEO

Corporate Communications:

info@transcanna.com

604-200-8853

FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION:

Certain information in this release may contain forward-looking statements, such as statements regarding financial statement filing timelines, future expansions and cost savings and plans regarding production increases and financings. This information is based on current expectations and assumptions, including assumptions concerning the completion of the expansion of the Daly Facility, government approval of pro-cannabis policies, greater access to financial services and increased cultivation capacity, that are subject to significant risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict. Actual results might differ materially from results suggested in any forward-looking statements. Risks that could cause results to differ from those stated in the forward-looking statements in this release include unexpected increases in operating costs, a continued strain on farmers due to fires and the Coronavirus pandemic and competition from other retailers. All forward-looking statements, including any financial outlook or future-oriented financial information, contained in this release are made as of the date of this release and are included for the purpose of providing information about management's current expectations and plans relating to the future. The Company assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking statements, or to update the reasons why actual results could differ from those reflected in the forward-looking statements unless and until required by securities laws applicable to the Company. Additional information identifying risks and uncertainties is contained in the Company's filings with the Canadian securities regulators, which filings are available at www.sedar.com.

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange ("CSE") nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

NOT FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES OR FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES AND DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER OF THE SECURITIES DESCRIBED HEREIN

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/89925
- High tolerability profile in =60 age group;

- Nearly all reported AEFIs were mild or moderate and/or lasted less than 2 days;

- The rate of local symptoms for =60 age group is substantially lower than for other approved COVID-19 vaccines, at the same time systemic symptoms are on the same level;

- No hospitalizations or deaths reported.

MOSCOW, July 11, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF, Russia's sovereign wealth fund), investor in the Russian Sputnik V vaccine against coronavirus, today announced positive safety data of the vaccine in San-Marino obtained during the vaccination campaign in the country and published in EClinicalMedicine (an open access clinical journal published by The Lancet, one of the world's most respected medical journals). Link for the article:

https://www.thelancet.com/journals/eclinm/article/PIIS2589-5370(21)00307-2/fulltext

Beginning from 4 March to 8 April 2021, a nationwide study was conducted among individuals in San Marino who received one or two doses of Sputnik V. A descriptive analysis was conducted to quantify incidence of adverse events following immunization (AEFI) on both occasions.

Authors (Marco Montalti, Giorgia Solda, Zeno Di Valerio, Aurelia Salussolia, Jacopo Lenzi, Marcello Forcellini, Edoardo Barvas, Susanna Guttmann, Rossella Messina, Elisabetta Poluzzi, Emanuel Raschi, Rossano Riccardi, Maria Pia Fantini, Giusy La Fauci, Davide Gori), note the following in the article:

"Our results, albeit preliminary, suggest that Sputnik V has a high tolerability profile in the population aged =60 years in terms of short-term AEFIs.

"This preliminary analysis suggests a higher or equal tolerability profile of the Sputnik V vaccine in the 60+ age group, after both doses, as compared with other widely adopted COVID-19 vaccines. Our results also align with the findings of phase 1 and 2 previously conducted studies, then confirmed by phase 3 of the vaccine trial, in terms of overall safety and tolerability. No hospitalizations or deaths were reported. Nearly all reported AEFIs were mild or moderate and/or lasted less than 2 days."

Findings of phase 3 trial of Sputnik V were also published in The Lancet journal on February 2, 2021.

To date, Sputnik V has been registered in 67 countries globally with a total population of over 3.5 billion people. The real world data obtained during the vaccination of the population in a number of countries besides San Marino, including Mexico, Argentina, Serbia, Bahrain, Hungary, UAE and others, demonstrates that Sputnik V is one of the safest and most effective vaccines against coronavirus.

Kirill Dmitriev, CEO of the Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF), commented:

"San Marino was the first country in Europe to defeat COVID and lift restrictions thanks to inclusion of Sputnik V vaccine in the national portfolio. The data published recently demonstrates strong safety profile of the Russian vaccine with no hospitalization cases and tolerability among the elderly. Lack of political bias in decision making helped San Marino choose the Russian vaccine which has proven itself as one of the best in the world in terms of both safety and efficacy."

Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF) is Russia's sovereign wealth fund established in 2011 to make equity co-investments, primarily in Russia, alongside reputable international financial and strategic investors. RDIF acts as a catalyst for direct investment in the Russian economy. RDIF's management company is based in Moscow. Currently, RDIF has experience of the successful joint implementation of more than 80 projects with foreign partners totaling RUB 2.1 tn and covering 95% of the regions of the Russian Federation. RDIF portfolio companies employ more than 1 mn people and generate revenues which equate to more than 6% of Russia's GDP. RDIF has established joint strategic partnerships with leading international co-investors from more than 18 countries that total more than $40 bn. Further information can be found at www.rdif.ru.

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1140939/Russian_Direct_Investment_Fund_Logo.jpg

For additional information contact:

Alexey Urazov

Russian Direct Investment Fund

Director for External Communications

Mobile: +7 915 312 76 65

Tel.: +44 (0)20 7796 4133

E-mail: alexey.urazov@rdif.ru

Andrew Leach / Maria Shiryaevskaya

Hudson Sandler

Tel.: +44 (0)20 7796 4133
Maha Energy AB spudded its first horizontal well with a planned Electric Submersible Pump ("ESP") artificial lift system on the Tie field late on 9 July, 2021. This marks the implementation of two new technologies the Company is applying to the productive Tie field in Brazil.

Since May this year the Company has already drilled 5 oil wells in Illinois Basin ("IB") and is drilling 7 additional oil wells. All wells will be stimulated using high pressure stimulation and, all going well, the 12 oil well work program is scheduled to be completed by the end of September.

Tie-3 was recently acid stimulated and is back online and is showing good improvement in production.

Second quarter ("Q2") production numbers were lower than planned for the quarter due to planned and unplanned shutdowns at the Tie field production facility. At this time, the Company is confident in achieving the annual average production guidance target of 4,000 - 5,000 BOEPD1. Higher than expected production from the already drilled Tie-2 production well and anticipated production additions from Tie-4 and IB will offset the lower Q2 volumes.

Tie-4 Horizontal Well

The Tie-4 horizontal well was spudded late on Friday July 9, 2021. The Faxe-2 hydro-electric drilling unit has been retained on a one firm and six optional well drilling contract. Tie-4 is the fourth production well drilled on the Tie field by Maha Energy since the 2017 acquisition of the field from Gran Tierra Energy.

This well will be the first of two horizontal production wells in the Tie field. The well is targeting a 600 m. horizontal section in the Agua Grande ("AG") reservoir and is expected to take ~75 days to drill and complete. Due to the well being drilled as a horizontal production well, the anticipated production volumes are estimated to be larger than the comparable vertical wells in the Tie field. As a result, the well will be completed with a high volume Electric Submersible Pump for oil production. Both these technologies are 'a first' for Maha on the Tie field and underscores the utilization and benefit of modern technology on a developed production asset.

The second horizontal well (Tie-6) will be drilled into the Sergi reservoir, directly after drilling a new water injection well (Tie-5) to the south in the Tie field. The water injector will be drilled immediately after the Tie-4 horizontal well.

Tie-3

The hybrid oil-production/water injector Tie-3 well was drilled, completed and tested earlier in the second quarter of 2021. Analysis of test data suggested that the AG reservoir might have been damaged whilst drilling and an acid remediation program was undertaken to increase production. The one week remediation workover was completed during the first week of July and preliminary results point towards a 40% increase in production from this well. Currently, Tie-3 is still cleaning up and is flowing unassisted to production tanks at 170 BOPD. As per the development plan artificial lift was planned for both Tie-2 and -3. Therefore, a jet pump was ordered in 2020 and is now being installed at the Tie-2 and -3 site and is expected to be commissioned during the summer months. Production from Tie-3 is expected to be boosted by some 40% by the pump.

Illinois Basin

Drilling continues in the Illinois Basin. As of today's date a total of 5 oil wells have been drilled, and the sixth is in the process of being drilled. A total of 12 oil wells will be drilled during 2021. All wells are stimulated using high pressure stimulation technology. Two drilling rigs are working simultaneously to drill these wells as expeditiously as possible. Each well takes about one week to drill, after which a stimulation crew is mobilized to stimulate the three stacked limestone reservoirs. Stimulation operations usually take about one week to complete. Once stimulation is completed, the well is dewatered for about 2 weeks after which oil production commences. Initial production rates vary between 50 - 75 BOPD1 for each stimulated well.

Current production from the IB area is temporarily curtailed due to the drilling operations and has been averaging 210 BOPD1 since the beginning of the year.

Production Interruptions during the second quarter

Production at the Tie field was significantly interrupted twice during the second quarter. The first field wide shut down was unplanned and occurred on 5 May when a severe thunderstorm caused a field wide and grid wide power outage. Even though power was restored within 6 hours, Tie-2, a key producer, required a rig intervention to recommence production.

The second shut down was a planned shutdown on 11 June,- which lasted 14 hours and was required for upgrades to the gas handling system, flare system and metering for future gas growth.

The above plant shut downs accelerated the need to convert Tie-1 to a dual zone jet pump producer (previously one zone flowing, one zone on jet pump) and two rig interventions were conducted during Q2 to achieve this. This, in turn, led to a shortfall of approximately ~570 BOPD in April and 600 BOPD in May. The well is now running on a newly installed quintuplex jet pump system and met production targets for the month of June.

As at 15 June production at the Tie field was restored to normal production volumes with all wells onstream and has remained stable at predicted volumes.

Upcoming Milestone

The next key event to reach plateau production at the Tie field is the completion and tie-in of the Tie-4 horizontal well. Drilling Rig maintenance and drilling problems on Tie-2 and -3 has delayed the spudding of this well, but the Company is pleased to finally report the commencement of this well. Due to the future high rates predicted from this well, the Company has decided to use an ESP on this well. The ESP has been ordered and is expected to be delivered and installed during the 4th quarter. Tie-4 will initially be placed on natural flow.

At this time, the Company is confident in achieving the previously communicated annual average production guidance target of 4,000 - 5,000 BOEPD1.

1 BOEPD: Barrels of Oil Equivalents Per Day. Produced and sold natural gas is converted at a rate of 6,000 SCF per Barrel of oil equivalent. BOPD: Barrels of Oil Per Day.

The information was submitted for publication, through the agency of the contact person set out below, at 19:15 CET on 11 July, 2021.

For more information, please contact:

Jonas Lindvall



Victoria Berg



About Maha

Maha Energy AB). The head office is in Stockholm, Sweden with a technical office in Calgary, Canada, as well as operations offices in Grayville, Illinois, USA and Rio De Janeiro, Brazil. For more information, please visit our website www.mahaenergy.ca



Attachment
Klarna, a global retail bank, payments and shopping service, acquired Hero, a London and New York based provider of a social shopping platform.

The amount of the deal was not disclosed.

Founded in 2015 by Adam Levene, Hero provides a social shopping platform designed to provide consumers with inspiration, advice and shoppable content produced directly from retailers physical stores. Its client roster now includes global brands such as Levi, rag & bone, Chloe, Harvey Nichols and shares a number of retail partners with Klarnas existing network such as Nike and JD Sports.

With the acquisition, Klarna will introduce Hero to its 250,000 retail partners, allowing their in-store teams to become content creators instantly, offering reviews, real-time advice and richer, more engaging and informative content around products.

All 100+ Hero employees will join Klarna.

Founded in 2005 in Stockholm, Sweden, and led by Sebastian Siemiatkowski, CEO, Klarna provides a platform for people who want to shop, pay and bank and with a single brand. Over 250,000 global retail partners, including H&M, Saks, Sephora, Macys, IKEA, Expedia Group, Samsung, ASOS, Peloton, Ralph Lauren, Abercrombie & Fitch, Nike and Shein have enabled Klarnas shopping experience online and in-store. The company was has over 4,000 employees and is active in 17 markets. It has been backed by Sequoia Capital since 2010 and more recently, SilverLake, Dragoneer, Bestseller Group, Permira, Ant Group, HMI Capital, TCV, NorthZone, Commonwealth Bank of Australia, Merian Chrysalis Investment Company Limited, funds and accounts managed by BlackRock amongst others.

FinSMEs

11/07/2021
Tampa, FL (33646)

Today

Partly cloudy with afternoon showers or thunderstorms. High 92F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%..

Tonight

Cloudy early with some clearing expected late. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 74F. Winds light and variable.
Dr. Barbara Ferrer, director of the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, has recommended that even vaccinated people should wear masks indoors to stave off the spread of the Delta variant.
 Unlimited website access 24/7

 Unlimited e-Edition access 24/7

 The best local, regional and national news in sports, politics, business and more!

With a Digital Only subscription, you'll receive unlimited access to our website and e-edition. Our digital products are available 24/7 and are accessible anywhere, anytime.
We have used your information to see if you have a subscription with us, but did not find one. Please use the button below to verify an existing account or to purchase a new subscription.
She recruited nearly 100 parents to run in November for school boards across Pennsylvania. While the group coalesced around pushing for schools to fully open, its candidates have also sought to bar the teaching of critical race theory, which among other things holds that racism is embedded in Americas laws and institutions

Schillinger said the group is split 70-30 between Republicans and Democrats. But its priorities are unmistakably conservative. She said it is trying to counter the sway teachers unions have over school boards: Its really less government  thats what this comes down to.

Paul Martino, a venture capitalist who donates to Republican candidates and pledged a half-million dollars to the movement and the creation of a statewide political action committee, said the new PAC will support candidates committed to keeping schools open no matter what, even if there is the dreaded fall COVID surge.

Conservative slates of candidates elsewhere across the country have also set their sights on school boards.
Positive results

The result of all this effort is that Fenders blue now occupies twice the acreage it did in 2000, when it was first listed. Its overall population has quadrupled.

Strong populations can now be found in the Marys Peak Wilderness Area in Benton County, in the Baskett Slough National Wildlife Refuge in Polk County, and at the Fern Ridge Wildlife Area west of Eugene. A new population has even popped up in parts of Yamhill and Washington counties, which is the furthest north these butterflies have ever been found.

Conservationists say that the mammoth effort wouldnt have been successful without the cooperation of many different groups. Oregonians  and residents of Benton County, specifically  have been crucial to the undertaking, they say.

Benton County has had an important role in the conservation of Fenders blue for many years, said Kaye of the Institute for Applied Ecology. We were the main contractor that worked with Benton County and the Department of Fish and Wildlife. That alone has had a huge impact in our ability to preserve habitats that have been crucial for conservation.
Biden has seen that. He was vice president when President Obama withdrew U.S. forces from Iraq to general acclaim in 2011, only to come under fire when Islamic State rampaged across the country in 2014.

So even if Biden would rather talk about "happy things," he'll have to remain engaged in Afghanistan  for political reasons as well as for national security and humanitarian ones.

That means he'll need to push for negotiations between the Taliban and the Kabul government in hopes of reaching a peace agreement, or at least preventing a bloodbath, which diplomats consider more achievable.

It means warning that the U.S. will use force against terrorists in areas under Taliban control, just as it does in other countries.

It means mounting an energetic effort to help more than 18,000 Afghans who worked for the U.S. military get out of the country with their families.

And it means updating contingency plans to evacuate the U.S. Embassy in Kabul, which still has about 4,000 employees, including 1,800 Americans, guarded by some 650 U.S. troops.
That includes Christine Clair, winery director of Willamette Valley Vineyards in the city of Turner, just outside Oregon's capital. She watched rare winds last September smother the Willamette Valley, famed for its delicate pinot noir, in smoke from nearby flames.

"Last year was our first experience in the Willamette Valley with wildfires and smoke impact from them. Though it was considered a once-in-a-100-year east wind event, we believe we are at risk annually now, Clair said.

In recent years, wineries worldwide began hedging their bets against global warming and its fallout by moving to cooler zones, planting varieties that do better in heat and drought, and shading their grapes with more leaf canopy.

Similarly, in the wake of the Northwest heat wave, wineries plan to protect their crops from more blistering sunshine.

At Dusted Valley Vintners, in Walla Walla, Washington, less of the leaf canopy will be trimmed to keep the grapes shaded and prevent sunburn, co-owner Chad Johnson said.

Workers, who are restricted to morning work on very hot days, also will leave more grapes on the vine so the fruit ripens slower, Johnson said.
In this undated photo provided by Monica Simoes, Lin-Manuel Miranda, left, laughs with his father Luis Miranda Jr. The award-winning Hamilton creator says the inspirations for his art and philanthropy are linked. With a series of donations to organizations helping immigrants announced Tuesday, July 6, 2021, Miranda and his familys nonprofit will support the new focus on immigration in the movie version of his musical In the Heights. (Monica Simoes via AP)
An angler casts for carp at Flaming Gorge Reservoir. Fisheries experts are advising anglers that warm summer weather and low river flows will put a strain on trout, so when temperatures get high, it might be time to fish for other species, such as carp.
About the Series

The city of Grand Junction and Colorado Department of Transportation are planning major upgrades to road and transit infrastructure around the city. From resurfacing North Avenue to expansion of 24 Road and a proposed multimillion dollar, federally funded transit hub near downtown, these projects, if seen to fruition, would transform the citys transportation systems for years to come.

The Daily Sentinel is looking at each of these projects in a three part series that will discuss the plans and potential impacts to businesses and the public.

Today: Proposed transit hub in downtown a 'game changer' for Grand Junction

Online: North Avenue to get facelift next summer. https://tinyurl.com/35rt9hc7

Online: 24 Road to be part of city's $70 million road expansion project. https://tinyurl.com/meu6xrm9

INSIDE

Bustang ridership keeps growing. Page 3A
Las Vegas, Nevada, July 10, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Beyond Enterprizes, the internationally renowned blockchain advisory firm, partnered with over 60 Insurtech, FinTech, and DeFi projects worldwide, announces author, speaker, entrepreneur, and thought leader of global technology, David Orban will be joining the firm as Managing Advisor.

An aficionado of blockchain technologies and Bitcoin investor since 2010, David Orban was an early adopter of Ethereum at its launch in 2014. He serves on the Faculty of and acts as Advisor to the Singularity University, at the NASA Research Park.

Orban is the author of Something New, on artificial intelligence, available in three languages, English, Italian, and Spanish. As a speaker, he has given over 100 talks worldwide.

Orban is a mentor for the Thiel Fellowship, a Scientific Advisory Board Member for the Lifeboat Foundation, and an Advisor to the Institute of Ethics and Emergent Technologies. He was the Chairman of the Board, and is an Advisor to Humanity+, promoting scientific advancement and emerging innovation for social impact.

Orbans personal motto is What is the question I should be asking? This is his vehicle for accelerating cycles of invention to help build a better world.

Brad Yasar, Founder of Beyond Enterprizes, had this to say about Mr. Orban joining the team:

It is exciting to welcome my good friend David to Beyond Enterprizes. We have worked synergistically in the past on multiple projects and expect to have his vast experience, unique skills, seasoned wisdom, and creative vision benefit all our projects moving forward.

And from David Orban:

I feel a resonance with the work Beyond is doing to guide emerging technologies and innovative endeavors. Im honored to join the team and look forward to a bright and exciting tomorrow.

###

Press contact: Juliet Annerino +1 (310) 666-2544

____________________________________

Beyond Enterprizes is a strategic advisory firm assisting clients with technical leadership and support for projects in all stages of blockchain and new technology. The team has built ex- changes on four continents. The teams commitment to world-changing projects has included a global community of crypto funds and investors under the Blockchain Investors Consortium (BIC). Projects partnered with Beyond Enterprizes have reached a combined market cap of over $5 billion, allowing expansion from a strategic advisory to full-service partnership for development, and execution of successful products and services.

Please see: https://www.beyondenterprizes.com/ for more information.

Media contact:

Tanner James 8609992793





Content Disclaimer:



DISCLAIMER of Liability. IN NO EVENT SHALL OUR PR COMPANY BE LIABLE OR RESPONSIBLE TO YOU OR ANY OTHER PERSON FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, SPECIAL, OR EXEMPLARY DAMAGES OF ANY KIND, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION, LOST PROFITS OR LOST OPPORTUNITIES, EVEN IF ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES IN ADVANCE AND REGARDLESS OF THE CAUSE OF ACTION UPON WHICH ANY SUCH CLAIM IS BASED, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, ANY CLAIM ARISING OUT OF OR IN CONNECTION WITH ANY OF THE CONTENT, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, AUDIO, PHOTOGRAPHS, AND VIDEOS, OR OF THE ACCURACY, RELIABILITY, OR LEGALITY OF ANY STATEMENT MADE IN OR OMITTED FROM ANY advertisement, sponsorship, endorsement, testimonial, opinion, or other product-related or service-related statement or review appearing in the Websites or in ANY post or article distributed via the Websites.








Dallas, TX , July 11, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- New Website resource developed by Dallas based leading attorney Mick Mickelsen on the subject of Federal Money Laundering.



Money laundering is generally understood to be the process of making illegally obtained money (such as the proceeds gained from drug trafficking) appear to be from a legitimate source. However, money laundering charges can be far broader than this, and the penalties they carry can be as severe as the penalties for the underlying crime involved.



Dallas White Collar Criminal Defense Legal Expert Mick Mickelsen

In a new article, Mick Mickelsen, a Texas Superlawyer with decades of experience in white collar crime defense, explains the central federal statutes involved in money laundering and related crimes.

The two principal Federal money laundering statutes are 18 U.S.C.  1956 and 1957, Mr. Mickelsen explains, Section 1956 prohibits various activities involving criminal proceeds, including transactions that conceal the nature of the proceeds. Section 1957 focuses on spending criminal proceeds.

Section 1956 prohibits engaging in financial transactions involving criminal proceeds with the goal of concealing the nature of these transactions, promoting further criminal activity, or evading taxes. Section 1957 essentially prohibits spending or depositing money that has been involved in criminal activity.

Mr. Mickelsens article explains the legal definitions of the terminology used in the statutes, in addition to clarifying why willful ignorance of criminal activity in money laundering cases still violates these laws.

Although the statute requires that the defendant has knowledge that the financial transaction involved proceeds of criminal activity, it does not require that the defendant have knowledge of the exact nature of the criminal activity, says Mr. Mickelsen. The law also permits the government to satisfy the knowledge requirement by showing that the defendant was willfully blind to the criminal nature of the funds.

For a tangible example of how this type of criminal defense case works, read about Clint Broden of Broden and Mickelsen Criminal Defense Attorneys representing a client charged on three counts of money laundering in federal court. When Mr. Broden won the case, his client had several hundred thousands of dollars worth of assets returned to him by the federal government and was saved from a prison sentence of almost two decades.

Read the full web guide on Broden, Mickelsen Website for Mr. Mickelsens detailed explanation of the statutes, as well as on structuring, willful failure to report cash transactions, and sentencing guidelines for money laundering-related crimes.

About Broden & Mickelsen

Experienced white collar criminal defense lawyers in Dallas, Broden & Mickelsen are dedicated to providing aggressive and ethical representation to individuals and businesses charged with criminal offenses. Both partners play an active role in each case, and are committed to the belief that when a person is charged with a crime, he or she deserves to be represented by attorneys that provide a vigorous defense. By evaluating each case individually and by using all the resources available to achieve a favorable resolution. Read more about selecting an attorney, or schedule a consultation for your case.

Broden Mickelsen - Federal Criminal Defense - 214-720-9552



Expertise in Federal Fraud Cases by Broden & Mickelsen Dallas White Collar Defense Lawyers

Content Disclaimer:



DISCLAIMER of Liability. IN NO EVENT SHALL OUR PR COMPANY BE LIABLE OR RESPONSIBLE TO YOU OR ANY OTHER PERSON FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, SPECIAL, OR EXEMPLARY DAMAGES OF ANY KIND, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION, LOST PROFITS OR LOST OPPORTUNITIES, EVEN IF ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES IN ADVANCE AND REGARDLESS OF THE CAUSE OF ACTION UPON WHICH ANY SUCH CLAIM IS BASED, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, ANY CLAIM ARISING OUT OF OR IN CONNECTION WITH ANY OF THE CONTENT, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, AUDIO, PHOTOGRAPHS, AND VIDEOS, OR OF THE ACCURACY, RELIABILITY, OR LEGALITY OF ANY STATEMENT MADE IN OR OMITTED FROM ANY advertisement, sponsorship, endorsement, testimonial, opinion, or other product-related or service-related statement or review appearing in the Websites or in ANY post or article distributed via the Websites.









Attachment
English Swedish

Maha Energy AB spudded its first horizontal well with a planned Electric Submersible Pump (ESP) artificial lift system on the Tie field late on 9 July, 2021. This marks the implementation of two new technologies the Company is applying to the productive Tie field in Brazil.

Since May this year the Company has already drilled 5 oil wells in Illinois Basin (IB) and is drilling 7 additional oil wells. All wells will be stimulated using high pressure stimulation and, all going well, the 12 oil well work program is scheduled to be completed by the end of September.

Tie-3 was recently acid stimulated and is back online and is showing good improvement in production.

Second quarter (Q2) production numbers were lower than planned for the quarter due to planned and unplanned shutdowns at the Tie field production facility. At this time, the Company is confident in achieving the annual average production guidance target of 4,000 - 5,000 BOEPD1. Higher than expected production from the already drilled Tie-2 production well and anticipated production additions from Tie-4 and IB will offset the lower Q2 volumes.

Tie-4 Horizontal Well

The Tie-4 horizontal well was spudded late on Friday July 9, 2021. The Faxe-2 hydro-electric drilling unit has been retained on a one firm and six optional well drilling contract. Tie-4 is the fourth production well drilled on the Tie field by Maha Energy since the 2017 acquisition of the field from Gran Tierra Energy.

This well will be the first of two horizontal production wells in the Tie field. The well is targeting a 600 m. horizontal section in the Agua Grande (AG) reservoir and is expected to take ~75 days to drill and complete. Due to the well being drilled as a horizontal production well, the anticipated production volumes are estimated to be larger than the comparable vertical wells in the Tie field. As a result, the well will be completed with a high volume Electric Submersible Pump for oil production. Both these technologies are a first for Maha on the Tie field and underscores the utilization and benefit of modern technology on a developed production asset.

The second horizontal well (Tie-6) will be drilled into the Sergi reservoir, directly after drilling a new water injection well (Tie-5) to the south in the Tie field. The water injector will be drilled immediately after the Tie-4 horizontal well.

Tie-3

The hybrid oil-production/water injector Tie-3 well was drilled, completed and tested earlier in the second quarter of 2021. Analysis of test data suggested that the AG reservoir might have been damaged whilst drilling and an acid remediation program was undertaken to increase production. The one week remediation workover was completed during the first week of July and preliminary results point towards a 40% increase in production from this well. Currently, Tie-3 is still cleaning up and is flowing unassisted to production tanks at 170 BOPD. As per the development plan artificial lift was planned for both Tie-2 and -3. Therefore, a jet pump was ordered in 2020 and is now being installed at the Tie-2 and -3 site and is expected to be commissioned during the summer months. Production from Tie-3 is expected to be boosted by some 40% by the pump.

Illinois Basin

Drilling continues in the Illinois Basin. As of todays date a total of 5 oil wells have been drilled, and the sixth is in the process of being drilled. A total of 12 oil wells will be drilled during 2021. All wells are stimulated using high pressure stimulation technology. Two drilling rigs are working simultaneously to drill these wells as expeditiously as possible. Each well takes about one week to drill, after which a stimulation crew is mobilized to stimulate the three stacked limestone reservoirs. Stimulation operations usually take about one week to complete. Once stimulation is completed, the well is dewatered for about 2 weeks after which oil production commences. Initial production rates vary between 50 - 75 BOPD1 for each stimulated well.

Current production from the IB area is temporarily curtailed due to the drilling operations and has been averaging 210 BOPD1 since the beginning of the year.

Production Interruptions during the second quarter

Production at the Tie field was significantly interrupted twice during the second quarter. The first field wide shut down was unplanned and occurred on 5 May when a severe thunderstorm caused a field wide and grid wide power outage. Even though power was restored within 6 hours, Tie-2, a key producer, required a rig intervention to recommence production.

The second shut down was a planned shutdown on 11 June,- which lasted 14 hours and was required for upgrades to the gas handling system, flare system and metering for future gas growth.

The above plant shut downs accelerated the need to convert Tie-1 to a dual zone jet pump producer (previously one zone flowing, one zone on jet pump) and two rig interventions were conducted during Q2 to achieve this. This, in turn, led to a shortfall of approximately ~570 BOPD in April and 600 BOPD in May. The well is now running on a newly installed quintuplex jet pump system and met production targets for the month of June.

As at 15 June production at the Tie field was restored to normal production volumes with all wells onstream and has remained stable at predicted volumes.

Upcoming Milestone

The next key event to reach plateau production at the Tie field is the completion and tie-in of the Tie-4 horizontal well. Drilling Rig maintenance and drilling problems on Tie-2 and -3 has delayed the spudding of this well, but the Company is pleased to finally report the commencement of this well. Due to the future high rates predicted from this well, the Company has decided to use an ESP on this well. The ESP has been ordered and is expected to be delivered and installed during the 4th quarter. Tie-4 will initially be placed on natural flow.

At this time, the Company is confident in achieving the previously communicated annual average production guidance target of 4,000 - 5,000 BOEPD1.

1 BOEPD: Barrels of Oil Equivalents Per Day. Produced and sold natural gas is converted at a rate of 6,000 SCF per Barrel of oil equivalent. BOPD: Barrels of Oil Per Day.

The information was submitted for publication, through the agency of the contact person set out below, at 19:15 CET on 11 July, 2021.

For more information, please contact:

Jonas Lindvall (CEO)

Tel: +46 8 611 05 11

jonas@mahaenergy.ca



Victoria Berg (Investor Relations)

Tel: +46 8 611 05 11

victoria@mahaenergy.ca



About Maha

Maha Energy AB (publ) is a listed, international upstream oil and gas company whose business activities include exploration, development and production of crude oil and natural gas. The strategy is to target and develop underperforming hydrocarbon assets on global basis. Maha operates four oil fields: Tartaruga and Tie in Brazil, Powder River (LAK Ranch) and Illinois Basin in the United States. The shares are listed on Nasdaq Stockholm ( MAHA-A ). The head office is in Stockholm, Sweden with a technical office in Calgary, Canada, as well as operations offices in Grayville, Illinois, USA and Rio De Janeiro, Brazil. For more information, please visit our website www.mahaenergy.ca



Attachment
MELBOURNE, Australia, July 11, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Telix Pharmaceuticals Limited (ASX: TLX, Telix, the Company) is pleased to announce that Ms. Kyahn Williamson has joined the Telix executive leadership team in the role of Senior Vice President of Corporate Communications and Investor Relations.



Kyahn joins Telix from WE Communications, where she was Group Head of Investor and Corporate Communication. Over the past 15 years, Kyahn has worked with a wide range of ASX-listed companies spanning the medtech and biotech sectors, designing and implementing investor relations and public relations strategies, and advising across multiple IPOs and M&A transactions.

Ms. Williamson stated, Im absolutely delighted to join the team and apply my deep industry experience to support Telix as it makes the transition to a commercial stage company focused on delivering unmet patient need. With this transition comes a very distinct set of communications and investor relations needs. I look forward to joining the senior executive to continue to build Telixs reputation as a global leader in diagnostic and therapeutic applications of molecularly-targeted radiation.

Telix CEO, Dr. Christian Behrenbruch added, On behalf of the global team, I am delighted to welcome Kyahn to the business at such a critical juncture. Ky led our IPO communications back in 2017 and with the Company reaching key commercial milestones, its a real privilege for us to have such a capable communications professional leading our corporate comms and investor relations activity.

About Telix Pharmaceuticals Limited

Telix is a biopharmaceutical company focused on the development of diagnostic and therapeutic products using Molecularly Targeted Radiation (MTR). Telix is headquartered in Melbourne, Australia with international operations in Belgium, Japan, and the United States. Telix is developing a portfolio of clinical-stage products that address significant unmet medical need in oncology and rare diseases. Telix is listed on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX: TLX). For more information visit www.telixpharma.com and follow Telix on Twitter (@TelixPharma) and LinkedIn.

Telixs lead investigational product, Illuccix (TLX591-CDx) for prostate cancer imaging, has been accepted for filing by the U.S. FDA,1 and is under priority evaluation by the Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA).2 Telix is also progressing marketing authorisation applications for Illuccix in the European Union3 and Canada.4 None of Telixs products have received a marketing authorisation in any jurisdiction.

Telix Corporate Contact Telix Investor Relations Dr. Christian Behrenbruch Kyahn Williamson Telix Pharmaceuticals Limited Telix Pharmaceuticals Limited Managing Director and CEO SVP Corporate Comms and Investor Relations Email: chris.behrenbruch@telixpharma.com Email: kyahn.williamson@telixpharma.com



1 ASX disclosure 24/11/20.

2 ASX disclosure 14/04/21.

3 ASX disclosure 1/05/20.

4 ASX disclosure 16/12/20.
FILE - In this April 12, 2019 file photo, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker answers questions after a bill signing in the governor's office at the Illinois State Capitol, in Springfield, Ill.
Due to the unusual layout of the Red Bull Ring in Austria, Red Bull's dominance does not bode well for the title chances of the team led by Christian Horner and Helmut Marko, according to former driver and commentator for Sky Sports, Karun Chandhok.

Speaking to the Dutch Formula 1 Magazine Chandhok argues why we should take Red Bull's dominance in Austria with a grain of salt. Chandhok: "The Red Bull Ring is an atypical track with big elevation changes in corners, there are also corners that slope outwards. It's not a normal track."

Read more Horner reveals Red Bull's ambitions as sports car manufacturer

The former driver continued: "Red Bull has often been strong there, apart from last year. But in terms of reflecting the current power balance, the Red Bull Ring is not representative."

Clear picture at Silverstone

Chandhok goes on to say he is waiting for the Grand Prix at Silverstone for a better picture of the current balance of power between Red Bull and Mercedes. He explains: "Everyone there will be driving with low downforce levels because Silverstone is a high-speed track. In terms of differences, it will be a lot more exciting."
This season there has been a lot of controversy surrounding track limits. In Austria, things often went wrong in corners 9 and 10 and in France there was a lot of controversy about the high yellow kerbs, also known as 'sandwiches'. Fernando Alonso feels it is necessary to address the issue.

According to the Spaniard the drivers still do not know what is allowed and what is punishable. After the Austrian GP Alonso was not happy when Charles Leclerc and Daniel Ricciardo were not called to the stewards because they used the outside of the track to overtake the Spaniard.

During the Bahrain Grand Prix there was also a lot of fuss about track limits, as the FIA was not consistent. Because there is so much confusion Alonso thinks the matter should be discussed thoroughly with race director Michael Masi.

Drivers need to talk to Masi

"I've only experienced a few races with Masi. We have had a year with much more intense track limits and it was already evident in the first race in Bahrain. Whenever there are track limits this year, there is usually some controversy," Alonso explained to Soymotor.com.

Alonso believes the issue needs to be discussed with Masi and between the drivers themselves. For the Spaniard it should be clear what you can and cannot do. The line between what is legal must be very small, because otherwise many drivers can abuse it.

"It's something we have to discuss with him. We also have to make it clear to the drivers. It should just be black and white, there shouldn't be too many grey areas, because otherwise drivers can take advantage of it," the world champion said.

Read more Brawn hopes sprint race paves way for more experiments
Several companies have initiated a Responsible Lithium Partnership aiming to work towards responsible natural resource management, including lithium, in Chiles Salar de Atacama. This cross-industry partnership is funded at its inception by BASF, Daimler AG, Fairphone, and Volkswagen Group.

The partnership intends to foster a dialogue among local stakeholders, generatingand synthesizing scientific factsand seeking solutions in a participatory manner.

Due to the expansion of electromobility and digitalization, the demand for lithium as key material in batteries is expected to grow in the next years. The worlds largest lithium reserves and large parts of the total production are located in the Salar de Atacama. The regions ecosystem is fragile and there is lack of consensus regarding the impacts and risks of lithium mining and other economic activity in the region. Potential risks derived from water and brine table shifts could potentially harm the ecosystems and affect local livelihoods. Addressing such water-related risks effectively requires the collaboration of stakeholders.

The Deutsche Gesellschaft fur Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, commissioned by the companies, will coordinate the partnership seeking to find common ground by building a multi-stakeholder platform among all relevant actors in the Salar watershed, ranging from civil society groups including indigenous communities, government institutions, mining companies and beyond.

The platform aims to facilitate a common understanding of the status quo and jointly develop a shared vision for the future of the Salar de Atacama watershed. In addition, it intends the co-development of a joint action plan to improve long-term integrated natural resource management and undertake the first implementing steps.

Another aim is to synthesize and verify available technical data, improve on it if necessary, and increase accessibility. The Responsible Lithium Partnership has a planned duration of 2.5 years. It does not intend to facilitate the sourcing of lithium nor the purchase or selling of any raw mineral.

The financing companies BASF, Daimler AG, Fairphone, and Volkswagen Group are aware of their responsibility along the entire supply chain, including their human rights due diligence for raw material sourcing and production. They have, therefore, initiated the Responsible Lithium Partnership to promote sustainable development, contribute to the reduction of potential negative impacts and strengthen the protection of human rights.
The two houses are on opposite spokes of a fast-pedaling Connecticut real estate market in 2021  one built two decades ago in a cozy corner of Greenwich and priced for $2 million, the other dating back two centuries in Redding not far from where Mark Twain spent his final days.

They differ in another respect  the Redding house has been discounted 5 percent since being put up for sale in April. In Old Greenwich, there will likely be no such break this weekend for any would-be buyers, who have to assume it is going to take a full-price offer and perhaps then some to get to contract.

Long Connecticuts priciest place to buy a home, Greenwich is now officially the states hottest real estate market as well according to Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices New England Properties, as New York residents continue to move to Connecticut in a continuing buying spree. Just over 500 Greenwich properties sold in the first half of 2021 to surpass Waterbury by about 30 transactions, with Fairfield and Stamford just behind.

Statewide, sales were up 28 percent from the first half of 2020 as more than 27,700 properties change hands, and the median home sale this year going for $312,500, up 20 percent compared to its counterpart in 2020.

Candace Adams, CEO of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices New England Properties, said she expects the pandemic flood of buyers to level off in the back half of this year after a big increase in June, but that Connecticuts real estate market will remain brisk by historic levels.

The market took a temporary pause Friday morning after the fast-moving storm Elsa soaked Connecticut, deterring some buyers from getting an early jump on the rounds ahead of weekend open houses.

Once August and September closings occur, ... were really going to know whether the market is better than last year or is slowing, Adams said. I think were going to have a really nice, balanced market  I think that the buyer frenzy is starting to temper a little bit.

That is music to the ears of some frustrated buyers who saw a succession of offers beat out by others, forcing them to settle for properties they did not prefer or to stay put and wait for more listings to hit the market later this summer or fall.

Of Stamford homes listed on the Movoto website, about one in seven have seen their prices cut in recent weeks. In some instances, homeowners are dropping their asking price after only a few weekends of open houses  an indication that they are getting swift feedback their demands are far out of whack with what people will pay.

After leading all of Connecticut in the first half of 2020, West Hartford remains Hartford Countys biggest real estate market this year with nearly 390 home sales, topping the totals for Norwalk, Hamden and Bridgeport.

And the Hartford suburb shows momentum on other key factors, with the median home selling in under a week and the average sale price of $415,000 more than $10,000 above the average listing price.

Given that we are a town of only 62,000 we dont usually get the most sales ... though we do get the most [dollar] volume, said Mark Pruner, a Berkshire Hathaway broker in Greenwich who pens the Greenwich Streets blog. West Hartford is similar to Greenwich in many ways, being a larger, upscale suburb.

Greenwich led the state with a $3 million average sale price in the first half of the year, and the median home selling for $2.35 million. The town surpassed Fairfield as well for the most new listings in the first half of the year, with 775 homes hitting the market in all.

But listings continue to hit statewide  including on Mark Twain Lane in Redding, where a replica of the humorists Tuscan-style mansion came on the market for $4.2 million.

Listings are starting to come on which is great, Adams said. But none of us believe we are going to meet the demand of inventory in the Northeast over the next year or two.

Alex.Soule@scni.com; 203-842-2545; @casoulman
GREENWICH  Some neighbors are ramping up their opposition to a major expansion of Greenwich Hospitals proposed new cancer-care facility, fearing it could bring a deluge of traffic into the neighborhood and cause a loss of community character.

At a meeting of the town Planning and Zoning Commission, residents said they are concerned that the proposed three-story cancer center, which is intended to draw patients from all over the region, would create big problems. Numerous letters have also been sent to Town Hall in opposition of the project.

But hospital representatives said the new cancer center would offer substantial benefits for the community by making it possible for local residents to access high-end treatments in town, as well as bolstering overall medical care in Greenwich. The hospital administration has stated that a majority of expected new patients at the proposed facility would come from around the region, not solely from Greenwich, a point of concern for some neighbors and planning commissioners.

A number of residents who live near the hospital said at the Planning and Zoning Commission meeting last Wednesday that the scale of the proposed building, with 54,865 square foot of space, was worrying.

This new structure, what bothers me so much, its in your face, its right on the street. Its out of scale and doesnt fit, said Lawrence Sterne, who is a neighbor. And traffic and safety loom large.

Another resident, Tom Tomaj, said the Greenwich Hospital campus has been growing and growing and growing in an area that just doesnt fit.

Sheila Traub said she was concerned about development that could destroy part of what makes central Greenwich a vibrant neighborhood.

I am troubled by this expansion, and I think there really are some issues that need to be thought further about, said Scott Kalb. The vast majority of people will be drawn ... from outside our town. Now were building an enterprise that primarily depends on a majority of patients coming from outside the area. ... That puts a lot of pressure on the traffic lanes that come through there. And its not a commercial area.

Some commissioners also expressed concerns and asked questions about the project. Is it worth the disruption to this neighborhood? Commissioner Peter Lowe said. There is tremendous concern about the increase in traffic.  Were discussing fundamental changes to a neighborhood, a portion of town, and thats concerning to a lot of people.

Greenwich Hospital President Diane Kelly highlighted what she said would be the benefits to the local population. The hospital estimates that about 400 Greenwich residents are diagnosed with some form of cancer every year, and many of those local patients travel to New York City, New Haven or Boston for care.

Our goal is to continuously offer state-of-the-art care to our community. This new cancer care center will allow us to provide this care, that we are committed to, she said. Kelly noted that travel time for cancer treatment is a major burden for patients and their caregivers. This takes so much out of peoples lives, Kelly said.

She told the commission that she had spoken with a local mother who was recently diagnosed with cancer. She was relieved the entire treatment was going to be here. ... Going to New York City or New Haven was not an option she could get her head around, Kelly recounted.

Asked whether the new cancer facility could be built elsewhere in Greenwich, Kelly said that being close to the hospital was an important factor. Cancer patients can develop emergencies that require immediate medical attention from other types of physicians besides cancer specialists, she said. The hospital blood bank is also located at the main facility on Perryridge Road.

Providing the treatment here, we think is key and crucial, said the attorney representing the hospital, Thomas Heagney, Its more advantageous to have this type of facility right next to the hospital.

The new Bendheim Cancer Center, as the project is called, would be built at Lafayette Place and Lake Street, and several medical offices there would be demolished to make way for it.

Commission Chair Margarita Alban said there was a question of meeting two goals with the project. Were trying to find that balance, she said. Were trying to find the right answer.

On the one hand, we want Greenwich to have excellent services for its residents, top-quality, thats important, she said, On the other hand, its very important to protect our neighborhoods.

Alban said the commissions review would continue, and she said she was hoping the hospital administration could continue its outreach to the community and pursue modifications that might address concerns.

Weve to make sure the parking works, she said, Get to the point where everybodys good. ... Meet with the neighbors. See if you can resolve some issues.

Another discussion was tentatively scheduled for July 20.

rmarchant@greenwichtime.com
About $14 billion in federal stimulus funds approved months ago for public transportation systems in Connecticut, New Jersey and New York is still sitting in federal coffers as transportation officials in the three states debate how to divvy up the money.

At issue is whether to use guidance from the Federal Transportation Administration, which Connecticut and New Jersey agree is how the funds should be shared, or base it off greatest need, as New York wants.

The major transit agencies in the three states are clamoring for the money due to steep declines in ridership and increased costs during the pandemic. The money will help cover operating expenses to avoid furloughs, layoffs and maintain service for all forms of mass transit, including rail.

The Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act signed into law on Dec. 27, 2020, and the American Rescue Plan Act, which became law on March 11, appropriated tens of billions of dollars in transit aid for individual states and urbanized areas (UZA).

There is always a split agreement required when funding is allocated to a UZA that contains multiple states, Kafi Rouse, director of communications for the Connecticut Department of Transportation, said by email. What is unique is the disagreement over how to split the funds.

Historically, this type of federal aid has been distributed based on a statutory formula established by Congress, which is what the FTAs guidance is based on. Though the guidance is non-binding, an FTA spokesperson said, and the law gives discretion to governors and their designated recipients to determine how funds will be allocated.

In the past, Connecticut, New Jersey and New York have used the formula to decide how to share the money distributed to the New York-Newark UZA. Under that formula, the $14 billion would be shared as followed: New York would get 71.5 percent or nearly $10 billion; New Jersey would get 25.1 percent or $3.5 billion; and Connecticut would get 3.4 percent or about $474 million.

While New Jersey and Connecticut are in agreement on the use of FTA Guidance to develop what the appropriate split of fund allocations will be, New York has proposed its own methodology Jim Smith, director of media relations for NJ Transit, said in an emailed statement.

One proposal from New York would give the state about $687 million above the FTA guidance, resulting in about $673 million less funding to New Jersey and $13.7 million less to Connecticut, according to northjersey.com, which first reported the dispute.

This FEMA-type emergency funding was explicitly designated by Congress to address transit needs created by the COVID-19 crisis  especially to offset the need for layoffs, furloughs and service cuts for transit systems most impacted by the pandemic, Ken Lovett, senior advisor to the Metropolitan Transit Authority chairman and CEO, said in an email.

Based on Congress clear intent and the language of the statute, this crucial funding should be distributed based on need, not congressional formulas used in regular times to support new capital projects, Lovett said.

The three states have a longstanding and strong partnership regarding regional transit issues, he said, adding that discussions are ongoing and we hope to have a conclusion in the near future.

U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., said Congress intent was not to distribute this funding differently than it has been before.

Theres always a consideration of need, Blumenthal said. The entire metropolitan area has desperate needs for this funding and traditionally we worked together, thats why we follow the formula. Collaboration rather than competition should be the watchword.

While a larger discussion on revising the formula may needed, that cant be done unilaterally, he said.

The Connecticut DOT has spent $325 million of the $487.56 million it received through the first coronavirus relief package known as the CARES Act. Most of that money went to covering lost fare revenue and additional operating expenses related to the pandemic such as additional cleaning and supplies on MetroNorth Railroad, CT Transit Buses, and Shoreline East.

The states Special Transportation fund is down more than $350 million since the pandemic started and farebox revenue is down $325 million to date, Rouse said.

Though the farebox revenue is slowly recovering, it is not projected to recover to pre-pandemic levels for at least two more years, and will continue to require support from these federal funds, she said.

julia.bergman@hearstmediact.com
AUSTIN, Texas (AP)  Texas Republicans advanced bills Sunday that would make voting harder in a state that already has some of the nation's toughest restrictions after hundreds spoke against the proposals  with some waiting to speak for almost 24 hours.

Republicans made clear they intended to advance a new election bill  which would prohibit 24-hour polling places, ban drop boxes and stop drive-thru voting  this weekend, with a first major vote on the proposals expected this week. That timeline is pushing some Democratic lawmakers toward calling for a second walkout to again stop the restrictions from moving forward like they did in May when they broke quorum.

Texas is among several states with GOP-controlled statehouses where Republicans have rushed to enact strict voting laws in response to former President Donald Trumps false claims that the 2020 election was stolen from him. A second walkout by Texas Democrats  which some are describing as their best, if not only option  would mark a high-stakes escalation of their efforts to deny Republicans a major priority, and in turn, put more pressure on President Joe Biden to act on voting at the federal level.

Beto O'Rourke, the Democratic former Texas congressman who is considering challenging Republican Gov. Greg Abbott in 2022, said he has already offered help, saying he was ready to raise money "literally to feed and house the legislators if they go that route.

Should we stick around? Hell no. For what? Democratic state Rep. Jarvis Johnson said. There's nothing being done in earnest. There's nothing be done with the utmost respect for one another.

For weeks, Democratic leaders in the Texas House have said they are not ruling out another revolt, but have also expressed hope of weakening the bill during the 30-day special session. Johnson, however, believes a large number of his colleagues are ready to deny Republicans a quorum for a second time, though most continue speaking cautiously.

You may know my next move, but you can't stop it. You never knew when Mike Tyson was going to throw the uppercut, but you knew he was going to throw it," he said.

Another walkout may merely buy more time: Abbott could keep calling more 30-day special sessions until voting measures are passed. Paychecks for nearly 2,000 Capitol staffers could also be on the line, because Abbott vetoed funding for the legislative branch following Democrats' late-night walkout. He has signaled he will restore that funding this summer  if lawmakers are around to put a bill on his desk.

Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo, the elected head of the governing body for the county where Houston is located, said Abbott was extorting lawmakers to get the legislation passed. Hidalgo said she was would support Democratic legislators breaking quorum again to block the bill's passage.

It is very important to me to recognize voting rights should be above politics, Hidalgo said. We can do that with all manner of issues, but not voting, not democracy.

Nacal Tate, who volunteers with the NAACP chapter in Collin County in the Dallas area, said she woke up at 4 a.m. Saturday to drive several hours to Austin to testify against the proposed voting restrictions. Tate said that meant missing her grand niece's birthday party, but that it was worth the sacrifice. Some of the provisions, if they become law, would affect senior citizens, like herself, and others who receive help at the polls due to proposed penalties for voting volunteers who make a mistake.

It is a suppression of our constitutional rights, Tate said.

The last time Texas Democrats left the state to deny a quorum was 2003, when they decamped to Oklahoma and New Mexico to try to block new GOP-drawn voting maps. They were gone more a month, but ultimately, Republicans passed a new redistricting plan.

The versions of the revived voting changes passed Sunday by a House panel  at 7:30 a.m., almost 24 hours after debate began  and by a Senate committee later that afternoon no longer include two of the most contentious provisions: prohibiting Sunday morning voting, when many Black churchgoers go to the polls, and language that would have made it easier for a judge to overturn elections.

Hundreds of opponents packed overflow rooms at the Capitol and waited for hours to testify. It was the biggest turnout against a bill this year in Texas, where COVID-19 concerns have dampened crowds.

___

Acacia Coronado 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.
Week 27 in review: Galaxy F22 goes official, OnePlus gets in hot water with Geekbench

It might be summer and scorching heat in the northern hemisphere, but the smartphone world is not taking a rest, and we saw plenty of smartphone action in the past seven days. Tecno's first premium smartphone went on sale, while Samsung introduced the Galaxy F22 in India.

Oppo Reno6 series is getting a new family member - the Reno6 Z 5G. It will be launched on July 21 and will have 5G capabilities.

Qualcomm launched its Smartphone for Snapdragon Insiders phone - a showcase product that demonstrates all the fancy features the Snapdragon 888 can offer in a smartphone. It has a price tag of $1,500, but it doesn't appear that the San Diego company will try too hard to sell it.

OnePlus confirmed the Nord 2 5G launch date. The company also got tangled in a bit of a drama - Geekbench delisted all OnePlus 9 and OnePlus 9 Pro smartphones from its database after alleged manipulation.

It appears OxygenOS limits the performance of apps to extend battery life but did not apply the same filter to the benchmarking platform, which, according to Geekbench, is a form of cheating. OnePlus did confirm it is optimizing apps on its devices, raising the debate whether this is the same type of manipulation that other companies did with enabling special high-performance modes for synthetic benchmarking.



The Phantom X, Tecno's first premium phone, is now available Initially, the phone can be found in Nigeria and Kenya and it should expand to more markets soon.





Oppo Reno6 5G now available in Purple color, Reno6 Z 5G launching on July 21 The new Purple Reno6 is already up for grabs in China and will likely remain exclusive to that market.





Qualcomm announces Smartphone for Snapdragon Insiders with Snapdragon 888 and 6.78-inch 144Hz AMOLED screen The phone will come with a pair of Qualcomm-tuned earbuds, bumper case, and the phone is curated with all of Qualcomms technologies.





Mony Mint - The smallest 4G smartphone hands-on review For just $99 you can have a smartphone with Android 9 the size of a candy bar.





Rumor: Xiaomi Mi Mix 4 will have a completely invisible under display camera, rear display The display will have 1080p+ resolution and only two curved sides. The secondary display on the rear will be larger than Mi 11 Ultra's display.





New Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 renders surface It's been hotly debated whether the Z Fold3 5G would have a punch-hole or under-display camera.





Rumor: the new MacBook Pros will use the M1X chipset, new MacBook Air coming in 2022 with M2 Apple has traditionally used "X" to denote more powerful chipsets with more cores. The M2 should switch to a new architecture and a new node.





Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra to come with 108MP main camera, not 200MP But it will be a newer, more refined version of the current 108MP ISOCELL HM3 unit.





The OnePlus Nord 2 will have a custom Dimensity 1200-AI chipset, the company confirms OnePlus and MediaTek added additional AI features to the base Dimensity 1200 to help with the camera, media playback and other tasks.





HMD Product Manager says new Nokia flagship is coming on November 11 That's Singles' Day (11.11) in China, a big annual shopping event and a good time to launch a new product - unless the flagship gets delayed, again.





OnePlus responds to app throttling fiasco The behavior seen on the OnePlus 9 Pro was on purpose.





Samsung Galaxy S21 FE details confirmed: new 32MP main camera, microSD slot The phone will be a bit smaller than the S20 FE and will feature a new 32 MP main cam, 12 MP ultra wide and 8 MP tele.


We already polled you about Sonys Xperia Mark III series back when it was first announced, but it has been a couple of months since. We wanted to give the Xperia 1 III another shot, especially since our review went up earlier this week and now we know exactly what the phone has to offer.

You can also watch our 10 minute video review to get up to speed. On paper, the phone offers some unique features like a 4K 120Hz OLED display and a telephoto camera with two focal lengths. That display has an asterisk next to it, though. You can have either 4K resolution or 120Hz refresh rate, never both. And the tele camera doesnt have the best image quality, especially at 105mm (4.4x magnification).

Those arent the only issues we found. For one, the display is not very bright  it manages about the same peak output (620 nits with Creator Mode) as the Mark 2 model, which is a good deal less than what current Android flagships can manage.

Also, that display seems to be power-hungry as the Endurance rating came out essentially the same, 82 hours, despite this new model having 500 mAh more in its battery than the 2020 model. And charging times using the 30W adapter (bundled with the phone) are nothing to write home about. The phone only got up to 42% in half an hour, some of the competition would have finished charging in that time.

You can refer to our written and video reviews for more pros and cons, its starting to feel like were focusing on the negatives here. For what its worth, the Xperia 1 III was designed by a company that is content to do its own thing and doesnt care what the competition is doing.

The end result looks and feels unique, because no other 2021 (or 2020) flagship has all these features combined in the same package. For some the Xperia is the only phone worth considering, for others it is not worth it at all.

For example, the camera apps are built for people comfortable using manual mode. Creator Mode is for discerning viewers who want to experience a movie as the director intended. And those who have a favorite pair of wired headphones. The Mark III is not quite as hardcore as the Xperia Pro, but not far off it either.

The other reason we wanted to run another poll is that you can finally pre-order the phone. Some of you can, anyway, it will start shipping in the US in a couple of weeks. Also, it will arrive in Europe a month from now. As for its sibling, the Xperia 5 III, that is still a long way off.

So, is your finger tempted to hit that pre-order button or have you seen enough and decided against getting an Xperia 1 III? Keep in mind that it will cost you $1,300/1,300/1,200, though most markets are getting a free pair of headphones (WF-1000XM3 TWS buds in the US, WH-1000XM3 over-ear headphones in most of Europe).




Haiti - FLASH : Authenticated message from the First Lady Martine Moise (Audio)





In an authenticated audio message of 2 min 25 sec., The First Lady of Haiti Martine Moise addresses all the brothers and sisters to reassure on the one hand that she is still alive, to share her sadness but also to encourage population to continue the battle led by Jovenel Moise and that it will not let go, stressing "[...] we cannot let the President die a second time."



Extracts from Martine Moise's message (translated from Creole) :



"My brothers and sisters in the four corners of the country I greet you. It is Martine Moise speaking to you. I am alive, thank God, but I have lost my husband Jovenel.



More than 25 years that we fought together, more than 25 years with love in the family [...] the mercenaries entered to my house they riddled my husband with bullets. I have always known that since Jovenel had entered politics that he was not just for me, this assassination put water in my eyes as well as in the children and I know he puts water in your eyes too [...]



[...] we know who the President was fighting against, they sent mercenaries to kill the President at his home [...] so that the roads, the electricity, the referendum, the elections at the end of the year, for that there is no transition in the country [...]



While the mercenaries who killed the President are in prison, what other mercenaries want to assassinate the President's dream, want to assassinate the President's vision [...] ?



25 years of marriage, 25 years of living together, only one evening the mercenaries tore him from me, the tears will never dry from my eyes [...] but we cannot let the President die a second time.



I'm going to shout it's true but we cannot let the country lose the road [...] the battle which he was leading was not his own battle, but a battle he was leading for you, we must continue it.



You know that I love you very much, I will not let go, very soon I will come and talk with you on Facebook live.



God bless you, God bless Haiti."



Listen Martine Moise's full message in Creole







Read also on the assassination of President Moise :

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34199-haiti-assassination-of-the-president-names-of-the-20-members-of-the-commando-arrested-5-others-still-on-the-run.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34195-haiti-usa-uncle-sam-will-send-fbi-agents-millions-of-dollars-and-vaccines-to-haiti.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34189-haiti-justicehunt-for-latin-americans-in-haiti-the-opc-calls-on-the-population-to-calm.html

https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-34188-icihaiti-flash-11-mercenaries-arrested-in-the-taiwanese-embassy.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34183-haiti-flash-the-commando-that-killed-the-president-included-26-colombians-and-2-haitian-americans-official-video.html

https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-34182-icihaiti-assassination-of-president-moise-15-days-of-national-mourning-text-of-the-decree.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34180-haiti-politic-assassination-of-president-moiserain-of-reactions-part-2.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34178-haiti-politic-what-measures-contains-the-state-of-siege-text-of-the-decree.html

https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-34177-icihaiti-usa-the-pm-met-with-secretary-of-state-anthony-blinken.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34176-haiti-un-the-security-council-condemns-the-assassination-of-president-jovenel-moise.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34175-haiti-assassination-of-president-moise-international-reactions-part-1.html

https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-34174-icihaiti-diplomacythe-assassins-of-moise-were-professional-mercenaries-dixit-bocchit-edmond.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34173-haiti-flash-the-police-intercepts-the-presumed-assassins-of-president-moise-official-video.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34172-haiti-flash-martine-moise-in-florida-for-treatment.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34170-haiti-flash-the-first-lady-martine-moise-would-still-be-alive-but.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34169-haiti-flash-rain-of-reactions-on-the-assassination-of-president-moise-part-1.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34168-haiti-flash-the-state-of-siege-is-declared-in-haiti.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34165-haiti-assassination-of-jovenel-moise-what-says-the-constitution.html

https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-34164-haiti-dr-luis-abinader-closes-the-border-with-haiti-and-convenes-the-military-commanders.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34163-haiti-flash-closure-of-the-airport.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34162-haiti-flash-president-jovenel-moise-assassinated-by-mercenaries-official-updated-7am-+-video.html



HL/ HaitiLibre






















Haiti - Assassination of the President : Message from the Catholic Bishops of Haiti





Following the cowardly assassination of President Jovenel Moise on the night of July 6 to 7, 2021 by a Colombian commando https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34162-haiti-flash-president-jovenel-moise-assassinated-by-mercenaries-official-updated-7am-+-video.html, the Episcopal Conference of Haiti (CEH) in a message "[...] deplores and condemns this inadmissible and revolting murder and presents his sincere condolences to the relatives and friends of the presidential couple. May the soul of the deceased rest in peace and may the First Lady quickly recover his health!



This sad event marks a regrettable turning point in our history as a people, unfortunately dictated by the deliberate choice of violence made for some time by many sectors of the population as a method of survival and settlement of disputes.



Violence can only breed violence and lead to hatred. It will never help our country to get out of this political impasse which can only be resolved through dialogue, consensus, the spirit of compromise, for the best interests of the Nation, for the common good of the country.



Once again, the Episcopal Conference of Haiti invites all the sons and daughters of the country to go beyond their personal pride and their group interests to seek together, around a table, the Haitian solution long awaited by the population, dictated by love of Haiti and our values as a people.



Lay down the weapons ! Opt for life! Finally, choose fraternal living together in the interest of all and in the interest of Haiti!



May Jesus, through the all-powerful intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Our Patron Saint and our Protectress, come to our aid and free Haiti from the bonds of hatred and evil !"



See also :

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34201-haiti-flash-authenticated-message-from-the-first-lady-martine-moise-audio.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34195-haiti-usa-uncle-sam-will-send-fbi-agents-millions-of-dollars-and-vaccines-to-haiti.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34162-haiti-flash-president-jovenel-moise-assassinated-by-mercenaries-official-updated-7am-+-video.html



HL/ HaitiLibre


















Update Required

To play the media you will need to either update your browser to a recent version or update your Flash plugin.
Korean Movie | 2015

 Comedy

Directed by Cho Sung-kyu ()

110min | Release date in South Korea: 2016/04/14

Formerly known as "Backwards Closer Together"

Synopsis

Film director In-seong and scriptwriter Yun-ju have been seeing each other secretly. Min-a, In-seongs ex-girlfriend, is now living in Japan, so when she decides to come to Korea to gather some news material, she makes contact with him and they arrange to go to Gangreung together. Yun-ju is kept in the dark about this. In the country cottage in Gangreung, In-seong tries to win Min-a back, but she doesnt want him and so she leaves. Now alone in the cottage, In-seong asks Yun-ju to come to Gangreung to join him. However, when he sees Min-a and Yun-ju walking out of Gangreung Bus Terminal together, he makes up one excuse after another in an attempt to keep the two women and him apart. "Two Rooms, Two Nights " comically exposes a man trapped by his own petard for playing both sides. Director Cho Sung-kyu, has made several films centering around light love stories- "Second Half", "Santa Barbara", and "The Winter of the Year Was Warm" -and this new film follows in a similar vein. (NAM Dong-chul)



Festival

20th Busan International Film Festival (2015)

Panorama Section
West Monroe, LA (71291)

Today

Scattered thunderstorms this morning, then mainly cloudy during the afternoon with thunderstorms likely. High near 90F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80%..

Tonight

Scattered thunderstorms early, then mainly cloudy overnight with thunderstorms likely. Low 74F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 80%.
West Monroe, LA (71291)

Today

Mostly sunny early, then thunderstorms developing this afternoon. High around 90F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 80%..

Tonight

Scattered thunderstorms early, then mainly cloudy overnight with thunderstorms likely. Low 74F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 80%.
Editor: I would like to bring up a issue in town that Im sure plenty of people ha
Free access for current print subscribers

As a home delivery subscriber, you get free unlimited digital access to premium content on HenryHerald.com, including local news, local sports, obituaries, legal notices, local features, and the e-edition.

All you need is your print subscription account number and your last name.

Don't know your subscription number? Email access@henryherald.com with your delivery address.

Activate your account now.
A portion of a crane collapsed Saturday on top of a building in downtown Toronto, Canada, causing damage to its rooftop.

The counterweight, part of the crane meant to prevent it from tipping, was located on top of the 8 The Esplanade residential building after it fell approximately 20 feet, Toronto Fire District Chief Stephan Powell told CNN.

Authorities were alerted to the incident at the intersection of The Esplanade and Yonge Street just after 2 p.m., he added.

The top six floors of the condominium are mechanical rooms used for building maintenance, so no residential units were damaged, according to Powell.

The crane was carrying about 20,000 pounds of counterweight, which shifted, resulting in the crane tipping over, Toronto Fire platoon chief Kevin Shaw told CNN newsgathering partner CTV News.

"This crane collapse [caused] a bit of structural damage on the roof area, but no danger to any of the floors below, tenants or anything and didn't get into any the apartment unit," Shaw told CTV.

Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Error! There was an error processing your request.

No damage was caused to the Meridian Hall performing arts center, which is connected to the building, Toronto Police said on Twitter

City structural engineers were on site assessing the damage caused by the crane, Powell said, adding that no injuries were reported.

CNN has reached out to Del Property Management, which owns 8 The Esplanade, for comment.

The-CNN-Wire

 &  2021 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved.
An inmate who went missing from a jail barge in the Bronx early Saturday has been captured, police said.

David Mordukhaev, 30, was reported missing from his assigned housing area when officers checked, Deputy Commissioner of Public Information Peter Thorne told CNN in a statement.

Police say that Mordukhaev escaped from the Vernon C. Bain Center, nicknamed "The Boat," at 4:15 a.m.

"The individual who escaped this morning has been reapprehended," said city Department of Correction Commissioner Vincent Schiraldi.

Mordukhaev was arrested last August on charges of impersonating a police officer and robbery, according to NYPD spokeswoman Sgt. Jessica McRorie.

In April 2020, Mordukhaev was allegedly driving a black SUV, wearing a police shield around his neck and carrying what appeared to be a police radio, McRorie said. The suspect allegedly flashed a flashlight in the victim's face and took $340 and marijuana, according to an arrest report.

Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Error! There was an error processing your request.

The 800-bed correctional facility was placed on lockdown as authorities investigated Saturday's incident, Thorne said.

"No escape from our facilities is ever acceptable and we are taking every step to locate and return this individual to custody," Thorne said. "A thorough investigation into how this occurred is underway to ensure that this does not happen again, and disciplinary action, if warranted, will be taken at the conclusion of the investigation."

Opened in late 1992, VCBC is a five-story jail barge that houses medium to maximum security inmates for the New York City Department of Corrections, according to information provided by the department.

"This incident remains under investigation and we will be thoroughly addressing any and all deficiencies that led to this event," Schiraldi said.

The-CNN-Wire

 &  2021 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved.
A Texas man who told CNN he waited for "a lit bit over six hours" at a polling center in Houston to participate in Super Tuesday last year was arrested and charged this week with two counts of illegal voting.

According to a June 24 indictment from the Texas attorney general's office, Hervis Earl Rogers, 62, voted in the November 6, 2018, general and special elections and the March 3, 2020, Democratic primary election despite being on felony parole for a 25-year sentence for burglary. Because he was on felony parole, he was ineligible to vote under Texas law, according to the Texas attorney general office.

He was previously convicted of felony burglary charges in 1989 and 1995, according to the indictment.

Rogers could face up to 40 years in prison for the two felony charges of illegal voting, a second degree felony in Texas. The person commits the offense if they knowingly vote or attempt to vote in an election in which they know they're ineligible.

In Texas, ex-felons are permitted to vote once they have completed both their sentences and all the terms of their supervised release, such as parole.

Rogers did not know that he was voting illegally, the American Civil Liberties Union of Texas, who is representing Rogers, told CNN Friday.

Andre Segura, ACLU Texas' legal director, told CNN that Rogers fully believed that he was legally eligible to vote.

"That's why he went and stood in line for almost seven hours and spoke to CNN about it. He felt he was doing the right thing," Segura explained. "Where's the evidence he knew or intended to vote illegally?"

Lawyers are now trying to get an understanding of what the status of his criminal history was at the time he voted.

Segura said he believed that Rogers was no longer on parole as of a few months ago.

"(Attorney General Ken Paxton) wants to create a narrative of widespread voter fraud. We don't think this is a case that should gotten to this point," he said, also calling the charges against Rogers "a misuse of resources."

Segura said this sends a chilling signal that a possible innocent mistake can turn into something this serious.

Rogers was arrested Wednesday, according to his booking sheet, and held at Montgomery County Jail.

Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Error! There was an error processing your request.

The Bail Project said in a statement Saturday that it had posted Rogers' $100,000 bail.

In the same statement Saturday, Segura said it's "a relief that Mr. Rogers is no longer in jail."

"He should not have been arrested and charged in the first place, and certainly should not have been forced to languish in jail on an outrageously high bail amount," he added.

The charges against Rogers come as the Texas legislature is in a special session to consider legislation that will make it more difficult for people arrested to post cash bail and restrictive voting measures that would ban drive-through voting and 24-hour voting.

"Voting restrictions and the expansion of the cash bail system go hand in hand," Robin Steinberg, the founder and CEO of The Bail Project, said in a statement Saturday.

She called Rogers' situation "a textbook example of how these systems intersect to undermine our fundamental rights and target minorities."

Rogers spoke to CNN last year about the long voting lines in Texas. He told CNN at the time that he waited for "a lit bit over six hours" to cast his vote in the Democratic primary, and was not deterred like other voters by the long wait.

"I figured like it was my duty to vote. I wanted to get my vote in to voice my opinion. And I wasn't going to let nothing stop me. So I waited it out," Rogers said.

He had been the last person to cast his ballot at his polling center located at Texas Southern University, a historically Black college in Houston, CNN previously reported.

This story has been updated with additional developments Sunday.

CORRECTION: This story has been updated with Steinberg's correct pronoun.

The-CNN-Wire

 &  2021 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved.
We accept obituaries only from the funeral home in charge. For information on submitting an obituary, please contact The Herald-Dispatch by phone at 304-526-2793 or email at obits@herald-dispatch.com. Obituaries for The Herald-Dispatch must be received by 2 p.m. to appear in the next days publication. Obituaries for the Wayne County News, which publishes on Wednesday, must be received by noon Tuesday.
Note: We've recently updated our online systems. If you can't login please try resetting your password. You must login with an email address. If you don't have an email associated with your account email customercare@heraldandnews.com for help creating one.
Greenville, TX (75401)

Today

Scattered thunderstorms during the morning. Partly cloudy skies this afternoon. High 94F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%..

Tonight

Partly cloudy skies early followed by scattered thunderstorms overnight. Low around 75F. Winds SE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%.
Greenville, TX (75401)

Today

Showers early, then partly cloudy for the afternoon. High 93F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%..

Tonight

Partly cloudy skies early followed by scattered thunderstorms overnight. Low near 75F. Winds SE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%.
Support local journalism

We are making critical coverage of the coronavirus available for free.

Please consider subscribing so we can continue to bring you the latest news and information on this developing story.


Uniontown, PA (15401)

Today

Mostly cloudy skies early, then partly cloudy this afternoon. High near 80F. Winds NW at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Mainly clear skies. Low around 60F. Winds light and variable.
Nashua - Linda Susan Mason, with her husband of 21 years at her side, passed on June 15, 2021 at the Hillsborough County Nursing Home in Goffstown, N.H. Linda was born on June 26, 1947, in Lawrence, Mass. to William and Elizabeth (Tuttle) Case. She warmly remembered her childhood, spent in N
British commanders took action and Royal Navy ASW helicopters drives way Russian subs that stalked the HMS Queen Elizabeth conducting maneuvers. Since the start of NATO drills in the Black Sea, President Vladimir Putin sent in submarines earlier to show the allied fleet which fuel fears of a possible conflict.

Despite the might of the Black Sea fleet, Soviet submarines are a force to recking with as new types are seeing service in their fleets especially now as the UK ramps up its military presence with the newest aircraft carrier.

Detecting signs of prowling subs had prompted sub-hunting helicopters to thwart their activities. UK officers say they drove them off after the anti-submarine warfare (ASW) operations.

Britain's most powerful warship under surveillance

The HMS Elizabeth, while carrying out drills, sent out two Merlin Mk2 helicopters (ASW) to sweep the surrounding ocean as concern over the presence of aggressor subs arise, reported the Sun UK.

Sonobuoys were released into the water to sonar locate the stalking underwater vessel. These devices will use sonar to detect and find where the target is.

Hunting for the prowling subs comes after the events a few days back, which were ordered by Putin under watch in the Black Sea. The standoff between the HMS Defender in the Black Sea four days before noted the Telegraph was the flashpoint for Russian actions.

Earlier, the Kremlin had ordered military drills in the Mediterranean that highlight new hypersonic missiles, as another weapon in Putin's arsenal to cow the west. Even if the Royal Navy ASW helicopter's drives way Russian subs that will be minor to the end game of Moscow.

Read also: Russia Launches Secret Missile, Military Jets in Test Flight as NATO Allies Practice Drills in Black Sea

Vladimir Putin is not pleased peace is disturbed

When the HMS Queen Elizabeth, and its two types 45 destroyers, two type 23 frigates, with two support ships, set sail for the Cyprus coast; they were followed as well. Events of June 27 have not been confirmed by the UK Ministry of Defense (MoD).

The statement of the MoD remarked that there is no comment about the recent operations, although it was confirmed that all measures are done to protect the new UK aircraft carrier and vessel of the British Carrier Strike Group.

According to Ryan Ramsey, an ex- British submariner and commander of the Perisher training course said that if a submarine is detected then it means that it cannot finish whatever its mission.

These vessels must evade and Merlin ASWs are not easy to deal with. He added that the Royal Navy is good at countering subs with surface ships, subs, and airplanes in a concentrated effort.

Ramsey explained the Perisher, submarine command course, showed the helicopters as aggressors were not easy to deal with. So, are adversary forces in the same situation.

Reports say the Russians have diesel-electric submarines under the Mediterranean Sea, which is close to their naval base in the Tartus port in Syria.

The Royal Navy drew Moscow's ire when he warned that any provocation by British vessels will be sunk if they do unwanted actions.

After the Black Sea incident, the HMS Queen Elizabeth is sighted with her CSG in the Suez Canal, after Russian jets were doing practice bombing runs in the Black Sea which came after threatening to sink the HMS Defender, cited The Star.

Putin added that the HMS Defender could have been sunk, but it won't cause another World War, and the US, NATO knows it cannot win.

The Royal Navy ASW helicopters drives way Russian subs but it is part of tensions playing between the West and Russia.

Related article: War Fears Heighten as Russian Ballistic Nuclear Submarines Are Seen in the Baltic Sea While NATO Has Drills

@ 2021 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.


Thank you for reading! On your next view you will be asked to log in to your subscriber account or create an account and subscribepurchase a subscription to continue reading.
Multimedia Video Journalist

Buffalo native trying to get her news on! Im a Multimedia Journalist here at Your Hometown Stations and I love what I do. Have a cool story idea? Im in! Just email me at ashelton@wlio.com or message my Facebook page.
Authorities are searching for a Richmond woman who has been missing since Friday night.

Allison Chapman Kempe, 41, was last seen 10:30 p.m. July 9 when she left a restaurant in the 6300 block of FM1463 in Katy. She was thought to be returning to her home at FM359 and FM723 but never arrived, officials said.
The men stood in rapt formation and called Cpl. Arthur Jackson to attention, for perhaps the first time since he left the U.S. Marine Corps 75 years ago.

Bemused, the 99-year old man stepped to his feet, and walked across the lawn of his daughters house in Spring, to the three waiting Marines.

He may be aged and bald now, but hes just as lean as when he joined the Marines as a 19-year-old in 1942. He stood quietly as they recognized his role as one of the first Black Marines in America, and received a replica Congressional Gold Medal awarded to all Montford Point Marines by President Barack Obama in 2012.

Its wonderful, he said. It's something I'm proud of.

Half a century in the making

Jackson, who turned 99 last week, was born in Bellville and grew up in Houstons Studewood neighborhood.

In 1942, with the world at war, Jackson signed up to fight. He had a brother in the Navy and another in the Air Force. He chose the U.S. Marine Corps.

His decision came a year after President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed an executive order banning discrimination because of race, creed, color, or national origin in government agencies, including the armed services.

Black men had served in other branches with distinction for generations, but the Marines had barred their enlistment when they were officially re-instituted in 1798.

With Roosevelts order, the Marine Corps began signing up Black recruits, sending them to a barren piece of land near Jacksonville that they turned into a segregated base called Camp Montford Point.

Jackson was among the first waves of some 19,000 men who would become known as the Montford Point Marines.

They endured every form of racial discrimination while serving their country, wrote Melton McLaurin, in a book dedicated to the history of the group. They were relegated to segregated train cars and the back row of buses. Restaurants denied them services, and white officers abused them.

Thousands of Black recruits made it through training, many under the direction of Gilbert Hashmark Johnson, a legendary drill instructor  and one of the first Black drill instructors in the Marine Corps  who spent more than 30 years in the U.S. armed forces.

Jackson deployed to the Pacific for about a year at the end of the war, one of tens of thousands of troops sent to oversee the surrender of Japan.

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.

A life of service

In early 1946, Jackson mustered out of the military, and returned to Houston and to his wife, Horese White. He got a job carrying mail at the U.S. Post Office, where he would work for four decades. In 1958, he and Horese settled in Pleasantville in east Houston, one of the first African-American master-planned communities in America. The couple raised five children in the house where Jackson still lives, filled with flowers and love.

After almost a century of living, Jackson is a man of few words and his memory is sometimes foggy. But he lights up talking about his children.

He graduated from Booker T. Washington High School, but life got in the way before he could go to college.

Not his children, though, he said, a smile creeping across his face during a recent interview.

One thing Im proud of, he said, They all went to college.

Two sons, Charles and Weldon Jackson, served in the military. A daughter, Carol Washington, earned a Ph.D and worked as a dean at Brandeis University. Elaine Williams became a nurse, her fraternal twin, Dwayne Jackson, became a mechanical engineer.

Highest honors

Nearly eight decades after Jacksons military service ended, USMC Maj. Courtney Boston serves as commanding officer of the Marine Corps recruiting efforts in southeast Texas, an area that spans from College Station to Lufkin and Beaumont down to the Gulf Coast.

In Jackson, he sees a man who paved the way for other African-American servicemen and women, someone who could have been a grandfather or great-grandfather. Their life stories share similarities.

Like Jackson, Boston is a native Texan. He grew up in Trinity. Like Jackson, he married a childhood friend, his next-door neighbor. But while Jacksons service was brief, Boston found a path leading him to be the highest ranking officer in southeast Texas.

I didnt have to go through what he did because he blazed that trail 70 years ago, 40-year-old Boston said.

After learning about Jacksons service a few months ago, Boston decided to try to find a way to make his birthday special. He contacted Houstons chapter of the Montford Point Marine Association, which Black Marines had created to remember their service, to see if there was a way to honor him with a replica of the Congressional Gold Medal awarded en masse to Montford Point Marines in 2012. Then they got to work.

It was important to me, said Robert Alridge, the Houston chapters president and a master gunnery sergeant who spent two decades in the Marines before retiring in 1993. They went through a lot to prove they were worthy to be called Marines. We stand on their shoulders.

At the home of Jacksons daughter, dozens gathered Saturday afternoon to wish Jackson well, to celebrate his 99th birthday and to honor him with the a small ceremony marking his service as a Montford Point Marine.

What he did contributed to the success we have today, said Sgt. Christopher Broussard, an active duty Marine stationed in Houston.

In a brief ceremony, the Marines noted the history of Montford Point, later renamed Camp Johnson, in honor of Hashmark Johnson  the first military installation named for Black Marine.

A representative of the Department of Veterans Affairs spoke, as did a member of U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lees staff. They honored him with a flag flown over the U.S. Capitol, and an official proclamation.

Jackson, a man of few words, nodded occasionally, his face lit up in a wide smile.

I have had a wonderful life, he said in an interview a day earlier. I have no complaints.

And then, there was one more honor, as the crowd broke out in song to wish Jackson a happy birthday.
Jon Shapley, MBO / Associated Press

A Houston man was released from jail on Saturday after he was accused of voting illegally while on parole when he waited six hours last year to cast a ballot in the 2020 primary, according to an organization that paid his bail.

Hervis Rogers, 62, had been held on $100,000 bail in Montgomery County before The Bail Project bailed him out, according to the organization and court records. The arrest of Rogers coincided with the start of a special legislative session in which officials are expected to try tightening voting restrictions in Texas.
One person died in a shooting at a bar in southwest Houston early Sunday.

Houston Police were dispatched to 6001 Bissonnet just after midnight, where they found a man dead with multiple gunshot wounds. The man was at a bar with a friend that night when the two went to their car, and two individuals came up behind them with semi-automatic pistols and started shooting at the car.

Both people got out of the car and started to run away, and the two individuals followed them, shooting at them multiple times. One of the people was shot and killed. The two people shooting fled into a nearby neighborhood.

Houston Police say they have good surveillance video of the incident and are currently looking for a suspect. This investigation is ongoing.
Veteran Spotlight: Navy Petty Officer Ron Reda



Petty Officer Ron Reda with President Clinton at the White House. Reda served in the White House for five years. PITTSFIELD, Mass.  Ron Reda spent a decade in the Navy, the first the half in the Navy's "silent service" and then five years serving up dinner in the White House. He ended his service to the country in 2000 as a petty officer.

Growing up Chicago, he came from a large Italian family.

"We always had tons of food from my mom, my grandmother, my aunts ... we always respected food. Never thought I'd grow up to be a chef," he said with a laugh.

He was sent to basic training at Naval Station Great Lakes outside Chicago then to submarine school in Groton, Conn.

"My dad was a Navy man and I wanted to follow in his footsteps. We had a full load of classes ... they keep you moving constantly," he said. "They put you through the ringer constantly to see how you do mentally."

The toughest part of submarine school?

"It was my first time away from home and you keep wondering if you made the right decision ... is this the right decision? There's lots of training and a big learning curve, mental lockdowns and the stress of fires and floods," he remembered.

Petty Officer Reda recalled his first assignment on his submarine.

"I was a fire control technician. The food was horrible. I went to the kitchen and said, 'let me help you.' They said if I thought I could do it, then go ahead. I told the chief I wanted to cook ... cooked dinner for 175 guys  bread pasta, gravy (sauce) and desert. The captain came down, his name was Thorne, and said he wanted me to cook the meals from now on."

Reda said he started hanging out in the galley and learning by asking questions, reading books. "Initially, the guys were pissed, thought I was invading their territory. Then they saw the quality time I put in and I got their respect," he recalled.

When asked about being away for the holidays, Reda answered matter-of-factly: "you're underwater doing your job. Christmas Eve, New Year's Eve, nothing changes. You eat, then go back to work. No communication with your family, you're invisible in the water. The wife and kids suffer the most and you kind of lose that holiday spirit."

"I got transferred to a ballistic missile sub  the USS Maine. It was a downgrade in rank but it worked out well, we got to cook for the admiral and his guests. The admiral began entertaining because of my food," Reda said. "Then the admiral filled out a new job application for me for the White House ... I had to go there for an interview, was unbelievably detailed and thorough intense background checks and, of course, involved the Secret Service. They went from everything from A to Z  I finally received clearance six months later."

The master chief at the White House liked him, he said, so he moved to Washington, D.C., to begin his tour of duty in the White House in 1995, becoming a chef and kitchen supervisor.

Reda said his time in the White House was one of the great experiences of his life.

"President Clinton was the coolest guy ... talked to everyone like he was your friend. The man had extraordinary charisma, an excellent memory and an amazing presence. You always knew when he was in the room," he said. "He knew my name, my parents' name, where I was from, where my parents were from ... he'd see me and say, 'we're going to Chicago next week, you coming?'"

Because of obvious security issues, Petty Officer Reda wasn't allowed to go into detail on many aspects of his time at the White House. However, he did say Clinton "really liked his food. It was a big thing when he walked through the kitchen."

One day the kitchen got a call that the president wasn't feeling well and that he wanted chicken noodle soup.

"We didn't have chicken noodle soup, so we had 12 guys making the different parts of the soup. One guy chopped carrots and celery, another did the stock, another cooked the chicken ... the camaraderie and the teamwork was outstanding, everyone helped each other," Reda said. "Everything we did was critical ... no room for mistakes, expectations had to be really high all the time. It was high stress, but a good stress."

He added that "if they called me to go back there tomorrow, I'd go in a second."

He described this trips on Air Force One as "the quietest and smoothest ride" he'd ever been on in the air.

"We had free movies, free phone calls, it was awesome," he smiled.

His final thoughts on service? "I shouldn't have gotten out when I did. I could have done 10 more years and retired, but life went the way it was supposed to. The military was good to me. I never got in trouble and have no regrets," he said.

He is now the head chef at the Proprietor's Lodge in Pittsfield and is allowing Berkshire County residents to enjoy his extraordinary fare.

Petty Officer Ron Reda, thank you for your service to our great country.
We've recently updated our online systems. If you can't login please try resetting your password. You must login with an email address. If you don't have an email associated with your account email circulation@idahopress.com for help creating one.
Community Information

If you would like to submit an upcoming event or community announcement, please contact our staff at 208-232-4161 or send an email to cjohnson@journalnet.com. We will also accept news from local clubs and engagement, wedding and anniversary announcements. You can post your community or club events on our calendar.

Obituaries

Submit an obituary/notice All obituaries must be placed by your mortuary or onlineDeadline is 3 p.m. for publication the next day. The ISJ is not responsible for spelling, grammar, or basic mistakes.
Note: We've recently updated our online systems. If you can't login please try resetting your password. You must login with an email address. If you don't have an email associated with your account email circulation2@journalnet.com for help creating one.
Imperial Valley News Center

Cryptocurrency Fraudster Sentenced for Money Laundering and Securities Fraud in Multi-Million Dollar Investment Scheme

San Francisco, California - A Swedish man was sentenced Thursday to 15 years in prison for securities fraud, wire fraud and money laundering charges that defrauded thousands of victims of more than $16 million.

Roger Nils-Jonas Karlsson, 47, pleaded guilty on March 4. According to court documents, Karlsson ran an investment fraud scheme from 2011 until his arrest in Thailand in June 2019. Karlsson induced victims to purchase shares in the scheme called Eastern Metal Securities using cryptocurrency such as Bitcoin and other online payment platforms. Karlsson promised victims astronomical returns tied to the price of gold. Instead, the funds provided by victims were transferred to Karlssons personal bank accounts, and he then used proceeds to purchase expensive homes, a racehorse and a resort in Thailand. Karlssons fraud targeted financially insecure investors, causing severe financial hardship for many of them. Meanwhile, Karlsson went to great lengths to prolong his scheme, including rebranding, offering updates and account statements that provided assurances to the victims of the states of their assets, and offering explanations for the payout delays  including falsely claiming to be working with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

As part of the sentence, Karlsson was also ordered to forfeit a Thai resort and various other properties and accounts, and issued a money judgment in the amount of $16,263,820. The United States is seeking restitution on behalf of Karlssons victims. A restitution order is expected to be entered by the court within 90 days. Victims of Roger Karlsson and Eastern Metal Securities who have not been in contact with the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Northern District of California are encouraged to submit information as soon as possible. Additional information for victims and a victim form are available at https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndca/united-states-vs-roger-karlsson-and-eastern-metal-securities.

Acting Assistant Attorney General Nicholas L. McQuaid of the Justice Departments Criminal Division; Acting U.S. Attorney Stephanie Hinds of the Northern District of California; and Acting Special Agent in Charge Darrell J. Waldon of the IRS-Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) Washington, D.C., Field Office made the announcement.

IRS-CI Washington, D.C. Cyber Crimes Unit investigated the case. The Justice Departments Office of International Affairs, the FBI Legal Attache Office in Thailand, the IRS-CI Attache Office in Hong Kong and the Royal Thai Police Crime Suppression Division provided significant assistance. The SECs New York Regional Office also provided substantial support.

Trial Attorney C. Alden Pelker of the Criminal Divisions Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney William Frentzen of the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of California prosecuted the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen Beausey of the Asset Forfeiture Unit of the U.S. Attorneys Office handled the forfeiture proceedings, and Victim Specialist Maria Sunga provided support. Law clerks and interns Seamus Lynch, John Paul, Kate Kaplan and Edward Percarpio also provided essential assistance in support of the sentencing.
No matter how you spent the last year, it was a stressful one. Whether you were homeschooling kids, taking care of elderly family members, or simply navigating how to keep yourself safe and healthy, reading was probably low on your priority list.

My advice: make time for it.

I am lucky to have a job managing a public company and it keeps me busy. But between hosting Zoom meetings with customers and helping with homeschooling, I still managed to read close to 30 books this year. While I spent more time at home and indoors this year, reading this many books was a common habit for me long before the world slowed down.

Reading is something I will always prioritize, no matter how jam-packed my life gets. I wouldn't be where I am in my career without the lessons I've learned from books. Making time to read is one of the most important pieces of advice I can give up-and-coming entrepreneurs.

Does the prospect of squeezing 30 books into your yearly routine seem overwhelming? Here is how and why you should still make it a priority.

Gaining new (and old) perspectives

In the world we live in today, it's hard to disconnect from work. I often find myself thinking about customers and deadlines when I should be off the clock. The pandemic certainly hasn't helped with our ability to sign off. A recent report found that over the past year, the average person in the US, UK, Canada, and Austria worked an average of 2.5 hours longer per day than they did before COVID-19.

Reading is a great way to combat this trend. It keeps your brain fresh and lets you think about things outside of what you do all day long. Whether you prefer fiction or nonfiction, reading is a valuable way to understand how we got to where we are today. Books have opened my eyes to new perspectives on society, life, technology, entrepreneurship, culture, and religion. History books, in particular, are a great way to apply lessons of the past to your life in the present. As the philosopher and writer George Santayana once said, "Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it."

Doing better work

Disconnecting from work is essential for everyone's mental health. But if you love your job, you probably also want to know how reading can help you do it better. The truth is, almost every book I read-- whether it's about the Gold Rush, successful business leaders, or a famous comedian-- teaches me something new that I can apply to work.

For example, my workplace Okta is an enterprise technology company, so I love reading about tech history. The Innovator's Dilemma by Clayton Christensen (1997) has been helpful to me as we've built Okta by innovating and disrupting legacy incumbents and is a good reminder to watch that we don't get disrupted in the future ourselves.

There are also tons of books about both famous and infamous entrepreneurs that offer important lessons for founders and managers. Super Pumped: The Battle for Uber by Mike Isaac taught me about some of the mistakes Uber made early on, highlighting the importance of building a healthy work culture and keeping my eye on long-term success.

If reading about business isn't your favorite way to spend your time, you can find great insight in other kinds of books too. I learned a lot from a book about deep-sea treasure hunters called Ship of Gold in the Deep Blue Sea, written by Gary Kinder. The book is about a team searching for the SS Central America, a ship that sank while carrying 21 tons of gold. Even though this one doesn't focus on a traditional startup, it offers many valuable lessons for someone who works at one. Tommy Thompson, the treasure hunting team leader, had to navigate many of the same hurdles we face as entrepreneurs-- finding funding, complying with regulations, overcoming technology limitations, and constantly innovating.

Finding the time

If you choose books that inspire you, you won't feel like you have to "make time" for reading because you'll enjoy it. When I try to read something I'm not that interested in, it becomes a chore. Putting the book down and moving on to something else is essential. There are too many great books out there to spend your time reading one that isn't working for you.

Here are a few tips for making it easy to find time to read:

When someone recommends a book that sounds mildly interesting, buy it and keep a stack of unread books at home. Having a few on hand is key, so when you have time to read, there's always something available. Keep a few books next to your bed and make it a goal to read for 5-10 minutes before you go to sleep. I do this every night. If you like the book, you'll probably end up reading more. Plus, reading about a different topic than what I spend most of my day thinking about allows my brain to "turn off" more easily when I turn the lights off. Get the same books your friends are reading. It's always more fun to read when you have someone to talk about it with. Or better yet, send your favorite reads to your friends to discuss next time you meet up. Always pack a book or two in your suitcase, briefcase, backpack, purse, etc., so you have something to read when on the move-- on the bus, at the airport, waiting for an appointment, and on vacation-- as we will hopefully all be soon! Or bring an easy-to-carry Kindle along, and if you don't have one it's a great idea when family asks for your next birthday or holiday wish list.
Michael Gandolfini needed a lot of courage for his emotional performance as young Tony Soprano.

The 22-year-old will star later this year in The Many Saints of Newark as a teenage version of the role his late father, James Gandolfini, made famous.

Speaking to The New York Post, Deborah Lin, Jamess second wife and Michaels stepmother, said that it had taken a lot of courage for the actor to step into the part that won his father six Emmys.

It was almost surreal to see Michael in the trailer, Lin said.

I know it took a lot of courage for him to take this role. It was very emotional. But the whole family is just so proud of him. His father would be very proud.

The trailer for The Many Saints of Newark was released last month, with Sopranos fans hailing the perfect casting of Michael and saying that the footage left them in tears.

Originally airing on HBO between 1999 and 2007, The Sopranos focused on the personal and professional life of New Jersey mob boss Tony Soprano.

The prequel film will take place during Tonys teenage years.

The Many Saints of Newark arrives in the US on HBO Max on 1 October, with a UK release yet to be announced.
Sean Penn says it felt like vulnerable communities were being gunned down from the White House as a result of Donald Trumps response to the coronavirus crisis.

Speaking at the Cannes Film Festival, the actor and director was questioned about his own efforts to bring testing and vaccinations to people across the US as part of his Core (Community Organised Relief Effort) project.

I dont think that I can illuminate anything that shouldnt be plain to the eye, Penn said, per Deadline.

We were  not only as a country, but as a world  let down and ultimately neglected, misinformed, had truth and reason assaulted under what was, in all terms, an obscene administration, humanly and politically.

He continued: When my team and I would come home from test and vaccination sites at night, particularly during the testing period during the Trump administration it really felt like there was someone with a machine gun gunning down communities that were the most vulnerable from a turret at the White House.

The Independent has contacted Trumps representatives for comment.

Penn is in Cannes to promote his film Flag Day, in which he stars as con artist John Vogel.

The 60-year-olds daughter Dylan Penn plays his on-screen daughter, Jennifer.
The UK has finalised a post-Brexit trade deal with Norway Iceland and Liechtenstein the Government has announced.

International trade ministers agreed the deal in principle last month, but said the deal has now been signed by representatives from all nations.

The Government said the deal will be a major boost for the four non-EU nations, which had a trading relationship worth 21.6 billion last year.

Ministers said the move will boost the digital, financial and professional services sectors, as well as reduce tariffs on British exports and support international jobs.

The UK is Norways top trading partner outside of the EU.

International Trade Secretary Liz Truss said: Todays deal signing is a landmark moment for trade between the UK, Iceland, Norway and Liechtenstein.

It will support jobs, cut red tape, and open up more opportunities for the UK.

I urge businesses across the country, from farmers to fintech, to seize the fantastic opportunities this deal presents.

Norways minister of trade and industry Iselin Nybo said: The UK market is of great importance to Norway.

Today marks an important step in our future relationship with the United Kingdom.

I am proud that we have concluded an ambitious and comprehensive free trade agreement, which will provide predictability and opportunities for our businesses, investors, students and workers in the years to come.
Go Pro footage taken inside Lytton, in Canadas British Columbia, shows the remains of a town residents described as a special place where every takes care of each other.

In place of homes once filled with people, and a lifetimes worth of possessions, there is nothing but charred rubble. Video, take by The Independent, shows structures reduced to dust, ash scattered across the road, trees split apart by heat.

Objects once used by families are virtually unidentifiable, save for a few items that no doubt will take on a poignant significance for the families who revisited the charred remains of their homes this week.

All of Edith Loring-Kuhangas most prized possessions have been reduced to ash. Nothing remains of her home, other than the wire fence that runs around it, a large tree on the front of the property and an oil tank at the back. The rest is debris and charred earth.

And yet, the Lytton resident says seeing the remains of her home, and the decimated town around it, was a tough but necessary experience.

 Canadian town completely destroyed by fire

The small village was destroyed by a fire just days after it broke the record for Canadas all-time highest temperature for three days in a row, reaching 121.1F (49.5C).

Lytton was among a number of areas in the Pacific Northwest that saw extreme heat over the last month; with places in across the border in California, Oregon and Washington in the US also breaking their own temperature records and reporting hundreds of deaths believed to be linked to the extreme heat.

Caused by what meteorologists have described as a heat dome of high pressure over the Pacific Northwest and Canadas British Columbia, the impact has been worsened by human-caused climate change.

In Canada, the heat was so intense that experts said it set the perfect conditions for wildfires. However, investigators believe that the fire in Lytton may have been caused by humans.

Many Lytton residents on Friday returned to the town for the first time since fleeing the oncoming flames, to observe what remained. The Thompson-Nicola Regional District arranged buses to take evacuees, and a media contingent including The Independent, back into the town on a tightly controlled tour.

Loring-Kuhanga was one of those residents.

A bus tours Lytton with residents of the town that was devastated by fire. (Ashleigh Stewart)

The school administrator for the Stein Valley Nlakapamux School, a First Nations school in Lytton, escaped the fire and helped set up the muster station at the local high school for evacuees. She then fled the town to Lillooet and is now staying in a hotel in Langley.

She says seeing the remains of the town was cathartic.

(Ashleigh Stewart)

You see a lot of news and a lot of social media, and for me I needed to see it myself. I felt it was part of my own healing, she says.

It was part of accepting it all too. That this really did happen.

Driving through Lyttons Main Street is a confronting experience. The vast majority of the buildings have been reduced to blackened rubble and twisted metal. Burnt out cars sit abandoned on the side of the road. The medical centre is a mangled heap of aluminium and bricks. So too is the towns renowned Chinese History Museum.

(Ashleigh Stewart)

Few buildings are still standing, but the ones that are seem to have escaped, without reason, entirely unscathed. One house sits in immaculate condition, its green lawn still vibrant; a jarring contrast to the surrounding charred properties. The post office and a church have also been spared.

Residents from Lytton congregate at the high school during the tour. (Ashleigh Stewart)

As well as taking in the damage, Loring-Kuhanga says it was also a chance for Lytton residents, who were scattered across several nearby communities due to the speed at which everyone was forced to flee, to catch up again. The resident tour ran over-time due to everyone wanting to hear each others stories, she says.

Everybody you talked to had their own story of how they escaped, who helped them, what they did and what they saw, what they took and what they didnt take, she explains.

It was just so great to see each other, it was confirmation that youre alive and youre okay. We did ask if we should be crying or smiling. But we all said no, were so grateful to see each other and knowing that everyone is okay.

As the bus drove through town, Loring-Kuhanga says residents were mostly silent, other than a few audible gasps or recognition of the remains of someones house.

 Haunting first look inside Canadian town devastated by heat dome

While Loring-Kuhanga has only lived in Lytton for four years, her family has ties to the town that date back to the 1900s. A lot of her familys traditional regalia was destroyed when her house went up in flames.

That was all my memories and all of the possessions that I had. Its all gone, Its just all ashes.

However, Loring-Kuhanga says every resident she spoke to today is adamant they want to return to the town and rebuild.

Lytton is a very special place. Theres so much history there. Its a small little town, everybody takes care of each other. Theres too much there to leave permanently.

Jennifer Thoss agrees. She says Lytton is a family, all of whom will help each other get back on their feet.

Thoss was also on the bus tour, having lived in Lytton four four years, but now lives in Tsawwassen. However, she invested heavily in the town and now owns five rental properties there. All are now powder.

Thoss was in Lytton two days before the fire broke out, seeing one of her tenants and moving some of her own things into one of the properties she was renovating for herself, to spend summers in.

I had my feet in Lytton Creek, having a beer with my friends. The fire started from that point a few days later.

(Ashleigh Stewart)

Thoss says the best part of the tour was seeing her neighbours and others she hadnt seen since the fire, and the addition of a First Nations contingent who drummed for them as they got off the buses to visit the high school.

She says the most worrying aspect of the fires is how many people in the small town did not have home or contents insurance.

However, for others, returning to the town was too much. Pierre Quevillon said he declined joining the tour, because he knew the pick-up truck that he had packed his dogs into, ready to escape the town, was still there. The truck had caught fire, along with his dogs, before he had a chance to escape  leaving him to flee the town on foot.

Hours ahead of the residents tour on Friday, the federal government ordered trains to cease operations for 48 hours in the area.

Transport Minister Omar Alghabra issued the order in the interest of safe railway operations, and to protect public safety for the temporary return of residents to inspect their homes in Lytton, British Columbia, in a statement.

It comes as The Transportation Safety Board says it is now investigating the fire, after receiving information from the RCMP and BC Wildfire Service, who are trying to determine the cause of the blaze. Videos and witnesses have pointed to a burning train spotted near the town as a possible cause.
Boris Johnsons promise of more than 11bn to help poorer countries adapt to the climate emergency will be paid for by even deeper cuts to the UKs other overseas aid projects, The Independent has learned.

Failure to provide fresh funding leaves the prime ministers claim to be leading the world on the environment in tatters ahead of hosting the Cop26 summit in the autumn, campaigners say.

It also breaks a United Nations-brokered agreement that the cash must be new and additional, they claim, with one likening it to a bailiff leaving a bunch of flowers.

The government has been criticised on all sides for its existing 4bn-a-year aid cuts, with a project in Malawi to help farmers adapt to climate change among the latest to have fallen victim. At least three similar schemes are expected to follow.

The World Health Organisation has already warned that hundreds of thousands of people will die from the cuts, amid fury that MPs have been denied the vote on the move they were promised.

In Cornwall last month, the prime minister hailed his 11.6bn climate commitment to the developing world  spread over 5 years  and vowed to pester other countries to stump up cash before Cop26 in Glasgow.

We, as the rich nations of the Earth, we need to build our credibility with those countries in asking them to make cuts in CO2, he said- in relation to contributions to a hoped-for $100bn UN annual fund.

Because this country, which started the Industrial Revolution, is responsible for a huge budget of carbon thats already in the atmosphere.

But the government has now quietly conceded that the entire 11.6bn  worth around 2.3bn each year, between 2021 and 2026  will come from official development assistance (ODA), the aid budget.

Mr Johnson is already under fire for breaking a promise to give MPs a vote on the decision to slash aid spending from 0.7 to 0.5 per cent of national output, swiping 4bn a year from the pot.

Catherine Pettengell, UK director of the Climate Action Network, said the promise of new and additional resources for the flagship UN Climate Adaptation Fund was being broken.

Reducing the aid budget, while at the same time drawing on it as the only source of climate finance, will inevitably harm the most vulnerable in society, she said.

Tracy Carty, Oxfams senior climate adviser, said: We welcome the UKs commitment to climate finance, but when its coming from a declining aid budget its a bit like your bailiff leaving a bunch of flowers.

And Preet Gill, the shadow international development secretary, condemned empty greenwashing that would hit the worlds most vulnerable people and weaken their ability to take action on the climate crisis.

The revelation that no new money will be made available comes after the governments independent climate advisers warned the aid cuts are already undermining the climate finance pledge.

The Prosper (Promoting Sustainable Partnerships for Empowered Resilience) project in Malawi is working with farmers to reduce the impact of climate shocks through new agricultural practices, better irrigation and early warning systems.

But the 25m scheme, funded from the governments Building Resilience and Adapting to Climate Change (BRACC) programme, has now been axed, despite being given an A** rating  forcing staff redundancies and the closure of four district offices.

The cut has dealt a severe blow to our efforts to build the resilience of extremely poor communities in Malawi to adapt and cope with climate shocks such as droughts, said Danny Harvey, executive director of the aid agency Concern Worldwide.

The worlds richest countries first committed to spending $100bn a year on a Climate Adaptation Fund to help poor nations adapt to global heating way back in 2009  but only $79bn has been raised.

The UK is seen as being somewhere in the middle of the G7, behind France, Germany, Japan and Canada, but ahead of the US and Italy.

The fund recognises the guilt of industrialised nations  for centuries of carbon emissions  and is meant to help developing countries protect themselves against the devastating effects of global heating, while cutting their own emissions.

At Cancun in 2010, the Cop16 summit, rich countries promised funding would be new and additional, noting the urgent and immediate needs of developing countries that are particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change.

But the government has now revealed that the entire 11.6bn counts as ODA  meaning no extra funding will be brought forward.

Furthermore, only 1.4bn will be allocated to climate finance in 2021-22, raising fears that most of the spending will be left to the end of the five-year period.

But, in Cornwall, Mr Johnson suggested the UK had gone as far as it intends to, saying: We are now asking other countries to make a change.

We are going to be on everybodys case between now and the summer, and on into the autumn, to get those commitments and to make sure that we get the world into the right place for Cop.

The Foreign Office defended the arrangement on the grounds that the international climate finance commitments are new and additional to any previous commitments to the UN fund.

While the seismic impact of the pandemic on the UK economy has forced us to take tough but necessary decisions, the UK aid budget this year will still be more than 10bn, making us one of the biggest donors in the G7, a spokesperson said.
For putting their health on the line during the coronavirus pandemic, prison guards in Missouri got an extra $250 per paycheck. Teachers in Georgia received $1,000 bonuses. And in Vermont nurses, janitors, retail workers and many others got as much as $2,000.

Over the past year, about one-third of U.S. states have used federal COVID-19 relief aid to reward workers considered essential who dutifully reported to jobs during the pandemic. But who qualified for those bonuses -- and how much they received  varied widely, according to an Associated Press review. While some were paid thousands of dollars, others with similar jobs elsewhere received nothing.

As society reopens, momentum to provide pandemic hazard pay appears to be fading  even though the federal government has broadened the ability of state and local governments to provide retroactive pay under a $350 billion aid package enacted by President Joe Biden in March.

So far, only a few states have committed to paying workers extra with money from the American Rescue Plan.

Florida is giving $1,000 bonuses to teachers and first-responders. Minnesota plans to distribute $250 million in bonuses to essential workers, though a special panel won't determine who qualifies until later this year.

This past week, Hawaii Gov. David Ige vetoed a budget provision to pay teachers $2,200 bonuses. The Democratic governor said lawmakers didn't have the authority to tell the state Department of Education how to use the federal money.

Some states remain reluctant to enact bonus programs.

An Oregon proposal to use federal pandemic aid to provide bonuses of up to $2,000 for essential workers failed to make it into the budget that took effect July 1, despite a union lobbying campaign that included thousands of emails and hundreds of phone calls to lawmakers. The proposal would have covered workers in numerous fields, including education, health care, public safety and transportation.

I dont think anyone was opposed to it, said Melissa Unger, executive director of Service Employees International Union Local 503. But no one prioritized it.

Although states have until the end of 2024 to decide how to spend the latest federal aid, some advocates worry the realistic window for providing worker bonuses may be closing as more parts of society re-open.

Unfortunately, the longer you delay doing it, the less its going to be on the top of minds of voters and those policymakers, said Molly Kinder, a fellow at the nonprofit Brookings Institution who tracks pandemic hazard pay policies.

Premium pay is one of just several options provided to states under Bidens aid package. States also can use the money to backfill budget holes, help businesses and households affected by the economic downturn, fund certain infrastructure projects and pay for public health programs such as COVID-19 testing and vaccinations.

Illinois lawmakers used the federal money for dozens of initiatives in the budget that took effect July 1  from $75,000 for a high school mentoring and violence prevention program to $200 million for hospitals. Nothing was earmarked for extra pandemic pay, even though Illinois had paid it in the past.

Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker's administration provided a temporary 12% pay boost last year to nearly 24,000 state workers whose jobs put them at risk of contracting COVID-19. Most of the $62 million cost was covered with federal funds.

Morale-wise, that was a critical thing for my co-workers and I," said Crosby Smith, a care provider at a state home for the developmentally disabled near Chicago. Because at that time, when COVID hit our facility ... we felt kind of abandoned.

Smith and his fiancee were among numerous staff and residents at the Ludeman Developmental Center who contracted the virus last year. He said the hazard money helped pay down credit cards and avoid further debt when buying clothing and shoes.

Most states that have provided COVID-19 hazard pay used money from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act signed by then-President Donald Trump in March 2020. While some states limited payments to particular public employees, others passed out money to a wide range of private-sector workers deemed to be doing important jobs.

Louisiana spent more than $38 million last year providing $250 payments to more than 152,000 frontline workers earning less than $50,000 annually, according to state data provided to the AP. Health care workers received the largest share of the money, followed by grocery store workers and law enforcement personnel. But payments also went to gas station workers, child-care providers, janitors, bus drivers and others.

Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf, a Democrat, used $50 million in federal aid for grants to over 600 businesses to provide a temporary $3 hourly boost to employees earning less than $20 an hour. Health care providers got most of the money, followed by the food industry, according to state data provided to the AP. But millions of dollars also went to cleaning companies and private security firms.

By contrast, South Dakota limited hazard pay to state workers and only for the time they were potentially exposed to COVID-19. One therapy assistant got an extra 40 cents, a pharmacist received $1.80 and a maintenance supervisor got $4, according to state data provided to the AP.

In some states, the cost of hazard pay programs far exceeded initial expectations.

Missouri originally budgeted about $24 million in federal aid to provide an extra $250 per two-week paycheck for state employees working in close-contact institutions such as prisons, mental health facilities and veterans nursing homes. The stipend applied to anyone without unscheduled absences at any facility with at least one COVID-19 case  ultimately covering a lot more people for a much longer period than policymakers had anticipated at the onset of the pandemic.

Missouri ended up paying more than $73 million in hazard stipends to more than 18,000 employees, trigging an additional $24 million in fringe costs such as pension payments and federal taxes, according to state data provided to the AP. The payments ended June 30, and the state has no immediate plans to resume them.

Without a doubt, it was worth it, said Missouri Gov. Mike Parson, a Republican. Some people did some incredible jobs in this state to stay the course and to stay in the line of duty.

Vermont's hazard pay program also swelled in cost. Last August, the state allotted $28 million of federal funds to pay up to $2,000 to health care employees who worked during the early stages of the pandemic. It later added $22 million to expand the program to retail and grocery workers, child care providers, janitors, trash collectors and others. When those funds were depleted, the state added $10 million more to cover all eligible applicants.

Employees in Vermonts retail and grocery industries received nearly a third of the total money, almost matching the amount that went to health care fields, according to data provided to the AP.

Demand was high, in part, because Republican Gov. Phil Scott encouraged hesitant big businesses, such as Walmart, to apply on behalf of their employees, said Mike Pieciak, commissioner of the Vermont Department of Financial Regulation. He said consumer spending spiked around the time the payments were distributed.

The primary goal was to say thank you to those frontline workers, but it had that nice benefit as well of getting the money into the economy, Pieciak said.
A 90-year-old woman in Belgium was infected with two different variants of the Covid-19 virus at the same time, researchers have found, in what is one of the first documented cases of its kind.

The unvaccinated woman was admitted to hospital in the Belgian city of Aalst on 3 March of this year following a number of falls and was confirmed as being Covid positive on the same day.

Despite showing no initial signs of respiratory distress, she soon deteriorated and died five days after her admission.

When the patients respiratory sample was processed for genomic sequencing, researchers discovered that she had been infected by the Alpha and Beta variants, which first emerged in the UK and South Africa respectively.

This is one of the first documented cases of co-infection with two Sars-CoV-2 variants of concern, said molecular biologist Dr Anne Vankeerberghen, who helped write a study on the woman.

Both these variants were circulating in Belgium at the time, so it is likely that the lady was co-infected with different viruses from two different people. Unfortunately, we dont know how she became infected.

Dr Vankeerberghen said it was difficult to say whether the dual infection had played a role in the patients fast deterioration following her admission to hospital.

Other cases, like the one seen in Aalst, have been reported across the globe.

In January 2021, scientists in Brazil reported that two people had been simultaneously infected with two different coronavirus variants, though research into these cases has yet to be published in a scientific journal.

Up to now, there have been no other published cases, said Dr Vankeerberghen, who is set to present her findings to the European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases.

However, the global occurrence of this phenomenon is probably underestimated due to limited testing for variants of concern and the lack of a simple way to identify co-infections with whole genome sequencing.

Rowland Kao, a professor of veterinary epidemiology and data science at the University of Edinburgh, said it was very difficult to make general conclusions from a single case.

Its worth noting that, with the millions of cases of Covid-19 around the world, there will be at least some individuals who will have been exposed to more than one variant of the virus close enough in time that any immune response due to the first exposure will have little influence on the probability of infection with the second, once exposed, he said.

Dual infections can lead to the phenomenon of recombination, whereby two Sars-CoV-2 viruses come together in the same cell of a human host and exchange segments of their genome.

Unlike regular genetic mutation, which sees changes to the virus coding take place one step at a time, recombination can produce wholesale changes to a coronavirus genome in a single swoop.

As a result, the newly combined virus can acquire a different host of characteristics which make it more transmissible or better suited to evading certain elements of the bodys immune response.

It could also be the case that this heavily mutated hybrid is stripped of the advantageous features which were unique to the two variants that had initially infected the host cell.

World news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 World news in pictures World news in pictures 14 July 2021 Pupils of the Special Military School of Saint-Cyr march during the annual Bastille Day military parade on the Champs-Elysees avenue in Paris AFP/Getty World news in pictures 13 July 2021 Rescuers look for bodies after a catastrophic blaze erupted Monday at a coronavirus hospital ward in the al-Hussein Teaching Hospital, in Nasiriyah, Iraq AP World news in pictures 12 July 2021 People try to recover a car damaged during flash floods after heavy monsoon rains in Bhagsunag, a popular tourist town in Himachal Pradesh, India AP World news in pictures 11 July 2021 Police cars are seen overturned in the street in the framework of a demonstration against Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel in Havana AFP via Getty Images World news in pictures 10 July 2021 Tanya and Evance Chanda from Mechanicsville look on as a statue of Confederate General Thomas "Stonewall" Jackson is removed after years of a legal battle over the contentious monument, in Charlottesville, Virginia Reuters World news in pictures 9 July 2021 Hundreds of Haitians gather in front of the US embassy in the hope that they will be granted a visa to leave their country, due the uncertainty of what may happen after the assassination of President Jovenel Moise, in Port-au-Prince, Haiti EPA World news in pictures 8 July 2021 NGOs fly huge rainbow balloon at Hungary's parliament protesting against anti-LGBT law in Budapest Reuters World news in pictures 7 July 2021 The Ever Given leaves the Suez Canal after its Japanese owners reached a settlement following more than three months and a court standoff over compensation for it blocking the crucial east-west waterway for nearly a week earlier this year Getty World news in pictures 6 July 2021 Queen Maxima of the Netherlands arrives to be greeted by German Chancellor at the Chancellery in Berlin AFP/Getty World news in pictures 5 July 2021 Firefighters work at the site of an explosion and fire at a plastics factory on the outskirts of Bangkok AFP via Getty World news in pictures 4 July 2021 In this photo released by authorities, rescuers search for bodies from the site where a Philippine military C-130 plane crashed in Patikul town, Sulu province, Philippines AP World news in pictures 3 July 2021 A fire on the surface of the Gulf of Mexico erupted after a gas leak from an underwater pipeline sparked a blaze, according to Mexicos state-owned Pemex petrol company Twitter/Manuel Lopez San Martin World news in pictures 2 July 2021 A human chain is formed by workers from the civil society, humanitarian aid, and medical and rescue services in a vigil calling for maintaining a UN resolution authorising the passage of humanitarian aid into Syrias rebel-held northwestern province of Idlib through the Bab al-Hawa border crossing with Turkey AFP/Getty World news in pictures 1 July 2021 Members and supporters of LGBT community wear masks and hold rainbow flags as they gather during the annual gay pride parade in Pristina, Kosovo Reuters World news in pictures 30 June 2021 A man walks past traditional large figures called Ondel-ondel, donning face masks and displayed along a sidewalk of a main road, in Jakarta, Indonesia Reuters World news in pictures 29 June 2021 Toshiyuki Inoko, leader of TeamLab, poses for a photo following an interview with AFP in an interactive kinetic installation "Floating Flower Garden: Flowers and I are of the Same Root, the Garden and I are One" during a media preview of the TeamLab Planets Garden Area in the Toyosu district of Tokyo AFP/Getty World news in pictures 28 June 2021 Youths crawl on the ground while holding wooden mock rifles during a military summer training camp organised by the Islamic Jihad group, in Gaza City AP World news in pictures 27 June 2021 Juventudes Matheus Jesus in action with Flamengos Rene in the Brasileiro Championship Reuters World news in pictures 26 June 2021 A boat passes off shore as members of the South Florida Urban Search and Rescue team look for possible survivors in the partially collapsed 12-story Champlain Towers South condo building Getty World news in pictures 25 June 2021 The last super moon of 2021 behind the 66-metre tall Millennium cross in Skopje, North Macedonia Reuters World news in pictures 24 June 2021 Nikhil Sachania steers his Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X with co-driver Deep Patel ahead of the 2021 Safari Rally Kenya during a side-by-side super special at Kasarani near Nairobi AFP/Getty World news in pictures 23 June 2021 A football fan sits in the stands before the UEFA EURO 2020 Group E football match between Sweden and Poland at Saint Petersburg Stadium in Saint Petersburg AFP/Getty World news in pictures 22 June 2021 A child holds a Chinese flag near the museum of the First National Congress of the Chinese Communist Party during a media tour organised by the local government in Shanghai on June 22, 2021 AFP/Getty World news in pictures 21 June 2021 Jun 21, 2021; Omaha, Nebraska, USA; Vanderbilt Commodores outfielder Cooper Davis (3) leaps over pitcher Nick Maldonado (29) in between inning action against the NC State Wolfpack at TD Ameritrade Park USA TODAY Sports/Reuters World news in pictures 19 June 2021 A Palestinian girl with a national flag painted on her face, plays amidst the rubble of buildings destroyed by last months Israeli bombardment of the Gaza Strip, in Beit Lahia AFP/Getty World news in pictures 18 June 2021 A TV broadcasts Chinese astronauts in Shenzhou spacecraft, at a restaurant in Beijing AFP/Getty World news in pictures 17 June 2021 A giant jersey of Denmarks midfielder Christian Eriksen is put on display on the pitch before the Euro 2020 Group B match between Denmark and Belgium at the Parken Stadium in Copenhagen AFP/Getty World news in pictures 16 June 2021 Several hundred brightly coloured umbrellas decorate the Bankowa Street walkway in Pszczyna, southern Poland EPA World news in pictures 15 June 2021 Parcel delivery workers scuffle with police officers as they try to bring loudspeakers, an unauthorised protest item, during a rally calling for improvement of working conditions in Seoul AFP/Getty World news in pictures 14 June 2021 Workers pluck tea leaves during a rainfall following a relaxation of lockdown restrictions imposed to curb the spread of the Covid-19 coronavirus, at Rohini village, some 15 km from Siliguri on June 14, 2021 AFP/Getty World news in pictures 13 June 2021 eople celebrate after Israels parliament voted in a new coalition government, ending Benjamin Netanyahus 12-year hold on power, at Rabin Square in Tel Aviv, Israel Reuters World news in pictures 12 June 2021 Tape is lifted by air leaving a vent from the metro system as thousands of activists take part in the anti-extreme right March of Freedoms in Paris, France Getty World news in pictures 11 June 2021 Achille the cat, one of the State Hermitage Museum mice hunters, attempts to predict the result of the first UEFA EURO 2020 football match between Turkey and Italy, during a ceremony in Saint Petersburg, on June 11, 2021 AFP/Getty World news in pictures 10 June 2021 An annular solar eclipse rises over the skyline of Toronto The Canadian Press via AP World news in pictures 9 June 2021 People cross waterlogged railway tracks next to a parked passenger train during heavy rains in Mumbai, India Reuters World news in pictures 8 June 2021 AFP/Getty 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

Emma Thomson, a professor in infectious diseases at Glasgow Universitys Centre for Virus Research, said there has been reports of recombination events in relation to Sars-CoV-2.

You have to have two infections at the same time and within the same cell, she told The Independent. It has happened, but it hasnt happened in such a way that it's caused, as far as Im aware, a major advantage to the virus.

But its something that could happen on a larger scale. We need to be very aware of that and look out for it with the sequencing.

Professor Lawrence Young, a virologist at Warwick University, said that in those instances of dual infection it is the variants with increased fitness that dominate within the host cell.
A man has been arrested and charged on suspicion of being a leader of an international people-smuggling network.

Gul Wali Jabarkhel, a 32-year-old Afghan national who has been found to have been in the UK illegally, was arrested in Colindale, north London, by National Crime Agency officers on Thursday evening.

He is suspected of being a high-ranking member of a significant Afghan organised crime group involved in transporting migrants from northern France and Belgium into the UK in the back of lorries.

The group had contacts with organised crime groups in Belgium, and planned to use complicit lorry drivers to regularly smuggle migrants across the Channel, according to the NCA.

After Jabarkhel was questioned by NCA investigators, Crown Prosecution Service lawyers authorised two charges of conspiracy to facilitate illegal immigration to the UK.

He has been remanded in custody. On Saturday he appeared before Willesden magistrates court, and he is scheduled to appear at Harrow crown court on 6 August.

Jabarkhel is listed as the director of a company that owns at least one barber shop in north London, according to Companies House records seen by The Independent.

NCA Branch Commander Andy Noyes said: This is a significant arrest. Jabarkhel is suspected of running a criminal enterprise which involved migrants being moved across the Channel in lorries in dangerous circumstances.

Organised immigration crime sees people treated as a commodity to be exploited and profited from, and tackling it is a priority for the NCA.

This arrest is another example of the success we are having in targeting those suspected of involvement in people smuggling impacting on the UK. Others engaged in this kind of activity should take note.

Jabarkhels arrest and charge comes after home secretary Priti Patel said last week that both migrants and people-smugglers would face harsher prison sentences as part of her bid to crack down on the practice of people-smuggling.

The governments Nationality and Borders Bill, which was introduced to Parliament on Tuesday, could see convicted people-smugglers face life in prison, up from the current maximum tariff of 14 years.

New guidance announced earlier this week says that migrants who steer dinghies across English Channel to claim asylum will no longer be prosecuted, after the Home Office had deemed the small-boat pilots to bepeople-smugglers and threatened to jail them for up to 14 years.

Before the change, 19 migrants who steered boats jailed since June 2020 had been jailed for between 16 months and four-and-a-half years.

The Bill will make it a criminal offence for a migrant to knowingly arrive in the UK without permission, punishable by up to four years in prison, and will seek to remove those who enter the UK illegally after they travelled through a safe country where they could have claimed asylum.

Those whose claims are successful will receive a new temporary protection status, rather than an automatic right to settle, and will be regularly assessed. People entering unlawfully will also have limited family reunion rights and limited access to benefits.

Only migrants who arrive via official government refugee schemes will have the opportunity to settle in the UK, according to the Bill.

Green MP Caroline Lucas has said that the Bill would only make a rotten system worse and that criminalising people purely because of the way theyve arrived in Britain is wrong on so many levels.

Last month, a 21-year-old man was jailed for more than two years for trying to smuggle people into the UK by hiding them in sofas.

In April, a lorry driver was jailed for more than three years for attempting to smuggle 17 men the other direction into the European mainland.

In March, eight members of an Afghan organised crime gang suspected of charging migrants more than 2,500 each to smuggle them into the UK in small boats were arrested by French police near Paris.

Last year, police in France and Belgium arrested 26 suspects as part of the investigation into the Essex lorry deaths. The network of people-smugglers had transported up to several dozen people every day for several months, according to Europol.
Tens of thousands of England fans poured into London ahead of tonights Euro 2020 final with Italy at Wembley  with some smashing windows and setting off flares in Leicester Square.

Major squares in the West End were crowded with supporters carrying alcohol, some of whom have climbed lamp-posts and bus shelters.

Kings Cross station was briefly evacuated because of smoke from flares, while fans climbed on top of a bus near Wembley.

Wed urge everyone to keep themselves safe and look out for each other, Metropolitan Police tweeted. Weve seen people jumping off street lamps or hoardings, this could easily end in injury.

Fans outside Kings Cross station (PA)

Some fans threw bottles and other objects at fellow supporters in Leicester Square.

Another fan who climbed atop an awning on Charing Cross Road climbed back down after being hit with objects from the crowd.

However, most were simply enjoying the pre-match atmosphere.

Josef Alley said: Ive never had this experience before. It doesnt matter where in the country youre from, as long as were here cheering on England.

England fans thronged Leicester Square in central London before the Euro 2020 final at Wembley (Liam James/The Independent)

What could be better than this? England, playing in London, at Wembley, at the finals.

His friend, Abu Nasir, said: Seeing crowds like this, this thing only happens around football. It feels like nothing else.

Libby Osmond, 20, from Guildford, told PA: The atmosphere has been insane and absolutely beyond what we imagined. There are loads of people here. Ive never seen London like this before. The ambience is so good.

England fans let off flares in Leicester Square in central London ahead of the Euro 2020 final against Italy (Liam James/The Independent)

Ms Osmond was helping a fellow supporter to paint a St Georges flag on his cheek.

Abbie Spencer, 21, also from Guildford, said: Were going to be over the moon if we win, and celebrate. Thankfully we have no work tomorrow.
The days and nights blur together. I can barely sleep at night but when I do, I experience nightmares. I feel like Im being stripped of my identity, that my personality is being broken down. Its psychological torture.

Richard*, 23, speaks from a prison cell he has been locked in for more than 22 hours a day since March 2020. Some days he has only stepped out of the small, stuffy room for a mere 30 minutes.

The Portuguese national, who has lived in the UK since he was six, is not doing time for a crime. He served a jail sentence for drug offences, but that came to an end in February 2021. Now he is detained purely based on the fact that he isnt British.

He is one of around 570 immigration detainees currently held in prisons in the UK  a 70 per cent increase compared to March 2019.

Non-British nationals who are sentenced to jail for longer than 12 months in the UK, such as Richard, are liable to be deported, and can be detained under immigration powers at the end of their custodial sentence pending their removal from the country, which could be at any time.

They are usually transferred to an immigration removal centre, where conditions are less restrictive and they have better access to legal advice.

However, since the start of the pandemic, the Home Office has sought to hold fewer people in removal centres for Covid-19 safety reasons, placing many in prisons instead.

At the same time, restrictions in jails have been severely tightened. Since March 2020, inmates have been held in their cells for 22 to 24 hours a day to contain the spread of Covid-19.

When youre doing a sentence you know your release date, but when youre detained it can be two days, a year, or never

A new report from the Bail for Immigration Detainees (BID) and charity Medical Justice, seen by The Independent, raises concerns that these conditions and lengths of isolation amount to prolonged solitary confinement, which may amount to a breach of inmates human rights.

The findings, based on interviews with detainees and casework, show that such conditions can exacerbate existing mental health conditions and precipitate the onset of new ones  made worse by a concerning lack of medical support available to people confined in prisons.

While this applies to all prisoners, the report states that solitary confinement is particularly damaging for those detained under immigration powers, as their imprisonment has no end date, exacerbating feelings of helplessness, in comparison to finite sentences.

Richard  who before entering prison at the end of 2018 already suffered from depression and PTSD stemming from a past experience of torture  now suffers from nightmares and flashbacks, and is reliant on medication.

His testimony from inside jail was featured in the report. Now, having been released on bail in May, he tells The Independent he still feels traumatised by the long periods of time he was locked up alone in his cell.

The young man, who is now trying to fight his case to remain in the UK, where all of his family are settled, says that while in jail he was stripped of his identity and that his personality was slowly broken down, to the point where he is now struggling to integrate back into normal life.

In prison, I started feeling nervous to go outside, to the point where I wouldnt take my daily exercise. I didnt like the sunlight so I had my curtains down in [my] cell. Its like my brain was tormenting me, he says.

The first days being out of prison, I didnt know what to do with myself. There was so much I wanted to do, but I couldnt. Im still not back to normal. Doing basic things like going to the shop or sitting on a train doesnt feel right.

The 23-year-old says that being in jail became dramatically more difficult when he came to the end of his sentence and was detained under immigration powers.

It suddenly became much harder because of all the unknowns. When youre doing a sentence you know your release date, but when youre detained it can be two days, a year, or never, and they might come and put you on a plane at any point. It was awful, he adds.

Another immigration detainee, Omar, has been held under immigration powers since his jail sentence for robbery ended in October 2020. This is despite the fact that he agreed to return to his home country in January 2020.

He tells the reports researchers that being locked alone in his cell for between 23 and 24 hours a day  sometimes not able to leave it at all, preventing him from showering and exercising  had a profound impact on his mental health, driving him to have suicidal thoughts.

Every day is like torture. I feel suffocated and feel like I want to hurt myself or end my life because there is no other escape, says the 47-year-old.

I wake up in the middle of the night, struggling to breathe. My body starts to shake by itself and I feel like Im going to die.

I didnt go into prison with any mental health problems but now I experience anxiety, very low mood, panic attacks and insomnia.

I honestly dont understand why the government is spending money on keeping me in prison

Omar was released on bail this week. Speaking to The Independent days later, still in the UK and living in a shared house he was placed in by the Home Office, he says was having panic attacks every night and felt fearful of going outside.

I feel scared, I dont know why. I was very healthy, but now I feel like Im lonely and feeling down all the time, he says.

Omar says he was shocked that the Home Office kept him in prison for 17 months after he had agreed to return to his home country.

Initially it was because of Covid, but there has been a lot of time now when I could have flown back to my country. I honestly dont understand why the government is spending money on keeping me in prison. It must be costing the taxpayer so much and its completely unnecessary.

Annie Viswanathan, director at BID, says: "I hope this report causes the people with the power to take stock and reflect on the continuing use of a barbaric practice that shames our society.

This cruelty needs to end and people should be released so that they can be supported in the community.

Emma Ginn, director at Medical Justice, echoed her remarks, saying the charitys clinicians had witnessed first-hand the devastating effect solitary confinement has on immigration detainees, describing the practice as profoundly disturbing.

That this imprisonment extends beyond a criminal sentence means severe harm is being inflicted during, and because of, a period of entirely unnecessary and purely administrative detention  we need to question if this is civilised or in fact gratuitous, she adds.

It is certainly the biggest scandal most people have never heard of.

A government spokesperson says it took the welfare of detained individuals in its care very seriously and that some individuals had been placed in prisons rather than immigration removal centres to prevent the spread of Covid in those centres.

They add: We are responding to the unique circumstances of the Covid-19 outbreak and the decisive action we have taken during the pandemic, backed by Public Health England, has meant thousands of immigration detainees, officers and prisoners have been kept safe.

*Not his real name.
People should continue to work from home for the next four to six weeks if they are able to do so amid surging cases of coronavirus, a key figure at Public Health England has urged.

As Boris Johnson prepares to drop the work-from-home guidance on 19 July, alongside vast swathes of legal restrictions, Dr Susan Hopkins warned the country was approximately three doubling times away from the peak of the third wave.

She added if the R rate of transmission exceeded 2, it would be high likely the country would see very high numbers of hospital admissions. On 6 July, 563 patients were admitted to hospital in the UK.

Speaking to Times Radio, the PHE adviser, who has made regular appearances at the No 10 Covid briefings, said she recognised the government was very keen to get people back to the office.

But I think over the next four to six weeks that needs to be very cautiously implemented by businesses to keep transmission down, she insisted.

Dr Hopkins added: There are advantages to being in workplaces and many people have to go into workplaces.

If you are able to do your business effectively from home then I think over the next four to six weeks, with a rise in cases, we should try our best to do that. Then we should continue to look and see and have a cautious return to the office over the coming weeks once we start to see a decline in the number of cases.

Earlier this week, chancellor Rishi Sunak said he was looking forward to people returning to offices and stressed the benefits to workers from being with their colleagues, particularly for the young, while the prime minister also told a press conference last week: It will no longer be necessary for the government to instruct people to work from home, so employers will be able to start planning a safe return to the workplace.

Dr Hopkins comments came after the vaccines minister, Nadhim Zahawi, said the government would be issuing guidance on Monday stating that people will be expected to continue wearing face masks in enclosed public spaces when restrictions are dropped.

Dr Hopkins said she would strongly advise people to continue to wear face coverings, in crowded spaces, especially amongst people you dont know personally and arent part of your household, or your close contacts.

She added: I would also advise them on public transport. Because that is often the private space where you dont have any idea who youre in contact with. They prevent the infection that you may have unknowingly spread to others.
Haunting images from the seafloor have been released of the cargo plane that made an emergency landing on the waters off the coast of the Hawaiian island of Oahu on 2 July.

The photos, released by the National Transportation Safety Board on Friday, show the wreckage on the bottom of the ocean.

The Boeing 737-200 cargo jet was located around two miles into the ocean from Ewa Beach, west of Honolulu. Both members of the crew were rescued after the pilot ditched the plane in the water.

The NTSB said in a statement on Friday that different parts of the wrecked plane, such as the aft fuselage with both of the wings, the tail with both engines, and the forward fuselage, were found in waters at depths spanning 360 and 420 feet (110 and 128 metres).

The board said it is too deep to send out divers to retrieve the flight data and the voice recorders from the cockpit. But an investigative team is forming a plan to recover the jet.

A Side Scan Sonar and Remotely Operated Vehicle were used to find the plane.

The safety board said that another plane fuelled on the same night was tested and that no irregularities were discovered.

The National Transportation Safety Board released images of the cargo plane that crash-landed in the sea off Hawaii on 2 July. (The National Transportation Safety Board )

One of the crew members on Transair Flight 810 was taken to hospital via helicopter after the crash landing, the other was rescued by boat. The plane they flew was built in 1975.

The crew reported that they were having engine issues and planned to turn back just after taking off from Daniel K Inouye International Airport in Honolulu at 1.33am local time. They were flying towards Maui, another Hawaiian island.

The NTSB said they have done over a dozen interviews with the crew, and with staff at Transair and the Federal Aviation Administration. The cause of the crash remains unclear.

The National Transportation Safety Board released images of the cargo plane that crash-landed in the sea off Hawaii on 2 July. (The National Transportation Safety Board)

The 50-year-old pilot, who suffered a head injury and several gashes, was able to leave hospital earlier this week.

The pilot and co-pilot were rescued by the United States Coast Guard as they were holding on to packages and the Boeing 737s tail to stay floating in the Pacific Ocean.

The pilots reported that one engine was down and there are indications that the aircraft wasnt high enough to be able to return to Honolulu, prompting the emergency landing in the sea.

Rhoades Aviation Inc was the operator of the plane. The company flies as Transair, which is one of Hawaiis largest cargo airlines and has been in business since 1982.

According to a recording on LiveATC, a site broadcasting air traffic control communications, the pilot told Honolulu air traffic control: Weve lost number one engine, were coming straight to the airport.

Were going to need the fire department, theres a chance were going to lose the other engine, its running very hot.

It doesnt look good here  you may want to let the Coast Guard know as well, the pilot said.

The pilots reported the loss of their second engine at 1.46am and that they were being forced to ditch the plane in the water.
A Florida man from Palm Beach County has admitted to trying to conduct a murder-for-hire plot that he attempted to blame on Black Lives Matter.

During an 8 July hearing in federal district court in Fort Lauderdale, Daniel Slater, 51, admitted that his plan was to kill a woman, who allegedly is his 22-year-old ex-girlfriend, as well as her sister and brother-in-law, who he thought had ruined the relationship, The Palm Beach Post reported.

The landscaper pleaded guilty on Thursday to one count of murder for hire. His sentence is likely to be 10 years in prison.

Slater faced a maximum sentence of 90 years in prison if he was convicted of his six charges, but he instead accepted a plea deal during the hearing presided over by US District Judge James Cohn.

The person he thought was a hired killer turned to be an undercover FBI agent. For his cooperation, prosecutors agreed to drop two other murder-for-hire and three drug charges he was facing.

Richard Della Fera is the fourth lawyer to represent Slater. He said the evidence against the landscaper was quite voluminous. The proof included phone recordings of Slater speaking about how his ex should be treated.

Throw acid on her face, beat the [expletive] out of her, knock her teeth out, break her [expletive] nose, he said on the recordings, court documents state.

FBI agents were led to Slater following the arrest of 26-year-old Brianne Slabaugh in February 2020. She was found dead in Everglades National Park in Miami 18 days later after an overdose of heroin and cocaine, according to a medical examiner.

But before her death, she told Palm Beach County sheriffs deputies that Slater was training her to become an assassin.

Court documents say he wanted her to kidnap several people associated with his ex-girlfriend.

Slater and his associate drove by the victims home, during which Slater instructed his associate on how to carry out the murders when the time came, a press release from the US Attorneys Office in the Southern District of Florida said.

Slater pointed out which of the homes windows to shoot through to kill the couple. Slater also instructed his associate to spray-paint the house to make it appear as if members of the Black Lives Matter movement had committed the crime, the office added.

Slater offered twenty-five hundred dollars to do a drive-by shooting, at one point, but ended up paying only $400, but added that more would be coming later.

Slater is imprisoned at the Broward County Jail. His sentencing is scheduled for 16 September. He made one request during the court hearing  to be allowed to call his wife and three children.

Judge Cohn asked jail staff to facilitate the call. I miss talking to my kid[s], he wrote to Judge Cohn in May. Please get a hearing as soon as possible.
Tesla founder Elon Musk has bought a ticket on one of the future spaceflights by rival billionaire Sir Richard Bransons Virgin Galactic, according to a newspaper report.

Mr Branson became the first in the billionaires space race between himself, Mr Musk, and Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, to successfully touch the edge of space as he jumped aboard a Virgin Galactic flight earlier on Sunday.

The Sunday Times reported that Mr Musk, who owns Virgin competitor SpaceX, has paid $10,000 (7,000) as a deposit to reserve a seat on one of Mr Bransons flights. The date for Mr Musks flight with Virgin Galactic has not been set.

Elons a friend and maybe Ill travel on one of his ships one day, Mr Branson told The Sunday Times.

SpaceX has launched dozens of rockets, some of which have been manned flights, but Mr Musk himself has yet to be on one. The company is planning to launch its first fully private spaceflight this fall.

Mr Bezos plans to reach space in his own rocket via his company Blue Origin on 20 July.

A flight with Virgin Galactic includes four minutes of being in zero gravity and wealthy tourists are expected to pay $250,000 (180,000) for a ticket.

Blue Origin has claimed that Mr Bransons journey doesnt count as a trip to space, as he didnt get past the Karman line that commonly is defined as the boundary of space.

Virgin Galactics space plane Unity reached a height of around 280,000 feet  55 miles  before descending back down to Earth.

The flight was a test of the space tourism experience that Mr Branson is anticipating to start selling next year.

Ive had my notebook with me and Ive written down 30 or 40 little things that will make the experience for the next person who goes to space with us that much better, he said. The only way sometimes you can find these little things is to get in a spaceship and go to space and experience it for yourself.

Mr Branson, who turns 71 in a week, became only the second septuagenarian to in space. US Astronaut John Glenn flew on the Space Shuttle Discovery at age 77 in 1998, while he was also a sitting US senator for the state of Ohio.
US Representative Lauren Boebert told a crowd at the nations largest Republican conference that were here to reject government benefits and federal vaccination efforts during the coronavirus pandemic.

Were here to tell government we dont want your benefits. We dont want your welfare, she said at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in Dallas, Texas on 10 July. Dont come knocking on my door with your Fauci ouchie. You leave us the hell alone.

Her remarks  taking aim at Dr Anthony Fauci, a frequent target for the right  followed a Twitter post in which she compared vaccination outreach to Nazism and amplified the false claim that Covid-19 vaccines are experimental after the White House announced wider campaigns to directly provide information about how to get vaccinated.

Biden has deployed his Needle Nazis to Mesa County, she said on Twitter on 8 July.

In that county in Ms Boeberts congressional district, only 41 per cent of residents aged 12 and older have received at least one dose of three available Covid-19 vaccines, according to the countys health department.

Her CPAC remarks were widely condemned  invoking the so-called third rail of American politics by attacking federal benefits critical to millions of Americans.

Tell em loud and proud girl! said Democratic US Rep Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who mocked the congresswoman on Twitter by sharing a clip of her CPAC remarks.

GOP will strip your unemployment protections and dismantle any semblance of a public safety net we have left! Then make working people pay way more for everything on low wages while Wall St gets a meal ticket! the New York lawmaker said. Good ol conservative values baby!

Earlier this year, Congress passed Joe Bidens $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan, which extended federal unemployment benefits through 6 September.

Mesa County businesses also received more than 4,500 loans through Paycheck Protection Program, according to government data.

New claims from Colorado residents applying for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance have nearly doubled since late May, and tripled since 1 May, according to the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment.

At least 22 states have announced they will be prematurely cutting off federal benefits in their states, with four more states pulling out of the programme by the end of July. Meanwhile, several GOP lawmakers have promoted millions of dollars to their districts after the laws passage, despite voting against it.

On 9 July, White House press secretary Jen Psaki said that the failure to provide accurate public health information, including the efficacy of vaccines and the accessibility of them to people across the country  is literally killing people.
Six months after they were erected in the wake of a far-right mob that swarmed the US Capitol steps and the halls of Congress, the final pieces of concrete barriers and black fencing surrounding the grounds have been removed, and crowds are returning to the Capitol.

Following a US Capitol Police Board memo that crews would begin removing the remaining temporary fencing, crews dismantled and loaded up what was left of the barriers on 10 July.

The fencing served as a dramatic symbol at the centre of US democracy and a marker of the consequences from a failed insurrection, fuelled by a former presidents false narrative that the election was stolen from him, and the still-unanswered security lapses that allowed a mob to threaten lawmakers and Capitol staff as it sought to prevent the congressional certification of Joe Bidens election.

In the days that followed, National Guard service members patrolled the grounds and were stationed at checkpoints, as fencing was gradually reduced. Twelve days after a road near the Capitol was reopened in April, a driver plowed a car into two Capitol police officers, killing one officer, before the driver was fatally shot.

In May, the Democratically controlled House of Representatives narrowly passed a $1.9bn security bill to boost security around the Capitol, though the measure faces stiff opposition in the Senate.

Democratic US Rep Eleanor Holmes Norton of Washington DC introduced a measure  the No Fencing at the United States Capitol Complex Act  to block federal funds from erecting fences around the Capitol in the future.

The removal of the remaining barricades finally vindicates my campaign against fencing off the Capitol, she said on Thursday. We will never again allow our Capitol Hill neighborhood to be turned into a military zone any more than the Capitol itself.

Crowds return to the US Capitol grounds in Washington DC on 10 July after crews removed the final barricades installed after the riot on 6 January. (Getty Images)

US Capitol Police will continue to monitor intelligence information and the associated threat environment around the Capitol complex, according to a memo to lawmakers from House Sergeant at Arms William Walker.

The Architect of the Capitol has the ability to and will expeditiously reinstall the temporary fencing should conditions warrant, he said.

In May, the US Department of Homeland Security renewed a terrorism advisory bulletin initially issued after the riot and the presidents inauguration as anti-government ideologically motivated violent extremists motivated by perceived grievances fuelled by false narratives could continue to mobilise to incite or commit violence domestically.

The updated advisory  which expires on 13 August  maintains that those threats continue to spread online with the intent to incite violence against elected officials, government facilities, law enforcement and perceived ideologically opposed individuals.
A plan to reinstate Donald Trump as president in days, not years was handed out to Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) attendees in Dallas, Texas.

The cards, featuring a seven-point plan, appear to have been made by a group called Patriots Soar, which is not connected to the organisers of CPAC, Insider reported.

The bizarre plan involves removing Speaker Nancy Pelosi, eventually installing Mr Trump in her place and then impeaching and removing President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, to allow Mr Trump to ascend to the presidency from the speakership, which is third in the line of presidential succession.

Step one of the plan is to pull back the curtain on the horror show that is today's Democrat Party. Watch Pelosi melt, like the Wicked Witch of the West. See the Black Caucus and other key groups flip, unexpectedly, and watch the tables turn.

Step two is witness a trusted Conservative elected as Speaker of the House and, FINALLY, reveal suppressed results of existing investigations into election racketeering with step three being to: correct the official record. Reveal that Trump legitimately won the 2020 Election.

Theres no evidence that Mr Trump won the 2020 election and election security experts have said it was conducted fairly and safely. Mr Biden received over seven million more votes than Mr Trump and won the electoral college 306 to 232.

Mr Trump and his allies have filed dozens upon dozens of legal challenges to the 2020 election results without success.

The next steps of the plan are to have the new Speaker of the House drafts Articles of Impeachment for Biden-Harris and then for Mr Trump to be placed into the line of Presidential succession, behind the Vice President, by electing him Speaker of the House.

Speaker of the House Donald J Trump then calls for a vote to impeach, charge, and remove impostors, Biden and Harris, the card given to CPAC visitors states. Duly impeach, charge and remove Biden and Harris, whereby rendering all acts of said impostors, while in office, null and void and of no effect! Then, duly elected Donald J Trump resumes his rightful place as US President, the card concludes.

The sheet includes a link to a website that contains more information about the plan and claims to have evidence that members of the Democratic Party are affiliated with the practice of satanic sacrifices.

The card and website are referencing the widespread QAnon conspiracy theory that falsely claims Democrats are part of a global cabal of child abusers.

Polling by PRRI published in May of this year shows that 23 per cent of Republicans believe that the US government, media, and financial sector are controlled by Satan-worshipping paedophiles.

The outlandish idea that Mr Trump will be reinstated has been pushed by conservative figures such as MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell and former Trump lawyer Sidney Powell, alongside the ongoing false narrative that the 2020 election was somehow stolen by Democrats.

Mr Trump is scheduled to speak at CPAC on Sunday.
Lawmakers from both parties broke through the partisan wasteland that is Washington DC this weekend to show support for Irans largest opposition movement and call for an end to the Iranian governments various misdeeds.

At a conference on Saturday hosted by the Organization of Iranian American Communities (OIAC), Republicans and Democrats shared a virtual stage and a common message of support for the group, a rarity especially following the events of 6 Jan which have left Capitol Hill more divided than ever.

More than 1,000 dignitaries and lawmakers from various countries attended the packed event; US guests included allies of former President Donald Trump such as Mike Pompeo, House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, and Sen Ted Cruz while others seen as close to Speaker Nancy Pelosi, such as New Yorks Hakeem Jeffries and Californias Judy Chu were also in attendance.

The speakers messages of support for the Iranian-American community and the struggle against Irans government varied little in terms of content, though some including Mr Pompeo and Mr Cruz took the opportunity to tout the actions of the Trump administration against Iran and call for pressure against the regime to be maintained.

Irans recent presidential election, which was denounced by speakers as a sham, was also a main topic as opposition supporters celebrated low turnout which they said stemmed from a boycott.

We are now heading into a dangerous chapter with the Biden-Harris Administration. They work actively to undermine the national security gains made in the last 4 years and to reinvigorate the ayatollahs. The administration has shown every sign that it intends to and will embrace and appease the regime, charged Mr Cruz in his remarks.

Our administrations policies were there for the Iranian people at every turn, added Mr Pompeo, who went on to assert that the current Iranian regime was largely unchangeable by US policies.

Democrats who spoke on Saturday, including Sens Cory Booker and Maggie Hassan, largely focused their criticism on Irans regime, while offering little in terms of what to expect for Iran-US relations under the Biden administration.

The regime in Tehran must be held accountable for treating women like second class citizens and for the mistreatment, including murder, of its critics, said Ms Hassan in her remarks.

We want to see Irans culture and economy and society thrive, unrestricted by oppressive leaders working constructively on shared problems and peacefully engaging with its neighbors and the rest of the world, added Mr Booker. Irans and its people have so much to offer if they are simply given the chance.

Others who attended the politically star-studded event on Saturday included former Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper, former UK House of Commons Speaker John Bercow, and activist Martin Luther King III, son of the murdered civil rights champion.

At the center of Saturdays conference was its host, Maryam Rajavi, president-elect of the National Council of Resistance of Iran and co-leader of the Peoples Mujahedin of Iran, a left-leaning opposition group considered to be the largest such group in the country. The latter group has a fraught history with the US and the West in general, and was listed as a terrorist organization by the US until a legal campaign culminated in the Obama administration removing that designation.

Many of the groups followers relocated to Albania with the support of the United Nations in the years following that legal campaign, and remain there today. The group was extensively supported by the Trump administration, and in particular by former National Security Adviser John Bolton, who vowed before taking the role that the group would be celebrating in Tehran by the end of 2018.

Ms Rajavis fiery speech at Saturdays gathering focused on the alleged crimes of Ebrahim Raisi, Irans president-elect, while she and others asserted that Irans government was in its weakest position in years.

Yes, the mullahs religious fascism chose [Ebrahim Raisi], the henchman of the 1988 massacre, to solidify their rule and close ranks, to preserve their power, and to prevent their inevitable overthrow in the face of looming uprisings, she said.

But they have actually dug their own graves, added Ms Rajavi. They are like a scorpion that stings itself after being surrounded by flames. Only the regimes fear of the uprisings and the supreme leaders political demise can explain Raisis taking office.

Her criticism of Mr Raisi was echoed by many others at the conference, including the Senate Foreign Relations Committee chairman, Bob Menendez.

A hardline crony of the supreme leader who is subject to US human rights sanctions was elected president, Mr Menendez said of Mr Raisi, adding that the newly-elected president was a man who Amnesty Internationals Secretary General Agnes Callamard, recently said must be investigated for crimes against humanity.

Much of the discussion surrounding President Joe Bidens Iran policy currently centers around whether or not the US will rejoin the 2015 nuclear accord negotiated under the Obama administration, which set enrichment limits for Irans nuclear program and was exited by the US under President Donald Trump.

The president wrote in an op-ed last year that his administration would return to the Iran nuclear deal if Iran returns to strict compliance with the nuclear deal, which as of yet it has not.
North Carolina Republican Madison Cawthorn has said the Biden administrations plan for expanded vaccination information could be used to take peoples guns and Bibles.

In an interview on Friday with conservative news outlet Right Side Broadcasting Network at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in Dallas, Texas, Representative Cawthorn said: Now, theyre starting to talk about going door to door to be able to take vaccines to the people, referring to President Joe Bidens comments earlier this week.

Heres the deal: we are continuing to wind down the mass vaccination sites that did so much in the spring to rapidly vaccinate those eager to get their first shot  and their second shot, for that matter, if they needed a second, Mr Biden said.

Now we need to go to community by community, neighbourhood by neighbourhood, and oftentimes, door to door  literally knocking on doors  to get help to the remaining people protected from the virus, the president added.

Mr Cawthorn said at CPAC: Think about the mechanisms they would have to build to be able to actually execute that massive of a thing.

And then think about what those mechanisms could be used for. They could then go door to door and take your guns. They could go door to door and take your Bibles.

White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki clarified that the administration is urging volunteers at a local level rather than federal employees to go knock on doors to get more people to get vaccinated.

But despite this, Republican leaders have pushed back hard on the suggestion.

South Carolina Republican Governor Henry McMaster wrote a letter to the states Board of Health and Environmental Control on Friday, asking that it issue direction to agency leadership and to state and local healthcare organisations prohibiting the use of the Biden Administrations targeted door-to-door tactics in the States ongoing vaccination efforts.

Mr McMaster wrote that enticing, coercing, intimidating, mandating, or pressuring residents to get immunised would weaken trust in the government.

White House coronavirus response coordinator Jeff Zients blasted misinformation about the Biden administrations vaccination efforts, saying its a disservice to the country and to the doctors, the faith leaders, community leaders and others who are working to get people vaccinated, save lives and help end this pandemic.

Ms Psaki pushed back on Mr McMaster, saying on Friday: The failure to provide accurate public health information including the efficacy of vaccines and the accessibility of them to people across the country, including South Carolina, is literally killing people.
Several thousand people protested in front of the Georgian parliament on Sunday evening, demanding that the ex-Soviet nation's prime minister resign over the death of a journalist who was attacked and beaten by anti-LGBT protesters.

Cameraman Alexander Lashkarava was found dead in his home by his mother earlier Sunday, according to the TV Pirveli channel he worked for. Lashkarava was one of several dozen journalists attacked last Monday by opponents of an LGBT march that had been scheduled to take place that day in the Georgian capital of Tbilisi

Organizers of the Tbilisi March For Dignity cancelled the event, saying authorities had not provided adequate security guarantees. Opponents of the march blocked off the capitals main avenue, denounced journalists covering the protest as pro-LGBT propagandists and threw sticks and bottles at them.

Lashkarava, according to his colleague Miranda Baghaturia, was beaten by a mob of 20 people. Local TV channels later showed him with bruises on his face and blood on the floor around him. Media reports say he sustained multiple injuries and had to undergo surgery but was discharged from a hospital on Thursday.

The cause of his death was not immediately clear.

Police launched an investigation into Lashkarava's death, which Georgia's Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili and President Salome Zurabishvili both described as "a tragedy."

Animosity against sexual minorities is strong in the conservative Black Sea nation of Georgia.

The Tbilisi Pride group said Monday that opponents of the planned march were supported by the government and by the Georgian Orthodox Church. The Open Caucasus Media group published a photo of a man it said was a local TV journalist being pulled away from the scene in a headlock by an Orthodox priest.

Zurabishvili condemned the violence, but Garibashvili alleged the march was organized by radical opposition forces that he claimed were led by exiled former President Mikheil Saakashvili

A large crowd of protesters that gathered in Tbilisi on Sunday demanded that authorities punish those responsible for the attack on journalists and urged Garibashvili to step down. Some protesters blamed the prime minister for enabling the violence by publicly denouncing the LGBT march.
Former President Donald Trump was met with boos, cheers, and chants of U-S-A when he arrived for the McGregor vs Poirier UFC fight in Las Vegas.

The loud chants and cheers largely overshadowed the boos of Mr Trump as he entered the T-Mobile Arena through the fighters tunnel with UFC president Dana White late on Saturday.

Mr Trump and Mr White have been friends for a long time. The then-president became the first elected officeholder to ever attend a UFC event when he went to UFC 244 in New York in 2019, USA Today reported. Unlike in Nevada, Mr Trump was greeted with more boos than cheers in his home state.

Mr White spoke at the 2020 Republican National Convention, pushing for his reelection. The UFC boss told reporters that having the former president at UFC 246 was just two friends, who are fight fans, watching a fight.

Mr Trump was escorted to a seat near the octagon, close to the owner of the New England Patriots, Robert Kraft.

Donald Trump Jr shared a video from the event.

Mr Trump arrived for the final three fights at the packed arena.

Other celebrities who attended the fight included Dave Chappelle, Mel Gibson, Miles Teller, Jared Leto, Steve Aoki, Jackass Steve-O, Baker Mayfield, and Las Vegas Raiders owner Mark Davis.

Former US President Donald Trump attends UFC 264 at T-Mobile Arena. (Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports)

Conor McGregor ended up losing to Dustin Poirier by doctor stoppage in the main event of UFC 264. The Irishman was unable to continue after injuring his ankle towards the end of the first round.
Pope Francis has made his first public appearance since having surgery a week ago by leading a prayer from a hospital balcony.

The 84-year-old pontiff stood on the balcony for 10 minutes to offer his weekly noon-time blessings to his well-wishers.

At the previous weeks Angelus prayers, he had given no suggestion that he would have entered hospital later that day for colon surgery.

The Pope was having a portion of his large intestine removed, after it was found that his colon had severely narrowed.

Noon on Sundays is when he usually leads a prayer while overlooking St Peters Square from a window at the Vatican.

But this time he appeared on the balcony of his special suite reserved for popes at the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic, a major Catholic teaching hospital in Rome, while his well-wishers below clapped in encouragement.

The Pope said: I am happy to be able to keep the Sunday appointment. I thank everyone. I very much felt your closeness and the support of your prayers.

Also standing on the balcony were a few children who are also patients at the hospital.

Pope Francis described his hospital admission as an opportunity to understand how important a good health service is, accessible to all, as it is in Italy and other countries.

Although he stayed at a non-public hospital, which is one of the largest private hospitals in Europe, Italy has a national public health service and residents can often receive treatment at private hospitals, with the costs reimbursed by the government.

We mustnt lose this precious thing, he said, adding his appreciation and encouragement for all workers in the healthcare sector.

A statue of Pope Francis at the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic, one of the biggest private hospitals in Europe (AP)

The pope also spoke of current events and of issues. He prayed that the people of Haiti could start going down a path of peace and harmony as he recalled the assassination last week of its president Jovenel Moise and the wounding of the first lady Martine Moise.

He also urged people to look after the health of seas and oceans and warned them against plastic being left in the sea.

The pope also voiced hope that Europe may be united in its founding values  which could refer to tensions between European Union leaders and Hungary over the member country passing a law to ban LGBT content for children in schools and the media.

It is not said when he will be discharged, but it is reported that he is on the mend after the surgery on his large intenstine.

On the morning after his surgery, a Holy See spokesperson said his hospital stay was expected to last seven days, barring complications.

The Vaticans daily medical update said on Friday that Pope Francis temperature returned to normal following a slight fever he ran on Wednesday evening. It said his treatment and recovery were proceeding as planned.

His predecessor John Paul II had also delivered the Angelus prayer and greeting from his suite during his occasional stays at the hospital.
Richard Branson is about to embark on a flight to the edge of space on a Virgin Galactic flight, in the hopes of becoming the first billionaire to leave the Earth.

The British entrepreneur, along with two pilots and three other passengers, is due to begin his mission onboard the space plane VSS Unity at around 7am local US time (2pm BST) on Sunday.

The plane will fly to where the sky turns black and the Earths horizon curves away into the distance, before experiencing several minutes of weightlessness and returning to the companys New Mexico launch headquarters.

A livestream can be viewed here on Virgin Galactics YouTube page.

It will be the first time that the company has conducted a fully crewed flight to the edge of space, though not the first time people have travelled in the spacecraft.

Mr Branson had not originally been due to ride on VSS Unity for test flights, but Virgin Galactic confirmed his participation has been expedited so he could test the private astronaut experience.

The spaceplanes two pilots, Dave Mackay and Michael Masucci, will control the ignition and shutoff of the ships rocket engine, and activate the vehicles feathered tail maneuver for re-entry.

The three other mission specialists are Beth Moses, the companys chief astronaut instructor; Virgin Galactics lead operations engineer Colin Bennett; and Sirisha Bandla, a research operations and government affairs vice president.

Ive always been a dreamer. My mum taught me to never give up and to reach for the stars. On 11 July, its time to turn that dream into a reality aboard the next @VirginGalactic spaceflight, tweeted Mr Branson.

It will be Virgin Galactics fourth crewed test flight using VSS Unity, a spaceplane that is dropped from a carrier in mid-air before shooting up to the very edge of space.

Assuming the mission goes well, Virgin has said it plans two further test flights of the spaceplane before beginning commercial service next year.

The company has said it has received more than 600 flight reservations, priced at around $250,000 per ticket, but hopes eventually to slash the cost of each seat to $40,000.

Mr Bransons decision to board the space plane followed the announcement by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos that he would be onboard his company Blue Origins flight on 20 July.

On Friday, Mr Bezos space company, Blue Origin, said anyone travelling on Sir Richards Unity spacecraft would not reach the internationally recognised altitude for where space begins - the so-called Karman line of 100km.

Mr Branson has denied it is a race, despite announcing his plan soon after Bezos and scheduling a date shortly before.

Its honestly not a race, Branson told Reuters. If its a race, its a race to produce wonderful spaceships that can make many more people be able to access space. And I think thats both of our aims.
 Close Five of Conor McGregor's best UFC fights

Conor McGregor and Dustin Poirier failed to settle their rivalry tonight after a dramatic clash in the main event of UFC 264.

The latest bout marked their third meeting, with McGregor having knocked out Poirier in the first round when they fought at featherweight in 2014, before the American exacted his revenge this January by handing the Irishman the first KO loss of his career. That lightweight contest in Abu Dhabi ended in the second round, with many pundits predicting another early finish as the pair go head-to-head in a sold-out T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

There was in fact an early finish, but not an expected one. The trilogy came to a close after McGregor lost to Poirier via doctor stoppage, with the Irishman unable to continue after sustaining an ankle injury at the end of the first round.

McGregor has just one win in the last four-and-a-half years  a 40-second demolition of Donald Cerrone in January 2020  while Poirier now has eight victories and one defeat in that same period of time. The Diamond has established himself as the No 1 lightweight contender in the UFC, and  having previously held interim gold  could have fought for the vacant undisputed title at 155lbs this spring. Instead, Poirier opted for a money fight with McGregor.

Follow all the highlights and fallout from UFC 264 below.
During a joint operation when several law enforcement agencies in India together raided a house in the north-eastern state of Meghalaya, they knew exactly what they would find. Four live pangolins, over 44 kg of pangolin scales, 43 dead tokay geckos and two elephant tusks.

It culminated in the arrest of eight people who were detained under different sections of the Wildlife Protection Act of India. But the investigation in this expose began from an unlikely place. The internet.

About six months before, Wildlife Trust of India (WTI), an NGO working for wildlife conservation in the country had begun an operation under which they started monitoring the illegal wildlife trade on different YouTube channels.

We found about 19 YouTube channels that uploaded a total of 50 videos about pangolin scales and live pangolin, Jose Louies, deputy director and chief of the Wildlife Crime Control Division at WTI tells The Independent. There were several phone numbers posted on these channels which belonged to countries from Indonesia, Iraq, Bangladesh, Pakistan and India.

Using what Mr Louies described as an easy intelligence gathering method, his team started posting their number in the comments section of these YouTube channels, requesting for pangolin scales. We then waited out for the contact to be made, he said. In March, my team received a message over WhatsApp. We were contacted on the number that we had posted there.

I have pangolin, said the message from an unknown WhatsApp number with Indias country code. Along with the message, the sender shared a 30-second long video. We had to be sure that it is actionable intelligence. And not someone who is just forwarding someone elses forward or a video from the internet, said Mr Louies.

Your demand bro, asked the person from the other end. To test their potential, WTI in turn asked them how much they can supply. Once the trader revealed that he could provide as much as they wanted, WTI contacted the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB), the apex law enforcement body, probing the illegal wildlife trade in the country and then started developing the undercover operation that eventually led to the arrest of eight people.

It is illegal to sell and purchase animals protected under the Wildlife Protection Act of India. Though the law does not categorically cover the social media platforms, e-commerce websites and private websites, the sale and purchase of the protected species are still, however, covered under the Wildlife Protection Act, HV Girisha, an Indian Forest Service officer and joint director for the WCCB, tells The Independent.

The internet is turning into a hub of illegal wildlife trade, he laments. And it is increasingly difficult to get the social media giants to coordinate or aid us in the investigation. They may not always share the information or there may be a time lag in the response period.

While the enforcement agencies in past have turned to YouTube and issued them notice following which the videos were taken down, they did not turn to the Google-owned video-sharing platform in this particular probe, Mr Girisha said.

Stop the Illegal Wildlife Trade We are working with conservation charities Space for Giants and Freeland to protect wildlife at risk from poachers due to the conservation funding crisis caused by Covid-19. Help is desperately needed to support wildlife rangers, local communities and law enforcement personnel to prevent wildlife crime. Donate to help Stop the Illegal Wildlife Trade HERE.

For traffickers engaging in the illegal wildlife trade of animals on the internet, social media companies act as an enabler, argues Mr Louies. These companies allow the traffickers to use their platform to market their goods, connect with other buyers and conduct the business. In other words, they act as a marketplace.

But to get cooperation from these internet giants in doing law enforcement intervention to disrupt this marketplace has been difficult globally, shares Daniel Stiles, a wildlife conservationist based out of Kenya. Up until now, they have refused to do that, he tells The Independent. The most they will do is remove or close the account.

This, he says, is futile because the trafficker opens a new account under a new name and carries on with his business. Shutting down the account does not stop anything. All it does is interfere with the ongoing investigations.

Mr Stiles, who monitors the sale and purchase of primates on the internet, says: Because we have been following these guys and they lead you to the big traffickers. They further lead you to who the big buyers are. Its a very long process. Its a very labour and time-intensive process. It takes a long time to go through all the friends, all the followers and the posts to develop leads on who are the traffickers.

Wildlife activists also believe that social media platforms can do more to curb the illegal trade of animals on social media platforms. If they really want to stop the illegal trade, all they need to do is find one or two keywords and put an algorithm on them, says Mr Louies.

If you put a video on YouTube with audio which is not copyright free, within two minutes of uploading the video, youll get a notification which says that the video is copyrighted. This means they have a mechanism to find copyrighted audio. Then why cant they develop algorithms to help in curb the illegal wildlife trade, he asks. They have done that for sensitive political and social issues.

He says that the platforms can develop bots that can notify a post as against their policy and then not allow the post to be made. If I want to post something about pangolin scales and if Facebook or YouTube does not allow me to publish them, then my ability to network will be disrupted. The platform is not facilitating the trade.

This method of using algorithms and blocking certain keywords has led to a decline in the sale of protected species, their parts and products on Indian trade portals, Mr Girisha said. Beforehand, the sale of sea cucumber, turtles, tortoise, snakes and their venom, tiger and leopard parts and monitor lizard was rampant, he says. In fact, monitor lizard penises from India were sold as Hatha Jodi, a rare plant part said to be having magical properties. The reptile, which helps in controlling insect and rodent populations, is protected under Schedule 1 of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. This means, their trade can invite a minimum of three years of imprisonment extendable to seven years.

These elements were appearing on these trade portals on a regular basis. But slowly, after we started sharing keywords, the companies started putting filters. Now, they do not appear on the trade portals. Social media can also do the same, Mr Girisha added.

However, the social media algorithms can also help in connecting would-be buyers with closed social media groups involved in the sale and purchase of animals, weapons, women, antiquities, argues Patricia Tricorache, a member of ACCO, the Alliance to Counter Crime Online and an illegal wildlife trade expert who monitors cheetah cubs appearing on social media.

These companies have to have some liability when it comes to all the illegal stuff going on on their platforms. Because they allow drugs to be sold, they allow the sale of women, weapons, wildlife, antiquities. And not only that, but in the cases where there are private groups offering these things, they actually pop up [with suggestions that] you might like this other group, too, Ms Tricorache tells The Independent. So they are directing you to other possible illegal activities. They are just trying to monetise everything.

A 2020 study by ACCO found that of the pages selling illegal wildlife products, about a third were found using Facebooks own related pages features which recommended pages similar to one a user has visited or liked.

Facebook policy prohibits content that attempts to buy, sell, trade, donate, gift or solicit endangered species or their parts. The company explicitly prohibits the trade in species listed by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).

The ACCO research also found Facebook inconsistently applies this policy across different languages. During the six-month study which ran from March 2020 through September 2020, roughly 59 per cent English-language pages involved in wildlife-sale were removed. However, the study found that only 2.2 per cent of the 93 pages identified in Arabic, 2 per cent of the 49 Indonesian-language pages and 10.2 per cent of the 108 Vietnamese language pages involved in the sale of wildlife animals were taken down.

We do not allow the sale of animals on Facebook or Instagram and we prohibit content and ads attempting to trade endangered animals, a Facebook spokesperson said. In addition to proactive detection, we partner with wildlife experts and law enforcement agencies around the world to help tackle the illegal trade of wildlife. We continue to invest to improve the enforcement of our policies, the spokesperson added in response to a series of questions posed by The Independent. Google did not respond to a request for comment.

Facebook does also have success stories to tell. The US-based giant collaborated with a biodiversity conservation group, TRAFFIC in Indonesia and the Philippines to remove more 1,900 groups involved in the trade of illegal wildlife products from its platform between January and May 2021.

In 2018, Facebook alongside Google and 19 other major tech firms joined the Coalition to End Wildlife Trafficking Online, pledging to remove about 80 per cent of wildlife trafficking content from their platforms. This international effort and coordination between tech giants has yielded some positive results. As of March 2020, the coalition reported removing or blocking more than 3 million listings for endangered and threatened species and associated products from their online platforms, according to a report by International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW).

Matt Morley, Director of IFAWs Wildlife Crime Program, says that the goal of such action is to disrupt the trade making it difficult for advertisers to trade openly because it is unrealistic to aim for complete elimination of the illegal wildlife trade on the internet.

The sheer volume of listings/adverts and groups makes it impossible for even the best law enforcement to adequately investigate even a small percentage of postings, he tells The Independent. Where there is evidence of systematic violation of the law and opportunities for investigation, posts can be, and are left up during the lifetime of an investigation, this is arranged between the agencies and the companies. Again, the goal is not elimination of trade, this is unrealistic. While the legal framework, agency capacity and political will to take wildlife crime more seriously catches up, the goal is disruption.

For effective intervention on the internet, Mr Morley suggests that there needs to be better coordination between law enforcement agencies and the tech giants, along with a need for better international law enforcement cooperation. Were fighting 21st Century crime with 20th Century laws and policing structures, he says as he elaborates on jurisdictional issues around wildlife crime, with parties spread across the globe and being subjected to different laws.

The CITES restricts international wildlife trade by way of a system of permits for species listed on the Conventions appendices based on their level of endangerment in the wild, he continues. CITES does not regulate domestic trade, although countries may do so through their own national legislation.

Items sold over the internet often lack any CITES documentation, and jurisdictional issues can complicate the question of whether CITES restrictions apply to a particular sale, he says. The fact that these sales take place virtually rather than in person contributes to the difficulty in distinguishing legal from illegal in a more fundamental way as well. Because items listed for sale online are not examined in person, sellers can disguise a product as a different item, post blurry photos, or label a product antique or pre-ban to avoid legal interference.

Ms Tricorache argues that the tech companies should take a more proactive role in curbing the trade. Instead of just relying mostly on the users to report the illegal trade on their platforms, they should also deploy people to proactively monitor these things. They have plenty of money and resources to do that, she says. Secondly, she argues companies need to work closely with the law enforcement agencies and not just delete accounts, which are potential evidence. Thirdly, she says, the tech giants should use their algorithms to educate users about the illegal nature of many of the posts they allow, similar to what they are doing with many political or Covid-related posts. This can play a huge role in deterring the users from indulging in the illegal trade on the platform, Ms Tricorache adds.
All it takes for a bump in a career in an actor's life is a controversy. For TV actor Pearl V Puri, the last few weeks have been mentally draining as he has been in news every now and then.

The actor was arrested in June after he was accused of raping a minor girl on a film set in Vasai, where he was shooting in October 2019. Even though the actor was later released on bail, there have been some twisted updates on this case.

Pearl V Puri

Here's the complete timeline of the case.

1. The actor was arrested in June. He was accused of raping a minor girl on a film set in Vasai, where he was shooting in October 2019.

ANI

The actor was arrested by Waliv Police on June 4 under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act for allegedly raping a minor girl.



2. Pearl's colleagues in the television industry jumped for his defense on social media.

Pearl V Puri

From Ekta Kapoor to Anita Hassanandani, his colleagues from the TV industry stood up for him and spoke in his defense: "Woke up to some nonsensical news bout @pearlvpuri I know him! It is NOT true ... canNOT be true.... all lies. Im sure there is more to it. And the truth will be out soon. Love you @pearlvpuri #ISTANDWITHPEARL."



3. On 15th June, he was finally granted bail. Earlier, Pearl's bail plea was rejected by the Vasai court.

After his bail, Pearl shared his story with his fans and followers on social media. He wrote: "Life has its own way of testing people! I lost my Nani a few months back, then on her 17th day, I lost my dad post that my mother got diagnosed with cancer and then this ghastly accusation. The last couple of weeks were grueling for me like a nightmare. I was, overnight, made to feel like a criminal. All of this in the midst of my mothers cancer treatment, it shattered my sense of security, making me feel helpless," he wrote.

4. For the first time after his bail, Television actor Pearl V Puri made a public appearance.

He was spotted by the paparazzi on Saturday. The actor visited an orphanage in Mumbai on the occasion of his birthday. He was clicked Pat St Catherines Home in Andheri. He greeted the photographers with folded hands.

Pearl V Puri
Wrong signals by models, difficulty in predicting the outcomes of the interactions between the easterly and westerly winds were some of the major reasons behind the India Meteorological Departments monsoon forecast for parts of north India going haywire, experts pointed out as any relief from the oppressive heat eludes the region.

The Southwest Monsoon has reached almost all parts of the country but has stayed away from parts of north India. It is yet to reach Delhi, Haryana, parts of west Uttar Pradesh and west Rajasthan.

No sign of monsoon in North India

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had predicted that monsoon is expected to cover these parts by June  a little less than a month back, but its predictions are yet to come true. In its forecast on June 13, the IMD had predicted that the Southwest Monsoon will reach Delhi by June 15. However, a day later it said conditions are not favourable for its further advancement in this region.

PTI

Then began a long break-spell during which the Southwest Monsoon was weak over several parts of the country. On July 1, the IMD said conditions could be favourable for further advancement of the monsoon by July 7. The moist easterly winds in the lower level from the Bay of Bengal are likely to establish gradually over parts of eastern India from July 8, it had said.

On July 5, the IMD again said the monsoon is likely to spread into northwest India covering Punjab and north Haryana by July 10. However, there were no signs of any relief even on July 10. On forecasting the onset of Southwest Monsoon over Kerala, the IMD said it would hit the southern state by May 31. Till May 30, the IMD, in its daily bulletin, said the onset of the monsoon over Kerala was expected to be around May 31. However, by afternoon of that day, it revised it saying the onset is expected to be by June 3. We could have told (the delayed onset) in the morning itself. However, we are monitoring all the defined parameters/ criteria for onset of monsoon over Kerala. At present the criteria are not fully satisfied, IMD Director General Mrutunjay Mohapatra had said on May 30.

ANI

Mohapatra said the countrys forecasting agency did issue a forecast that monsoon will cover parts of north India including Delhi by June 15 as indicated by the models. But we changed it the next day (June 14) when we realised that conditions are not favourable for its advancement. He said the forecast models did not show consistency in the interactions of the easterlies and the westerlies  the two dominant wind patterns.

The IMD should not have issued the forecast. They could have waited for some more time, he said. The IMD is an institute under the Ministry of Earth Sciences. Tracking the interactions of the westerlies and the easterlies is the most difficult part in monsoon forecast, Mohapatras predecessor K J Ramesh said.

In a normal scenario, the Southwest Monsoon covers West Bengal and many parts of central India by June 15, just 14 days after it makes an onset over Kerala, making the official commencement of the four-month rainfall season over the country. It, however, takes nearly three weeks to cover parts of north India, Ramesh said.
Edith Macefield became world famous in 2006 when she stubbornly refused compensation of $1 million for her 108-year-old home, which was interfering with the construction of a new commercial building in Seattle. After this the house became very famous in The United States. For this she became almost a national hero. The five-story building was built next to her house. Edith passed away at her home at the age of 86.

After her death, it turned out that Macefield bequeathed the house to the manager of the new building, Barry Martin, the man who took care of her at the end . In July 2009, Barry Martin sold the house to Greg Pinneo for $310,000. Greg Pinneo plans to use the house as an office for his real estate firm.
Nokia has filed numerous patent infringement complaints against smartphone brand OPPO regarding standard-essential patent (SEP) and non-SEP patents, according to media reports.



According to GSMArena, these patents are about connectivity, interface and security features and the complaints are filed in European and Asian markets.



Smartphone brands OPPO and Nokia had signed a multi-year licensing agreement back in 2018 and it appears that the contract is over, the report said.



The Finnish telecommunications company put out an official statement that OPPO has rejected the offer of renewing the contract so it had to take legal actions since Oppo continues to use those patents.



Media reports said that OPPO found Nokia's action "shocking" and accused it of dishonouring the patent licensing under fair, reasonable, and non-discriminatory (FRAND) terms.



"OPPO respects and protects its own and third-party intellectual property rights, and has been committed to benign patent licensing cooperation in the industry. OPPO opposes unreasonable consultations such as using litigation as a tool," the smartphone company said.



The spokesperson for Nokia "believes that there is still a more constructive way to deal with the situation".



Nokia has quite a lot of patents up its sleeve and has signed royalty-bearing agreements with Samsung, Apple, LG, Lenovo and even Blackberry, the report said.



Both the companies have not revealed how closely they would integrate. A new leaked memo has disclosed that OnePlus will become OPPO's sub-brand.

*Edited from an IANS report
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.
Tanaiste Leo Varadkar wrote to four of the worlds biggest technology companies asking them what more they could to tackle illegal gatherings and the spread of misinformation during the pandemic.

Mr Varadkar sent letters to Facebook, Twitter, Google, and TikTok in the wake of violent protests on the streets of Dublin earlier this year.

He said the events were clearly planned using social media platforms and private messaging services and that he had been appalled by what happened.

The Tanaiste said that this behaviour by a selfish few had undermined the sacrifices that millions of Irish people had made over the last year.

He said he was a strong believer in freedom of speech but that this was a well-organised conglomeration of anti-mask, anti-vaccine, and anti-lockdown groups using technology to organise themselves.

In responses to the Tanaiste, Facebook said they too were appalled by the violence and that they deeply appreciated the efforts of gardai, healthcare workers, and those working on the front lines.

The social media giant said an internal investigation had taken place after the protest leading to the removal of 20 Facebook groups, 15 pages, and two Instagram profiles.

This was done where groups, pages, or profiles had repeatedly shared harmful information and debunked claims about Covid-19 or vaccines, their letter said.

In a response letter, Google said they took the issues in the Tanaistes letter very seriously.

However, they said that their services were not currently known for being favoured for the running of illegal protests or events in Ireland.

It said: We have not been notified that our services were used for the purpose of organising the recent protests in Dublin. Google also said they were committed to removing content and Covid-19 misinformation that poses harm to users from their platforms.

The company also offered to run a discussion and workshop for the Tanaiste and his team on how they manage harmful content.

Gardai restrain a protester during the February anti-lockdown protest in Dublin city centre. PA Photo.

In the Tanaistes letter, the creation of a new Online Safety Commissioner was also flagged to reduce the spread of illegal and potentially harmful content.

Mr Varadkar said the Government wanted takedown measures that were timely and effective, and a way to add further categories of harmful content.

In response to that, Facebook said they were concerned by delays in the passage of legislation governing online activity and possible conflict with EU directives.

Facebook said that the government should consider prioritising and expediting the implementation of the EUs Audio-visual Media Services Directive.

And they also suggested that the government should consider pausing the national online safety measures to ensure both Irish and EU law were aligned.

Google said they were supportive of the legislation and that they were continuing to engage with government to help progress it.

They said: Getting this legislation right will be crucial to addressing harmful online content into the future and we look forward to [its] speedy adoption. Asked to comment on their records, a spokesman for Minister Varadkar said the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media were now leading on new online safety laws and queries should be directed to them.
Public Expenditure Minister Michael McGrath has delivered a shot across the bows of his colleagues who are seeking to oust Micheal Martin saying it is not the time for such antics.

Mr McGrath, who shares a constituency with the Taoiseach in Cork South Central, said while the odds were against Fianna Fail in Dublin Bay South, the party is obviously disappointed with the result of the by-election.

He said the voters have given a message and we will learn from this.

In a significant intervention amid calls for Mr Martin to resign, Mr McGrath said the party must support its leader and his team and work in the interests of the public at large.

We are listening. There will be an opportunity for everyone in the party to have their say and give their views. That said, this is not a time for us to be talking about ourselves, he said.

I believe people are much more interested in the issues that matter to them in their day-to-day lives. We've the privilege of serving in govt and the opportunity to deliver positive, lasting change. That is what we will ultimately be judged on, he added.

Mr McGrath said that for Fianna Fail to succeed, we need to support our Taoiseach, our team, work together, have unity of purpose and show the public that their concerns are our priorities at all times.

Jim O Callaghan has echoed calls for a Fianna Fail meeting following the Dublin Bay South by-election.

Jim OCallaghan, meanwhile, has said he wants to be the next leader of Fianna Fail and that the party should hold a special meeting to discuss the fallout of the disastrous Dublin Bay South by-election.

He said he is backing a call from Offaly TD Barry Cowen for the party to hold a special in-person meeting as soon as possible to discuss the shockingly bad result for Fianna Fail.

We can't just ignore the result and we shouldn't shy away from the result," he said.

"We need to have a meeting to address the results of the by-election and the general election in 2020, we've had a review into that, that hasn't been published yet.

Mr OCallaghan said he would not put his name to a motion of no confidence in Taoiseach Micheal Martin and said he has not been contacted by anyone about such a motion.

He said in his belief he did not think Mr Martin would lead the party into the next General Election.

The Taoiseach has rejected any suggestion about his leadership of Fianna Fail being in doubt. Picture: Denis Minihane.

Well, if it [the government] goes full term we're talking about 2025, and obviously I'm conscious that Micheal Martin doesn't want to say anything that can undermine his current position, and I don't want to contribute to that.

"But I would have thought it's unlikely that in 2025 Micheal Martin will be leading Fianna Fail into an election, that's just my own view, Mr OCallaghan said.

It comes as Education Minister Norma Foley rejected calls from a party colleague for Mr Martin to resign as party leader.

Ms Foley said the constituency is not a natural stronghold for Fianna Fail and the party was never likely to win, but she also paid tribute to Mr Martin and his leadership.

The Taoiseach is a solutions-focused leader and has led the country through a very difficult period in terms of the pandemic, she said.

Ms Foley was responding to a call from Sligo TD Marc MacSharry for Mr Martin to resign as party leader.

It follows the partys poor performance in the Dublin Bay South by-election.

Education Minister Norma Foley said the constituency is not a natural stronghold for Fianna Fail and the party was never likely to win.

Fianna Fail candidate Deirdre Conroy won just 4.6% of the first preference vote, the partys worst-ever by-election result.

Mr MacSharry is calling for Mr Martin to resign, citing the summer recess as the time to discuss the matter.

The sooner the better as far as Im concerned, quite frankly, he said.

Its not my preference that he would lead us into the next general election.

"I think that a party with a performance of below 5%  with the history, culture and heritage of Fianna Fail  must address that as a matter of the utmost urgency.

He added that as the summer recess approaches, there would be no better time to deal with these matters.

Speaking to Newstalk, Mr MacSharry said that 10 years as leader is a "substantial period" and that due to the smoking ban and other issues, the Taoiseach's legacy is secure.

He stated: "Obviously, its a personal view. It would be a matter for the party as a whole.

Health Minister Stephen Donnelly has defended Mr Martin saying he has full confidence in the party leader.

I think he is doing a really good job in what is an incredibly difficult period for the country.

Marc MacSharry. File picture: Gareth Chaney Collins

The comments come as former agriculture minister Barry Cowen called for a special meeting of the party following the by-election.

Mr Cowen said that while the result was alarming it was not hugely surprising.

In an email to party members, he also called last years general election performance dismal in his email.

I know it is considered better not to have an election post mortem too soon after the event but such a delay is simply inexplicable at this stage, he wrote.

Mr Cowen said it is now imperative that the party's performance in the by-election and General Election comes under the microscope of the parliamentary party.

Speaking on Friday, Mr Martin rejected any suggestion about his leadership of Fianna Fail being in doubt.

He said it is still his intention to become Tanaiste and will lead the party into the next General Election.

Labours Ivana Bacik won Thursdays by-election, seeing off Fine Gael's James Geoghegan on the ninth count.

Ms Bacik led the way from the early tallies until the final count, having taken over 30% of the votes, outperforming her party's national polling by 10 times.
Readers: This is the second of three columns about Freedom.

I once pastored a church where our music minister, Don Smith, often greeted our congregation with a harmonious, Good morning!

Sadly, our sleepy parishioners often failed to reciprocate his enthusiasm. On those occasions, Smith fired a question to resuscitate the elderly congregants  How many of you would rather be here than the best prison in Turkey?

A few hands rose in cautious favor of their current accommodations, but most offered only a groan.

As kooky as Smiths choice may be, he was trying to give our parishioners some perspective. Ten years later, in 1998, I gained firsthand appreciation of his viewpoint by visiting a Turkish prison.

At the time, I was serving as an Air Force chaplain at the Izmir Air Station, when I answered a phone call from our deputy commander, Lt. Col. Horace J. Phillips.

Chaplain, how would you like to go to prison today? he asked.

Pardon me, Sir?

Phillips laughed the same gotcha laugh hed often used when certifying me for scuba.

Then, as if clearing his diving mask of seawater, he expelled his bubbly mirth to explain that one of our Security Force members (military policeman) had been detained in the infamous Bucca Prison.

I need you to accompany the lawyer and myself to the prison to check on the sergeants welfare.

I drew a troubled breath and asked, Whats the charge?

The Turkish Insult Law, answered the base lawyer on speakerphone with Phillips.

The law, still in use today, makes it illegal for anyone to say or do something the government deems offensive. If convicted, our airman was facing a one-to-three-year prison sentence.

Phillips explained that the drunk sergeant insulted the Turks by emptying his bladder on a statue of Mustafa Ataturk, the founder of modern Turkey.

Sounds quite insulting, indeed I said.

During our one-hour car ride to the prison, the lawyer reminded us that Turkey did not subscribe to the typical get-out-of-jail-free agreement the US military enjoys with most countries. She informed us that normally low-level offences by US service members are addressed by an American military court.

Unless we can work some magic, she added, our boy is there to stay.

Just after noon, we presented identification to the guards who then passed us through gates.

Hearing Turkish prison doors close behind you isnt an experience for the faint of heart. The smell suddenly became indescribable. Rats passed us going the opposite direction. It seemed even rodents were plotting their escape.

Every bit of it reminded me of the 1978 film Midnight Express. The movie follows American college student Billy Hayes, who served four years in a Turkish prison for drug-smuggling before he finally boated across the Maritsa River to freedom.

Soon we found our sergeant pacing his cell, a contrite cop who remembered very little of his escapades. He seemed in no condition to swim for freedom.

Im not sure how someone detained in a Turkish prison feels when seeing a chaplain enter his cell. But his pale expression suggested he may have been expecting his last rites.

Our lawyer removed her best shot from her briefcase, a typed apology. She advised him to sign, saying, If you apologize, we might get you released with your promise to reappear for trial.

By the next day, the Turks welcomed the signed apology and, with a wink to Phillips, allowed the sergeant to board a flight home.

The sergeants story often lends perspective when I hear folks endlessly complain about restrictions of their personal freedoms, such as taxes, masks, or speed limits on an empty stretch of desert highway.

If Smith and I were leading worship again today, wed probably ask those complainers to join us in Keith Greenwoods song:

I'm proud to be an American,

Where at least I know I'm free.

And I won't forget the men who died

Who gave that right to me.

And I'd gladly stand up

Next to you and defend her still today;

'Cause there ain't no doubt I love this land.

God bless the USA!

Then, if I thought I heard a lack of enthusiasm, Id ask them all, How many of you would rather be here today than the finest prison in Turkey?

A portion of this column is excerpted from Norris book, Thriving Beyond Surviving. His books are available at www.thechaplain.net. Contact him at comment@thechaplain.net or 10556 Combie Rd. Suite 6643 Auburn, CA 95602 or voicemail (843) 608-9715. Twitter @chaplain.
Ithaca, NY (14850)

Today

Rain early...then remaining cloudy with showers in the afternoon. High near 70F. Winds NNW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 80%..

Tonight

A shower or two possible this evening with partly cloudy skies overnight. Low 61F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 30%.
The Fortune 500 company Fidelity National Information Services has released its Readiness Report 2021 focusing on the capital markets industry and how firms are transforming their technology and operations to compete in the future. It paints a picture of Australian firms still struggling with working from home while highlighting the need for tech in risk reduction.

Fidelity National Information Services, or FIS as it is known on the New York stock exchange (NYSE), is an American-based Fortune 500 company offering a range of financial products and services with a global workforce of over 55,000 people. FIS itself has a permanent work from home workforce and shifted to work from anywhere since March 2020.

The FIS Readiness Report 2021 has now been released in Australia and highlights risk challenges for capital market firms in Australia while regulators are shifting their attention to areas such as surveillance and fraud. Firms are renewing their focus on growth but recognise deeper investments in regulatory risk and risk management are mission-critical.

Key findings from the report include:

Logistical and security issues related to remote working were identified to be one of the biggest (37%) operational and technology challenges for Australian capital market firms, alongside new demands on risk management (32%) and cybercrime and fraud risks (30%). 43% of Australian firms plan to strengthen their risk defences with investment in solutions, ahead of the global average of 37%. 63% of firms will focus their regulatory and compliance investment on enhancing risk-management capabilities. Buy-side firms demonstrated the greatest appetite, with 70% planning to invest in risk management over the next 12 months. 55% of Australian capital market firms are looking to their technology vendors to strengthen their risk management capabilities, ahead of the global average of 39%. The number one priority for artificial intelligence investments in financial and regulatory technology is to strengthen compliance and risk management.

COVID-19 has brought about a big shift in future of work trends. With vaccination roll-outs underway, inevitably some percentage of the workforce will return to the office, however many will likely remain at home. Changes in working culture are expected to be permanent, and this has many repercussions on capital market firms in Australia. The rise of a remote workplace is shining a spotlight on logistical and security challenges, as indicated by 37% of firms surveyed in our Readiness research. Intensifying cyber and fraud risks and new demands on risk management are also presenting some of the biggest short-term operational and technology challenges for firms, said Ashish Rai, group managing director, APAC and MEA Capital Markets, FIS.

"The good news is that Australian firms are starting to take action to respond to the changing risk landscape. A significant 43% of firms view investments in RegTech solutions to strengthen cyber and fraud risk defences as a competitive advantage, ahead of the global average of 37%. We are witnessing a surge in demand for robust RegTech and surveillance tools across operations. As risk management takes centre stage, Australian capital market firms are acting fast to answer the call and up their investments in their risk capabilities to cement their position as global leaders, he said.

You can read the report here, including commentary from FIS executives and interactive quizzes, tip sheets, eBooks and other resources.

Image credit: "Money" by Images_of_Money is licensed under CC BY 2.0
Today

Sunshine and a few afternoon clouds. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 108F. Winds SE at 10 to 15 mph.

Tonight

Partly cloudy skies. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 84F. Winds SE at 10 to 15 mph.

Tomorrow

Partly cloudy skies. High 106F. Winds ESE at 5 to 10 mph.
With an uptick in Covid-19 cases, there is growing alarm. 'We've seen almost an entire takeover in the Delta variant,' one state official says
Donovan Castillo has signed on with the US Navy and ships out for boot camp on July 13.
Jacksonville, TX (75766)

Today

Sunshine and a few clouds. High 94F. Winds light and variable..

Tonight

Partial cloudiness early, with scattered showers and thunderstorms overnight. Low near 75F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 40%.
Paul W. Hansens Common Ground column appears about twice a month. Columns are solely the opinion of their authors. Contact him by emailing columnists@jhnewsandguide.com.
Joplin, MO (64801)

Today

Cloudy skies early, then partly cloudy this afternoon. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High near 85F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Mostly clear. Low near 65F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph.
Australias defence minister on Sunday confirmed the end of his countrys involvement in the 20-year Afghanistan war, saying the troop withdrawal had taken place in recent weeks.

Australia announced in April that it would remove its remaining troops by September in line with the US decision to end its military operations in the war-torn country.

Defence Minister Peter Dutton told Sky News that the countrys last 80 support personnel had left Afghanistan in recent weeks.

That doesnt mean we wont be a part of campaigns with the United States where we deem that to be in our national interest or in the interest of our allies, he added.

For now, though, that campaign has come to an end.

Australia had deployed 39,000 troops over the past 20 years as part of US and NATO-led operations against the Taliban and terrorist groups in Afghanistan, a mission that cost the country billions of dollars and left 41 Australian soldiers dead.

And while the country has not had a significant troop presence in Afghanistan since withdrawing combat personnel in late 2013, the war has taken a toll and fuelled controversy at home.

Veterans groups have pressured the government into launching a formal inquiry into the high number of suicides among Afghan veterans and other ex-servicemen and women.

The military and police are also actively investigating allegations that elite Special Air Services soldiers committed numerous war crimes in Afghanistan.
San Francisco (Associated Press)-As another heat wave hit the western United States this weekend, firefighters worked hard to contain the wildfires in Northern California that exploded in blazing temperatures, prompting overheating warnings in inland and desert areas.

On Friday, the temperature in Death Valley National Park in California reached a staggering 130 degrees Fahrenheit (54 degrees Celsius) and may reach the same high temperature on Saturday. If confirmed, the 130 degree reading will be the highest temperature recorded since July 1913, when the same furnace river desert area reached 134 degrees Fahrenheit (57 degrees Celsius), which is considered the highest temperature reliably measured on earth.

Beckwourth Complex-two lightning-caused fires burning 45 miles (72 kilometers) north of Lake Tahoe-after doubling in size between Friday and Saturday, from the Sierra Nevada forest area to the northeast The direction of the fire showed no signs of slowing down.

There have been several fires in the mountains of northern California, destroying more than ten houses. Although there were no confirmed reports of damage to the building, the fire prompted approximately 2,800 people to issue evacuation orders or warnings and also closed nearly 200 square miles (518 square kilometers) of Plumas National Forest.

Fire Information Officer Lisa Cox said that on Friday, the rising hot air formed a huge, smoky cumulus cloud thousands of feet high and produced its own lightning.

The on-site fire caused by embers jumped a mile (1.6 km) before the northeast sidetoo far for firefighters to fight safelyand the wind gathered the fire into dry fuel-filled trenches and canyons, There it can actually speed things up, Cox said. Flames reached 100 feet (31 meters) in some places, forcing firefighters to focus on building bulldozer production lines to protect houses.

Cox said that firefighters usually use cool, humid nights to extinguish fires, but the high temperature and low humidity never stop. More than 1,200 firefighters were assisted by the aircraft. But it is expected that the fire will continue to move forward.

She added that the air is very dry, and some of the water dropped by the plane evaporates before it reaches the ground.

We expect more of the same things to happen the day after tomorrow, the day after tomorrow, and the day after tomorrow, Cox said.

After fire officials made better observations, the fire was only controlled by 8%, and the fire increased sharply to 86 square miles (222 square kilometers).

This is one of several threatening homes in the western states. As the high-pressure zone covers the area, triple-digit high temperatures are expected throughout the weekend.

The National Weather Service warned that dangerous conditions could lead to heat-related diseases, and Californias grid operator issued a statewide Flex alert between 4pm and 9pm on Saturday to avoid interruptions and Power outages in turns.

The California independent system operator warned that the potential power shortage is not only due to high temperatures, but also because a wildfire in southern Oregon is threatening the transmission lines that carry imported power to California. Governor Gavin Newsom (Gavin Newsom) issued an emergency announcement on Friday, suspending regulations to allow more power capacity, and ISO requires other states to provide emergency assistance.

On Saturday, driven by strong winds, the size of the fire in Oregon doubled to 120 square miles (311 square kilometers) as it was in Fremont-Vine, near the town of Sprague River in Klamath County. Thick wood passes through the Ma National Forest.

NV Energy, the largest electricity supplier in Nevada, also urges customers to save electricity on Saturday and Sunday nights, as heat waves and wildfires affect transmission lines throughout the region.

In Southern California, a large rig in eastern San Diego County sparked a bushfire on Saturday, forcing the evacuation of two Native American reservations.

In north-central Arizona, Yavapai County on Saturday lifted its evacuation warning for the unincorporated town of Black Canyon City, 43 miles (66 kilometers) north of Phoenix, after fires in nearby mountains no longer pose a threat.

A wildfire in southeastern Washington spread to nearly 60 square miles (155 square kilometers) because it darkened grass and wood as it entered the Umatilla National Forest.

In Idaho, Governor Brad Little declared a wildfire emergency on Friday and mobilized the states National Guard to help extinguish fires caused by thunderstorms that swept through dry areas.

Firefighters in north-central Idaho are fighting three wildfires triggered by lightning, covering an area of ??62 square miles (160 square kilometers). In Dixie, a small remote community about 40 miles (64 kilometers) southeast of Grangeville, the fire threatened houses and forced people to evacuate.
Santa Ana, California (Associated Press)  A Southern California man was arrested for joining a mob trying to impersonate a member of the media to attack the U.S. Capitol.

45-year-old Matthew Thomas Purse was arrested in Irvine on Friday and faces federal charges including entering and staying in restricted buildings or venues, and in restricted buildings or venues. Disorder and destructive behavior within the Capitol, disorderly behavior in the Capitol, marches, demonstrations, or pickets in the Capitol, according to the Orange County Chronicle.

According to the criminal lawsuit that was unsealed on Friday, the wallet was photographed wearing a tactical vest and a black helmet marked news inside the Capitol. The FBI stated in the arrest warrant affidavit attached to the complaint that there is no evidence that Purse has legal journalistic qualifications or is associated with any news organization.

When contacted by the Associated Press on Saturday in Perth, he said he was part of a legitimate news organization in the building. He declined to name the news organization, saying he has been facing threats of violence.

The records will show that I am not there in any illegal capacity, Perth said.

According to court documents, the video footage shows that the wallet entered the Capitol building on the east side of the building on January 6, carrying a long black pole with what appears to be a recording device at the end, and then heading to the rotunda.

According to the FBI, the wallet was identified by a confidential source who saw him in a live video.
Kim said that in the face of hostile foreign forces, China-DPRK relations are of utmost importance, while Xi Jinping promised to push cooperation to a new stage.

The leaders of North Korea and China exchanged information on the 60th anniversary of the signing of the China-North Korea Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation and Mutual Assistance, and pledged to strengthen cooperation.

According to the North Korean Central News Agency, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un stated in a message to Chinas Xi Jinping on Sunday that their relationship is crucial in the face of hostile foreign forces, and Xi Jinping promised to push cooperation to a new stage.

Since the two sides signed the treaty in 1961, China has been North Koreas only major ally.

At the same time, international sanctions imposed on Pyongyangs nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programs have made it more dependent on Beijings trade and other support than ever before.

Despite the unprecedented complexity of the international situation in recent years, the comrade trust and belligerent friendship between North Korea and China have grown stronger, Kim Jong Il said in his message. The North Korean Central News Agency reported using the initials of North Koreas official name.

The treaty is defending socialism and peace in Asia. Now hostile forces are becoming more desperate in challenging and obstructing actions, King said.

Xi Jinping said in the congratulatory message that he plans to steadily push the friendly and cooperative relations between the two countries to a new level by strengthening communication with Kim Jong Un, and bring greater happiness to the two countries and their peoples, KCNA said.

The Sino-DPRK Treaty is valid for 20 years and was renewed in 1981 and 2001.

NK News, a website that monitors North Korea, said on Sunday that it expects Xi Jinping and Kim Jong Il to extend the treaty for another 20 years.
First round: Ahmedov VS Tavares

The first round is underway, and we will usher in a truly solid duel.

Both are 33 years old, Tavares has a height advantage, but Ahmedov has a tentacle advantage.

Audiences will love Tavares, who fights in Las Vegas-so he is technically ahead of his home audience.

The two exchanged some early punches in the middle of the octagon.

Tavares played a good combination, but Ahmedov played a good counterattack.

Ahmedov tried to throw his fist backwards, but failed to land.

However, the Russians did manage to knock Tavares to the ground.

But Tavares managed to stand up quickly.

Ahmedov struck out with a heavy punch, tripping Tavares into the cage.

The Russian seemed to be done, but he did not succeed.
Sources told CBC News that the second Canadian victim of the collapse of the Florida apartment has been identified as Miguel Passos.

The source said that Passos is 55 years old and their bodies were found on Thursday.

The Department of Global Affairs confirmed on Saturday that the bodies of two Canadians had been recovered from the collapse and that at least two other citizens were still missing.

Spokesperson Grantley Franklin said in a statement: Canada expresses its deepest condolences to the families and friends who lost their loved ones.

In the early morning of June 24, an apartment building in Surfside, Florida collapsed suddenly, killing dozens of people.

Many people are still missing, and local officials said there is no hope of finding alive people among the rubble.

The first Canadian victim confirmed was Ingrid Ainsworth.

On Monday, search and rescue personnel found the 66-year-old husband and her husband, who had also died. A source with direct knowledge of the situation confirmed to CBC News.
As another heat wave hit the western United States this weekend, firefighters fought a raging wildfire in Northern California under scorching temperatures, prompting the inland and desert areas to issue overheating warnings.

Death Valley National Park in California is located about 177 kilometers (110 miles) west of neighboring Las Vegas, Nevada. The temperature reached 54 degrees Celsius (130 degrees Fahrenheit) on Friday and is expected to reach the same temperature on Saturday.

If confirmed, the temperature reading will be the hottest temperature recorded there since July 1913, when the same furnace river desert area reached 57 degrees Celsius (134 degrees Fahrenheit), which is considered the highest temperature reliably measured on Earth.

The Bakerworth Complex  two lightning fires burned 72 kilometers (45 miles) north of Lake Tahoe  after doubling in size between Friday and Saturday, it moved from the Sierra Nevada forest area to The spread in the northeast shows no signs of slowing down.

The local newspaper Mercury News reported that about 1,300 people were deployed on Saturday to prevent the flames from spreading to densely populated areas near the fire, and some evacuation has been ordered.

On Friday, a fire broke out in Doyle, California. The sugar fire was part of the Bakerworth integrated fire, and smoke enveloped the trees [Noah Berger/AP Photo]

The National Weather Service (NWS) Weather Forecast Center said on Twitter on Friday morning that record-breaking high temperatures are expected to affect most areas of the West and Southwest over the weekend.

There are currently more than 31 million people under overheating warnings or high temperature warnings. Three-digit high temperatures may threaten Las Vegass record high temperature of 117 degrees Fahrenheit, the center said.

There have been several fires in the mountains of northern California, destroying more than ten houses.

Although there were no confirmed reports of damage to the building, the fire prompted approximately 2,800 people to issue evacuation orders or warnings and also closed nearly 518 square kilometers (200 square miles) of Plumas National Forest.

A few weeks after the fire Northwestern United States At the end of last month, the temperature on the west coast of Canada hit a record high, which prompted the authorities of both countries to open cooling centers and urge residents to keep cool indoors.

This weekend, record-breaking high temperatures will affect most of the west and southwest. More than 31 million people are currently under overheating warning or high temperature warning. Three-digit high temperatures may threaten Las Vegass record high temperature at 117F. pic.twitter.com/vP4NXEeKGh  NWS Weather Forecast Center (@NWSWPC) July 9, 2021

Heat wave contributed to Hundreds died Officials said that only in British Columbia.

Experts say that climate change is fueling more extreme weather events, such as wildfires and heat waves-some have urged US President Joe Biden to adopt an ambitious long-term strategy. Reduce the risk of devastating wildfires.

According to data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), after the hottest June on record in 127, the highest temperature record may be set on the west coast of the United States this weekend.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, eight states recorded the hottest June this year on record, while six other states recorded the second hottest.

Fire Information Officer Lisa Cox said that back in California, the hot rising air on Friday formed a huge smog-like volcanic cumulus cloud that reached thousands of feet and produced its own lightning.

Cox said the on-site fire caused by embers jumped 1.6 kilometers in front of the northeast wing-too far for firefighters to fight safely-and the wind gathered the fire into the draws and canyons filled with dry fuel. , Where it can actually speed things up, Cox said.

On July 9, US Forest Service firefighters monitored the burning of sugar fires in the Plumas National Forest in California [Noah Berger/AP Photo]

Cox said that firefighters usually use cool, humid nights to extinguish fires, but the high temperature and low humidity never stop.

She added that the air is very dry, and some of the water dropped by the plane evaporates before it reaches the ground. We expect more of the same things to happen the day after tomorrow, the day after tomorrow, and the day after tomorrow, Cox said.

The weather forecast center of NWS also Say On Saturday, even if the temperature did not break records, general, oppressive and persistent high temperatures are still a threat.
A survivor of a deadly shipwreck claimed to have attempted to frame him as the driver in new court documents.

Connor Cooks lawyer South Carolina The injured person at one time Shipwreck in 2019 According to reports, 19-year-old Mallory Beach (Mallory Beach) has filed a petition calling for the removal of law enforcement officers who responded to the incident.

5 Before submitting the petition, as shown in the picture, Paul Murdaughs family claimed that he had been threatened by strangers before he and his mother were shot and killed in June Image source: SC Attorney Generals Office

5 19-year-old Mallory Beach was killed in a shipwreck in 2019 Credit: Handout

5 Shipwreck led to death at Mallory Beach Credit: YouTube

Cook escaped the crash with a broken jaw Submitted a petition Fox News reported that they claimed that they and unknown people may have tried to frame him.

According to a civil petition filed in Richland County, South Carolina on Thursday, Cook suspects that the authorities are trying to make him look like the ships driver-it was eventually revealed to be Paul MurdoHe was charged in this incident a few months later.

He also believes that some evidence at the crash site was missing, and the petition-naming the defendants the Beaufort County Sheriffs Office, the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources and Unknown Others-explained.

According to Fox News, one of Cooks lawyers, Joe McCulloch, said: This motion is necessary in terms of the statute of limitations.

There are a series of major questions about whether to bring a civil conspiracy case and who should be sued.

Chefs lawyerThe Island Packet explained that McCulloch and Kathy Latch filed a petition and new testimony-which shows that at least five police officers were asked about their actions during the crash investigation.

Documents show that Cook is seeking to remove the persons involved and obtain the mobile phones of officials involved in the crash investigation.

The petition wrote: [Cook] It is further believed that these oath-takers, through their official positions in their respective law enforcement agencies, together with other unnamed persons, may have information on collusion and/or civil conspiracy, and by mistakenly shifting focus to shift the responsibility for the ship accident from Paul Mo Transfer to [Cook].

Before submitting the petition, Paul Murdaughs family claimed that he received threats from strangers before he and his mother were shot in a possibly targeted attack in June.

This 22 year old On June 7, he and his 52-year-old mother Maggie were found dead from multiple gunshot wounds outside the familys hunting lodge in South Carolina.

5 Paul Murdaugh and his 52-year-old mother Maggie were found dead on June 7

5 Murdows death occurred a few days after the hearing of the civil lawsuit filed against him for negligent death. Credit: Facebook Maggie Murdor

His death is coming Just a few days after the hearing of the civil suit for improper death filed against him after the beach died.

family Mallory Beach Allegedly, Murdow rammed his fathers boat full throttle into a bridge when he was drunk after a fight with a friend in March 2019, and subsequently filed a lawsuit against Murdow.

The beach and five other passengers were thrown from the ship, and her body was only found a week later.

Murdaugh, a student at the University of South Carolina, is also awaiting court date on three felony charges of rowing boats under the influence of a fatal accident.

The Murdo family has a high influence in their South Carolina community and is considered a legal powerhouse.

Three generations of the family served as the 14th Circuit Lawyer in the southern part of the state. Insider Edition report.

The felony charges against Paul related to Beechs death will now be dropped, but civil proceedings may continue.
According to local authorities, a minibus carrying undocumented Afghan, Pakistani and Bangladeshi migrants crashed in eastern Turkey, killing at least 12 people and injuring 26 others.

Two local sources with knowledge of the matter told Reuters that the accident occurred on Sunday morning in the Muradiye district of Van province near the Turkish-Iran border, where the vehicle rolled over and caught fire.

Two sources said that the identity of the victims in the accident is not yet known, adding that the bus owner has been arrested.

Television broadcasts showed that when emergency rescuers were screening among the burnt wreckage, survivors were being treated on the side of the road.

Body bags can be seen in the wreckage, with personal belongings scattered nearby.

Muradiye District Mayor and Deputy Mayor Erkan Savar, Provincial Gendarmerie Commander Brigadier General Yuksel Yigit and District Gendarmerie Commander Evren Kaptan corrected the information received from officials at the scene.

Migrants mainly come from Iran, Afghanistan and Pakistan. They often walk across the Iranian border into Turkey, and then travel west to cities such as Istanbul and Ankara.

According to the Asylum and Immigration Research Center in Ankara, the US plan to withdraw troops from Afghanistan provides more motivation for young people trying mountain routes.

In June 2020, when their ship sank, more than 60 migrants drowned in Lake Van.
Alexander Lashkarava was one of dozens of journalists who were assaulted when reporting on an attack on LGBTQ militants last week.

Thousands of people took to the streets of the Georgian capital after the death of a photographer, one of the dozens of journalists who were beaten when attacking LGBTQ activists in Tbilisi this week.

On Monday, LGBTQ activists in the South Caucasus country of Georgia cancelled a pride march after violent groups that had previously opposed the event stormed into and ransacked their Tbilisi office, targeting activists and journalists.

On Sunday, the 36-year-old photographer Alexander Lashkarava was beaten in the incident. His mother found him dead at home on TV Pirveli, the channel where he works. It did not disclose the cause of death.

Thousands of protesters gathered outside the parliament and the Georgia Dream Office of the ruling party on Sunday, calling on the prime minister and interior minister to resign due to the violence and the death of Rashkarava.

Rashkarava appeared after being beaten last week [TV Pirveli/Handout via Reuters]

Opposition politician Elene Khoshtaria splashed red paint on the door of the government building in protest.

The death of Rashkarava angered Georgian human rights activists, who accused the authorities of encouraging hate groups and failed to protect journalists and LGBTQ supporters from harm.

The Ministry of the Interior said it was investigating the cause of Lashkaravas death, but did not specify what caused it.

Members of the media participate in a rally to commemorate Laskarava [Irakli Gedenidze/Reuters]

The ministry later stated that during the attack on LGBTQ supporters, Lashkaravas professional activities were illegal obstructed by threats of violence.

Georgian President Salome Zurabichvili wrote on Twitter on Sunday that she has visited the family of Rashkarava.

What happened was a tragedy, and I extend my condolences to the entire media community and the entire state of Georgia, she wrote. It must be investigated and those responsible must be severely punished.

The police said on Monday that more than 50 journalists had been targeted in the violence, which prompted Western countries to call on Georgia to ensure freedom of speech and assembly.

The planned pride parade was cancelled before it started, arousing criticism from the church and conservatives, and Prime Minister Irakli Garibashivili stated that the parade risks arousing public confrontation.

More than 50 journalists were targeted in the violence last week [Irakli Gedenidze/Reuters]
In many cases, reporters focus on who without thinking about why.

After Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeaus decision to appoint an Aboriginal woman as Governor-General earlier this week (as some people insist), this irritating trend has been predictable. Circumstances show up.

Mary Simon, an Inukian leader and former diplomat, was the first Aboriginal to serve as the nominal head of state in Canada.

Canada is a place to find people, a people who serve those around them; they are full of hope and determination to meet major challenges, and most importantly, they never stop working hard to build a better tomorrow. In other words, like Mary People like Simon, Trudeau said when introducing the new governor at a press conference.

When another governor unveiled it with typical Canadian repressive fanfare, the prime minister was enthusiastically applauded by the establishment media, which always eloquently applauded. (It will be described in detail later.)

Despite this, several writers criticized Trudeau for not appointing Governor Simon in 2017, instead choosing to promote astronaut and engineer Julie Payette to a flashy ceremonial position. (Payette will be described in detail later.)

No one answered in all the gentle tutsso as not to deviate from the historic momentthats why Trudeau hesitated to make his groundbreaking choice.

The answer lies in Trudeaus iconic cynical, calculation technique.

In 2017, Trudeau and his arrogant and omniscient advisory team might think that although there were several well-known candidates being promoted at the time, appointing an indigenous person as governor would hardly generate a public relations dividend.

The continuous and cruel injustices and deprivations that prevail in the lives of many aborigines in Canada have not appeared on the short-sighted radar of the media. They were not important then.

Therefore, Trudeau and the optical company, which had been looking for a profit, chose to replace the elderly male scholars with the young, smart and energetic Payette to confirm the new prime ministers feminist sincerity-which was indeed very good at the time. important.

In order to prove the political expediency, a concurring admirer/commentor immediately congratulated Trudeau on an enlightening choice of a feminist prime minister who often talks about the importance of heroines to her young daughter.

The mission of the parish is completed.

However, by 2021, Canadas political and cultural landscape has undergone tremendous changes. Trudeau is eager to ride the waves and appoint Simon as an outdated job, once again demonstrating his progressive qualifications on the cusp of the federal elections are expected to be soon Call.

A damn report of persistent and disturbing allegations of bullying and harassment in Rideau Hall, the governors residence, eclipsed Payettes polar star-like light, fatally eclipsed.

Payettes resignation-immediately abandoned by the same feminist prime minister and deemed unwelcome, the prime minister confidently insisted that Mrs. Payette would become an extraordinary governor. She represented Canada. The best values.

A few months later, the shocking discovery of the graves containing more than 1,000 corpses, including indigenous children  all of them were victims of church-run, state-sanctioned detention camps, also affectionately referred to as boarding Schools-the indigenous problems have been pushed to the forefront of the medias frivolous awareness.

All in all, these two seemingly completely different events provide Trudeau with an opportunity not only to distance him from the Payette crash that he wrote, but also to prove that the long-forgotten plight of the indigenous people of this country suddenly became his opportunism. The first task of thinking-and he did it.

Once again completed the narrow mission.

But Simon would be wise to remember that the Prime Minister and a group of equally fickle experts praised her today as a gifted and potentially transformative puppet, once granted almost verbatim to Payette, who is now in purgatory forever The same general praise for ebullient language.

Miss. Payettes life is dedicated to discovery, dreaming big and always focusing on the most important things. These true Canadian qualities, coupled with her years of public service, make her unquestionably qualified for this high-level position, Trullo Mostly said in July 2017.

A flattered scribe wrote: Justin Trudeau conveys a powerful message by appointing an engineer and scientist-oh yes, an astronaut serves as the governor as a symbol of scientific excellence, Julie Payette is the woman Canada needs.

Finally, a columnist with piercing eyes praised Payette, who, of course, is an aspiring national symbol. The role of the modern governor is now the kind of national symbol: the prime minister no longer uses it as a political reward, but tries to find someone who can represent Canadas status quo or aspirations to be.

As a Republican, I am philosophically and professionally allergic to these slimy and embarrassing gadgets, which equate an outdated and outdated institution with service and amorphous. , Fantasy symbols concepts, these concepts are expected to embody and convey vague and usually incomprehensible messages through their royal-colored words and deeds.

Despite these stupid and pretentious remarks, Payette proved to be a flawed figure. According to reports, she rebuked and intimidated her employees to cry and created a toxic workplace.

Given Payettes public trajectory from the modern and dazzling symbols of what Canada is or aspires to be to the deported untouchables, a question comes to mind: why is so talented and so talented as Simon An accomplished woman might risk the same unfortunate fate by agreeing to play an ancient role. According to the Constitution, she must undoubtedly accept the Prime Ministers order and bow her knees before the Queen?

Simon is holding a command-like position, which to a large extent also means having her read censored speeches, in some cases, written by the prime ministers staff, ride in a carriage in the parade, and be loyal and speak out The comforting thing A country and monarchy have caused profound and indelible damage and injury to the aboriginal people of Canada.

Ironically, just two days after Simon was appointed as the next governor, another powerful Aboriginal female MP, Jody Wilson-Rebald, announced that she would not run for re-election.

In a letter explaining her decision, Wilson Rebald made a sharp accusation against the Prime Minister who had just appointed Simon.

Wilson-Rebald wrote that the crisis facing Canadian democracy is a product of lack of inclusiveness. The power and power of the prime minister is concentrated in the hands of those who are not elected. Governance principles and practices have been eroded to the extent that the consequences of illegal actions taken for political gain have limited or no consequences.

Wilson-Rayboulds less disguised and harsh prosecution of Trudeaus nature and punitive character stems from her experience as an Aboriginal woman as Minister of Justice and Minister of Justice. She refused to appease the Prime Minister because he repeatedly pressured her. , Asked her to abandon the criminal prosecution against Trudeau. A large engineering company in Quebec faced bribery and corruption charges and reached a plea agreement on the eve of the federal vote.

In order to defend and abide by the rule of law, Wilson-Rebalds loyalty, honesty and motivation were questioned by the prime minister and his kings caucus, who was eager to please his children-except for another principled minister. In the end, Wilson Rebald was excluded from the Cabinet and the Liberal Party and entered the Parliament as an independent.

It is commendable that Wilson-Raybould paid tribute to Simons appointment as governor on Twitter-at the same time, she seems to have alluded to Trudeaus mercenary nature at the same time. Congratulations to Her Excellency Mary J. May Simon Thank you for your knowledge, dignity and integrity in this challenging time.

She could have added this warning: beware of Greeks carrying gifts.

The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect Al Jazeeras editorial stance.
More than half of large US companies operating in the UK plan to increase investment in the next few years, even though they are concerned about the lack of Trade agreements between countries with Britain withdraws from the European Union.

A survey of 68 large American companies employing more than 275,000 employees in the UK found that the country is very high as a place to do business. About one-third of people believe that confidence is at the highest level, while about 60% said they will increase their investment in the UK.

The survey was conducted by the American/British trade association BritishAmerican Business and consulting firm Bain, and covered businesses ranging from financial services and manufacturing to technology, media and telecommunications. Respondents included insurance company Marsh McLennan and payment company American Express.

Anna Mars, President of American Express Group, said: The strong multilingual talent base, favorable business environment, and geographical and time zone advantages continue to make the UK an ideal starting point for our business outside the United States.

Dan Glaser, President and CEO of Marsh McLennan, is equally optimistic. The UK is a large and dynamic economy with an excellent regulatory and education system, he said. Top talents from all over the world want to work and live in the UK.

However, the investigation also found that there are concerns about Brexit and US trade relations among American companies with large-scale operations in the UK.

The main concerns about Brexit are the risks of political tensions and practical issues such as supply chain issues and the ability to obtain talent from the EU. Regulatory barriers, loss of ability to perform certain services in the EU, and tariffs have also been flagged.

Approximately 17% of US companies surveyed stated that they have moved jobs to the European Union.

The US companies surveyed warned that these Brexit worries may obscure their future prospects, and the survey plans to become an annual indicator of US investment intentions in the UK.

Nearly 40% of companies stated that the first priority should be to improve political and economic relations with the European Union so that the UK maintains its prime position as a US investment destination.

The UK is in a good position to continue to attract companies from the US and around the world, said Duncan Edwards, chief executive of BritishAmerican Business.

But reaching a comprehensive trade agreement with the United States, establishing a more active political and trade relationship with the European Union, and a more business-friendly domestic policy will enhance this positive outlook.

The survey revealed that another important priority for US companies is the completion of trade agreement negotiations between Washington and London. According to people familiar with the matter, International Trade Secretary Liz Truss will travel to the United States this week to meet with officials.

Other suggestions to the British government include clearing up its industrial strategy and maintaining a corporate tax environment conducive to business.

Jonathan Frick, a partner at Bain in London, said that since the United Kingdom withdrew from the European Union, American investors have retained most of the workforce. In particular, financial services companies believe that the city will continue to be a business center with a broad and diverse talent pool, he said.
Polling stations in Moldova opened on Sunday morning, and voters are eager to choose a new parliament after the new President Maya Sandou disbanded the previous parliament to support her opposition to pro-Russian forces.

Voting will begin shortly after 7 am (04:00 GMT) on Sunday and will end at 9 pm, and preliminary results are expected to be announced in a few hours.

Sandu, who wanted Moldova to join the European Union, defeated the current Kremlin-backed Igor Dodon in November, promising to fight corruption in one of the poorest countries in Europe.

Moldova is sandwiched between Ukraine and EU member Romania, and has long been divided over establishing closer relations with Brussels or maintaining Soviet-era relations with Moscow.

As lawmakers loyal to Doton blocked Sandus reform pledge, the former World Bank economist dissolved the parliament in April and arranged for a quick vote.

This Sunday we must complete what we started and take the second step. This is an opportunity for each of us to choose an honest and responsible leadership, Sandu said in a statement before the vote.

Its time to clean up the country of clans, corrupt officials and manipulators, Sandu said. He hopes to reform the judicial system, increase wages and pensions, and amend the constitution to make it easier to punish corruption.

These slogans resonated with many Moldovans who have witnessed the impact of political crises in their country in recent years, including a $1 billion bank fraud scheme, equivalent to nearly 15% of the countrys gross domestic product (GDP). %.

She really wants to make this country better, Natalia Cadabnuic, a young resident of Chisinau, told AFP.

Sandu, who briefly served as prime minister, has become a symbol of change for many Moldovans, said the political analyst and former ambassador to the United Nations Alexei Tulbre.

He added that Moldovans were tired of corrupt politicians, and he said Sandu was the first to reach the top while maintaining a reputation for honesty.

Russias influence is threatened

Twenty political parties and two electoral groups are participating in Sundays elections. They must pass the 5% and 7% vote thresholds respectively to obtain seats in the unicameral parliament.

101 MPs will be elected for a four-year term.

Ilan Shors political party is a businessman convicted of fraud and money laundering in connection with the $1 billion bank scandal, and one of more than 20 political parties and groups (including independents) that participated in the campaign. Shore denied wrongdoing.

Entering the voting stage, Sandus center-right Action and Solidarity (PAS) party is in a leading position.

According to the latest opinion polls, the PAS voted 35% to 37% against the party rivals of the Socialist and Communist Alliance led by Doton and former President Vladimir Voronin, with an opposition rate of 21. -27%.

These figures only include voters who live in this country of 2.6 million people.

Analysts say that diasporas account for more than one-third of Moldovas qualified voters and have supported Sandu during the presidential election. They may be the key to the outcome.

It is estimated that the diaspora can bring another 10-15 percentage points to the Sandu Party.

Analysts say that this election may be a blow to Russia, and Russia wants Moldova to stay within its sphere of influence.

Most of them will be pro-European, and Russias influence will diminish, said Sergei Gerasimchuk, an expert on political issues in Moldova.

Sandus proposal to remove the Russian garrison stationed along the banks of the Transnistria angered the Kremlin, which is a pro-Russian separatist country that straddles the eastern border of the country with Ukraine.

The pro-Russian Doton on Friday accused the authorities of preparing to provoke and urged his supporters to prepare to protest in order to defend the victory of his group.
Iceland has some of the longest days.It now has some Shortest working week, Thanks for the experiment in the public sector.

Paying less time for the same salary sounds like a nirvana in the workplace, but Iceland experiment It also reveals the bounty of the boss. This comes in the form of a healthier workforce and a vital increase in productivity. Without these, most managers would dismiss short weeks.

The Icelandic experiment covered only 1.3% of the moderate working population and lasted for four years. Subsequently, 86% of employees began to shorten their working hours or gained the right to do so. According to the NGO Alda and the British think tank Autonomy.

In the private sector, consumer goods groups Unilever And crowdfunding platforms Crowdfunding Has been exploring locations in New Zealand and the United States for a four-day work week.

France has played down its plans. But Iceland encourages hesitating people.

Unlike the Nordic neighbours, Icelanders work long hours-more similar to Japan than Norway. However, like the British, their productivity is not high. OECD data shows that there is a strong correlation between reducing working hours and increasing output. Norway shines in this regard, leaving Iceland far behind. However, civil servants recorded an improvement in output during the Icelandic trial. For example, invoices processed by accountants increased by 6.5%.

Common criticisms of the four-day work week include manager opposition and the need to increase staff. Although some departments are forced to recruit, the increase in costs is small compared to the overall salary.

Autonomy In the UK, the situation will not be any different. It believes that job creation is an added benefit, and investors may not do so.

Autonomy estimates that changing Icelands public sector employees to work 32 hours a week will create up to 500,000 new jobs. This will increase the payroll by 5.4 billion to 9 billion pounds, with a maximum increase of 6%.

The savings include increased productivity and substantial costs associated with burnout and other mental health issues. Deloitte estimates that these measures will reduce UK employers by between 42 billion and 45 billion pounds a year. They are disproportionately borne by the public sector.

In the coming weeks, many bosses in advanced economies are faced with the tricky task of resetting their employees expectations for work attendance. This also gives them the opportunity to reconsider the length of the work week.
Benjamin Netanyahu, the former prime minister of Israel, left the official residence a month after resignation.

Former Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu officially left his official residence in Jerusalem nearly a month after he left Jerusalem. Replaced by his successor Naftali Bennett.

Shortly after midnight, the Netanyahu family left the Belfort residence. [Street], the familys spokesperson told reporters in a statement on Sunday.

People found a moving truck outside the house, and a black Audi car was taken away from the house during the weekend.

The hawkish Netanyahu served as Israeli prime minister for 12 consecutive years after the previous three-year term.

He remained in office even when he was tried on charges of fraud, bribery and perfidious bribery. He denied these allegations and said they were a left-wing conspiracy against him.

Before the right-wing nationalist Bennett was sworn in on June 13 to lead an ideological coalition, he led Israel in four severely divided elections in less than two years, ousting him from office.

However, Netanyahu did not vacate the prime ministers residence.

Instead, he continued to receive dignitaries, including Nikki Hayley, who served as the US ambassador to the United Nations under President Donald Trump.

In late June, the offices of Netanyahu and Bennett announced that July 10 was the last date for the former prime minister to relocate.

Netanyahu left after midnight on Sunday, a little later than the deadline he agreed.

The Minister of Crime is an organization that has protested against Netanyahu every week outside the residence for more than a year and mocked him on Sunday.

The organization wrote on Facebook: The defendant and his family escaped as the last thief that night.

The residence has become a symbol of the Netanyahu scandal, and for most of the past year, weekly protests against Netanyahu have occurred. The demonstrators called on the then prime minister to resign during the corruption trial.

Bennett will take over the prime ministers residence on Sunday.
I found two Letter from the opinion page on Sunday, July 4 Special interest. I believe that both put forward outstanding views on todays education system.

The first is this letter, Knowing where we went wrong has never contributed to hatred. The author pointed out that History is like life, made up of good, bad and ugly. All of this needs to be told. I can no longer agree that we need to teach the whole story and not feel uncomfortable facing some of our ugly facts. Our constitution stipulates that in order to form a more perfect alliance does not mean that we are perfect. We are a great democratic experiment. Only by understanding and learning our entire history can we become stronger and strive to achieve the goal of becoming more perfect.

The second letter Reformers said very well, but it may not have achieved the goal. The advantage is Dont let the destructive and unmanageable children in Sao Paulo schools stop. But dont let them ruin the things of other children who really want to participate and want to learn. Children who are always destructive have no right and what they want to learn. The children stay in the classroom together. They stole too much of the teachers time from other people. If we let them stay in the classroom, we are abandoning the education of generations of Americans. Those who dont believe this just need to allow disruptive students to stay in the classroom for a while.

Joel Knoepfler, West Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo has no flag?

After leaving the Sao Paulo Farmers Market on July 3, I deliberately drove to the Wabasha Bridge in Sao Paulo, looking forward to the magnificent view of the American flag decorated on the bridge to commemorate Independence Day, which has been a tradition in this city for many years. I was frustrated to find that the flag was not placed. Oh, I think they will definitely be there on July 4th.

On July 4, there was no American flag to decorate the Wabasha Bridge. In fact, there is no American flag flying outside Sao Paulo City Hall. I could not find the evidence of the July 4th confession in Wabasha or other main streets of Sao Paulo.

Why? I want to know. Will the same be true of our neighboring cities?

I decided to visit our neighbors. Thankfully, I found out that they were flying the American flag to commemorate Independence Day. Robert Street in West St. Paul, Southview Street in South St. Paul, and Cahill in Inver Grove Heights all commemorate the Fourth of July in the tradition of the American flag. All these cities, as well as Falcon Heights, Maplewood and Roseville, also fly the American flag in their respective city halls.

Many thanks to Mayor Mary Lee Abrams, Tom Bartholomew, James Francis, Randy Gustafson, Dave Napier and Dan Roe for carrying forward the tradition of displaying the American flag to commemorate our country and our freedom.

Would the capital Sao Paulo choose other ways?

Grace Schmidt, Sao Paulo

More in the middle of the road

I must disagree with the letter to the editor, The channel for everything on the right, In your July 4th issue. Perhaps once your point of view may be on the left side of the spectrum. However, I dont agree with the writers apparently unwise view that you have completely become a pipeline for everything on the right.

After 52 years of reading the Twin Cities Newspaper, I think the transformation you have made is that you are fair to both parties. Maybe a more middle way, as it might. If Mike Lindell, former President Donald Trump and others publish news, and you report it impartially without judgment-well, this is news. If the writer wants to read the newspaper on the far left of the spectrum, I suggest that he read the Minneapolis Star Tribune. I will continue to read my Pioneer Press, thank you.

Chuck Erickson, Burnsville
On Friday, a man and a woman from New York were found guilty by a Bucks County jury for beating a teenager working at Sesame Square when he reminded them to wear masks during their visit to the theme park in August 2020. According to multiple reports.

Troy McCoy, 40, was convicted of serious assault, simple assault, disorderly conduct and reckless endangering others. Inquirer. His girlfriend, 32-year-old Shakerra Bonds, was convicted of simple assault and disorderly conduct.

On August 9, 2020, a teenager working on Sesame Street told the Bronx couple that they must wear masks when visiting Langhorne theme park to prevent coronavirus. The teenager had a broken jaw and damaged teeth, according to the police, and was hospitalized for 7 days.

According to the Inquirer report, the teenager testified in court that McCoy pushed him from behind while arguing with Bonds. According to reports, in her testimony, Bonds admitted that he had hit the teenager in the face before McCoys punch knocked him to the ground.

After the attack, McCoy and Bonds fled the security and drove their car away from the park. The police said they were able to identify the couple within 24 hours through surveillance video, transaction records and vehicle registration. According to the police, ten days after the attack, the US marshals shut McCoy at home and detained him. Bonds came forward.

According to reports, US President Wallace Bateman revoked McCoys bail on Friday and ordered Bonds bail to be increased to 10% of $25,000. NBC10According to the interviewer, they will be sentenced in early October.
Nasri Abu Jaish stated that Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh twice refused to accept his resignation, which led him to continue to serve in the government.

The Minister of Labor of the Palestinian Authority said on Sunday that he announced that he would resign during a protest against the death of a detained activist and that he would eventually remain in office.

Nasri Abu Jaish is also a representative of the governments center-left Peoples Party. He stated at the end of June that he would withdraw from the Palestinian Authority led by Fatah because of disrespect for the law and public freedoms.

After the activist Nizar Banat was violently arrested and died in custody, protesters demanded that President Mahmoud Abbas step down and Abu Jaish Jaish) announced that he is about to resign.

Banat is 43 years old and is known for condemning allegedly corrupt social media videos within the Palestinian Authority. died On June 24, security forces stormed into his home, beat him and dragged him away shortly after.

But on Sunday, Abu Jaish stated in a statement that Prime Minister Mohammed Steye had twice refused to accept his resignation, leading him to continue to serve as the Minister of Labor of the Palestinian government.

The Palestinian Authority announced that it had begun an investigation into Banats death, but the demonstrators continued to protest several weeks later.

On Sunday, hundreds of people in the occupied West Bank city of Ramallah called on Abbas to resign and condemned the Palestinian security services for using force to quell recent demonstrations.

Protester Maher Akhras said on Sunday: We will continue to stand on the street until justice is done, he accused the Palestinian Authority of killing Nizal Banat and attacking the demonstrators. .

Hundreds protested in Ramallah, demanding justice for them #NizarBanat, PA and the fall of elections. In the banner, the photo of President Abbas in the Fatah presentation described him as a symbol of legitimacy For the past 14 years, President Abbas has effectively ruled by decree. pic.twitter.com/HfvkLz6mfv -Rania Zabaneh (@RZabaneh) July 11, 2021

Banat registered as a candidate in the Palestinian parliamentary elections scheduled for May until Abbas postponed the elections indefinitely.

The doctor who performed the autopsy, Samir Abu Zarzour, said the scars on Banat showed that he was beaten on the head, chest, neck, legs and hands, from arrest to death. Less than an hour.

The demonstrators expressed anger at the lack of democratic procedures in the territory.

The protester Omar Assaf said: We have the right to elect, elect our representatives and elect the president.

We need to rebuild the entire Palestinian political system.

The Ramallah protests triggered by Banats death in custody have continued for several weeks.
Due to the continued political uncertainty after the June presidential election, Peru has been working hard to contain the coronavirus infection.

Peru has extended a state of emergency related to the coronavirus until the end of August, allowing the government to impose restrictions to curb the infection.

Interim President Francisco Sagasti and his governments resolution on Sunday extended the order originally scheduled to be cancelled on July 31 until the end of next month.

This means that the restrictions imposed since March last year, including night curfews, will continue.

According to data from Johns Hopkins University, Peru has been struggling to control the surge in coronavirus cases and deaths in recent months. Since the beginning of the pandemic, the country has recorded more than 2.07 million infections and more than 193,000 deaths.

Almost all Peruvians know that someone has died of COVID-19, said Cesar Carcamo, an epidemiologist at the Cayetano Heredia University, a famous medical school in Peru. Tell Al Jazeera in May.

At the end of the month, the country adjusted the number of deaths from the coronavirus to make it The highest per capita death rate in the world.

The government organized a 36-hour coronavirus vaccination campaign over the weekend to fully vaccinate Peruvians. Hundreds of people lined up in the capital Lima to receive the vaccination.

Violeta Bermudez said: Vaccines can protect us, and vaccines will also enable us to gradually continue to resume activities that we have not been able to do in more than a year since we have been taking care of ourselves during the pandemic. Chairman of the Council of Ministers.

Local resident Raul Figueroa (Raul Figueroa) said he felt much better after receiving two doses of the vaccine. You can work peacefully, [our personal] economic [can get] Figueroa said that once the vaccine is fully vaccinated, it will be better.

Because the poorest economically are suffering, not the rich, the poorest [are suffering]. 

Peru is still plagued by political uncertainty because the countrys electoral institutions have not officially confirmed the results of fierce competition President election last month.

Leftist Teachers Union Leader Pedro Castillo Won 50.12% of the vote-about 44,000 more people than his rival, right-wing Keiko Fujimori.

But Fujimori, the daughter of former President Alberto Fujimori, insisted that the poll was fraudulent without evidence.

She questioned thousands of ballots, which are currently being reviewed by an election jury. The results of this review are expected to be announced in the next few days.

International observers stated that no serious irregularities occurred during the election.

Fujimori told her supporters on Saturday, We will not accept what she called fraud.

She said at a meeting in Lima: In the past few weeks, we have seen a lot of allegations of violations, and they want to announce the results as soon as possible.

Hundreds of supporters of the two candidates set up camp in the Peruvian capital to defend their votes.
Scientists warn that there is a risk of incurable superbugs uploaded from dogs to their owners.

Research reveals a nightmare scenario, that is, the spread of antibiotic resistance genes to humans, The Telegraph reports.

2 Scientists have discovered a superbug that can be transmitted to humans Credit: Getty

The mcr-1 gene was first discovered in China in 2015, and it can be passed to humans through a bed with a dog or through a pet basket.

It is resistant to the antibiotic colistin, which is used to treat bacterial infections that cannot be resolved by other drugs.

Scientists warn that excessive use of colistin, especially in meat animals, may trigger mutant genes that make the drug ineffective.

Antimicrobial resistance causes approximately 700,000 deaths each year, and it is estimated that by 2050, if no further action is taken, it will cause approximately 10 million deaths each year.

Dog worm phobia

The mcr-1 gene is present in the intestines and is spread through tiny particles of feces.

A study by the University of Lisbon collected samples from 126 healthy people from 80 families who lived with 102 cats and dogs.

Eight dogs and four people were found to carry bacteria including mcr-1.

In two families, the mcr-1 gene was found in the dog and the owner.

The results of the study were announced at the European Congress of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases this weekend.

2 This bug can be spread by sharing beds between humans and dogs Credit: Getty

Dr. Juliana Menezes, who led the research, said: If bacteria that are resistant to all drugs acquire this resistance gene, they will become incurable. This is a situation that we must avoid at all costs.

We know that overuse of antibiotics can lead to drug resistance, so the responsible use of antibiotics is crucial, not only in medicine, but also in veterinary medicine and agriculture.

At the same time, another Portuguese study found that raw dog food is the main source of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Researchers at the University of Porto analyzed a series of dog food and found that 54% of dog food contained enterococci.

Two-fifths of cases are resistant to strong antibiotics.

Dr. Anna Freitas, who conducted this research, said: The close contact between humans and dogs and the commercialization of research brands in different countries constitute an international public health risk.

European authorities must raise awareness of the potential health risks of raw pet food and dog food manufacturing, including the need to review ingredient selection and hygiene practices.

Dog owners should wash their hands with soap and water immediately after handling pet food after picking up feces.
LAFAYETTE PARISH (KADN)- There is a major parts shortage in the appliance industry and businesses say that their clients may be waiting a while for replacements and repairs.

We live in south Louisiana so it's really hot, a lot of the time, and we're looking to best help our customers, and make sure they're, they're cooling properly, sometimes it just doesn't happen, Cody Castille, service manager of Dave Broussard A/C and Heating company, said.

The company has been experiencing various parts shortages since the beginning of the pandemic. The service manager said that its extremely difficult to get coils and motors right now.

Your coil is your main cooling component that's where all your freon pumps through. That's your cooling components. Your motor is what actually moves the air in the home. And with that being a shortage, you have to have it to make the AC work correctly, he said.

The company has been having a hard time keeping up with the demand.

We're having issues where we've had some orders from October of last year that we're still waiting to get to install for our customers, he said.

Appliance stores are also experiencing a shortage of parts for refrigerators, ovens and stoves.

Production of the chemicals needed to make a foam that's needed to insulate refrigerators. The icemakers have been a real problem so pumps and icemakers have been really short, Sherry Latour, owner of Tops Appliances and Cabinetry, said.

The owner is unable to keep up with the replacement needs of their customers.

You can see we have a hole in our showroom where refrigerators are supposed to be. We're even having trouble getting our displays, so when people have emergencies and need a quick replacement, sometimes we can sell our display model but sometimes we can't, Latour said.

Both businesses said that they expect the part shortages to end by next year.
LAFAYETTE - July 10th is the first of five deadlines to apply for our states "shot at a million" vaccine campaign. However this intended motivational move has quickly taken a left turn.

An incentive meant to help vaccinate people and potentially add some financial stability to a few Louisiana residents has now turned into a scam that's mimicking our states Covid-19 vaccine lottery.

The Better Business Bureau is warning Louisiana residents about a new scam - locals say they've been getting phone calls from people claiming to help them register for Louisiana's "shot at a million" vaccine lottery.

"If you don't know the person thats calling you and asking for your information please don't hand it out." said Zachery

Lafayette resident John Zachery says scammers is one of the main reasons he won't be entering for his chance to have a shot at a million dollars

"Before you give out your information make sure it's somebody that you know and you trust very dearly because otherwise you're giving out your information to somebody like that, that could put your life in danger." said Zachery

Those dangers include identity theft says Better Business Bureau of Acadiana's Vice President and COO Chris Babin.

"Your name, date of birth, address, other information's on there. that information could open up some opportunities for scammers to discover what your social security number is." said Babin

To protect yourself from these scam alerts understand that no law enforcement official or government agency will ever ask you for any personal information over the phone.

"They have different tools and resources that they try to use to put information together to try and create a full profile and steal the identity." said Babin

The BBB says caller I.D. is'nt trustworthy either because scammers can manipulate phone systems . For the scammers watching Zachery has a message for you on behalf of Lafayette residents.

"All you robot people calling, look on this camera very closely. I don't know y'all stop callin my phone, period." said Zachery

Personal information about you can also be taken from your vaccination card so please don't share it. Remember, entering the vaccine lottery is free, no money is required.

If you or someone you know is still interested in applying for your chance to win a million dollars in cash or scholarship prizes take a look at the deadlines below.

Schedule of drawings:

Enter by July 9, 2021 by 11:59 p.m. CDT for the July 14 drawing

Enter by July 16, 2021 by 11:59 p.m. CDT for the July 21 drawing

Enter by July 23, 2021 by 11:59 p.m. CDT for the July 28 drawing

Enter by July 30, 2021 by 11:59 p.m. CDT for the August 4 drawing

Enter by July 31, 2021 by 11:59 p.m. CDT for the August 6 Grand Prize Drawing
LAFAYETTE, LA (KADN)- Members of Blue Acadiana and Indivisible Acadiana rallied today outside of U.S. Senator Bill Cassidys office in Lafayette to announce their support of the For the Peoples Act.

The act was created to expand Americans access to the ballot, reduce the influence of money in politics, and strengthen ethics rules. Sen. Cassidy has previously said that he does not support the act.

Blue Acadiana, a local democratic group, gathered on the corner of Pinhook and La Rue France, to denounce the senators decision.

A free and fair election is the bloodline of America, of our democracy and our democracy, is on the line. It's not a red or blue issue, it's not a democrat or republican issue. It is a right and wrong issue, and they're on the wrong side, and they need to do their job, Lenora Meaux, the president of Blue Acadiana, said.

Meaux believes that this act will make voting better.

More participation in the American way, if you participate, then you have your vested in your country. But if they restrict voting. How does that make people feel that we're not getting them to vote because of their actions? Meaux said.

Christina Menard, a member of Indivisible Acadiana, agrees.

People who have committed felonies have paid their time and also have a period a grace period, they should be able to vote, they have paid their time, it is time for them to be able to become full citizens again, Menard said.

Menard said that a yes to this act can make voting accessible to all.

Some people work two jobs, you work two jobs, you may not be able to go from seven in the morning seven at night, you might have to work two jobs, also people that are handicapped, we had a handicapped person here. He may not have access to all the places we want to make sure all the places are accessible, Meaux said.

The U.S. Senate will return to session on Monday, July 12.
NEW ORLEANS (AP)  A Louisiana school board agreed to pay $165,000 to settle lawsuits by parents of two children suspended last year for holding BB guns during online classes.

Fourth grader KaMauri Harrison of Harvey and sixth grader Tomie Brown of Grand Isle both got suspended last September after teachers saw them with BB guns when the children were logged into classes from home.

Their families filed suit against the Jefferson Parish School Board in federal court, arguing the punishments violated the childrens rights to freedom of expression, to bear arms and due process.

The Jefferson Parish School Board announced Wednesday that it had settled both lawsuits out of court, The Times-Picayune / The New Orleans Advocate reported. The board agreed to pay Harrisons family $92,500 and Browns family $72,500.

In addition, the board agreed to change disciplinary records of both students to say they were suspended for disruptive conduct, removing any reference to weapons.

The School Board and Harrison-Williams and Brown families are pleased that they were able to reach a resolution and can now refocus on the education of Jefferson Parish students in an orderly, safe and welcoming environment in both virtual and non-virtual classroom settings, attorneys for the school board and the families said in a joint statement.

The school board was criticized by the American Civil Liberties Union and the National Rifle Association for the suspensions, which applied policies banning weapons at school or at school-sponsored events to children learning from home during the coronavirus pandemic.

Louisiana lawmakers passed a new law in Harrisons name that gives students and their families more options to appeal certain disciplinary decisions and requires schools to tweak their discipline policies for at-home, online instruction.

Prior to the settlement, attorneys for the Jefferson Parrish School Board has asked a federal judge to throw out the state law, arguing it violated school officials due process rights. They targeted provisions that made the law retroactive and let families get back payments to attorneys who represented them in appealing suspensions.

(Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)
When neighbors in Grain Valley woke up this morning, they witnessed several agencies searching the outside of a home on Buckner Tarsney Road in connection with a missing persons case out of Independence.
The spread of the Delta coronavirus variant in the United States has some experts questioning whether it should be time to start testing even vaccinated people for the virus.

Although health officials have said evidence shows vaccinated people are unlikely to spread the virus to others, Dr. Peter Hotez, dean of the National School of Tropical Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine, says it may be important to watch to make sure the more transmissible Delta variant does not evade the effects of vaccines.

Current guidance from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says fully vaccinated people can refrain from routine testing.

"I think now we should revisit this policy with the Delta variant and determine if the current recommendations hold up," Hotez wrote in an email to CNN on Wednesday.

Plus, the CDC is only reporting data on "breakthrough" infections that cause severe disease. That could mean scientists and health officials will not know how many vaccinated people have mild or asymptomatic infections -- and it will be very difficult to track whether a new variant such as Delta is causing more vaccine failure.

"We need to design studies. Assuming this is underway, then the question comes, do we wait for those studies or change recommendations now and reconsider regular testing for asymptomatic vaccinated individuals? Given how disruptive this is, I would probably be inclined to wait for additional data before going backwards," Hotez wrote.

"The good news is that the mRNA vaccines are still highly protective against serious illness even for Delta."

The mRNA vaccines are made by Moderna and Pfizer/BioNTech. Johnson & Johnson has also reported evidence its vaccine is protective against Delta, also known as B.1.617.2.

Because vaccines are still highly protective, other experts argue there is no need to change guidance.

"I still think that the pre-test probability of a positive COVID test in people who are vaccinated and asymptomatic is very small. So much so that you would worry about false positives," Dr. Paul Offit, director of the Vaccine Education Center at the Children's Hospital in Philadelphia, told CNN on Wednesday.

Overall, data on Covid-19 cases caused by the Delta variant among vaccinated people are hard to come by -- especially when seeking cases that may be asymptomatic. As of May, the CDC transitioned from monitoring all "breakthrough" Covid-19 cases among vaccinated people to only tracking cases that result in hospitalization or death.

In Israel, the Ministry of Health issued a brief statement Monday saying an analysis had shown the coronavirus vaccine was somewhat less protective against severe disease than before, and linked the drop to the spread of the Delta variant of the virus.

Israel widely deployed the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine.

The statement said that as of June 6, the vaccine provided 64% protection against all infections, including asymptomatic infection and mild disease, and a drop to 93% efficacy in preventing severe disease and hospitalizations.

Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the US National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, said he would like to see more data on the Israeli findings before deciding the Delta variant in fact eludes the protection offered by vaccines.

"We need to get more granular and specific data from the Israelis," Fauci told CNN's Anderson Cooper.

While "the Israelis know what they're doing," the data is sparse, Fauci added.

The Israeli government has not yet released new data or any other background to support the findings.

"We want to make sure exactly what the circumstances were of that drop from 94% protection against asymptomatic infection down to 64," Fauci said. "Is that a reflection that they're more aggressively testing everybody and anybody who's come into contact with a person who has an asymptomatic infection? I don't know."

'We fully expect to see more cases, especially among unvaccinated'

In the United States, "breakthrough" cases among vaccinated people are so rare that many state health departments CNN has contacted have not collected enough data to determine any patterns or trends yet that could result in a change in testing guidance.

For instance, Louisiana confirmed to CNN in an email on Wednesday that state epidemiologists have an analysis of breakthrough cases currently underway -- but need more sequencing data to be confident in sharing state-level estimates.

"However, we fully expect to see more cases, especially among unvaccinated individuals, as the proportion of Delta circulating in Louisiana increases," Kevin Litten, a spokesperson for the Louisiana Department of Health, wrote in the email.

Similarly to other states, Arkansas has seen a "significant increase" in Covid-19 cases caused by the Delta variant, Danyelle McNeill, a spokesperson for the Arkansas Department of Health, told CNN in an email on Tuesday.

Overall, "we have seen an increase in the number of new cases in our state. Additionally, we have seen an increase in the proportion and number of samples that have been identified as the delta variant," McNeill wrote in the email.

But as of now, "due to lack of variant information on all of our current cases, we are unable to attribute the increase in the number of cases to the delta variant," McNeill said. "It is difficult to say if this is a causal relationship."

The-CNN-Wire

 &  2021 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved.
Over 30 million people are under heat alerts across western states as temperatures are forecast to soar well into the triple digits this weekend.

Nearly the entire state of California will be impacted by this heat wave, in addition to major metro areas in the Southwest. Numerous daily temperature records will be broken and some all-time records may also be in jeopardy.

"High pressure will continue to dominate the southern Great Basin and Mojave Desert, producing a major heat wave into early next week," the National Weather Service (NWS) office in Las Vegas said. "All-time record high temperatures will be rivaled or exceeded in some areas."

While the Southwest may be known for its hot temperatures, these numbers are extreme.

A "Very High" heat risk, the highest level (4 of 4), has been issued for much of California, Nevada, Arizona and Utah. This includes cities such as Sacramento, Bakersfield and Palm Springs, California, Las Vegas and Phoenix.

"Very High" simply means that the entire population, not just elderly or people who are ill, will be at a very high risk of heat-related illness due to the long duration of heat and the lack of overnight relief.

Utah's current state temperature record is 117 degrees. The town of St George may meet or exceed that record on Saturday.

Las Vegas has the potential to set a new all-time high temperature record this weekend. The current all-time high is 117 degrees and the National Weather Service is forecasting at least that temperature for Saturday and Sunday.

Sacramento also has the chance to break their all-time high temperature of 114 degrees this weekend.

Death Valley, California, hit a high of 130 degrees on Friday, coming close to the hottest temperature ever recorded on the globe -- 134 degrees at the same location in 1913.

The low temperature in Las Vegas on Saturday and Sunday morning is forecast to be 94 and 93 degrees, respectively. In Phoenix, the low temperatures will likely not get below 91 degrees.

This is a problem because these temperatures don't allow the body to successfully cool down at night. The temperature needs to drop to at least 80 degrees for recovery to begin. In fact, a person can lose up to 2 liters of fluid overnight through sweating if the temperature doesn't drop below 85 degrees.

Heat affecting the power grid

On Thursday, the California Independent System Operator (ISO) said in a press release that "extreme temperatures across much of California" may lead to a "potential capacity shortfall on the state's electric grid."

Residents were told to voluntarily conserve electricity between 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday to "ease the strain on the grid during the crucial evening hours when solar energy is diminished or no longer available."

The concern is that since the extreme heat is expected to continue through the weekend, that demand will exceed supply. California ISO warned that if this happens, rotating power outages will be implemented.

This comes after record-breaking heat in June.

Eight states logged their hottest June on record: Arizona, California, Idaho, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Utah.

A little over 15% of the United States observed all-time record high temperatures last month, the highest NOAA has ever reported.

All-time records were set in the Northwest on June 27 and 28, including state records in Washington and Oregon. Scientists reported this week that the late-June heat wave in the Pacific Northwest would have been "virtually impossible" without the effect of human-caused climate change.

With even more all-time records potentially being broken this weekend, the concern is whether the power grid will be able to keep up with demand.

The-CNN-Wire

 &  2021 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved.
The Justice Department released new police body camera footage Friday showing one of the most disturbing assaults during the Capitol insurrection -- where three officers waded into the crowd to save a pro-Trump rioter who was trampled, only to be stripped of their protective gear, dragged down a set of stairs and attacked with crutches, flagpoles, batons and bare hands.

The DOJ released the videos after CNN and other outlets sued for access. All of the officers involved in this incident worked for Washington, DC's police force. They were identified by initials in court filings.

Officer A.W. stepped out of a tunnel where police were congregated and into the crowd to help Rosanne Boyland, 34, a rioter and QAnon supporter who was trampled by the mob. She died of an accidental drug overdose, according to Washington, DC's chief medical examiner. Boyland's body is seen in some of the new videos, which also show her friend screaming for assistance.

Prosecutors say A.W.'s body-worn camera video shows defendant Jack Whitton leaping over a barricade, knocking A.W. onto his back and attempting to wrestle away his baton. Over A.W.'s head, other rioters hit the police line with flagpoles and metal poles. The crowd drags A.W. into the crowd while he pleads for help. Members of the crowd ignore the plea, one rioter leans down and shouts, "traitor." Much of the clip is from A.W.'s perspective on the ground looking up.

This bottom-up angle shows a man wearing a "sheriff" vest pulling A.W. down the stairs. He's also wearing a patch with the logo of the Three Percenters, a right-wing extremist group. Despite the "sheriff" label, there's no indication this man was part of the police defending the Capitol. In fact, he was included on a wanted poster from DC's police department and named as "person of interest" in the assault on A.W..

The attack landed A.W. in the hospital, where he got staples in his head to stop the bleeding. Whitton was charged with several felonies, including assault. He hasn't yet entered a plea.

Another officer, C.M., tried to help his colleagues. C.M.'s bodycam footage shows another officer dragged into the crowd. It also shows Boyland lying on the ground. This is the first footage the US government has released showing Boyland's death. She was one of a few Trump supporters who died in the attack.

Prosecutors say the footage then shows defendant Michael Lopatic rushing toward C.M., attacking the officer and grabbing him by the head and punching him. C.M.'s bodycam is dislodged and falls to the ground, briefly revealing a splatter of blood.

C.M. got a concussion that day, though it may have been caused when he was assaulted a second time later in the day in a different incident, according to court filings. Lopatic was charged with several felonies, including assault, and hasn't entered a plea yet.

The Justice Department released two bodycam clips from another officer. One clip shows the tug-of-war between the rioters and the officers who were trying to pull their colleague to safety. The officers are repeatedly pummeled with poles and what appear to be stolen police batons.

Another bodycam clip, recorded about 20 minutes later, shows police in a second tunnel, holding the line with riot shields. Rioters throw objects, hitting the shields. According to prosecutors, Whitton is the man who is heard in the clip, shouting at the police, "you're gonna die tonight" (He later boasted to friends, saying that "I fed him to the people," referring to the officer, according to court filings).

The-CNN-Wire

 &  2021 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved.
As Texas' battle over voting rights continues to unfold during the special session in Austin, the outrage stoked by former President Donald Trump's false 2020 election claims was still on full display Saturday a few hours north at the major gathering of conservative activists where Trump will be welcomed as the star attraction Sunday.

Republicans are facing a set of highly competitive midterm elections in 2022 and still attempting to shape an agenda that will break through to voters. But the conversation at the Conservative Political Action Conference this weekend reaffirmed once again that the core activists of the Republican Party have no intention of moving on from Trump or the false claims he has trumpeted that the 2020 election was fraudulent, even though there is no evidence of widespread voting fraud in last year's contest.

Normally, CPAC events serve as an audition arena for the next slate of future Republican presidential contenders. But there was scarcely a hint of that here this weekend as Trump's flirtation with another run for president in 2024 has effectively frozen the field -- with his Sunday speech serving as the main draw for attendees.

Blue flags adorning a truck in the parking lot bore the slogan "Trump Won." Exhibition booths overflowed with Trump hats, flags, and other "45" swag. One 2024 T-shirt pictured Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis but only standing next to Trump as his potential vice president. South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem, who will speak Sunday before Trump, mentioned the former president within the first two minutes of her last CPAC speech and has allied herself so closely with him that GOP voters often say they'd like to see her as his No. 2 instead of Mike Pence in 2024.

At a gathering branded as "America UnCanceled," Donald Trump Jr. warmed up the crowd on Friday night with quick-witted condemnations of cancel culture and digs at Hunter Biden. But his biggest applause line wasn't even his own. During his speech, an attendee bellowed "Trump won!" eliciting a standing ovation and setting off a round of "Trump" chants.

During a midday Saturday panel that was intended to be a "tough love" assessment of the Republican Party, GOP donor Bubba Saulsbury acknowledged that it has been difficult to shift the attention of both donor and voters to future contests because they are still "livid" about the 2020 outcome.

"I know we need to talk about moving forward, but we've got to be honest with ourselves about where we've been and what happened," said Saulsbury, adding that every donor he's met "believes that there was some level of election fraud."

"Talking to all the donors -- they're apprehensive to donate to anything but election integrity right now, because their thoughts are, 'Why am I going to spend my money if it's not going to be a free and fair election?'" Saulsbury said.

Another Saturday headliner, GOP Rep. Jody Hice, who is challenging incumbent Republican Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger -- the Georgia state official who infuriated Trump by overseeing three ballot counts confirming Joe Biden's victory in Georgia -- steered a panel about Covid-19 toward the topic of election security. When Hice was asked how he would ensure that Americans get the correct information about the Delta variant this fall, he pivoted back to 2020.

"I firmly believe this is the fight of our life politically," Hice told the crowd to applause. "If we lose election integrity, we lose everything. So that's my focus right now." He declined to provide any further comment to CNN.

Trump the headliner

On Sunday, the conference is set to open with two men who just recently addressed a QAnon-affiliated conference: Texas GOP Chair Allen West, who has announced plans to challenge Greg Abbott in the Texas governor's race, and Texas Rep. Louie Gohmert.

Also on the agenda: A presentation on the future of American elections, the second election fraud panel of the three-day conference.

The event also drew Proud Boys as well as the founder of the Oath Keepers, who was recently interviewed by the FBI about his role in the January 6 insurrection, according to the New York Times. He has not been charged with criminal wrongdoing.

Trump will essentially close out the conference Sunday afternoon, after the announcement of the results of CPAC's straw poll which is intended to measure voters' interest in the potential GOP White House contenders. One question includes Trump on a list of potential 2024 candidates; the other does not.

But no matter what Trump decides to do in 2024, his refusal to accept his 2020 election defeat is effectively shaping the GOP agenda nationwide a year and a half before the next set of elections.

Republican-led states across the country have put forward more restrictive voting laws, with lawmakers pointing to concerns about nonexistent widespread election fraud to defend the new measures. Laws have already passed in Florida and Georgia, and Texas lawmakers were engaged in a special session of the Legislature over the weekend, debating their own set of proposals that could make it harder to vote. During the 2021 legislative sessions, the Brennan Center for Justice tracked at least 389 bills to restrict voting that were introduced 48 states.

GOP lawmakers have also seized on the opportunity to push post-election audits, yet another way to undermine election confidence, raise money and curry favor with Trump. The so-called audit in Maricopa County, Arizona -- which continues to drag on -- has drawn Republican lawmakers from multiple states that have expressed interested in launching similar reviews. A Trump ally in Pennsylvania pressed forward with his plans for an election audit last week, sending requests to three counties for everything from their tabulation equipment to voter rolls.

During the CPAC conference white cards were circulating among some attendees with a "7-Pt. plan to restore Donald J. Trump in days, not years." After the violence at the Capitol on January 6, federal officials are paying more attention to those sorts of fringe theories.

CPAC organizers did not respond to CNN's request for comment about the cards.

Trump and his allies have encouraged the ludicrous claims that he could be reinstated as President next month. But they have gained enough traction to lead the Department of Homeland Security to issue a warning last month that Trump's "reinstatement" fantasies could lead to more violence this summer from right-wing extremists.

The-CNN-Wire

 &  2021 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved.
The state Legislature passed a bill this session to eliminate the personal property tax affecting businesses and provided funding in the 2021-23 state budget to give municipalities money to make up for it. But with a stroke of his pen on Thursday, Gov. Tony Evers vetoed the bill that would have eliminated the archaic personal property tax.

The governor said he had concerns that it could provide tax breaks to manufacturers located outside the state who have warehouses here, though Republicans had amended the bill earlier in an effort to address that.

In that case, legislators should move fast to address Evers concerns and pass the bill again. The funds are there for municipalities and now is the time to do away with the tax for good.

For those not familiar, the personal property tax is a tax that businesses throughout the state have to pay on things such as equipment and furnishing. Over the years there have been so many exceptions that the number of things taxed has lessened and lessened, and it really ends up hitting Main Street businesses.

The tax was first implemented over 170 years ago as part of the states property tax, originally exempted $75 worth of household items and included property such as bonds, jewelry, furniture, cattle and crops.
DRY CREEK, Ore. -- The Jack Fire east of Glide is up to 10,937 acres with containment at 10 percent, as of Sunday morning.

Officials say 781 personnel are on scene, including four aircrafts and 55 engines. There are 243 structures that have been threatened.

The fire broke out Monday, and is currently threatening 193 buildings, mostly in the Dry Creek area.

Lane and Linn county task forces left Wednesday morning to assist with the firefighting efforts, hours after Benton and Lincoln County task forces were sent out.

An emergency conflagration declaration from Gov. Kate Brown freed up resources from around the state to help, and the Douglas County Board of Commissioners also issued a state of emergency declaration due to the fire.

Douglas County residents are asked to sign up for the emergency notification system, which notifies people of police activity, fire, evacuations, missing people and more. Landline phones are already in the system. To register with your cell phone or email address, CLICK HERE.

CLOSURES

Highway 138 East is closed from Steamboat Creek to milepost 55. The Steamboat Inn is also closed.

Also, the Oregon State Marine Board has issued a temporary closure of the North Umpqua River from the Boulder Flat boat launch downstream to the Alder Creek confluence. This will remain in effect through July 18 or until the rule is lifted. You can find more information HERE.

Some areas of the Umpqua National Forest are closed to the public through Feb. 28, 2022, unless lifted sooner. To protect firefighters, the public will not be allowed to be on a closed road, go into a closed area or be on a closed trail. For a map of the closures, CLICK HERE.

ASSISTANCE

If you have evacuated, contact the American Red Cross at 1-888-680-1455 for resources. Saving Grace will accept small pets for temporary boarding, but they ask that you call before arriving.

EVACUATION NOTICES
NORTH BEND, Ore. --- Community members are reacting to Linda Oyster's death, and some have come together to raise funds for the family. Her life tragically lost Friday, weeks after Oen Nicholson, 30 reportedly struck her and her husband Anthony in a pickup truck on June 18.

RELATED: FOURTH VICTIM IN NORTH BEND KILLING SPREE DIES FROM INJURIES

Community members organized a GoFundMe to raise money for Linda's medical expenses as she fought to recover from her injuries.

The fund's organizer Debra Benner provided a status update for for the Lisa and Earle Holt, the Oyster's children.

"[Linda] will be sorely missed by all who knew her. Certainly our thoughts and prayers are with everyone who is touched by this loss. as friends, community members, and colleagues, we will continue to love and support the holt family in whatever [we] can," Benner said.

According to Heather Christine, former manager at the Mill Casino RV Park where the couple was attacked, they were regulars at the park, even though they were Florida residents. She went as far as to say the couple was like family to her and her staff.

"These two humans were genuinely two of the most beautiful, light-filled, loving, joyful people I've ever had the pleasure of crossing paths with, and there are countless others who would say the same thing," Christine said.

Prosecutors are still working on getting Nicholson extradited back to Oregon. His court date is set for later this month.
EUGENE, Ore. --- On Saturday, members of Environment Oregon members gathered at Wayne Morse Free Speech Plaza to gather photo petitions for those in support of investments in clean energy and climate action on the federal level, and to thank Rep. Peter DeFazio for his leadership.

"Any way you can plug in and let your representatives know that climate change is one of your top priorities and should be one of their top priorities is really important and one of the best things you can do," Jessie Kochaver, climate associate with EO said.

Passersby had the opportunity to stop and take a picture with a posterboard that said "#ActNow" or a cutout of Rep. Defazio.

Kochaver said she believes many Eugene residents are worried about climate change.

"Climate change is here in Oregon. It's pretty clear we came out of one of the hottest heat waves we've seen," Kochaver said. "We're in one of the worst drought years that we've seen in years and the wildfire season is already underway."

The event took place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
CHICO, Calif. - With temperatures in the Chico area staying well over 100 over the weekend, health safety is a big concern.

Still, a few hours after sunset, the temperature on Friday night was still around 90 degrees in Chico.

"We're down here for fires so we have to be prepared for this stuff," said Travis Newman from Alaska.

"It's my first time in Chico, California," said John McAllister who is also from Alaska.

"The August Complex [fire], that's the farthest South I've gone," said Newman.

Newman is a wildland firefighter, and McAllister is in the process of becoming a firefighter in Northern California.

"He's got six years of experience," said McAllister pointing to Newman. "He's the one that convinced me to come down here."

One thing both McAlister and Newman are trying to adapt to is the summers in Chico.

"I gotta check it out, I guess it's going to get a whole lot hotter, aye?" he asked.

"Just drinking water," said Newman. "Just staying hydrated," said McAllister.

Using a thermometer on Friday afternoon, it was 106 degrees.

At that temperature, the car door handle was 110-115 degrees.

The only place to get away from this is the shade, but it's still 90 degrees there too.

That's why Butte County Public Health recommends staying in the AC, and to stay away from alcohol and sugary drinks.

"For every drink, we're drinking a glass of water with it so you know trying to even it out," said CJ Stephens with his friend Claire Sanders by his side. "Obviously drinking water throughout the entire day."

"We're just doing the best we can," said Owner of Pourhouse Gary Lewis. "We've got lots of shade, lots of umbrellas and obviously misters out here as well. We've got lots of beer and obviously free ice water as well."

Customers were trying their best to stay cool as well.

"You go to the river, you come here. But for me, it's just good people you get a cool drink," said Robert Robertson while gripping his cold beer. "Not so bad, I got misters on me right now, I got a pretty lady with me, whatever."

Health experts also suggest drinking something with electrolytes to replenish those you lose from sweating.

If you don't have air conditioning, BCPH suggests you visit a public place with air conditioning, such as a shopping mall or public library.
EUGENE, Ore. -- Police have identified the suspect who reportedly barricaded herself inside a residence within the Ponderosa Mobile Village in Eugene as Christine Bush, 45.

She was safely taken into custody around 7 a.m. Saturday morning, according to the Lane County Sheriff's Office.

RELATED: BARRICADED SUSPECT TAKEN INTO CUSTODY IN EUGENE

According to officials, a restraining order was actively being violated in the 3000 block of Franklin Blvd. When they arrived around 11:30 p.m, they found a suspect barricaded within the residence who has armed herself with a firearm.

They said Bush threatened to kill others, armed herself with a handgun, and refused to come out of the residence.

Bush came to the window of the residence multiple times armed with the handgun, and officials said her behavior was menacing and unpredictable.

Police said deputies remained on scene throughout the night negotiating and attempting to de-escalate the situation. Negotiators from the Lane County Sheriffs Office Crisis Negotiation Team (CNT) were eventually able to convince Bush to peacefully surrender.

The residences in this park are very close together and police said deputies were extremely concerned that Bush would follow through with her threats to harm other members of the community.

The restraining order was granted by a judge and prohibited her from being in this residence, officials said. Bush also had access to a 12-gauge shotgun inside of the residence, police said.

Oregon law states that violation of court issued domestic violence protection orders, such as the order related to this incident, require a mandatory arrest by law enforcement personnel.

Bush was taken to the Lane County Jail where she is currently facing multiple charges. Those include Violation of a Restraining Order and Felon in Possession of a Firearm.

A warrant was sought and served by deputies regarding Bushs criminal violation of the restraining order, according to police. She also had an outstanding arrest warrant out of Coos County.

Many area residents were displaced overnight due to this incident, police said.

There is no ongoing threat to the public, officials say.
Thank you for reading!

Please log in, or sign up for a new account to continue reading.

To subscribe, click here. Already a subscriber? Click here.
Defeating this pandemic and the highly contagious Delta variant isn't just about protecting yourself through vaccination -- it's also about having others in the community vaccinated, doctors say.

"Even if you are vaccinated, if you're living in an area with high rates of Covid-19 spread -- and with the Delta variant surging -- there is a chance that you could become infected," said emergency physician Dr. Leana Wen, visiting professor at George Washington University's Milken Institute School of Public Health.

The Delta strain is the most transmissible coronavirus variant identified so far, the head of the World Health Organization said. It's about 40% to 60% more transmissible than the highly contagious Alpha (B.1.1.7) variant, according to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control.

In the United States, the Delta variant has spread to every state and is now responsible for more than 50% of Covid-19 cases, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said.

"In some parts of the country, this percentage is even higher, especially in areas with low vaccination rates," the CDC said. "This rapid rise is concerning and threatens the progress the United States has made toward ending the pandemic."

As the Delta variant keeps spreading, "we know that there is a risk of breakthrough infection" among fully vaccinated people, Wen said. "So even if you are vaccinated, you could still get infected. The safest thing is for everyone around you -- even if you are vaccinated -- to also be vaccinated as well."

But even when people do get breakthrough infections, the vaccines are still "very, very high in effectiveness" when it comes to preventing severe illness or hospitalization -- well into the 90% range, said Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute for Allergy and Infectious Diseases.

There are some doctors who have expressed interest in giving a booster dose of vaccine to some patients, such as those who might be immunocompromised, Fauci said Sunday.

But the CDC and the US Food and Drug Administration say those who are fully vaccinated don't need a booster shot right now.

"There will always be people, well-meaning people and well-meaning companies will say, 'You know, the way we look at the situation, it looks like you might need a booster, so let's go ahead and give a booster.' But that's not a formal recommendation," Fauci said.

"Data evolves. You get more information as the time goes by. So when you get to the point where you have enough information to make a firm recommendation, that is not flip-flopping. That is making recommendations as the data evolve."

In low-vaccination states, more young people are getting hospitalized

Nationwide, 48% of all Americans have been fully vaccinated, according to CDC data Sunday. But a third of all eligible Americans -- those ages 12 and older -- haven't received a dose of vaccine yet.

In Missouri, only about 40% of the population is fully vaccinated. Doctors there say hospital rooms and equipment are running low, especially as more young people get hospitalized with Covid-19.

"We are seeing more people 30 years and older getting sicker and requiring hospitalization," said Dr. Mayrol Juarez at Mercy Hospital in Springfield.

"Also, we have seen that in this wave, each person is getting sicker faster."

Missouri's state health department estimates more than 70% of the virus circulating in the state is the Delta variant.

About 91% of the patients in the intensive care unit at Mercy Hospital in Springfield are on ventilators, Chief Administrative Officer Erik Frederick said.

"That is shocking to us, to have that kind of number," Frederick said Saturday. "These are young patients -- you have them in their 20s, 30s, 40s -- again, it's alarming, (and) a direct line to the vaccination rates."

In Arkansas, where about 35% of the population is fully vaccinated, the state recently surpassed 1,000 new Covid-19 cases a day, state health officials said.

"Arkansas is on the upward surge of a third wave of Covid-19 here in our state, and it's tilting towards younger people," said Dr. Cam Patterson, chancellor of the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences.

"We're also seeing breakthrough infections in individuals who are immunocompromised."

And in Mississippi, where only a third of the population is fully vaccinated, "we've seen almost an entire takeover in the Delta variant," said State Health Officer Dr. Thomas Dobbs.

New Covid-19 cases and hospitalizations are fueled primarily by unvaccinated people, State Epidemiologist Dr. Paul Byers said.

"Due to the rapid rise of Delta variant cases and outbreaks, combined with the low overall immunization rate in the state," Mississippi is advising seniors 65 and older to avoid mass gatherings until July 26, regardless of vaccination status, the state health officer tweeted.

When might we need a booster?

"Americans who have been fully vaccinated do not need a booster shot at this time," the CDC and FDA said in a joint statement Thursday.

"We continue to review any new data as it becomes available and will keep the public informed. We are prepared for booster doses if and when the science demonstrates that they are needed."

Some Americans were confused when Pfizer said immunity has partially waned for some of its vaccine recipients as the Delta variant spreads around the world. Pfizer said it's working to develop a booster dose to protect people from variants.

"We see declining efficacy of the vaccine in Israel against the Delta variant, but that declining efficacy seems to be clustered among people who are older and who were vaccinated a while ago," Dr. Scott Gottlieb, a former FDA commissioner and current board member at Pfizer, told CBS' "Face the Nation" on Sunday.

"With respect to the boosters, what we're talking about is a third dose of the existing vaccine," Gottlieb said.

"Anyone who gets vaccinated right now will not need a booster. If you go out and get vaccinated right now, that vaccine is going to carry you through the fall and the winter. What we're really talking about right now is people who were vaccinated a while ago, where there may be some declining efficacy."

Thursday, Pfizer said it would soon publish data about a third dose of vaccine and submit it to the FDA, the European Medicines Agency and other regulators. Pfizer said it would seek FDA emergency use authorization for a booster dose in August.

Dr. Jerome Adams, the US surgeon general during the Trump administration, said he agrees with the CDC and the FDA that fully vaccinated people don't need a booster shot right now.

"Vaccinations are your best bet right now," Adams said Friday. "They're still incredibly effective. And if we have to get a booster, we just have to get a booster. We do that for the flu every single year, so people shouldn't get too worked up about that."

The CDC encourages in-person learning -- with safety precautions

With millions of students returning to classrooms in the coming weeks, the CDC said schools should prioritize in-person learning combined with safety measures.

Students, teachers and staff who are fully vaccinated don't need to wear masks at school, the CDC said. But those who aren't fully vaccinated, including children younger than 12 who are not yet eligible, should wear masks while indoors, the CDC said.

The CDC suggests schools offer Covid-19 vaccines on site, provide paid sick leave for employees to get vaccinated and excuse absences for students 12 and older to get vaccinated.

If Covid-19 cases are low in a community, and local schools want to transition away from pandemic precautions, they should do so gradually, the CDC said in a draft of the guidance obtained by CNN.

"If localities decide to remove prevention strategies in schools based on local conditions, they should remove them one at a time and monitor closely (with adequate testing) for any increases in COVID-19 cases before removing the next prevention strategy," the guidance says.

Getting more people vaccinated will assist in that effort, many experts say.

The-CNN-Wire

 &  2021 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved.
MASON CITY, Iowa  The man charged for an August 2020 shooting has been ruled not competent to stand trial.

Donavan J. Ward, 20 of Mason City, is accused of shooting another person in the leg on August 8 in the area of 4th Street NE and Hampshire Place in Mason City. Court documents state Ward was riding in a vehicle when he fired a 9 mm handgun at another passenger, striking the victim in the legs.

Authorities say the victim had to be taken to the hospital for treatment.

A Cerro Gordo County District Court judge has now found Ward is suffering from a mental disorder which prevents him from being tried for reckless use of a firearm and carrying weapons. Ward has been committed to the Department of Corrections at the Iowa Medical and Classification Center for treatment to restore him to competency.
MASON CITY, Iowa  Two guilty pleas result in probation for a North Iowa man.

Joshua Douglas Collings, 22 of Mason City, was arrested twice in two months. First, he was accused of stealing items from a Mason City garage on February 23. Then Collings was arrested on an out-of-county warrant on March 7 and Mason City police say he had 8.4 grams of methamphetamine on him.

Collings has pleaded guilty to third-degree attempted burglary, third-degree attempted burglary, and possession of meth with intent to deliver. Hes been sentenced to three to five years of supervised probation.
A 94-year-old grandmother in Alabama proved it is never too late to do something you have been dreaming of and her granddaughter made it all happen.
Boosters of a Mississippi River city just south of St. Louis are hoping Sunday will mark the beginning of a new chapter of economic opportunity.
As the Delta variant of Covid-19 pushes up new infection case counts across the country, public health experts are urging people to get vaccinated -- not just for themselves, but for everyone around them.
For copyright information, check with the distributor of this item, St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
The main building of the National Assembly in Yeouido, Seoul, is seen in this October, 2020, photo. Korea Times file



By Jung Da-min



Four lawmakers are facing searing criticism for planning a business trip to Europe when Korea is being overwhelmed by a fourth wave of mass COVID-19 infections.



The lawmakers have yet to make a final decision on whether to push ahead with the trip, but they are likely to make the journey, according to an aide of Rep. Yoon Sang-hyun. Yoon heads the Korea-Latvia Parliamentary Friendship Group of the National Assembly and is one of the four lawmakers who is scheduled to visit Latvia and Lithuania for eight days from July 24 to 31.



According to Yoon's aide, the three other lawmakers are Rep. Yoo Sung-kull, head of the Korea-Lithuania Parliamentary Friendship Group, and two Assemblymen who belong to each friendship group of Latvia and Lithuania, respectively. The aide refused to identify the two lawmakers.



As soon as the lawmakers' planned trip became known, many people started questioning if the visit to the two European countries is necessary amid the worsening pandemic situation not only in Korea but also in Europe.



Critics claim that the lawmakers should refrain from traveling overseas when Korea is going through a critical moment in its fight against COVID-19 and when there seems to be no urgent diplomatic agenda involving Korea and the European countries.



As this year commemorates the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Korea and the Baltic states, or Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania, Korean members of the parliamentary friendship groups of the three countries had been invited to visit in March this year, the official told The Korea Times, Friday. As a result, the four Korean lawmakers had decided to visit Latvia and Lithuania, but not Estonia, because members of the Korea-Estonia Parliamentary Group could not make it due to other schedules.



The planned visit, however, has been put off until late July.



"I understand that some people are displeased with the lawmakers' overseas trip amid the pandemic situation, but it could be a diplomatic discourtesy to Latvia and Lithuania if we cancel the trip at the last moment after it had already been pushed off from March to July," the official said.


Steven Roberts teaches politics and journalism at George Washington University. He can be contacted by email at stevecokie@gmail.com.
If you're interested in submitting a Letter to the Editor, click here.

Submit
Weather Alert

...HEAT ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM NOON TODAY TO 9 PM MDT THIS EVENING... * WHAT...Dangerously hot conditions with temperatures between 95 and 102 degrees possible. * WHERE...Eastern Magic Valley, Raft River Region, the Snake Plain, Arco Desert and the South Hills. * WHEN...From noon to 9 PM MDT Sunday. * IMPACTS...Extreme heat and humidity will significantly increase the potential for heat related illnesses, particularly for those working or participating in outdoor activities. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances. Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing when possible. To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency! Call 9 1 1. &&
According to a Facebook post by the Missoula County Sheriff's Office, an evacuation warning has been ordered.

Due to the emerging Lolo Creek fire, Missoula County Sheriff's Office is issuing an evacuation warning from the Idaho border to Lolo Hot Springs.

Deputies will be notifying residents and visitors along Highway 12 of the warning. If you are traveling along Highway 12 please do not stop.
ROME, JUL 11 - The Italian presidency of the world's top 20 economies showed a "very impressive performance in bringing countries together" at the Venice finance summit, a venue that should make Italians proud, Kristalina Georgieva, head of the International Monetary Fund, told ANSA in an interview. "The choice of Venice was in the spirit of demonstrating both the threat of climate change and the techological breakthroughs" that can help combat global warming", Georgieva said in a reference to Venice's Mose flood barrier. Georgieva, in a phone conversation on the sidelines of the G20 summit of finance ministers and central bank governors, praised Italy's Finance Minister Daniele Franco and Bank of Italy's Governor Ignazio Visco for their skills at "bringing countries together" at a summit where climate was touched upon at "virtually any panel". She mentioned the decision to restart, under the Italian G20 presidency, the Sustainable Finance Working Group which brings together both the U.S. and China as co-chairs. Other progresses where the role played by central banks in countering climate change through disclosure of risk exposure by financial intermediaries, and "the importance of a comprehensive policy approach", Georgieva said. Speaking at the end of the three-day meeting in Italy, Georgieva told ANSA that participants "recognized that the pandemic is still the most significant downside and upside economic risk" and highlighted to risk of a "two-track recovery" for world economies, reflecting different paces in the vaccination rollout. When asked about the threat posed by Covid-19 variants, Georgieva said "we need to be very watchful of how the economic recovers and of how the pandemic evolves" and said she would recommend that Europe "support be not withdrawn prematurely." (ANSA).
Alderwoman Mary Jo Fesenmaier proposed that the parking department could distribute yard signs to the churches so they could inform people about the free parking or the city could designate an area that is in front of the church as free parking.

Yes, youre going to catch people that arent going to that church, Fesenmaier said. I kind of like the yard signs, because were saying thats who its dedicated to.

Mayor Charlene Klein said the city could designate a certain number of parking passes or stickers to each church that they could give to their members to be placed on their vehicle dashboards.

Support Local Journalism Your membership makes our reporting possible. {{featured_button_text}}

Howell said if the city allocates parking passes or stickers to the churches, then they would have to have someone standing outside the church to distribute the passes to people who are attending.

If we allocate a certain number of stickers to a church, they would come out to the curb and hand it out to each person as they came in, Howell said. That would require the church to man the ramparts so to speak whether that would work or not I dont know.

Fesenmaier said the city also would have to make sure there would be enough passes or stickers available to visitors.
Dear Readers,

We have been sharing compassion with many people so far this year. Part of that compassion is helping people move on after tragedy and sometimes abuse. A fresh start, a new beginning are the phrases I hear people say after we have lifted them up both financially and spiritually.

When I reached out to this woman, she was full of regrets and remorse for her past decisions that put her in the situation that was not only abusive but also extremely dangerous. When we spoke on the phone the woman shared some of the things she had endured at the hands of her abuser, and they are not things I would share in this column. She had filed police reports and restraining orders, but these had led to even more abuse. She finally escaped from his home one night with only enough time to grab some of her personal belongings and her hidden savings. She still had her car from when they first met and thankfully that car made it here.

After a long conversation and many tears, the woman was able to put her past, her fear and distrust behind her. New beginnings would be needed to turn her life around and that is what we would help her find. I was relieved when she told me about the job she had found and the benefits it would provide. There was no doubt she would be able to support herself going forward and finally put her education to work.

Support Local Journalism Your membership makes our reporting possible. {{featured_button_text}}
We finished haying this year on July 4. That may not sound like news to most people, but as a farmer and rancher in Raynesford, Montana, producers in our area usually dont even start preparing to get into the fields until after Independence Day.

With extreme drought hammering the whole region, we actually began haying as soon as I returned to my ranch from the National Farmers Organization national board meeting in Iowa on June 25. I stepped off the plane and drove home, then started cutting two hours after walking through the farmhouse door.

My wife, Wendy, had already made test cuts in a neighbors fields that we have been haying the last few years on a share system. After driving around neighboring fields, she telephoned them and told them to just graze it. While we cut most of our fields, we left patches that were in horrible condition. Overall, we got about a third of what we need. The problem is, the state of Montana is in bad shape. The entire West, and North Dakota and South Dakota, are rated from abnormally dry to experiencing extreme drought conditions.

This got me thinking about how our climate seems to be changing, and not for the better. Most of U.S. agricultural land is either under drought conditions, or as in the Gulf Coast, extremely wet or flooding. There dont seem to be many places that are rated normal this year.

While I was swathing hay, I listened to an interview on public radio with Rep. John Curtis, R-Utah. He is spearheading a GOP-only climate caucus. Curtis mentioned that climate can be a divisive term, but if you ask people about being a good steward of the earth, thats a phrase everyone approves of.

Curtis goal is to work with Republican members who are on the fence about climate issues and the role government should play. I hope GOP caucus members understand the issue is real and farmers are a major piece in solving the climate dilemma puzzle.

I applaud the efforts targeting climate in the nations capitol. There is real bipartisan legislation work happening. The House and Senate have caucuses addressing climate change. The Senate climate caucus is comprised of seven Republicans, six Democrats and one independent. The House has 41 Democrats and 23 Republicans addressing climate. While they may not agree on everything, legislation is moving forward through compromise and listening to ideas from one another.

The best example is Senate Bill 1251, the Growing Climate Solutions Act. The GCSA passed the Senate last month 92-8. It should easily pass the House. This has been touted as a major step in reducing Americas greenhouse gases. The carbon credit market can easily be described as the Wild West. This bill works toward making sense of that market.

The GCSA does two things: It gives technical assistance to farmers, ranchers and private forested land owners about ways to lower their GHGs or enhance their ability to capture carbon; second, it creates protocols for third-party verifiers.

The GCSA, along with USDAs push to increase Conservation Reserve Program land to 25 million acres, is proof that agriculture is a major part of the solution regarding climate issues. We will have the opportunity to help improve soil conditions, make a bit more income and, as Curtis noted, to be good stewards of the earth. Indeed, family farms and ranches are the best stewards of the land. Our goal is to pass the land to the next generation of agricultural producers.
Washington DC, July 11: Looking to kill two birds with one stone, the United States is increasing the delivery of COVID-19 vaccines to Latin American countries to address the region's health plight and curtail China's bid to exert its influence through vaccine exports.

President Joe Biden last month had said the United States will be the "arsenal of vaccines" to combat coronavirus, as he had announced that Washington's donation of 500 million doses of "no strings attached" vaccines, for the fight against the pandemic. COVID-19 Origin: Evidence Points to Natural Origin of Coronavirus, Not Chinese Lab-Leak, Say Scientists.

Currently, the US is planning to export up to 80 million vaccines to other countries, which includes a significant portion to Central and South America.

According to Foreign Policy magazine, these recent announcements indicate that the US is turning a corner in vaccine diplomacy in Latin America after an initial ahead start by Russia and China.

Juan Gonzalez, a senior director on the White House National Security Council said: "All in, when you look at what the United States has been sharing, Latin America has been by far the largest beneficiary. And this is just the beginning."

He said the Biden administration's top priority is addressing the public health crisis as a new coronavirus outbreak pummels countries across Latin America.

Observers in the region believe that there's a geopolitical element to vaccine deliveries as the US looks to compete with Russia and China's global vaccine response.

Pepe Zhang, an associate director at the Atlantic Council refuses to see it as a zero-sum game. "...but that doesn't mean the vaccine diplomacy itself doesn't have geopolitical or foreign-policy implications," said

"If Chinese vaccines are the only available solution in one country, that potentially puts China in a position to pursue additional interests or priorities."

According to the Foreign Policy report, western officials have already accused both Moscow and Beijing of using vaccines for geopolitical leverage.

Some countries including Paraguay and Honduras, have faced significant pressure to cut diplomatic ties with Taiwan in exchange for receiving Chinese-made vaccines. While a few countries resisted the pressure, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, and Panama couldn't.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Washington, Jul 10 (PTI) The US is sending 1.5 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines to Nepal and another 500,000 to Bhutan, the White House has said, asserting that its donations around the world are without any strings attached.

Today we are sending three million doses to Indonesia, 1.5 million doses to Nepal, 500,000 doses to Moldova, and 500,000 doses to Bhutan, White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki told reporters on Friday at her daily news conference.

There are no strings attached to our vaccines that we're providing. We're providing them around the world to save lives and to be a contributor to the global effort to fight the pandemic, Psaki said in response to a question.

She said that with these shipments, in this week alone, the US has sent nearly 15 million doses to countries including Guatemala, Uruguay, Paraguay, Bolivia, Afghanistan, and Vietnam.

Psaki said that in addition to the vaccines given to Indonesia, the US is also moving forward on plans to increase assistance for Indonesia's broader COVID-19 response efforts.

"We recognise the difficult situation Indonesia currently finds itself in with a surge of COVID cases, and our thoughts are with all those in Indonesia who are affected, she said.

Psaki acknowledged that there are more doses needed beyond the billion.

I would note that the United States is far and away the largest contributor in the world to the fight against the pandemic, including specific doses of vaccines. The President has made clear that we will continue to build from here, and we're working on manufacturing capacity around the world and in the United States, and we will continue to contribute even beyond the billion doses, she said.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
In a major achievement, public sector hydropower major SJVN Ltd on Sunday signed a pact with the Investment Board of #Nepal for the development of 679 MW Lower Arun Hydroelectric Project - its second in the Himalayan nation. pic.twitter.com/UxgpcWWpRo IANS Tweets (@ians_india) July 11, 2021

(SocialLY brings you all the latest breaking news, viral trends and information from social media world, including Twitter, Instagram and Youtube. The above post is embeded directly from the user's social media account and LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body. The views and facts appearing in the social media post do not reflect the opinions of LatestLY, also LatestLY does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.)
Brussels, July 11: According to researchers in Belgium, an elderly woman who died of coronavirus was infected with two variants of the virus at the same time, according to reports. The 90-year-old woman, who was reportedly unvaccinated against COVID-19, was infected with Alpha as well as Beta variants of the virus simultaneously. The deceased was admitted to the OLV Hospital in Aalst in March and had tested positive for coronavirus and died five days later. COVID-19 Survivors Are Still at Reinfection Risk From Alpha & Beta Variants, Reveals Study.

Anne Vankeerberghen, molecular biologist from the OLV Hospital who led the research, said "Both these variants were circulating in Belgium at the time, so it is likely that the lady was co-infected with different viruses from two different people," as reported by news agency AFP. "Unfortunately, we don't know how she became infected, she reportedly said. The researcher also added that the rare phenomenon may be underestimated. Spike Protein Changes in COVID-19 Variants Can Make Vaccines Ineffective, Says Study.

The deceased, when admitted, had good oxygen levels but her condition started to deteriorate soon. The molecular biologist said that it is difficult to say whether the co-infection had a role in the fast deterioration of woman's health. Vankeerberghen also said in a press release that there had been "no other published cases" of similar co-infections.

According to the official website of the World Health Orgainstaion, the Alpha variant of COVID-19 or B.1.1.7 first emerged in the United Kingdoms in September last year. The Beta variant of the coronavirus, on the other hand, was first spotted in South Africa in May last year

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 11, 2021 11:28 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
What people remember about Stephanie Neiman is that she played saxophone, loved her truck and spoke her mind. But if you ask somebody whos lived around Perry, Okla., for a while, they also remember what happened to her, whether they want to or not.

On the night of June 3, 1999, three men kidnapped Neiman and two other people  a man and a woman  at a house in Perry. The men beat the victims, raped the other woman, then took all three outside of town. Thats where Neiman was shot twice and buried alive as she gasped for air.

The 19-year-olds body had been buried so shallowly that one reserve deputy later noted that her toes were sticking out of the ground.

A repeat felon named Clayton Lockett was convicted of killing her, and it was in the name of justice for Neiman last week that executioners in McAlester, Okla., strapped Lockett, 38, to a table and pumped him full of an experimental combination of lethal drugs.

Advertisement

The procedure ended with officials scrambling and with Lockett muttering and straining against his restraints before dying of a heart attack 43 minutes later. Locketts pulse had hardly stopped before national condemnation of his execution arose, thanks to on-scene reporters who tweeted the shocking details of his demise.

But in rural Perry, population 5,090, Locketts crime is all they see.

We are totally upset down here, said Marilee Macias, owner of Kumback Cafe in downtown Perry, where news of Locketts botched execution riled diners. When that thing happened and hit the paper, thats all the people here could talk about, how bad the news people blew that up. Theyre not thinking of the victim and the victims family.

On Monday, Oklahoma Gov. Mary Fallin issued a statement urging as much. It is my hope that Stephanie Neimans family and friends, as well as Locketts surviving victims, have found some measure of closure and peace, Fallin wrote. The people of Oklahoma do not have blood on their hands. They saw Clayton Lockett for what he was: evil.

In a country where support for the death penalty has hit a 40-year low, Oklahomas largely conservative population remains in favor of capital punishment. And if Locketts death has galvanized national opposition to execution, residents and officials, echoing Fallin, have expressed little regret.

If anyone ever deserved the death penalty, Lockett did, said Mark L. Gibson, the retired district attorney who handled the case. Clayton Lockett was evil. Clayton Lockett hurt those people, and beat those people, and raped those people, and enjoyed it.

Lockett never apologized for killing Neiman, and in jail had threatened to order hits on the witnesses to his crime, officials said. Some locals were dismayed that Lockett was allowed to survive for 15 years after he killed Neiman while he exhausted his appeals process  a period stained by raw behavior, from throwing feces at a prison guard to getting hold of makeshift knives.

Even though the execution was botched, he didnt suffer anything compared to what he did to her, said Gloria Brown, managing editor of the Perry Daily Journal and a longtime resident of the town, who can still see the physical signs of grief over Neimans death 15 years later.

Advertisement

When I go out there and drive by where Stephanies buried, its almost like a shrine, Brown said, naming off the angels, flowers and stuffed animals shes seen on the grave. It changes over the years. Theres just so much stuff. You can just feel the heartbreak of those parents.

When a Times reporter called the family last week to ask whether they would like to comment on Locketts execution, a woman answered and said, No comment, and hung up.

Theyre very quiet, private people, and Stephanie was their life, said Gibson, the former prosecutor. Of the murder, he added, Stephanies parents lives ended that night, they really did. I saw Susie and Steve at the parole board clemency hearing [in February], and its just like they were back at the trial.

At the hearing  a legal proceeding intended for Lockett to plea for mercy, but which Lockett chose not to attend  Susie Neiman read a victim impact statement filled with heartache, saying, We have had to endure a living hell for the past 15 years.

Advertisement

We go through the motions of living, we eat, we sleep, Steve goes to work and comes home again. We do what we have to do to make it through the day and we start all over again the next. We exist.... There is no Stephanie. There are no more dreams. There is no future.... What is left is Clayton Lockett, who for the last 15 years has been allowed to live.

Neimans parents asked for the death penalty at Locketts trial and witnessed his death. Dist. Atty. Brian Hermanson, who attended the execution with the family, downplayed reports of Locketts suffering.

Mr. Locketts execution has been sensationalized, Hermanson said. It did not go as it was planned  there were some movements by him that were unexpected, but then again  anyone whos been taken off life support, they know theres bodily reactions even if theyre brain-dead.

Suggestions that there was torture, suggestions that there was agony, I didnt see that, he said.

Advertisement

Although he supported the execution, Gibson, the retired district attorney, still isnt sure how to feel.

Did he get what he deserved? I dont know, Gibson said. As Ive gotten older, Im a devout Christian, and I just have more and more trouble, honestly, of the question of get what I deserve. ... I will tell you my mother, God love her, wants him to suffer.

matt.pearce@latimes.com
Fewer than half the residents of Salt Lake County belong to the Mormon Church, according to new figures that illustrate how Utahs largest county is becoming more religiously diverse.

Mormons account for 49% of the 1.1 million residents in Salt Lake County  the lowest percentage since at least the 1930s, the Salt Lake Tribune reports. Thats according to membership figures provided by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints that include active and nonactive members.

Salt Lake County includes the state capital, Salt Lake City, which has long been more religiously diverse than Utah as a whole. But it also includes suburbs such as West Jordan, Sandy and South Jordan that have traditionally been Mormon hotbeds.

The place is just becoming much more diverse, said Pam Perlich, director of demographic research at the University of Utahs Gardner Policy Institute. It is not just that data set that is indicating it. There are many data sets showing that.

Advertisement

Statewide, Mormons account for nearly 62% of Utahs 3.1 million residents. That number is also inching down as the states healthy job market attracts non-Mormon newcomers from other places.

The ongoing demographic shift could have widespread effects, including at the Utah Legislature, where most lawmakers are Mormon. All four members of the states congressional delegation belong to the Utah-based faith as well.

The number of people who are devoted Mormons is probably even lower, said independent Mormon researcher Matt Martinich. He estimates about 40% of Mormons are active. If thats true, it would mean only about 24% of Salt Lake County residents are active Mormons.

Martinich said the faith has struggled in urban areas.

Worldwide, church membership growth has decreased in recent years, with 2017 being the slowest in 80 years, according to Martinichs research. The number of convert baptisms in 2017 reached the lowest level in 30 years, he said.

Salt Lake County is now one of five counties in the state where Mormons arent the majority, joining Carbon, San Juan, Summit and Grand. The proportion of Mormons in Weber County is also nearing that mark, down to 53%, the figures show.

Two mostly rural counties in northeast Utah have the two highest percentages of Mormons: Rich County (84%) and Morgan County (83%).

Utah County, home to the Mormon-owned Brigham Young University, has the third-highest percentage of Latter-day Saints with 82%. Utah County has the second most residents behind Salt Lake County.

Advertisement

Derek Miller, president of the Salt Lake Chamber of Commerce and former chief of staff for Gov. Gary R. Herbert, remembers growing up in Provo, where he knew only one kid who wasnt Mormon.

After living in Washington, D.C., as an adult, he returned to Utah and decided to live in Salt Lake City with his wife to raise their children. Miller said about half of his childrens friends are Mormons.

With that increased diversity comes this feeling that it doesnt have to divide us, Miller said. That is what I hope for them, and that is what I hope for our community.
After more than a week of vote counting, it appears that a banana exporter with no experience in government has won Haitis presidential election with the support of roughly 10% of eligible voters.

There were reports of tires set on fire and car windows smashed in parts of the capital, Port-au-Prince, after the provisional tally was announced late Monday following a laborious process of counting paper ballots by hand. At least three losing candidates rejected the results.

That did not seem to bode well for attempts to bring stability to a nation racked by political upheaval, extreme poverty, natural disasters and a deadly cholera outbreak.

But the violence was not reported to be serious, and analysts said there was reason to hope that the country will finally get its wobbly democracy onto a firmer footing after nearly a year without an elected leader.

Advertisement

What Haitians need more than anything is a democratically elected, constitutional government that is stable in order to run the country and figure out how to spend reconstruction money that is coming in, said Nicole Phillips, a staff attorney with the Boston-based nonprofit Institute for Justice and Democracy in Haiti who served as a monitor for the Nov. 20 election.

Haitis Provisional Electoral Council said Jovenel Moise, the successor chosen by the countrys last elected leader, received nearly 56% of the vote, enough to avoid a runoff against any of his 26 rivals.

But turnout was just 21%, and a tenth of the sheets used to tally the vote were thrown out for reasons that were not immediately clear, giving ammunition to Moises top three opponents who plan to contest the results.

Jovenel Moise talks to journalists in his office in Petionville, Haiti. (Dieu Nalio Chery / Associated Press )

We say there has been cheating, Jude Celesti, a former state construction chief who placed second with just under a fifth of the vote, told Agence France-Presse news agency.

Political parties had 72 hours to file complaints with Haitis electoral tribunal, which must investigate any allegations of irregularities before the results are certified Dec. 29.

Gunshots were heard in a number of districts of the capital when the preliminary results were announced  whether in celebration or protest was not clear. Supporters of the Lavalas Family party, founded by ousted President Jean-Bertrand Aristide, had already been demonstrating for days.

The long and the short of it is that in Haiti you have an electoral system that very few people trust, said Eduardo Gamarra, a Haiti expert at Florida International University. That will make it difficult for Moise  or anyone else  to govern the highly polarized country, he said.

Advertisement

Moise reached out to opponents after the preliminary results were announced, saying together we will change Haiti.

We are going to use the people, the sun, the land and water to develop the country, he said.

Moise, who was not widely known until President Michel Martelly picked him to run as the Tet Kale partys presidential candidate, won the most votes during a first round of balloting in October 2015. But those results were annulled after a special commission found evidence of fraud.

The country has been led by a caretaker government since Martellys term expired in February. After several delays, a redo vote was scheduled for early October. But those plans were scrapped after Hurricane Matthew devastated parts of the island, which was still recovering from a 2010 earthquake that killed at least 220,000 people and left more than a million homeless.

Advertisement

That the election took place at all was a major achievement, analysts said. More than 250 schools and other polling places had to be repaired so voting could take place.

This time, the balloting was more orderly and calm, analysts said. But there was considerable voter fatigue, especially in parts of the country that were ravaged by the storm. Turnout was among the lowest ever seen in a presidential election in Haiti.

Four out of five decided it wasnt worth their time, or they werent able logistically to be able to vote, Phillips said. Now the question will be will there be the legitimacy with the Haitian people with this new government.

alexandra.zavis@latimes.com

Advertisement

Twitter: @alexzavis
The U.S. declined Haiti's request for the military troops in stabilizing their country as the president of their country got assassinated. Despite saying no, a senior Biden official noted on Saturday that they are sending security officials to assess the situation in the country, The Wall Street Journal reported.

Furthermore, the official which was not identified by the outlet said that authorities from the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Department of Homeland Security are scheduled to arrive in Haiti on Sunday as the Biden administration consults with Haitian officials and international partners.

READ NEXT: Pres. Joe Biden Fires Donald Trump-Appointed Head of Social Security Administration, Andrew Saul

White House press secretary Jen Psaki also echoed what the official said, underscoring that they will send "senior FBA and DHS officials" in Port-au-Prince as soon as possible.

Analysts shared that the decision of the Biden administration to say no to the request of Haiti for U.S. Troops is not surprising as the U.S. voiced out their withdrawal from Afghanistan.

"I don't think sending U.S. troops to Haiti is a good idea or a politically feasible one," Inter-American Dialogue Head, Michael Shifter said.

Despite saying no to Haiti on the troops, the U.S. had several histories of intervening with the country. From 1915 to 1934, the U.S. helped in restoring order in the country when the Haitian president at that time was also assassinated.

Haiti Requests for Troops in Securing Ports

U.S. declination comes as the government of Haiti under Prime Minister Claude Joseph sent a letter to the Biden administration to ask for help in securing their sea, oil, and airports, according to a report from The Miami Herald.

A spokesman for Haiti's prime minister also noted that they need help from U.S. troops to provide security for their people, as well as "efficiently" confronting the coronavirus pandemic in the country and assisting in the investigation over the assassination of their president.

The letter that was written in French that was acquired by The Miami Herald also revealed that the country also asked for aid in electoral security, as elections in the country had been slated for September.

Apart from the U.S., the government of Haiti also sent a letter with the same intent, to the United Nations Integrated Office, which is located in the country. Deputy Spokesman for the United Nations Secretary-General Farhan Aziz Haq confirmed that they received the letter requesting troops.

"The sending of any force would be a matter for the Security Council to decide," the deputy spokesman said.

Haiti Presdient Jovenel Moise's Assassination

Haiti's request for aid from the U.S. and the United Nations stemmed out when President Jovenel Moise was assassinated on July 7, in his home located in Port-au-Prince. During the incident, the president's wife was also shot and was transferred to southern Florida for treatment.

It can be remembered that the unidentified group of people who attacked the private residence of Haiti's president, was described by Interim Minister Joseph to have members who are speaking Spanish.

Authorities highlighted that they killed at least four suspected assailants and arrested 18 Colombians and two Haitian Americans. To date, officials from Haiti have not yet disclosed the motive for their president's assassination.

READ NEXT: U.S. Senate Targets to Take Up Bipartisan Infrastructure Deal as Early as July 19

This article is owned by Latin Post

Written By: Joshua Summers

WATCH: Haiti on Edge as Country Reels From Assassination of its President - From Good Morning America
A Wildfire continued to blaze California as another heatwave will strike the western region of the U.S. this weekend. Firefighters continue to face a surging wildfire in the Beckwourth Complex, which erupted from two flashes of lightning, Al Jazeera reported.

There were no current reports of building damage in the area. However, the fire prompted evacuations orders or warnings for about 2,800 people. The fire also prompted the closure of nearly 200 square miles of Plumas National Forest.

READ NEXT: 2 Earthquakes With Magnitude 6.0 and 4.8, Rattle Central California

California Beckwourth Complex Wildfire

The California wildfire in the Beckworth Complex was composed of two different wildfires, that are both caused by lightning according to a report from The Sacramento Bee. The two fires scorched 45 miles north of Lake Taho located in Plumas County.

The two fires, called Dotta Fire and Sugar Fire, that formed the Beckwourth Complex wildfires erupted on different days. Dotta Fire started on June 30 while the Sugar Fire erupted on July 2. The said fire burned at least 55,091 acres of land and was reported to be 8% percent contained as of July 10.

Fire Information Officer Lisa Cox said that hot and low humidity made it challenging for them to identify when will they be able to contain the fire, Los Angeles Times reported.

"Spot fires caused by embers leaped up to 1.6 kilometers ahead of the northeastern flank," Cox said, adding that area was too far for firefighters to safely battle against the blaze. Cox also noted that the fire "can actually pick up speed" as winds directed the fire up to canyons full of dry fuels.

The U.S. Forest Service officials emphasized that the fire behavior was caused by different factors such as hot temperatures, critically dry and receptive fuels, the topography arrangement, and the winds that funnel through the blaze.

On Friday, Associated Press highlighted that the hot rising air from the wildfire formed a "gigantic, smoky pyrocumulus cloud" that reached thousands of feet high and formed its own lightning.

"Such intensity, combined with hot, dry, unstable conditions can generate a thunderstorm cloud as the fire did Friday afternoon," Cox noted.

Between Friday and Saturday morning, The Sacramento Bee noted that the wildfire in Beckwourth Complex doubled its size, as the Sugar Fire and Fotta Fire remained stagnant. As of this writing, the Dotta Fire is 80 percent contained.

Heat Wave Blankets the Western Region of U.S.

The California Wildfire happened as several areas in the west are also experiencing extreme temperatures generated by the heat wave. In late Saturday afternoon, Las Vegas recorded temperatures up to 117 degrees Fahrenheit. On Friday, Death Valley National Park in California recorded up to 130 degrees.

The NWS Weather Prediction Center also announced on Friday that a "record-breaking heat" was set to affect areas in the western and southwestern regions of the U.S.

Record-breaking heat is set to impact much of the West and Southwest this weekend. Over 31 million people are currently under an Excessive Heat Warning or Heat Advisory. Highs well into the triple digits could threaten Las Vegas' all-time high temperature record of 117F. pic.twitter.com/vP4NXEeKGh  NWS Weather Prediction Center (@NWSWPC) July 9, 2021

"Over 31 million people are currently under an Excessive Heat Warning or Heat Advisory," the center noted in their statement, adding that Las Vegas could experience three-digit temperatures up to 117 degrees.

Experts noted that "climate change" drives more extreme weather events such as the wildfires in California and heat waves in the west.

READ NEXT: Wildfire Erupted in Coconino County, Closing National Forest in Flagstaff

This article is owned by Latin Post

Witten By: Joshua Summers

WATCH: Beckwourth Complex Fires Grow - From KTVN 2 News
CIRCUIT Court Judge Keenan Johnson warned that District Court appeals brought before him without merit could result in penalties being increased.

He made the comment after dismissing an appeal by a man against convictions for dangerous driving and drink-driving.

Thomas Gonoude, a 50-year-old father of six from Cluain Darach, Tullamore, had been fined 500 and disqualified from driving for three years by Judge Catherine Staines in July of last year.

The District Court had heard how Mr Gonoude got into an argument with gardai in relation to a Christmas night gathering at his house.

Gardai called to the house at about 12 midnight on December 25, 2017 because of a noise complaint from a neighbour and following a discussion with Mr Gonoude they returned to the garda station.

After about 15 minutes Mr Gonoude presented himself there and while he was initially apologetic he then became annoyed about the call to his house.

When the accused left the station he was seen getting into the driver's seat of a vehicle parked nearby and Garda Conor Shields and Garda Mark Sherlock followed him in an official patrol car when he drove away.

The court heard the gardai saw the car, a black Ford Mondeo, go through the town and towards the Daingean Road where it picked up speed and then braked suddently and crossed the continuous white line at a right-hand bend. The garda evidence was that the car drove in the middle of the road at up to 80kph and for safety reasons Garda Sherlock turned off the patrol car's lights and sirens.

The car then took a right turn into Cluain Darach and stopped in his driveway where he was seen in the driver's seat of his car.

Garda Shields said there was a strong smell of alcohol on the man's breath and he was arrested on suspicion of drink-driving.

He was brought to the garda station where a sample of his urine was taken and it was posted to the Medical Bureau on December 28. Analysis showed there to be a concentration of 276 milligrams of alcohol per 100ml of urine.

At the Circuit Court last week, Judge Keenan Johnson said that a reading of that level was borderline alcohol poisoning.

He told David Staunton, BL, for Mr Gonoude, that he was satisfied the appellant was so intoxicated on the night he wouldn't have any recollection of what happened.

He affirmed the order of the District Court and dismissed the appeal, saying: It was a completely unmeritorious appeal and a total waste of everybody's time.

He warned that if another appeal like that came before him he would be increasing the penalties. Mr Staunton replied that he had taken instructions in relation to the appeal and did not want to be dealing with unmeritorious appeals either.

Earlier, Judge Johnson said he was quite happy that the arrest of Mr Gonoude in his driveway was legitimate because the gardai had followed him having seen him highly intoxicated at the station.

In his evidence, Mr Gonoude denied the evidence about his driving and claimed he had been handcuffed in his driveway, an allegation which was denied by Garda Shields.
The death has occurred of Michael O'Donoghue, Tait Place, Lord Edward Street and formerly of Keyes Park.

Michael, also known as Tweety. Michael, died suddenly, at University Hospital Limerick

Son of the late Josie and Mary and brother of the late Brian. Very deeply regretted by his daughters Michelle, Nicola, Ciara and Deirdre, nephew Michael, sisters Majella, Annemarie, Joan, Cathy and Noelle, nephews, nieces, grandchildren, extended family and friends.

May He Rest in Peace

Requiem Mass, for family and close friends, will take place at 11.00am on Wednesday (July 14th) in St. John's Cathedral

Mass will be streamed live (to view click here)

Funeral afterwards to Mount St. Oliver Cemetery.

In compliance with the current HSE guidelines, the funeral will be limited to fifty people. Please ensure social distancing and public health advice is adhered.

Messages of sympathy may be expressed through the condolence section on rip.ie or cards and letters of sympathy can be sent to Cross' Funeral Directors, Lower Gerald Griffin Street, Limerick.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The death has occurred of Nuala Dunne (nee McGowan), Lacka, Doon, and formerly of Ballyshannon, Donegal.

Peacefully at home. Predeceased by her sister Maureen ODonoghue and brother Pat. Sadly missed by her loving husband Michael, daughters Marie, Yvonne and Ann, brother Liam (Ballyshannon), sisters-in-law Phyllis and Mary McGowan, grandchildren Cormac, Eoin, Laura, Emma, Fiona, Roisin and Eimear, sons-in-law William, Mark and Ger, nieces, nephews, relatives, neighbours and friends.

Rest in Peace

Reposing at her residence Monday evening from 4 oc for family, friends and neighbours. Funeral cortege leaving her residence on Tuesday morning at 11 oclock to arrive in St. Patricks Church, Doon, for Requiem Mass at 11.30 oclock with burial afterwards in Doon Cemetery. Family flowers only please, donations, if desired, to Milford Care Centre.

Please adhere to Government Guidelines re Covid-19. (Max. 50 people in the Church)

If you wish to leave a message of sympathy you can do so in the condolence section on rip.ie

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The death has occurred of Michael (Mikey) Baggott, Ballinaschoola, Herbertstown.

Mikey passed away peacefully after an illness bravely borne (10/July/21) at the University Hospital Limerick. Brother of the late Dick and Paddy, Billy, Josie and Moira. Deeply regretted by William, Michael, Mags and Bridget O'Brien, cousins, neighbours relatives and friends.

For anyone who wishes to pay their respects to Mikey he will be reposing at Davern's Funeral Home Hospital, Co. Limerick V35XV95 on Monday (12/July/21) from 2pm until 7pm.

The family will not be present for this.

Mike's funeral Mass can be viewed live by clicking here (link to follow)

Mikey's funeral will arrive at the Sacred Heart Church, Herbertstown, on Tuesday (13/July/21) at 11.15am for requiem Mass at 11.30am with burial afterwards in Ballinard Cemetery.

The route the funeral cortege will take from Davern's Funeral Home is left for Herbertstown, pausing at Mikey's residence, then turning right to drive through Herbertsown Main Street via the primary school then arriving at the Sacred Heart Church Herbertstown - for anyone who wishes to line the road as a mark of respect.

Messages of condolence and support can be left on rip.ie Mass cards can be posted to Davern's Funeral Home, Hospital, Co. Limerick.

May He Rest In Peace
BATHERS have been warned of a sighting of a lion's mane jellyfish in Glin by Limerick City and County Council.

It is also known as the giant jellyfish as it is one of the largest known species of the marine animal.

The council took to Twitter to warn the public.

Bathers to be advised of Lion's Mane Jellyfish spotted in Glin. pic.twitter.com/gzUrEFuCnC  Limerick Council (@LimerickCouncil) July 9, 2021

According to the HSE, the lions mane is "the most serious jellyfish in Irish waters".

"All jellyfish possess stinging cells, 'stingers', on their tentacles. Brushing against tentacles can cause the release of these stingers which contain venom (poison). Depending on the type of jellyfish, the stingers may not be sharp enough and long enough to pierce the skin and the skin forms a natural barrier to most stings. More delicate areas, such as the eyes and lips, might be more easily pierced.

"However, the lions mane stinging cells are much sharper and can pierce skin easily resulting in a painful sting. Jellyfish stings in Ireland are not usually life threatening and just require basic first aid and simple pain relief," say the HSE.

A sting from a lions mane can cause nausea, sweating, cramps, headaches and other symptoms.
GUWAHATI : The tea industry is bracing for a decline in exports to the tune of 30-40 million kg this year as compared to 2020, due to the availability of low-cost varieties in the global market and amid trade restrictions in countries that have traditionally been strong importers, industry sources said.

The coronavirus-induced economic downturn in much of the world is also a factor for falling shipments, they said.

For the period between January to March this year, exports fell by 13.23% as against the corresponding period a year ago, and by 29.03% compared to 2019, as per Tea Board India data.

Altogether, 45.86 million kg tea was exported from India between January to March in 2021. The figure was 52.85 million kg in 2020 and 64.62 million kg in 2019.

The dip in the share of shipments from North India has been more compared to South India since the last three years.

While the tea export share of South India fell by 5.41% in 2021 between January and March compared to the same period in 2020, the decline was 25.85% compared to 2019.

In case of exports from North India, the figure for the three-month period was lower by 17.83% as against 2020 and 31.04% compared to 2019.

"Indian exports have suffered in the last two-three years due to very low prices of Kenyan and Sri Lankan tea.

"Kenyan tea auction price average is below 2 US dollars per kg, which is much lesser than our auction average," Dinesh Bihani, secretary, Guwahati Tea Auction Buyers Association (GTABA), told PTI.

Kenyan tea is available for 1.8 US dollars per kg ( 130-135 per kg) on an average, while for Indian tea, the average auction price is nearly 200-210 per kg, he added.

India had exported 208 million kg of tea out of the total production of 1,255.60 million kg in 2020, while shipments accounted for 252 million kg out of 1,389.70 million kg produced in 2019.

Another tea industry source pointed out that there is very limited domestic consumption demand of the beverage in Kenya and Sri Lanka, which means that more tea is available and targeted for export.

About 80 per cent of it produced in India is sold for domestic consumption, as per a 2018 'Executive Summary of Study on Domestic Consumption of Tea' published by the Tea Board.

Exports to Pakistan, a major market for Indian tea, have also stopped since the last three years following escalation of tension between the two countries, the industry source added.

"The US sanctions against Iran is also a cause of concern for Indian tea exporters," he said.

Iran imported 9.98 million kg of tea between January and March 2020 at an average cost of 263.14 per kg, which decreased to 4.57 million kg for the corresponding period this year, sold at an average price of 246.81 per kg, as per Tea Board India data.

"The global economy is going through a crisis due to the COVID-19 lockdown and restrictions, which have led to further global decline in demand for tea," the source said.

Domestic consumption of tea is also expected to have gone down since the onset of the pandemic last year in the out-of-home sector (tea sold in railway stations, bus depots and cafeterias), though the actual figure is yet to be surveyed, Bihani said.

Subscribe to Mint Newsletters * Enter a valid email * Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter.
Due to the deteriorating security situation in Afghanistan's Kandahar, some staff of the Indian embassy has been evacuated, said diplomatic sources on Sunday.

Meanwhile, the emergency services of the consulate remain operational.

However, diplomatic sources stated that reports of shutting of Indian Consulate in Kandahar, Afghanistan are incorrect. And the mission remains functional, they added.

India had earlier hinted that it will bring back its nationals and officials from Afghanistan if the security situation worsens as the Taliban is making advances and capturing more provinces.

"With the Afghan security situation deteriorating, plans have been discussed for bringing back our citizens and officials present in different parts of that country and multiple agencies are in discussion for this purpose," sources had earlier told to ANI.

India has its embassy in Kabul along with the consulates in Kandahar and Mazar where it has over 500 staff deployed.

Two consulates in Herat and Jalalabad had ceased operations earlier there.

The country, which has had a big presence in Afghanistan since the fall of the Taliban in 2001 following the US invasion, has been helping the successive governments there including the members of the northern alliance who have been friends with India for a long time.

Describing the security situation in Afghanistan as fluid and deteriorating, the Afghan envoy to India Farid Mamundzay has said the Taliban need to cease violence and there should be an end to the bloodshed.

"More than 200,000 Afghan civilians are displaced already. There is an active fight going on between Afghan forces and Taliban fighters in 200 districts out of a total of 375. There is also trouble in 18 border districts that share a border with several countries Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and Iran," the envoy said.

Considering that the complete withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan will end in August, the Taliban have been capturing newer districts and areas at a lightning speed and the Afghan government forces are also fleeing from a number of places there.

India has worked immensely for the redevelopment of Afghanistan and helped it to construct Parliament building along with several roads connecting important cities of the war-torn country. (ANI)

This story has been published from a wire agency feed without modifications to the text. Only the headline has been changed.

Subscribe to Mint Newsletters * Enter a valid email * Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter.
Denham Springs, LA (70726)

Today

Partly cloudy with afternoon showers or thunderstorms. High 88F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%..

Tonight

Mostly cloudy...isolated thunderstorms developing late. Low near 75F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 40%.
Click here to read the full article.

French icon Catherine Deneuve was visibly moved at the Cannes Film Festivals press conference for Emmanuelle Bercots Peaceful (De son vivant) in which she stars as a grieving mother helping her terminally-ill son (Benoit Magimel) accept his fate along with a doctor (Dr. Gabriel Sara) and a nurse (Cecile de France).

The movie, produced by Les Films du Kiosque, is so far one of the most applauded films at the festival, although its surprisingly playing out of competition.

Fiction and reality became blurred during the filming of Peaceful, as Deneuve suffered a stroke on set in a hospital near Paris and spent several months resting, first at a hospital and then at home. Deneuve was eventually able to return to the production whose filming was delayed by eight months due to the pandemic.

The beloved actor, who was greeted with a heartfelt standing ovation at the films world premiere on Saturday (July 10), said that although she had been in Cannes dozens of times (first of which dates back to 40 years ago), she had never been as moved (at Cannes) as I was last night.

We were all very moved last night. It was a very significant event for us, and for everyone. Not only for the Europeans, but for everyone, even those who couldnt be here this year, pointed out Deneuve, who also alluded to the fact that had fully recovered from her stroke, saying she she was feeling fine.

Deneuve said a lot of things happened to her during the shoot of the film (), first this terrible thing which created a particular situation with this film It gave (the experience) a dimension, a strength and a power that made me look at things in a different way. Thats made my perception is very, very different, said Deneuve.

The movie sheds light on the richly-layered relationship between a doctor, who is played by a real-life doctor Gabriel Sara, a nurse, and a patient who is dying from cancer and is in denial.

Peaceful also reunites Bercot with Deneuve and Magimel with whom she made her previous film, Standing Tall, which had world premiered on opening night at Cannes in 2015.

Bercot said the idea for Peaceful came to her after meeting Dr. Sara in New York following the screening of Standing Tall at the Rendez-Vous with French Cinema festival at the Lincoln Center in 2016. Dr.Sara, who attended the press conference, said he was drawn to Bercot after discovering the film.

I just inspired by her and felt that she could understand what I was living through as a doctor, I wanted to share my story with her when I saw her speak (at the New York premiere), said the well-respected cancerologist, who then accepted to play his own role in the film.

Magimel, who delivered in the film an award-worthy performance, said he was also transformed by the film and had never read such a powerful script in his career. De France said the experience of making Peaceful and getting to know Sara also left a mark on her and made her want to celebrate every bit of life.

Studiocanal is representing the film in international markets and has already closed more than a dozen territories.

The films producer, Francois Kraus, said the Cannes world premiere marked a beautiful landing for the movie whose shoot was filled with obstacles. It was a film which took a long time to shoot, first because of Catherines accident, and then because of the pandemic and the first lockdown in March 2020, said Kraus. We had to suspend the shoot once again and it was very difficult to get Dr. Sara to fly back to Paris from New York because the border between France and the U.S. was closed, said Kraus, who produced the movie with Denis Pineau-Valencienne.

We all stood tall together and felt deep down that we were making a unique movie, one that would be particularly moving, gripping and so well developed by Emmanuelle [Bercot], said Kraus.

Sign up for Varietys Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Click here to read the full article.

Ji.hlava Intl. Documentary Film Festival has revealed to Variety the projects that the participants of its 2021 Emerging Producers program are working on. The producers were asked to deliver an Elevator Pitch for their projects.

Every year since 2010, the festival has selected 18 up-and-coming producers of documentary films (17 European and one representing a non-European guest country), which are then provided with educational, networking and promotional support.

There are more than 170 alumni of the program, many of whom have gone on to win awards at major festivals.

The 2022 participants will be announced by Ji.hlava during a Cannes Docs event at Marche du Film on July 12.

Against the Tide

Director: Sarvnik Kaur

Genre: Creative Documentary

Producer: Quentin Laurent, Les Films de loeil sauvage (France) and A Little Anarky (India)

Synopsis:

Rakesh, 30, is a guardian of Bombays Koli fishing tradition. His beloved cousin Ganesh, 32, firmly believes in technology and uses satellite geo-positioning to fish for tuna. Will their friendship survive, caught in the turmoil of an over-exploited sea, climate change and the health crisis?

Pitch:

Supported by major international funds, this film debut tells an urgent and universal story: that of two fishermen in the Gulf of Bombay, one of the places in the world most affected by the consequences of climate change and water pollution.

Another Spring

Director: Mladen Kovacevic

Genre: Documentary, medical thriller

Producer: Iva Plemic Divjak, Horopter Film Production (Serbia)

Synopsis:

One of the greatest medical achievements of our civilization  the eradication of smallpox during the 1972 epidemic in Yugoslavia  is among the most inspiring chapters in human history.

Pitch:

Next year, the world will celebrate 45 years since the last registered case of smallpox. An archival documentary created by an award-winning director using footage from the never-released Variola Collection shows an epidemic on the fringes of Europe against the backdrop of a first-hand testimony of a front-line fighter.

Blazing Interwar (working title)

Director: David Schwartz, Andra Tarara

Genre: Hybrid (documentary/animation/experimental)

Producer: Anda Ionescu, Tangaj Production (Romania)

Synopsis:

A bomb goes off in the Romanian Senate on Dec. 8, 1920. The first and only attack of its kind unravels in an unprecedented investigation. Young Max Goldstein and two other anarchists are deemed responsible for plotting the act. But who is Max, the pirate hook man, and why is he engaged in explosive experiments?

Pitch:

Bold and innovative in form and style, the film digs deep into the reasons and forms of political violence, from the socio-political-cultural context of the interwar period in Romania to contemporary society and the issues it is facing today. It attacks a topical subject, because various forms of terrorism remain the focus of global interest.

Building Europe

Director: Ondrej Salek

Genre: Observation, documentary

Producer: Marek Novak, Xova Film (Czech Republic)

Synopsis:

Every Thursday in front of the European Parliament in Brussels, young interns and future employees of European institutions gather to drink, network, lobby and look for new contacts, jobs or partners at Place du Luxembourg aka PLUX. This weekly ritual spiced with Aperol happy hours and loud music has become the seedbed of the next generation of Europes white-collar elite. What are their backgrounds, their ambitions and dreams?

Pitch:

Building Europe is a social documentary focusing on those who will soon be making important decisions about life in Europe. Smart, educated, mostly white and often wealthy young adults  an important and yet rarely documented social strata.

Depot Vente

Director: Cherine Karam

Genre: Creative documentary

Producer: Mario Adamson, Sisyfos Film (Sweden), Ashley Smith, Clara Harris (Scotland)

Synopsis:

In the scarred and crumbling city of Beirut, a maverick mother and business owner is holding the fort. A vintage shop called Depot Vente that Nawal Akl founded years ago has thanks to her become a shelter for desperate youth in need of an escape, a haven where tired souls and discarded clothes are mended.

Pitch:

From a region mostly associated with social, political and economic turmoil comes this heart-warming story of resilience and hope, in which debut director Cherine Karam paints an intimate portrait of the inner circle of Depot Vente and the struggle of the Lebanese youth for a future in Beirut.

Discovering Gea

Director: Ivan Peric, Alvaro Congosto

Genre: Documentary, Drama

Producers: Ivan Peric, Dream Division (Croatia), Alex Lora, Handful Films (U.S.), Fabio Aprea, Paolo Luigi De Cesare (Italy)

Synopsis:

Marija goes to New York to collect the belongings of her late great-aunt Gea, a professional photographer who lived in the Westbeth Artists Community. Marija brings along her boyfriend and assistant filmmaker Ivan. While Marija reveals the unknown side of Gea, Ivan is making his own discoveries about Marija.

Pitch:

Although set in different time periods (in the 1950s and today), the two stories share the same themes  love, art and lifes purpose. The world has changed substantially in the last 70 years, but we are still searching for answers to the same big questions about life.

Good Life

Director: Marta Dauliute, Viktorija Siaulyte

Genre: Inquisitive documentary

Producer: Niklas Kullstrom, Hillstream Pictures (Finland), Marta Dauliute, Viktorija Siaulyte, MDEMC (Sweden), Dagne Vildziunaite, Just a Moment (Lithuania)

Synopsis:

Good Life is a compelling study of a co-living start-up that helps its tenants run their entire life as a business enterprise. With a sharp wit the film highlights todays loss of privacy and how corporate narrative becomes a part of our innermost self.

Pitch:

A photo is featured on the cover of a Swedish national newspaper: showing a group of six people sitting together on a large sofa with their laptops open. The caption says: They live at their workplace. Good Life provides an insight into a co-living start-up that sells the entrepreneurial lifestyle as the new norm.

Guest Worker

Director: Matej Bobrik

Genre: Documentary

Producer: Agnieszka Skalska, Koi Studio (Poland)

Synopsis:

Nikesh and his family have come from Nepal to Poland looking for a new home. The world that awaits them here is different from what they had imagined. Nikesh is building his future in Europe, while his father is torn between his wife who cannot imagine growing old in Poland, and his son who can no longer imagine growing up in Nepal.

Pitch:

This is a story of people who see Poland and Europe as their promised land. Polish streets are scattered with new immigrants from Asia, whom we know nothing about. The film explores this phenomenon and tells a tender story about a family trying to fit in.

Inferno

Director: Egil Haskjold Larsen

Genre: Documentary

Producer: Racha Helen Larsen, Yellow Log (Norway)

Synopsis:

In the desolate arctic landscape at the Svalbard archipelago, things are changing fast. The ice is melting, the polar bears are starving, tourism is booming and the scientists are drilling the ice for answers, but the local coal miners think the worst is yet to come.

Pitch:

Inferno offers a new perspective on the consequences of climate change and the paradox of human nature. A visually stunning account of the fast-changing situation in the Arctic by the acclaimed cinematographer of Gunda. A mesmerizing portrait of a vast icy landscape, untouched nature and a misplaced society.

Milonga of Angels

Director: Ildiko Kosztolni

Genre: Creative documentary

Producer: Ildiko Kosztolni, iamnewhere (Hungary)

Synopsis:

Lexa, a Jewish psychoanalyst and tango teacher relocates to Budapest from the U.S. to start a therapy group. At a milonga class, she meets K., a heavily traumatized fellow dancer who is in search of inner peace. Lexa offers her help through dance, but one day she shows up dressed as a man.

Pitch:

Having tried everything else, can our society still be open to new ways of healing? Does tango have its place in the healing process? Can an Argentine-American queer tango champion and psychoanalyst fit in a conservative Eastern European Community? Will she be able to prove the effectiveness of her methods?

Movie Kintsugi

Director: Eva Knopf

Genre: Hybrid

Producer: Maximilian Haslberger, Amerikafilm (Germany)

Synopsis:

Based on the idea of the Japanese craft Kintsugi, the preserved fragments of a silent film by director Yasujiro Ozu are re-read and incorporated in Movie Kintsugi to become the starting point of a reflection about todays Japan straddled between tradition, consumer culture and the aesthetics of imperfection.

Pitch:

Fragments of an Ozu film are linked with the story of a young woman in todays Tokyo  footage from the 1920s in Tokyo collides with material from the 2020s. Tradition meets modernism. The lifestyle of a contemporary woman comes in contrast to gendered role models of the past. A film about the essence of imperfection.

Necropolis

Director: Keren Alexander

Genre: Creative documentary

Producers: Kobi Mizrahi, KM Productions (Israel), Niklas Kullstrom, Hillstream Pictures (Finland)

Synopsis:

Necropolis follows the construction of massive underground burial tunnels at the biggest Jewish cemetery in Jerusalem, The Mountain of Rest. Along with its curious visitors, Palestinian builders and Ultra-Orthodox morticians, we wander around the lower city of the dead, reflecting on life and death.

Pitch:

The underground cemetery in Jerusalem is a complex national project and the first of its kind in the world. The location raises questions about the various tensions in Israeli society: progress versus tradition, innovation versus rabbinate, hard labor versus sacred work. All the various oppositions create a humane and vibrant collage of Jerusalem down under.

Nistru. The Irreversible Flow of Life

Director: Iurie Tocmas (Moldova)

Genre: Creative documentary

Producer: Ieva Ubele, Baltic Balkan Productions (Latvia)

Synopsis:

The Nistru is an almost forgotten and neglected river in the heart of Europe. The future of the nation living on its banks depends on whether the people learn to see the river as a living entity and a unique character.

Pitch:

A meditative journey along the river, driven by symbolism, allegory and insights that will make you think about what happens on the river of your childhood in your absence.

Our Ark

Director: Deniz Tortum, Kathryn Hamilton

Genre: Documentary essay

Producer: Firat Sezgin, Institute of Time (Netherlands)

Synopsis:

Were backing up the planet, creating 3D models of animals, rainforests, cities and people. We are creating archives as if an ecological collapse could be staved off through some digital Noahs Ark of beasts and objects. Our Ark is a film essay about our efforts to create a virtual replica of the real world.

Pitch:

Our Ark talks about how technology fills the void and distracts us from loss and absence in the physical world. Our Ark has just completed post-production and is now looking for institutions to partner up for exhibiting the work  such as museums and galleries with an interest in climate crisis and technology.

Power

Director: Matyas Prikler

Genre: Drama/political thriller

Producer: Zora Jaurova, MPhilms (Slovakia), Matyas Prikler (Hungary)

Synopsis:

A politician deals with the global water crisis. A secret agent is trying to fix his own life. A fatal hunting accident forces them both to ask the same old questions: What is truth and what is worth sacrificing for the greater good?

Pitch:

Have you ever seen a Central European political thriller? What you get is a snowy drama that plays with the genre of political thriller trying to expose the moral dilemmas of power in contemporary society. Each character is trying to find the truth about what really happened. But whose story is really true?

The Red Mayor

Director: Alessandro Scippa

Genre: Documentary (history and humanities)

Producer: Antonella Di Nocera, Parallelo 41 Produzioni (Italy)

Synopsis:

1975. In Napoli, the largest city in southern Italy, a communist mayor wins the election. This is the story of a dream and a style of politics able to build a close link to the people and emotions. His term ends after the terrible earthquake of 1980, when the destiny of Napoli was to be decided by criminal interests that still affect the community.

Pitch:

The peculiar character of Neapolitan politics and the cultural values it represents have universal appeal. Its time to explore how the passionate European-style leftist politics were blown away together with the ghosts of the 20th century. This cinematic film employs fragments of images, mirror reflections and present refractions that provide an account of that unique time.

Robin Bank

Director: Anna Giralt Gris

Genre: Documentary

Producer: Jorge Caballero, GusanoFilms (Spain), Indifilm (Germany)

Synopsis:

Want to know how to steal half a million euros from 39 different banks to finance social causes? Robin Bank tells the story of those who managed to do so, and how.

Pitch:

Some of the crucial changes in history have been achieved through disobedience. People who risked their own freedom to challenge the system have made a difference and paved the way for global transformation and justice. We are living in uncertain and volatile times and we need stories that help us believe that another world is possible.

Six Weddings and a Family

Director: Samira El Mouzghibati

Genre: Documentary

Producer: Alice Lemaire, Michigan Films (Belgium), Pivonka Production (France)

Synopsis:

Why was I so devastated when I learnt I was having a daughter? This film pictures three generations of women, from the directors mother to her daughter, including her five sisters, drawing a line from Moroccan Rif to Brussels, from forced marriages to divorces, from small rebellions to love marriages.

Pitch:

Samira is an up-and-coming Belgian-Moroccan filmmaker who has made a deeply intimate film with great identifying power. What does it mean to be a young woman of bicultural identity in Europe today? Samira is a born storyteller who knows how to melt a family drama with a touch of humor and tenderness.

Download the Emerging Producers 2021 catalog here.

Sign up for Varietys Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Click here to read the full article.

On Sunday morning at the Cannes Film Festival, Queen & Slims Jodie Turner-Smith spoke out about the lack of opportunities and support afforded to women and people of color in the film industry, both above and below the line.

I want to make my life about not only working with incredible directors, but working with women, working with women of color, using the opportunities that I have to give opportunities to people where the industry is being gate-kept to them or [who] are not being given the level of respect they deserve when they are extremely talented, Turner-Smith said during Kerings Women in Motion talk. The conversation was moderated by Varietys international editor Manori Ravindran.

Turner-Smith is in Cannes with her latest project, the indie sci-fi film After Yang.

People use the excuse, Well, there arent that many female directors. The reality is there are very many talented female directors but, again, when you dont have the opportunity and youre not given the opportunity, then that door isnt opened for you and so then its like, suddenly, Oh where are they? But they havent been allowed in.

Turner-Smith noted how few working people of color she sees behind-the-scenes on a movie set. When you make casting choices and you hire actors of color in something, you have to hire people who know how to do their make-up, who know how to do their hair, who know how to light them properly, she said.

All of these things also have to feed it. You have to hire producers who understand their needs and who understand what kinds of stories were trying to tell and how to honor those stories so that you dont end up with things that feel like tokenism or strange stereotyping or just leaving out people and excluding them. So many times, its like, we are going to tell a story that involves Black people, but there are no Black people in the writers room, there are no women in the writers room. Theres so many different elements of it. And all of those things mean money [to hire] the people that are necessary.

Turner-Smith, who is currently working on the Noah Baumbach film White Noise, also discussed her turn as Henry VIIIs wife in the recent U.K. limited series Anne Boleyn. Traditionally, the role of the historical figure  who was white  has not be played by a Black actor.

I definitely anticipated that there were going to be people that felt a certain way about it, she said. I think weve seen for years and years that in theater we have characters being played by people of all different ethnicities, but I think definitely in a medium like television or film its something we see much less. But I thought it was so interesting that the producers wanted to do something where they did this sort of identity-conscious casting instead of casting somebody based on what color their skin is.

I think it is the function of art to tell stories in a way that pushes people to see things differently, she added. I think as a Black artist in this moment in time, I definitely want to be part of showing people a world that looks different than what they have historically been allowed to see.

Sign up for Varietys Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Click here to read the full article.

Pahah Panahi  who is the son of Iranian master Jafar Panahi  has not had much trouble coming to the Cannes Film Festival from Iran, unlike his father, who is banned from travel.

Traveling was not problematic; I travelled to Paris to quarantine for seven days before going on to Cannes, he said.

To speed things up, Pahahs visa was organized with the help of an invitation from the Directors Fortnight, where his first feature, Hit the Road, about a chaotic Iranian family on a road trip across a rugged landscape, is world-premiering on Saturday.

Of course his father, whose film Three Faces won the best screenplay award at Cannes in 2018, is not just banned from leaving his home country. Hes also banned from filmmaking, after being tried and found guilty of propaganda against the state, though he surreptitiously makes films anyway. And Pahah has served as an assistant on most of his fathers recent works.

Jafar also indirectly had a hand in his sons debut. I wrote the script on my own and had my father read it once I felt it worked, he said. And, though Hit the Road is the opposite of Jafars cinema, he immediately got on board and gave me great advice, Pahah added. In fact, his fathers help was crucial, especially in the post-production phase.

Hit the Road, which was filmed in remote areas of Iran with a regular permit, portrays Iranian society that is not at ease with the countrys hard-line government, including scenes depicting the fear of being under police surveillance, stemming from the directors real life, but also from that of the country at large.

The more I think about it, the more I realize that we have always lived with this feeling that we are being watched. That someone is listening in on us, he said. This is how its been for my family, but Im sure its the same for the families of a lot of artists and intellectuals, on whom the regime exerts constant pressure.

Hit the Road also features songs that are unlikely to sit well with Iranian censors.

These songs are hits that we all grew up with in Iran that date from before the revolution, said the helmer. The regime does not tolerate them and frowns upon their use: They were sung by artists who had to flee abroad after the revolution.

Thats among reasons why, though he hasnt had problems shooting the film in his country and taking it to Cannes, Pahah doesnt think there is a chance he will be able to release Hit the Road in Iran. In that respect his predicament is just like his father.

Sign up for Varietys Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Click here to read the full article.

The FilmPhilippines Office of the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) has trebled its annual filming incentives budget from $1 million to $3 million, effective from 2022.

The Philippines offers a range of incentives, including rebate schemes for local and international projects.

Electric Child by Swiss Simon Jaquemet, produced by Switzerlands 8horses GmbH with local production company Epicmedia Productions, was recently approved to receive a 20% cash rebate on its eligible expenses in the Philippines under the Location Incentive Program. The fund requires a minimum qualified production spending of PHP 8 million ($160,000) in the Philippines in order to receive a 20% cash rebate that is capped at PHP 10 million.

The FDCP also recently launched CreatePHFilms, a production fund worth $600,000 that supports local films from script through distribution. Production costs are low in the Philippines, compared to the West. Its still substantial knowing that the median production cost average production is around PHP 8 million in the Philippines, FDCP chair and CEO Liza Dino told Variety.

Under the International Co-production Fund (ICOF), recent awardees include Raya Martins Philippines-Singapore-U.S. co-production Hunter, which was awarded PHP 6.2 million. Philippines-France-Singapore-Germany co-production Whether The Weather is Fine by Carlo Francisco Manatad, will receive PHP 2.5 million and Avid Liongorens Philippines-France-Malaysia-Iran-Norway co-production Zsa Zsa Zaturnnah vs. The Amazonistas of Planet X is to get PHP 10 million.

Earlier this year, the FDCP launched an Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Co-production Fund, and the first first recipients are two films by Indonesians: This City is a Battlefield by Mouly Surya, which was granted PHP 1.2 million, and Autobiography by Makbul Mubarak, which was awarded PHP 3.5 million.

Meanwhile, despite not having a film in official selection this year, there is a significant Philippines presence at Cannes. Xeph Suarezs Dancing the Tides  where a Muslim trans-gender woman is torn between living blissfully with her boyfriend or following her tribes customs by marrying a woman betrothed to her at birth  is a part of the festivals La Fabrique Cinema de lInstitut Francais, a program helping talented young directors increase their international exposure.

In addition, Rafael Manuel, who was previously part of the Cannes Cinefondations residency program is pitching a feature length adaptation of short film Filipiniana, which won the Silver Bear Jury Prize for shorts at Berlin in 2020.

Some 33 companies from the Philippines are participating in the market online.

Elsewhere, just before the festival began, the FDCP and Frances Centre National du Cinema et de limage animee (CNC) committed to renew their Film Cooperation Agreement with a full co-production treaty planned for 2022.

And, Full Circle Lab Philippines is now open to filmmakers from Philippines and Southeast Asian countries including Brunei, Cambodia, East-Timor, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.

FilmPhilippines has been trying to change the way Filipino films are made, putting more importance on development and diversifying content, said Dino.

Sign up for Varietys Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Click here to read the full article.

Radar Films, the Mediawan-owned production banner, is reteaming with The Deep House filmmakers Julien Maury and Alexandre Bustillo on North Sentinel. The well-established company, which is headed by Clement Miserez and Matthieu Warter, is developing several other English-language projects including a genre twist on The Phantom of the Opera directed by Xavier Gens (The Divide).

Rolling off The Deep House, an underwater horror film that was just acquired by Blumhouse and Epix, Maury and Bustillo will next direct North Sentinel. Pic is inspired by the true story of an explorer who set off to visit a dangerous island located deep in the Indian Ocean, where a tribe of indigenous people live, and was killed. Visiting the island or going anywhere near it has been banned by the Indian government. North Sentinel will revolve around a young American woman who embarks on a journey to the island in order find her missing brother. The English-language movie will start shooting in the spring.

Maury and Bustillo previously directed Livid and Inside, which played at Cannes Critics Week. The Deep House was recently released in French theaters and sold more than 150,000 admissions in its first week.

North Sentinel is the type of films that Matthieu (Warter) and I are passionate about not only as producers but also as moviegoers, said Miserez. The producer pointed out the company has always been dedicated to delivering movies for tweeners, young adults and families, for instance with the adventure franchise Belle et Sebastien.

The banner, which was acquired by Mediawan in 2019, is now ready to ramp up its profile with modern genre projects that are based on literary classics, and create big franchises aimed at international markets, said Warter, pointing to another project that will be an adaptation of Sir Arthur Conan Doyles The Hound of the Baskervilles.

Other projects on Radars slate include Denis Imberts Sur les chemins noirs, adapted from Sylvain Tessons bestseller with The Artist star Jean Dujardin. Radar is also developing La maison, an adaptation of Emma Beckers novel, with Ana Girardot and Anissa Bonnefont (Wonderboy) set to direct.

Being part of Mediawan is allowing us to develop even more ambitious projects and have an global output because we have access to international talents and productions within the group, said Miserez.

The Paris-based banner is also developing a series spinoff of the Belle et Sebastien franchise, which has been acquired by Disney Plus. A new film installment is also in development. The film is being penned by Pierre Core and Alexandre Coffre with a new environment-minded plot and modern themes. The film will start shooting in August while the series will start lensing in the spring.

A great example of synergy within Mediawan, Radar Films is co-producing The Three Musketeers, the big-budget two-part film directed by Martin Bourboulon with Eva Green and Vincent Cassel, with its sister company Chapter 2.

Sign up for Varietys Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Click here to read the full article.

Not to be outdone by Matt Damon, Sean Penn looked like he was about to cry at the Saturday night premiere of Flag Day.

The drama earned a four-minute standing ovation broken up by remarks from Penn, praising his daughter, Dylan Frances Penn, for her debut lead role in a movie.

Penn takes on double duties in the film, as both director and actor, playing John Vogel, a real life bank robber and con artist. The characters birthday falls on June 14, thus inspiring the films title.

Dylan plays his daughter Jennifer, an aspiring journalist who struggles with her fractured relationship with her family.

To this cast, this crew, this audience and, in particular, this daughter  thank you, Penn said.

Flag Day is based on Jennifer Vogels 2004 memoir. The film is a family affair for Penn. Dylans younger brother Hopper plays her characters adrift sibling onscreen.

The film seemed to fare better than Penns last outing at Cannes  for the drama The Last Face in 2016, which was booed by critics.

But the 10 p.m. screening of Flag Day didnt electrify the Palais crowd in the same way as other films that have played in competition at the 74th annual Cannes Film Festival.

Audience members were spotted dozing off in their seats, and a smattering of people made their way to the exit during the films slower second hour.

This was a terrible movie, said one audience member.

Jez Butterworth adapted the script. Penn has said in recent interviews that the property was developed with Dylan in mind. Julia Roberts husband Danny Moder served as the director of photography.

Flag Day follows a string of emotional premieres at a festival that many in global cinema believed was impossible to stage as the world struggles with the coronavirus pandemic.

Spirits have been high. Damon burst into tears following the premiere of Tom McCarthys Stillwater on Wednesday night. At Friday evenings annual Chopard gathering, jury president Spike Lee, juror Maggie Gyllenhaal, and Jessica Chastain said they were overwhelmed to return to large theatrical movies after a year-and-half in quarantine

Flag Day opens in limited U.S. theaters on Aug. 20, from United Artists Releasing.

Pictured, from left to right: Hopper Jack Penn, Dylan Penn, Sean Penn, Katheryn Winnick, Danny Moder and Beckam Crawford.

Sign up for Varietys Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Three gang members were arrested in separate enforcement actions as they tried to enter the country illegally, according to the U.S. Border Patrol.

On Tuesday morning, agents first arrested 23 migrants at a train yard near downtown Laredo. One migrant was identified as Mario Alberto Jimenez, a 42-year-old Mexican national.
LAS VEGAS (AP)  As Las Vegas hit record-high temperatures, Nevadas largest power provider urged customers to conserve electricity Saturday and Sunday evenings because of extreme heat and wildfires affecting transmission lines in Western states.

Customers should turn off lights and pool pumps, unplug appliances not in use and avoid using large appliances such as dishwashers from 6-9 p.m. each day, NV Energy said Saturday in a statement. Conservation is the best way to reduce strain on the local power grid."
PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (AP)  Haitis interim government has asked the U.S. and U.N. to deploy troops to protect key infrastructure as it tries to stabilize the country and prepare for elections in the aftermath of President Jovenel Moises assassination.

The stunning request for U.S. military support recalled the tumult following Haitis last presidential assassination, in 1915, when an angry mob dragged President Vilbrun Guillaume Sam out of the French Embassy and beat him to death. In response, President Woodrow Wilson sent the Marines into Haiti, justifying the American military occupation  which lasted nearly two decades  as a way to avert anarchy.

Mathias Pierre, Haiti's elections minister, defended the government's request for military assistance, saying in an interview Saturday with The Associated Press that the local police force is weak and lacks resources.

What do we do? Do we let the country fall into chaos? Private properties destroyed? People killed after the assassination of the president? Or, as a government, do we prevent?" he said. Were not asking for the occupation of the country. Were asking for small troops to assist and help us. ... As long as we are weak, I think we will need our neighbors."

On Saturday, a senior Biden administration official said the U.S. has no plans to provide military assistance at this time. The administration will send senior FBI and Department of Homeland Security officials to Port-au-Prince on Sunday to assess the situation and how the U.S. may be able to assist, said the official, who wasnt authorized to comment publicly and spoke on condition of anonymity.

Haiti also sent a letter to the United Nations requesting assistance, U.N. deputy spokesman Farhan Haq said Saturday. The letter asked for troops and security at key installations, according to a U.N. source speaking on condition of anonymity because details of the letter are private.

We definitely need assistance and weve asked our international partners for help, Interim Prime Minister Claude Joseph told the AP in a phone interview late Friday. We believe our partners can assist the national police in resolving the situation.

On Friday, a group of lawmakers announced they had recognized Joseph Lambert, the head of Haitis dismantled Senate, as provisional president in a direct challenge to the interim governments authority. They also recognized as prime minister Ariel Henry, whom Moise had selected to replace Joseph a day before he was killed but who had not yet taken office or formed a government.

One of those lawmakers, Rosemond Pradel, told the AP that Joseph is neither qualified nor has the legal right to lead the country.

Joseph, who assumed leadership with the backing of police and the military, said he was "not interested in a power struggle.

Theres only one way people can become president in Haiti. And thats through elections, he said

Meanwhile, more details emerged about what increasingly resembled a murky, international conspiracy: a shootout with gunmen holed up in a foreign embassy, a private security firm operating out of a warehouse in Miami and a cameo sighting of a Hollywood star.

Among the arrested are two Haitian Americans, including one who worked alongside Sean Penn following the nations devastating 2010 earthquake. Police have also detained or killed more than a dozen former members of Colombias military.

Some of the suspects were seized in a raid on Taiwans Embassy where they are believed to have sought refuge. National Police Chief Leon Charles said another eight suspects were still at large and being sought.

The attack at Moises home before dawn Wednesday also seriously wounded his wife, who was flown to Miami for surgery. She issued a statement Saturday implying the president was killed for trying to develop the country.

The mercenaries who assassinated the president are currently behind bars, she said in Creole, but other mercenaries currently want to kill his dream, his vision, his ideology.

Colombian officials said the men were recruited by four companies and traveled to Haiti via the Dominican Republic. U.S.-trained Colombian soldiers are often recruited by security firms and mercenary armies in conflict zones because of their experience in a decades-long war against leftist rebels and drug cartels.

The sister of one of the dead suspects, Duberney Capador, told the AP that she last spoke to her brother late Wednesday  hours after Moises murder  when the men, holed up in a home and surrounded, were desperately trying to negotiate their way out of a shootout.

He told me not to tell our mother, so she wouldnt worry, said Yenny Capador, fighting back tears.

Colombias government said theyre seeking to repatriate the bodies of those killed by police following the attack: they have the right to a dignified burial.

We express our solidarity with the families of the ex-military personnel who died in confusing circumstances that should be clarified for the good of Haitian democracy, the foreign ministry said.

Its not known who masterminded the attack. And questions remain about how the perpetrators were able to penetrate the presidents residence posing as U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration agents, meeting little resistance from those charged with protecting the president.

Capador said her brother, who retired from the Colombian army in 2019 with the rank of sergeant, was hired by a private security firm with the understanding he would be providing protection for powerful individuals in Haiti.

Capador said she knew almost nothing about the employer but shared a picture of her brother in a uniform emblazoned with the logo of CTU Security  a company based in Doral, a Miami suburb popular with Colombian migrants.

The wife of Francisco Uribe, who was among those arrested, told Colombias W Radio that CTU offered to pay the men about $2,700 a month  a paltry sum for a dangerous international mission but far more than what most of the men, noncommissioned officers and professional soldiers, earned from their pensions.

CTU Security was registered in 2008 and lists as its president Antonio Intriago, who is also affiliated with several other Florida-registered entities, some since dissolved, including the Counter Terrorist Unit Federal Academy, the Venezuelan American National Council and Doral Food Corp.

CTUs website lists two addresses, one of which is a gray-colored warehouse that was shuttered Friday with no sign indicating who it belonged to. The other is a small suite under a different companys name in a modern office building a few blocks away. A receptionist said Intriago stops by every few days to collect mail and hold meetings. Intriago, who is Venezuelan, did not return phone calls and an email seeking comment.

Besides the Colombians, those detained by police included two Haitian Americans.

Investigative Judge Clement Noel told Le Nouvelliste that the arrested Americans, James Solages and Joseph Vincent, said the attackers planned only to arrest Moise, not kill him. Noel said Solages and Vincent were acting as translators for the attackers, the newspaper reported Friday.

Solages, 35, described himself as a certified diplomatic agent, an advocate for children and budding politician on a now-removed website for a charity he started in 2019 in south Florida to assist residents of his Haitian hometown of Jacmel.

He worked briefly as a driver and bodyguard for a relief organization set up by Penn following a magnitude 7.0 earthquake that killed 300,000 Haitians and left tens of thousands homeless. He also lists as past employers the Canadian Embassy in Haiti.

Calls to the charity and Solages associates went unanswered.

Joseph refused to specify who was behind the attack, but said that Moise had earned numerous enemies while attacking oligarchs who for years profited from overly generous state contracts.

Some of those elite insiders are now the focus of investigators, with authorities asking that presidential candidate and businessman Reginald Boulos and former Senate President Youri Latortue meet prosecutors next week for questioning. No further details were provided and none of the men have been charged.

Analysts say whoever plotted the brazen attack likely had ties to a criminal underworld that has flourished amid corruption and drug trafficking. The growing power of gangs displaced more than 14,700 people in Haiti last month alone as they torched and ransacked homes in a fight over territory.

Hundreds of Haitians gathered outside the U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince Friday pleading for a way out of the country.

This country has nothing to offer, said 36-year-old Thermidor Joam. If the president can be killed with his own security, I have no protection whatsoever if someone wants to kill me.

___

Goodman reported from Miami. AP Writers Evens Sanon and videographer Pierre-Richard Luxama in Port-au-Prince, Astrid Suarez in Bogota, Colombia, Edith M. Lederer at the United Nations and Jonathan Lemire in Wilmington, Delaware, contributed to this report.
File photo

Selena Quintanilla fans aren't happy with the possibility of her killer, Yolanda Saldivar, being released in 2025.

On March 31, 1995, Saldivar murdered the beloved Tejano star in Corpus Christi. At the time of her death, Quintanilla was a 23-year-old rising queen who was changing the Tejano music industry.
A punter in County Longford is in celebratory mode after a winning streak on the horses at the weekend saw them pocket a stunning five-figure windfall.

The anonymous winner picked out eight horses on Saturday on their BoyleSports account and struck a 0.10 each-way Goliath, consisting of 247 tiny bets costing a total of 49.40.

One of the eight horses was declared a non-runner, one didnt make an impression, while Urban Beat (6/1) could only finish third in the 4.40 at York. However, the remaining five horses all delivered with victories for Goobinator (12/1), Tilsit (4/1f), Motakhayyel (11/2), Starman (9/2) and Duke Of Condicote (11/1) in races at York, Ascot and Newmarket.

That was enough for the lucky Longford punter to see their stake transformed into a whopping total of 10,938.65.

Lawrence Lyons, spokesperson for BoyleSports said: Picking out five winners in one day is not easy, so our customer in County Longford deserves all the plaudits for picking so shrewdly. They have been rewarded with nearly 11,000 and we send our congratulations on their big win.
Longford is in mourning today following the passing of well-known local publican Peter Clarke of Clarke's Pub on Dublin Street.

Peter passed away peacefully yesterday, July 10, at Laurel Lodge Nursing Home.

There has already been an outpour of tributes for the well-loved former town councillor with local TD Joe Flaherty sympathising with the family.

"Saddened this morning to learn of the death of former town councillor and Dublin Street publican, Peter Clarke," said Deputy Flaherty, sharing a photo on Facebook of Man Utd's Kevin Moran pulling a pint in the Dublin Street watering hole many years ago.

"One of the great nights in the Dublin Street bar was a visit by Man Utd favourite, Kevin Moran. This is a great photo of Moran pulling a pint in Clarke's under Peter's watchful eye.

"Also behind the bar was barman Paddy Drumm and the other side of the bar, John Maher, Colm and Charlie Smith and Liam Rosemund.

"It is very much the end of an era at Clarke's Greyhound Bar on Dublin Street with news this morning of Peter's death."

Cathaoirleach of Longford County Council, Peggy Nolan also shared her "great sadness" at the loss of the local publican.

"It is with great sadness and a heavy heart that we learned of the death of former colleague and long serving member of Longford town council Peter Clarke," she said.

"The contribution made to our community by Peter will be a lasting legacy. To his family and many friends I offer my sincere condolences."

Longford councillor Gerry Warnock also paid tribute to the former councillor; "So very sorry to hear about the passing of former councillor Peter Clarke. Peter was a true gentleman and a great servant of Longford town and her people. My deepest condolences to Peter's family and many friends."

The popular Dublin Street bar has been in the Clarke family since 1938 when it was purchased by Peters father, Mattie. It had been known as Shinners bar and before the Clarkes bought it, was being run by a Mrs McTiernan, a daughter of the Shinners. The bar was is more than eighty years in the Clarke family, making it one of the longest family owned bars in the town.

The bar has seen its fair share of celebrities and sports stars in particular over the years. Soccer greats Kevin Moran and Paul McGrath have visited and been photographed pulling some of the famed pints of Guinness. Peter never made any secret of his love affair with Man Utd and one of his greatest memories is of when Man Utd greats, Sir Matt Busby and Paddy Crerand visited the town.

One of the great nights though was in 1982, when in the aftermath of their memorable All-Ireland final win, the Offaly team manager, and then Longford Leader editor, Eugene McGee, brought the Sam Maguire Cup to Clarkes. It was a full house with everybody clambering for a photo with the most famous silverware in Ireland.

If sport loomed large in the lives of the Clarke family, so too did politics, or more specifically, Fine Gael politics. Peter was an elected member of the Town Council for 37 years, having been first elected in 1967, when he was just 24 years of age.

He remained in office until he retired in 2004 and served two terms as chair of the Council. For the second term, he had the distinction of being the first to hold the new town mayor title. When he was first elected, he served on the Council with Joe Kelly (father of Peter Kelly, former TD), Tommie Breaden (father of Mae Sexton, former TD and current Councillor), Sonny Canning, Jim Conlon, Bob Phibbs and Bob Connolly.

Clarkes bar remained one of the great Fine Gael houses in the town and an especially memorable night was when Paddy Cooney was first elected to the Dail. It was as a result of a by-election following the death of PJ Lenihan and the count took place in the Temperance hall in April 1970. Just about every Fine Gael TD in the country was there for the event and as Peter remembers it, the daylight was undeniable as he led the last of the party faithful out the door.

Best known as a publican and politican, there is however also significant amounts of ink running through Peter Clarkes veins as he worked as a compositor/typesetter in the Longford Leader and later the Longford News for a number of years. It was when his father was taken ill in 1968, that he took over the running of the family bar.

Predeceased by his wives Patricia and Loretta, sisters Kathleen and Mary and brother Thomas. Sadly missed by his sisters Nora O'Reilly and Ann Ryan, brother Matthew, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Rest In Peace.

Remains arriving to St. Mel's Cathedral Longford for Removal Prayers on Monday, July 12, at 6pm. Funeral Mass on Tuesday 13 at 11am followed by Cremation in Lakelands Crematorium Cavan. To view the livestream please go to www.longfordparish.com

Those of you who would have liked to attend but due to current restrictions are unable to, may leave their messages of condolence in the condolence book on rip.ie.
MANISTEE COUNTY  A new technician has joined the Mason-Lake Conservation District to work with farmers to minimize agricultural pollution risks.

The conservation district recently hired Justin Brown as its new Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program technician. His coverage area is Mason, western Lake County, and Manistee County.

The program was created in 1998 by a coalition of farmers, commodity groups, state and federal agencies, and conservations and environmental groups.

Brown recently returned home to Bear Lake thanks to the opening in the program.

Previously, Brown worked with U.S. Department of Agriculture Wildlife Services division, in Tennessee and Wisconsin, conducting wildlife management activities for airports, corporations and private landowners.

Brown comes from an agricultural background where his grandparents, Merl and Betty Brown started Browns Orchards. He is excited to be back in his home area where he can assist his neighboring producers.

The program is an innovative, proactive and voluntary program for farms and landowners of all sizes and commodities to minimize agricultural pollution risks.

There are four different systems that include farmstead, cropping, livestock, forestry, wetland and habitat. The program also provides some great incentives like discounts on insurance through farm bureau an advantage for cost share, grants and other assistance programs.

Everything discussed regarding farm or forest operations in the program is confidential. Confidentiality is guaranteed by state law and is intended to keep communication lines open between producers and conservation district staff to help address any environmental issues that may arise.

Anyone with interest or who has questions about the program should contact Brown by phone or email at justin.brown@macd.org, and 231-757-3707 extension 109.
Marietta, GA (30060)

Today

Cloudy skies this morning followed by thunderstorms during the afternoon. High near 80F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 70%..

Tonight

Thunderstorms early, then variable clouds overnight with still a chance of showers. Low 69F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%.
Atlanta, GA (30303)

Today

Cloudy this morning with thunderstorms developing this afternoon. High 82F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 70%..

Tonight

Mostly cloudy with showers and a few thunderstorms. Low 69F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 70%.
Marietta, GA (30060)

Today

Cloudy skies this morning followed by thunderstorms during the afternoon. High near 80F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80%..

Tonight

Thunderstorms this evening followed by occasional showers overnight. Low 69F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%.
They looked at survival rates in 1,577 patients involved in three different clinical trials, with an average age of 69 and average BMI of 28. They found that BMI was a protective factor in both overall and cancer-specific survival, with 4% higher overall survival probability and 29% cancer-specific survival probability. Even when they adjusted for higher doses of chemotherapy given to larger patients, the team found the protective effect remained. Over 36 months, around 30% of obese patients survived compared to 20% of overweight and normal weight individuals.Dr Nicola Fossati, a urologist at San Raffaele University says: "Looking at patients with metastasis of prostate cancer, we found that obese patients are living longer. This means that BMI could be used to predict survival in these patients."This obesity paradox has been seen in some other cancers, possibly due to the relationship between tissue fat and cancer genomes, and more research is needed in this area. It's also possible that improved survival may be due to the interaction of chemotherapy with other drugs. Obese patients in this older age group tend to be taking medication for other conditions and we do not fully understand how these medicines interconnect."Nevertheless, we would not recommend weight gain to anyone with this or another disease. Obesity is a risk factor for many cancers and other diseases and patients should always aim for a healthy BMI of 18 to 24."Professor Peter Albers, from Dusseldorf University, who chairs the EAU Scientific Congress Office, said: "There are many possible explanations for the association of body weight with positive outcome in metastatic cancers. It might be that patients with higher BMI are able to tolerate the toxicity of the treatments and their side effects better; in prostate cancer it might be due to the protective impact of hormones found in tissue fat; and it is known that healthy men with slightly higher BMI have a higher overall life expectancy compared to very slim ones."However, at the moment, these are just hypotheses. Further research is needed to identify the biological mechanism behind these different outcomes. Until that mechanism is proven, we can't recommend any change to treatment for patients with advanced prostate cancer."Source: Eurekalert
The existence of trolls has plagued social media since forever. Not only are they hurtful but their ramifications can also impact mental health because of the toxicity they spew. Irrespective of whether you are a celebrity or a common person, trolls feel like its their birthright to humiliate people and won't spare you.

However, when it comes to female celebrities, they seem to stoop lower with every outburst. There have been numerous instances wherein people on social media have crossed the line with female celebs. Here are a few such instances.

1. Malaika Arora

Recently Malaika Arora took her second dose of COVID vaccination. Arora wrote, "Like I always say #weareinthistogether. I am going to be safe not just for myself but for YOU as well. Fully vaccinated. No words can express the gratitude I have for every single frontline warrior out there. Thank you all for being so amazing! @my_bmc @mybmchealthdept @zakaria_asif #staysafe #stayindoors #getvaccinated."

All she wanted to do was to create awareness but people trolled her brutally for the clothes that she was wearing while taking her second jab. The comments were nasty and extremely disrespectful.

 Malaika Arora Instagram

2. Mira Kapoor

Shahid Kapoor's wife Mira Rajput was brutally attacked and received backlash for an outfit choice for her Yoga session. She was seen wearing a cami top paired with a matching satin mini-skirt. It didnt go down too well with netizens who said mean things to her. Would these people have reacted the same way if a male celeb walked in workout shorts and a gunjee?

 Viral Bhayani Instagram

 Viral Bhayani Instagram

3. Deepika Singh

TV star Deepika Singh, who became a household name for portraying the role of Sandhya in daily soap Diya Aur Baati Hum, was mercilessly trolled for dancing in the rain and around fallen trees, following the destruction caused due to Cyclone Tauktae.

 Deepika Singh Instagram

Sure, her post was insensitive, and deserved criticism, but she was subjected to distasteful comments across social media platforms. Well, how low is too low, after all.



4. Kareena Kapoor Khan

Kareena Kapoor Khan was in the headlines a while back as she was reportedly approached to play the role of Sita in an upcoming mythological period saga film which will be helmed by Alaukik Desai. She was also brutally trolled for hiking her fee. A source told Bollywood Hungama, Bebo who usually asks in the Rs 6-8 crores range for her films has quoted a sum of Rs 12 crores which have put the producers in a tizzy. In fact, right now, they are reconsidering their decision and also taking the film to a younger actress, as well. But talks are on and Bebo remains the first choice.

As soon as this news broke, people called her an urban Naxal and soon this became a religious matter out of nowhere.

 Twitter

5. Sonam Kapoor

In an interview with Vogue, Sonam Kapoor said that she likes the freedom she has in London. She said, I like the freedom here. I make my own food, clean my own space, shop for my own groceries.

 Twitter

Her statements offended many people and she was called dumb. Personal attacks like these never do any good and it could actually be constructive if trolls took the time out to articulate the issue. If only they understood any better.


With so much heat around the topic of marriage, religion and love, not because any of that is problematic in its own accord, but because it is problematic when put together, the Assam government has decided to take action against forceful religious conversions, especially with topic of love jihad raking up in the media.

With a view to bringing the problem of concealing identity or religion before marriage to an end, the state government in Assam is now looking forward to a law that will require the bride and groom to be transparent about their religion and their income before marriage.

The proposed marriage bill is said to bring an end to the menace of Love jihad, but by encompassing all the communities.

Assam marriage bill will check 'Love Jihad of all kinds: CM Himanta Biswa Sarma



(@utpal_parashar reports) https://t.co/v8UQ4roj8U pic.twitter.com/HpCt1IClB2  Hindustan Times (@htTweets) July 11, 2021

Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said, Love jihad doesnt only mean a Muslim cheating a Hindu. It could happen among Hindus as well. If a Hindu boy uses dubious means to entrap and marry a Hindu girl that is also a form of love jihad.

He went on to say, We wont like to use the term love jihad, but dubious means or cheating to entrap and marry a girl shouldnt be done by Hindus too. We will act against such frauds. The law wont be only against Muslims. No girl or woman should be exploited in that manner.

 Twitter

CM Sarma also said, We had mentioned it in our election manifesto. Our government is just two months old. First, we will bring the cow protection law, next month we will notify the two-child norm and later we will bring it."



Meanwhile, people are still divided over the news as some stand in support of the bill while others think it could be used to infringe on the fundamental rights of Muslims.

Of late, the public had also been riled up after the trailer released the names of Farhan Akhtar and Mrunal in the upcoming movie Toofan.

Boycotting the movie on the ground of promoting Love jihad, the public stands sensitive on the topic and this is how they are reacting to the news -

Yesterday it was changing from Gaon Burha to Gaon Pradhan. Today its a variant of Love Jihad!!

Assam has no other problems eh? https://t.co/LXecJvNYDo  Rahul Mukherji (@RahulMukherji5) July 10, 2021

I've pretended to like Alt J's bland music for a bunch of Tinder dates in the past. Would that count as Love Jihad under whatever crazy laws Assam wants to test? https://t.co/7utaccCKRK  Shivam Bahuguna (@JanusBlinked) July 11, 2021

I've pretended to like Alt J's bland music for a bunch of Tinder dates in the past. Would that count as Love Jihad under whatever crazy laws Assam wants to test? https://t.co/7utaccCKRK  Shivam Bahuguna (@JanusBlinked) July 11, 2021

I've pretended to like Alt J's bland music for a bunch of Tinder dates in the past. Would that count as Love Jihad under whatever crazy laws Assam wants to test? https://t.co/7utaccCKRK  Shivam Bahuguna (@JanusBlinked) July 11, 2021

If you trying to bound love within religion boundary, then I am sorry but you need to rethink it again. There is no such thing called love jihad .  Biplab Deka (Assam First and Forever) (@COMMON_MAN_2018) July 10, 2021

Where there is love , no kind of jihad will be possible , it's about love only love , stop this nonsense .  Surbhi (@SurrbhiM) July 11, 2021
After much talk and discussion, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has finally unveiled the population bill, with an aim to incentivise population control in Uttar Pradesh.

The news has come on the occasion of World Population Day itself.

Yogi Adityanath presented this new policy on population control for 2021-30 in the hopes that following it through might help the government in bringing the population growth to 2.1 per cent by 2026 and to 1.9 by 2030.

 Reuters

The policy strictly covers measures and incentives that will include contraceptive measures being promoted, a proper and safe system for abortion being put into place along with maintaining safe and improved health facilities across UP.



The government also plans on setting up certain health clubs to create awareness for population stabilization and also to keep track on the infants, adolescents and older people.

 Reuters

The new policy shall all oversee that attention to bring down the maternal and child mortality rate to the minimum level through proper nutrition is also being made.



As far as incentives are concerned, parents with two or fewer children will be rewarded with facilities like two additional increments in government jobs, promotions, exemption in government housing schemes and also increased employer contribution in PF.

#UttarPradesh: #YogiAdityanath unveils new Population Control Bill.



'Aim to bring population growth to 2.1%.' pic.twitter.com/T8YoyKbRjl  TIMES NOW (@TimesNow) July 11, 2021

Exemptions on water, electricity, house tax, home loan, and other such facilities might also be considered for parents who decided to keep their children count to a minimum.

In fact, benefits for being a single child include free education till graduation level and preference in government jobs.

The draft bill that has been released today also goes on to clarify, (a) The personal law governing A allows polygamy. A has three wives B, C and D. A and B, A and C, and A and D shall be counted as three distinct married couples so far as the status of B, C and D is concerned but as far as the status of A is concerned, it shall be counted as one married couple for the purpose of calculation of a cumulative number of children. For example, A has one child from B, two children from C and one child from D, the total number of children of A shall be four. (b) The personal law governing B allows polyandry. B has two husbands A and C. B and A shall be counted as one married couple. B and C shall be counted as another married couple."

 Twitter

Unveiling the state's new population policy, Yogi Adityanath said, Increasing population can be a hurdle in way of development. Every community has been taken care of in Population Policy 2021-2030.



He further said that population control is directly connected with awareness among masses and poverty.

This is how the internet is reacting to the news of this new population control bill -

#YogiAdityanath population control bill pass kare,kisi ki mat sune ur deceision in favor of this bill is final

No salah,no queries, no politics, no bargaining, pass it pass it pass it  Arun Kumar (@ArunAbhiShubham) July 11, 2021

Almost every state in India has lesser than 2.1 Hindu TFR.

So bring it on, 'The Population Control Bill'.

Only strict stringent laws please.@myogiadityanath @narendramodi  A (@ajv_IND) July 11, 2021

I support You totally. Why are u guys talking about the past ki kiske kitne bhai bhen hai zara present m dekho apne desh ki population aur future bhi aap hi log ho toh atleast think about your country once before saying anything. I support Population Control Bill.  ShwetaRawat (@ShwetaR90649986) July 11, 2021

Their factory will be locked: UP population bill 2021 #YogiAdityanath



India's population is growing disproportionatly when compared to its resources, resulting in more poverty and misert. The need of the hour is a #PopulationControlBill #__ need of hour pic.twitter.com/SuWuVIbZuZ  Amit Yadav (@RaoAmitRSS) July 11, 2021
Click here to log in and see all of our other subscription options for the Mesabi Tribune, including online only & auto-renewal subscriptions.
The winner of the July Kanto Tetsugen auction will sell the 14,000 tonnes of bulk Japanese H2 scrap to Vietnam, sources said. The auction closed at 47,888 per tonne ($435) on a free along side ship basis, down by 1,307 per tonne month on month."This final Kanto price could be following last week's H2 deal of $484 per tonne cfr Vietnam as a guide price," a Vietnamese trader told Fastmarkets on Friday July 9.

Offers for bulk Japanese H2 were at $484 per tonne...
MANISTEE COUNTY  The following includes reports made to the Manistee County Sheriffs Office from June 15-20. All calls may not be reported. This is part of a lengthy report and is compiled by assistant editor Arielle Breen.

June 15

 Larceny and malicious destruction of property was reported at 8 a.m. in Maple Grove Township.

 A vehicle-deer accident was reported at 2:15 p.m. in Brown Township.

 A two-vehicle property damage crash was reported in Bear Lake Township.

 Animal control was called to Kaleva at 7:25 p.m.

June 16

 A verbal domestic incident was reported at 12:22 a.m. in Filer Township.

A person was reported as being disorderly at 1:25 a.m. in Dickson Township.

 A vehicle-deer accident was reported at 8:20 a.m. in Bear Lake Township.

 Larceny was reported at 1:45 p.m. in Manistee Township.

 A vehicle was reported as abandoned at 12 p.m. in Manistee Township.

 A vehicle-deer accident was reported at midnight in Filer Township.

 Animal control was called to Bear Lake Township at 11:14 a.m.

 A scam was reported at 11:42 a.m. in Onekama Township.

 A civil dispute was reported at 3:40 p.m. in Filer Township.

 Donkeys were reported as being running loose at 4:37 p.m. in Copemish.

 A criminal sexual conduct incident was reported at 6 a.m. in Manistee Township.

 A neighbor dispute was reported at 12:23 p.m. in Manistee Township.

 A civil issue was reported at 4:21 p.m. in Norman Township.

June 17

 Animal control was called to Maple Grove Township at 6 a.m.

 Deputies responded to a bench warrant at 8 a.m. in the county.

 A personal injury crash was reported at 1:50 p.m. in Filer Township.

 A civil issue was reported at midnight in Manistee Township.

 Deputies assisted citizens at 2:27 p.m. in Filer Township.

 Animal control was called to Bear Lake Township at 1:43 p.m.

 Civil issues were reported at 3:39 p.m. in Bear Lake Township.

 A civil dispute was reported at 8:31 p.m. in Eastlake and Mason County.

June 18

 Deputies assisted a citizen at 8:50 a.m. in Filer Township.

 A vehicle-deer accident was reported at 9:54 a.m. in Manistee Township.

 Child neglect was reported at 9:04 a.m. in Maple Grove Township.

 A person was reported as driving without insurance at 12:33 p.m. in Stronach Township.

 A person was reported as driving without insurance at 1:25 p.m. in Norman Township.

 Larceny was reported at 11 a.m. in Pleasanton Township.

 A person was reported as driving with open intoxicants and no insurance at 2 p.m. in Norman Township.

 There was a report of a capsized vessel in Lake Michigan at 4:05 p.m. in the county.

 Deputies assisted EMS at 7 p.m. in Dickson Township.

 A 911 call was reported as being abandoned at 8:27 p.m. in Wellston.

 A noise complaint was reported at 10:54 p.m. in Pleasanton Township.

 A report was made about damaged property at 1:05 p.m. in Stronach Township.

 A mooring ordinance violation was reported at midnight in Pleasanton Township.

 An operating while intoxicated, driving while license suspended warrant incident was reported at midnight in Cleon Township.

 A neighbor dispute was reported in Filer Township.

 Animal control was called to Onekama Township at 3:07 p.m.

June 19

 A vehicle-deer accident was reported at 10:28 p.m. in Arcadia Township.

 A noise disturbance was reported at 11:10 p.m. in Dickson Township.

 A civil issue was reported at 8:40 p.m. in Norman Township.

 Deputies assisted EMS at 8:51 a.m. in Onekama Township.

 Deputies assisted Michigan State Police at 7:06 a.m. in Bear Lake Township.

 Deputies assisted Michigan State Police at midnight in Kaleva.

June 20

 Deputies conducted an inmate transfer at 3:58 a.m. in Manistee Township.

 Dogs were reported as running at large at 9:14 a.m. in Stronach Township.

 Larceny was reported at 9:33 a.m. in Filer Township.

 Deputies conducted a well-being check at 11:25 a.m. in Filer Township.

 A vehicle-deer accident was reported at 3:26 p.m. in Onekama Township.

 Trespassing was reported at 1:50 p.m. in Springdale Township.

 A dog was found at 5:15 p.m. in Onekama Township.

 A voluntary mental evaluation was conducted at 3:16 a.m. in Cleon Township.

 A vehicle-deer accident was reported at 10 p.m. in Bear Lake Township.
HAVANA (AP)  Thousands of Cubans marched on Havanas Malecon promenade and elsewhere on the island Sunday to protest food shortages and high prices amid the coronavirus crisis, in one of biggest anti-government demonstrations in memory.

Many young people took part in the afternoon protest in the capital, which disrupted traffic until police moved in after several hours and broke up the march when a few protesters threw rocks.

Police initially trailed behind as protesters chanted Freedom, Enough and Unite. One motorcyclist pulled out a U.S. flag, but it was snatched from him by others.

We are fed up with the queues, the shortages. Thats why Im here, one middle-age protester told The Associated Press. He declined to identify himself for fear of being arrested later.

Cuba is going through its worst economic crisis in decades, along with a resurgence of coronavirus cases, as it suffers the consequences of U.S. sanctions imposed by the Trump administration.

An official in the Biden administration tweeted support for Sunday's demonstrations.

Peaceful protests are growing in #Cuba as the Cuban people exercise their right to peaceful assembly to express concern about rising COVID cases/deaths & medicine shortages. We commend the numerous efforts of the Cuban people mobilizing donations to help neighbors in need, tweeted Julie Chung, acting assistant secretary for state for Western Hemisphere affairs.

Cubas director general for U.S. affairs, Carlos F. de Cossio, dismissed her remarks in his own tweet: US State Department and its officials, involved to their necks in promoting social and political instability in #Cuba, should avoid expressing hypocritical concern for a situation they have been betting on. Cuba is and will continue to be a peaceful country, contrary to the US.

The demonstration grew to a few thousand in the vicinity of Galeano Avenue and the marchers pressed on despite a few charges by police officers and tear gas barrages. People standing on many balconies along the central artery in the Centro Habana neighborhood applauded the protesters passing by. Others joined in the march.

Although many people tried to take out their cellphones and broadcast the protest live, Cuban authorities shut down internet service throughout the afternoon.

About 2 1/2 hours into the march, some protesters pulled up cobblestones and threw them at police, at which point officers began arresting people and the marchers dispersed.

AP journalists counted at least 20 people who were taken away in police cars or by individuals in civilian clothes.

The people came out to express themselves freely, and they are repressing and beating them, Rev. Jorge Luis Gil, a Roman Catholic priest, said while standing at a street corner in Centro Habana.

About 300 people close to the government then arrived with a large Cuban flag shouting slogans in favor of the late President Fidel Castro and the Cuban revolution. Some people from the group assaulted an AP videojournalist, disabling his camera, while an AP photojournalist was injured by the police.

Demonstrations were also held elsewhere on the island, including the small town of San Antonio de los Banos, where people protested power outages and were visited by President Miguel Diaz-Canel. He entered a few homes, where he took questions from residents.

Afterward, though, he accused Cuban of stirring up trouble.

As if pandemic outbreaks had not existed all over the world, the Cuban-American mafia, paying very well on social networks to influencers and Youtubers, has created a whole campaign ... and has called for demonstrations across the country, Diaz-Canel told reporters.
The Midland County Sheriffs Office is investigating a fatal motorcycle crash that killed a 67-year-old Farwell man.

The crash took place on westbound US-10, just west of the M-30 off ramp in Lincoln Township at approximately 6:45 p.m. on July 9.

The sheriff's office investigation indicates that Rickie Bielicki was driving his maroon 2007 Harley Davidson FLHT Classic motorcycle westbound on US-10 when he suddenly veered to the right and drove off the highway just west of the M-30 exit ramp. Bielicki crashed and was ejected from the motorcycle.

Bielicki was pronounced dead at the scene. It is suspected he had a medical issue which caused him to leave the roadway and crash. Bielicki was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash.

While there is no evidence to indicate that alcohol or drugs may have been a factor in this crash, the office is waiting for toxicology reports for a final determination.

Midland County Sheriffs Office personnel were assisted at the scene by the Michigan State Police and their Third District Accident Reconstruction Team, Lincoln & Jerome Township Fire Departments, and Mid-Michigan EMS.
FLAGSTAFF, Ariz.  The largest of the Navajo Nation casinos is preparing to reopen for the first time since the coronavirus pandemic began.

The Twin Arrows Resort Casino east of Flagstaff has been closed since March 2020. Officials have planned a job fair Saturday ahead of the Monday reopening. The casino will have limited hours and a 50% occupancy level for now.

Tribal President Jonathan Nez recently signed legislation that allows visitors to travel on the reservation, paving the way for the casino to reopen. Casino patrons will be required to wear masks and have their temperatures checked. The tribe on Saturday reported 13 additional cases.

___

MORE ON THE PANDEMIC:

 New virus surge is sending younger patients to Spain's hospitals

 Indonesia short on oxygen, seeks help as virus cases soar

 Malta poised to become first EU member to require visitors to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination

 Mexico enters 3rd wave of coronavirus, infections up 29%

___

Follow more of APs pandemic coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/coronavirus-pandemic and https://apnews.com/hub/coronavirus-vaccine

___

HERES WHAT ELSE IS HAPPENING:

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.  Florida health officials reported an increase in COVID-19 cases and a higher positive test rate over the past week.

The number of virus cases in Florida rose by about 8,000 compared with the week before, for a total of 23,747 new cases, the state Department of Health reported Friday.

New cases of the coronavirus have been on the rise in Florida over the past month. The rate of positive tests was 7.8% last week after trending at about 4% positivity in recent weeks.

There were 172 deaths in Florida from COVID-19 last week, the health department reported.

The state has recorded at least 2.4 million coronavirus cases and 38,901 deaths since the pandemic began.

Officials also said about 11 million Floridians have been fully or partially vaccinated, or 58% of those 12 and older.

___

ALBANY, N.Y.  New York is seeing an uptick in COVID-19 cases as vaccination rates slowly rise, according to the states latest data released Saturday.

About 525 people each day tested positive for COVID-19 in New York for the seven days through Friday. Thats up from 369 people for the prior week  a 42% increase.

Its unclear why more people in New York are testing positive at a time when fewer people are getting tested.

The state Department of Health says a higher percentage of cases are linked to more contagious variants. It is urging more people to get vaccinated.

New York City is driving much of the increase, though cases are also rising in parts of Long Island.

Hospitals reported 342 COVID-19 patients as of Friday, similar to 340 patients from last Friday.

About 55% of 20 million New Yorkers are fully vaccinated. Thats up from nearly 48% as of June 6.

Vaccination rates are lowest in parts of western and central New York: about one-third of residents in Allegany County are fully vaccinated. Rates are also lower in parts of New York City: 43% of Bronx residents and 45.5% of Brooklyn residents are fully vaccinated.

___

NASHVILLE, Tenn.  Health officials in Tennessee have linked a small coronavirus cluster to a meeting of the Southern Baptist Convention last month.

It was Nashvilles first large-scale conference after lifting restrictions on gatherings.

The Tennessean reports that Metro Public Health Department epidemiologist Leslie Waller said eight to 10 infections have been detected among attendees, but the cluster is almost certainly larger. Waller said its difficult to know how many other cases there might be because most of the more than 18,000 attendees live out of state.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued an alert asking health officials in other states to contact Nashville health officials if they discover more infections that trace back to the annual meeting of the nations largest Protestant denomination.

Jonathan Howe, a spokesman for the Southern Baptist Convention Executive Committee, said the organization has not alerted attendees about the cluster and is working with city and state health officials to identify its next steps.

___

MOSCOW  Coronavirus deaths in Russia have hit another daily record, with authorities reporting 752 more fatalities amid a continuing surge in infections.

Russias coronavirus task force on Saturday reported 25,082 new coronavirus cases. The daily tally of confirmed infections has soared from around 9,000 in early June to over 23,000 in early July.

Officials have attributed a steady rise in infections and an increase in mortality to the spread of the delta variant.

Despite the surge, the Kremlin has said there are no plans to impose another lockdown. Russia had one nationwide lockdown in the spring of 2020 that lasted six weeks, and the government has resisted another one to avoid damaging the economy.

The coronavirus task force has reported over 5.7 million confirmed coronavirus cases and a total of 142,253 deaths in the pandemic. However, reports by Russias state statistical service Rosstat that tally coronavirus-linked deaths retroactively reveal much higher numbers.

___

BRUSSELS  The European Union says it now has enough doses to meet its goal of vaccinating 70% of the regions adult population by the end of this month.

With infections resurging in many European countries, the next challenge will be ensuring that the doses find takers, as demand wanes in some areas. According to the European Centre for Disease Control, 44% of the adult EU population is fully vaccinated, and 64% have received at least one dose.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said Saturday that by Sunday 500 million doses will have been delivered to all regions of the 27-nation EU. She urged member countries to do everything to increase vaccinations.

So far EU countries have administered 386 million doses for the overall population of 447 million, according to the ECDC.

___

PARIS  Music is pulsing from Paris nightclubs for the first time in 16 months as other European countries shut night life down again because of rising coronavirus cases.

The reopening of Paris dance clubs Friday night was the final step in Frances process of lifting pandemic restrictions. The move was meant to mark victory over the virus, since night clubs were among the few venues that had remained closed since March 2020.

But the delta variant is spreading faster than vaccinations in France, and infections are rising again after weeks of decline. President Emmanuel Macron is expected to speak to the nation Monday about the situation, and the government could opt for new restrictions.

At the popular La Bellevilloise club, many people were eager to return to the dance floor. Parisian Laurent Queige called it a liberation, an immense happiness to rediscover the clubbing, the party, friends.

La Bellevilloise owner Renaud Barillet said this weekend could serve as a useful test to see how the public, the organizers, all that reacts and manages to adopt new habits.

___

TOKYO  Tokyo has reported 950 new coronavirus cases, the highest daily number in two months, as infections steadily spread less than two weeks before the city hosts the Summer Olympics.

Saturdays tally compared with 822 confirmed cases reported Friday. Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga has declared a state of emergency in Tokyo starting Monday to keep the infections from becoming explosive during the Olympics, which open on July 23.

His government initially planned to take less-stringent measures, but came under pressure to issue the emergency order as the more contagious delta strain spread in the Tokyo region.

Experts warned that caseloads could surge to thousands within weeks as people travel on summer vacations and the Olympics draws foreign and domestic visitors to Tokyo.

Despite the recent acceleration of Japans vaccination program, only 16.8% of the population is fully vaccinated. Japan has reported about 812,000 cases and nearly 15,000 deaths in the pandemic.

___

HELSINKI  A passenger arriving in Finland may soon be fined hundreds of euros for refusing to take a coronavirus test.

A new amendment to the Finnish infectious diseases act with regard to border security imposes a fine to a tourist who enters Finland and opposes a required COVID-19 test. The law takes effect July 12 and is valid until Oct. 15.

It already was possible for the police to fine those refusing of COVID-19 tests, but authorities say the amendment will remarkably clarify the situation in judicial terms.

Konsta Arvelin, an inspector at the National Police Board, told the Finnish newspaper Helsingin Sanomat on Saturday that the change creates a completely new criminal offense in Finland, titled violation of the COVID-19 test."

Finland has a population of 5.5 million and one of the lowest coronavirus figures in Europe. The Nordic country has maintained tight border control during the pandemic.

___

BEIJING  A Chinese vice foreign minister claims the possibility that the COVID-19 virus leaked from a lab in China has been ruled out, and called on Washington to release more information about how the virus originated as well as how it spread in the U.S.

Le Yucheng on Saturday cited a World Health Organization report saying the pandemic most likely began through the passing of the virus from animals to humans, not from Chinese laboratory. The vice foreign minister reiterated that the origin of the virus remains unknown.

Le said that, "If the U.S. actually respects the truth and transparency, it should accept an international investigation to find the source of the U.S. epidemic, the cause of the U.S.s ineffective fight against the epidemic, and problems at U.S. biological laboratories.

While similar to earlier official statements, Les comments come from a more senior official than in the past, indicating Beijing may be firming up its political stance in the dispute over the virus origins.

Chinas outspoken Foreign Ministry spokesman, Zhao Lijian, has thrown suspicion on the U.S. military biological laboratory at Fort Detrick, Maryland, calling for an investigation into the possibility the virus originated there. No evidence has been produced to support that claim or that the virus emerged from any U.S. military-run biological lab.

___

BUCHAREST  Moldova is set to receive half a million doses of Johnson & Johnson vaccines from the United States to help the small nation combat the coronavirus pandemic.

The first 150,000 doses of J&J are set to arrive in Moldova  a country of 3.5 million, Europes poorest sandwiched between Romania and Ukraine  on July 12, U.S. Embassy officials in Moldova said in a statement.

Incumbent Moldovan President Maia Sandu thanked the U.S. for the vaccines and said that they will help save lives, preserve the health of our citizens and reduce the force of the pandemic.

The announcement came days ahead of an early parliamentary election in Moldova that pits pro-Western reformists against a Russia-friendly bloc of Socialists and Communists, with recent polls giving a lead to the former.

Only 305,000 people in Moldova have so far been fully inoculated against COVID-19, around just 11% of the population. Moldova has reported more than 257,000 infections and 6,207 deaths.

___

COLOMBO, Sri Lanka  Sri Lanka has launched a massive vaccination program aimed at inoculating tens of thousands of people in the countrys tourism industry.

It's the latest attempt to contain the spread of the virus and to revive the lucrative tourism industry.

The vaccine drive took place in the countrys southern coast which is famous among tourists for its white sandy beaches. On Saturday, more than 1000 hotel workers, tourist guides and safari drivers were inoculated, said the tourism ministry.

The Ministry said it plans to inoculate 500,000 people who are directly employed in the tourism sector.

COVID-19 has dealt a severe blow to the tourism, which is a vital economic sector for Sri Lanka. Workers and businesses linked to tourism are currently facing crippling employment losses.

Sri Lanka has so far recorded 269,946 confirmed cases and 3,391 deaths.

___

MADRID  Managers at the Hospital del Mar in Barcelona are facing a sharp surge in infections by, once again, rearranging staff shifts and moving patients around in their sprawling facilities.

The increase in Spain comes amid the advance of the delta variant that spreads far more easily. And its being driven mostly by younger, unvaccinated patients who require less ICU care but are turning in droves to health centers and emergency wards. If they reach the point of needing hospitalization, they typically spend longer in regular wards until they recover.

At this facility, the number of COVID-19 patients has gone from eight to 35 in just two weeks. That is far from the hundreds that the hospital nursed at the height of previous virus surges. But it comes as a warning of what could await unless drastic measures are taken against the spread of the virus, according to Juan Pablo Horcajada, who coordinates all the COVID-19 activity there.

___

VALLETTA, Malta  Malta is now requiring proof of vaccination for visitors to the Mediterranean island nation in hopes of stemming the latest rise in coronavirus infections.

Starting Wednesday, visitors must present a COVID-19 vaccination certificate that is recognized by Maltese health authorities, meaning certificates issued by Malta, the European Union or the United Kingdom.

The EUs green passport certifies people who are vaccinated, receive a negative PCR test result or have recovered from COVID-19. But Malta has decided to recognize only those who are fully vaccinated.

Malta will be the first EU country taking this step, said Health Minister Chris Fearne.

Children aged 5-12 can present a negative PCR test, while those under age 5 are exempt.

Malta, which has a population of just over half a million, had 46 active cases on July 1 but the number rose to 252 on Friday. The government says 90% of new cases are among unvaccinated people. Currently 79% of Maltese adults are fully vaccinated.

___

SEOUL, South Korea  South Korea has set a new high in daily coronavirus cases for the third straight day as officials prepare to enforce the strongest social distancing restrictions in the greater capital area.

The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency said Saturday that more than 1,000 of the 1,378 new cases were from capital Seoul and nearby Gyeonggi Province and Incheon, a region where officials from Monday will clamp down on private social gatherings of three or more people from 6 p.m. Nightclubs and churches will close, visitors will be banned at nursing homes and hospitals and weddings and funerals will be limited to family-only gatherings.

Dozens of new cases were each reported in major cities and regions across the country, including Busan, Daejeon, Ulsan, South Chungcheong Provine and South Gyeongsang Province.

After adding 9,700 cases in July alone, the countrys caseload is now at 166,722, including 2,038 deaths.
"I hike my goats with people  this is my job. Kristen Sassano Gills story lives up to that intriguing Facebook teaser. Along with her daughter Elena, Gill has created a thriving COVID-inspired venture that integrates their goats and adventurous guests on guided hikes. They also bring the goats as surprise or star guests for childrens birthday parties and other gatherings, and welcome visitors to their Got Your Goat farm in Washington Depot to romp and play with our babies. Booking central for all the caprine fun is the Got Your Goat Facebook page. (This interview has been lightly edited for length and clarity.)

You hike with goats; whats that all about?

My whole thing with goats is the goats themselves are hikers. Thats what mountain goats do. When we had only three goats [now 22], we used to live in a house next to a blue trail and they would hike with me every day. It was obvious they loved hiking as much as I do.

So how did that become a business venture?

At the beginning of COVID, we had eight to 10 goats, and one of them had a complicated birth with two giant twins and a little baby. Everybody watched on livestream over Easter weekend during COVID. We raised little Thumper on a bottle, and he almost died. Around the same time, my daughter Elena turned 16 and she wanted to have a life instead of being so cooped up. I love hiking with goats and my daughter wanted to do birthday parties with goats. So we started the business, Got Your Goat, to host birthday parties with our goats here, bring our goats to parties, and take people hiking with our goats.

Kristen Sassano Gill

People like hiking with goats?

People love it. Its usually families who cant get their kids to hike looking for an innovative way to get them outdoors. The first person who signed up for a hike with the goats brought her 12-year-old daughter, Finley. The mom loves hiking and the daughter doesnt. So we went for a hike in North Salem not far from where they live in Westchester. While we were hiking, I said, Finley, maybe you could help me out and get the word out. This weekend we have a public hike at Steep Rock in Washington. She came up with the hashtag #finleygoating. Ive probably had 100 people come through from Pelham because of this kid. Ive seen them a bunch of times now. The business has morphed into people who havent experienced goats connecting for that aspect, or people who love goats connecting to experience hiking with them.

How does people hiking with goats work exactly?

Goats are extremely friendly and social. They believe people are part of their herd, so it works for them. Getting out and moving and being in the woods are some of the best things we can do for our mind, body and spirit, and its really healthy for the goats. The thing thats most important about hiking with goats is to keep moving forward. Goats are browsers, so they eat a lot of different things. So if you stop, they get distracted and start eating. Ive had to teach them how to drink from a stream because they have a fear of water, and when youre hiking theres no water bottle for a goat. They dont like rain, so the only thing that stops them is rain.

Kristen Sassano Gill

What about the logistics? How do you get the goats to hikes and parties?

I can transport 12 goats in my Ford Edge. We call it the Goatmobile now. It belongs to the goats. I had to get a Honda Civic to have a peoplemobile. So now I have a peoplemobile that doesnt smell like goats and a goatmobile that doesnt get great gas mileage but is sturdy and I can get 12 goats in it. I put them in the back. Originally I put them in the seats but they would crawl all over the car. When we show up at a surprise party and I open the back hatch and eight goats pile out, people go gaga about it.

Where are the goats favorite places to hike?

Because were in Washington Depot we do tend to go to Macricostas, a Steep Rock Association preserve where the pinnacle overlooks Lake Waramaug. The problem is theres a lot of mountain laurel, which is toxic to goats. White Memorial in Litchfield is great for them, but I like to have a climb. The Housatonic Range Trail in New Milford and Gaylordsville is my go-to if I think I have decent hiking people with me, and when I have people from Westchester I go to Mountain Lakes Park in North Salem. Then theres a little waterfall hike at the Brian Tierney Preserve in Roxbury. People really dont know about it. Ive been all over the state. Ive met people at Wadsworth Falls in Middletown, and Ive met people at Hammonasset Beach in Madison.

Kristen Sassano Gill

What comes next for you and Elena?

My goal with the business long term is to franchise it. There was a recent article about goats being the next dog, so its really just a natural.

This article originally appeared in Connecticut Magazine. You can subscribe here, or find the current issue on sale here. Sign up for the newsletter to get the latest and greatest content from Connecticut Magazine delivered right to your inbox. On Facebook and Instagram @connecticutmagazine and Twitter @connecticutmag.
MILFORD  A silver lining of last years virtual sand sculpture contest was that anyone in the state  or beyond  could participate in the citys annual tradition.

The event was such a success that the 44th annual competition  to be held July 18  will be a hybrid model of in-person sculpting at Walnut Beach and virtual entries.

The virtual version went so well that we decided we should offer both versions of the contest this year, said Lori Lewis, previous marketing director for the Milford Arts Council. Anyone from anywhere can enter and so were shouting out to creative spirits from Cape Cod to California to Clearwater and even Croatia. Our vision is to see creativity everywhere, so we want everyone to have a chance to build a sculpture on the home beach of choice.

Richard Stephen, sand sculpture contest organizer, said most people who participate are from the Milford area, but some people have come from upstate, New York and Massachusetts.

Stephen said he thinks most of the sculptures will be done at the beach even though the event has a hybrid model.

This is the first year we are doing this so its hard to predict what will happen, he said. I think there will be a few sent in virtually, but the fun of the whole thing really is going down there walking around and looking at all the sculptures.

Before Stephen became a board member of the MAC and started running the event, he participated in the contest and even won some awards. Then he would bring his daughter to the contest, and she started participating in it as well.

The event is becoming more and more for families, said Stephen. It used to be there was a lot more organizations that used to participate and groups of friends, and that still happens, but not as often.

The sand sculpture contest is hosted by the Milford Arts Council and sponsored by Milford Bank and is the longest-standing tradition for the MAC.

Last year, due to COVID, the MAC held the 43rd annual contest entirely virtually. Stephen said people who participated in the contest last year submitted photographs to the MAC to judge.

A lot of people went to the beach and did it on their own, he said. I actually sculpted a rattlesnake on a board in my backyard with sand. So it was interesting, plus people who arent just from Milford could enter more easily because they didnt have to drive down here.

There are different award categories, including for individuals or groups of children up to age 9, which Stephen says is his favorite group to see.

They think more outside the box. Theyre not thinking so much standard fare like a shark or just an octopus, he said. They generally tell more stories... One year there was a kid he was 6 or 7 years old and he did this sculpture that looked like an abstract painting. He started telling me the whole story about what it was. I could tell that he was an up-and-coming artist. He had the artist lingo down and ready.

Other categories in the contest are individuals from 10-to-15 years old, individuals age 16-and-over, friends and groups and lastly families.

When the judges go out, I tell them the most important thing is creativity, he said. You want them to be sort of technically well done, as best as possible, but if its funny or if it says something even in terms of address an issue, whatever it is in terms of creativity and being original, that for me, is the most important thing.

This year, Miss Connecticut 2021 Alexis Volpe will be a special guest judge at the contest, and Stephen said hes going to be a judge as well.

As many people who want to and can find space can participate because its all dependent on the tide. The sand bars that develop sometimes are oddly shaped or are not that large so, it can get somewhat cramped sometimes, said Stephen. But for the most part, theres always room for somebody, and its oddly consistent in terms of how many people end up sculpting something.

But since last year the MAC didnt hold the contest in person, Stephen said there might be more people this year sculpting at the beach.

The MAC is also giving out a $100 online Peoples Choice award. To be eligible, participants need to follow the MAC on Facebook and Instagram, send a picture to info@milfordarts.org by 2 p.m. on July 18 and make a suggested $10 donation to the organization.

In-person awards will be announced at 3 p.m. at Walnut Beach, and the online $100 Peoples Choice award will be announced on the website on Aug. 1.
At least 31 states have legislation on the table that aims to deny the president's authority to deploy National Guardsmen to combat zones without a declaration of war, and supporters of the effort are eager for a Supreme Court battle to define who has ultimate control of state troops.

Dan McKnight, a veteran who heads the lobbying effort for the legislation through his Bring Our Troops Home organization, argues that Congress has been asleep at the wheel in its authority to declare war, ceding its powers to the White House. He said he is not against National Guard troops seeing combat, but thinks members of Congress should not be able to duck the decision.

He's trying to change that by tapping state lawmakers to assert authority over troop deployments, a back door into a dilemma in which the U.S. has waged decades of war without a formal declaration since the 1950s. However, experts say that a grappling match with the Pentagon about its authority over troops is an uphill battle, and the effort faces steep odds in federal court.

Read Next: Soldier Convicted over Role in Fort Bragg Sham Marriage Ring

"We'll go and fight any war you ask us to do," McKnight told Military.com. "All we ask is, if we raise our hand and swear an oath, you send us to a war declared by Congress."

The Guard makes up about 33% of the Army's total force. Being unable to deploy Guardsmen abroad could undermine the president's ability to wage war, in theory ratcheting up pressure to formally declare war.

Gen. Stanley McChrystal, an Obama-era commander of American troops in Afghanistan, said during that war's peak in 2009 that the National Guard would be the "key" to the war effort. At the time, the National Guard made up 15% of the 67,000 troops in Afghanistan and 7% of the 144,000 in Iraq.

State efforts to seize authority over the Guard have been a relatively obscure issue until this year. No laws have passed yet. Because of legislative schedules, most of the 31 states haven't held votes or hearings on the proposal. McKnight believes 2022 will be the big year for the issue and is aiming to have a bill on the table in every state.

"This year, we got it introduced in 31 states. Next year, we'll have all 50 states," he said. "I think we're going to get it passed in Texas, Florida, Idaho and South Dakota. Maybe even Wyoming."

But Dwight Stirling, CEO of the Center for Law and Military Policy, told Military.com that the state bills would be toothless. Even if they're passed, it wouldn't matter, he said.

"The [legislation effort] reflects a misunderstanding of how the National Guard is constructed," Stirling said. "There is nothing a governor or state legislature can do to prevent or restrict the President's call-up authority. Any state law purporting to place caveats on the President's authority to federalize state guard troops is null and void, representing feckless words on a piece of paper."

McKnight ran with the idea after seeing the effort started in West Virginia, where Delegate Pat McGeehan, a Republican, has proposed the measure for the past seven years in a row. In 2019, it was defeated with a tied vote in the House.

McGeehan told Military.com he sees the issue as a vehicle to impact foreign policy, a rare topic in state legislatures.

"State legislators never really thought they could have influence over foreign policy," he said. "If enough states follow through, you remove a lot of Pentagon power. It's a matter of which state gets this through first."

Capt. Craig Giese, executive officer for Provincial Reconstruction Team (PRT) Kunar, scans the horizon for possible threats on a dismounted patrol in route to Observation Point Bull Run. Giese, a Lodi, Wisconsin, native, is also a member of the Wisconsin National Guard's 97th Agribusiness Development Team. (Shawn Vradenburg/U.S. Army)

The issue has achieved momentum in dozens of state legislatures this year, mostly after lobbying efforts by McKnight. While it hasn't passed yet in Texas, which has the largest National Guard contingent among the states, preventing Guardsmen from deploying to combat without a war declaration is part of the Texas Republican Party's platform, which sets the agenda for the party in the state.

Texas state Rep. Bryan Slaton, a Republican, told Military.com the state can't control how the entire military deploys, but is hoping to play at least a small role in forcing Congress to flex its war power.

"We can protect at least some of our citizens from deploying [to an undeclared war]," he said.

But National Guard troops ultimately fall under the president. Even if the legislation makes it into law, it would likely be outmatched by the federal government's superseding authority to deploy troops. McGeehan said the law would "certainly" be challenged in the courts.

A hypothetical showdown between a governor and the president might be moot if troops are activated under federal orders; it's unlikely they would be in a position to disobey the president. Since those missions are also funded by the federal government, states might not have any tools to cling to their troops.

"We pray for a Supreme Court battle," McKnight said.

The issue hinges on overturning a 1990 Supreme Court decision in Perpich v. Department of Defense. In that case, then-Minnesota Gov. Rudy Perpich fought the federal government over activating the state's National Guard for a training mission in Central America. He lost.

McKnight and other supporters of overturning the court's decision argue that the ruling specified training events, not combat deployments.

An unclassified Defense Department report detailing what is known as the "Ohio Incident" shows there is precedent for governors refusing to relinquish their Guard forces to the federal government; it almost caused the Ohio National Guard to effectively be disbanded.

In the late 1980s, Ohio Gov. Richard Celeste refused to let his 16th Engineer Brigade deploy to Honduras for a roadbuilding project. The chief of the National Guard Bureau moved against Celeste, threatening to withdraw the Ohio National Guard from the state, according to the report.

There was "a real threat of losing virtually all the Ohio National Guard if he didn't comply," the DoD report added. California and Maine also balked at deployments, and other governors made public comments saying they would refuse to let their Guard go if asked. Celeste eventually backed down, but the 420th Engineer Brigade from Texas was deployed instead.

-- Steve Beynon can be reached at Steve.Beynon@military.com. Follow him on Twitter @StevenBeynon.

Related: National Guard Will Be Used 'More, Not Less' as Military Preps for Future War, General Says
In her last days with her husband Tom before his deployment, Sarah was so overcome with anger that she could not wait for him to leave. They fought, a lot, and often over small insignificant matters. He was busy getting his gear together. Eventually, she says, he became emotionally unapproachable. I threatened to drop his butt off at the ship [early] so I wouldnt have to look at his face anymore, she says. What a horrible thing for me to say, but at that moment, I meant it. Sound familiar? Many military wives and girlfriends say that in the days before their men leave for deployment, the amount of arguing increases with each passing moment. Experts say, its not you, its not him. Instead, the bickering is turned on automatically inside many of us as a way of letting go. Its a defense mechanism to subconsciously detach from everything they care about, says psychologist Dr. Terry Lyles (www.terrylyles.com), who specializes in stress management and who has worked with military members returning from war and rescue workers after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks and the 2004 Asian tsunami. [Soldiers are] trained to suck it up and feel pain later, which includes emotional pain. They dont want to go anymore than you dont want them to go. Lyles says oftentimes spouses heading overseas become robotic, deflecting emotions with an imaginary, and unintentional, force field. Communication basically gets destroyed, he says. Everything you fight about is immaterial. Tiffany says she and her husband argued everyday until he left, over stupid things. And for her, withdrawing emotionally was just as effective at handling the separation as it was for her husband. It seemed to be easier to watch him walk out the door if I was mad at him, she says. Distancing Like many other military wives, Christy bickered with her husband (her boyfriend at the time) before he left for Iraq. She says she was upset by his detached behavior and wanted him to spend all of his spare time with her. Christy says she wanted him to show emotions, to almost prove that he would miss her. She wanted affection. She wanted to be comforted. He shut down. He pushed her away. He even admitted late at night that he knew he would regret the way he was acting toward her once he arrived overseas. Christy, who was new to military life, said she didnt understand what was happening. She feared that joining the Army had changed him into an emotionless droid. I was scared that this new behavior would last forever, she says. Lyles says it wont. You have to be able to go to them and say, I understand whats going on, and Im here to support you, and everything is going to be fine,  Lyles says. Believe it or not, they need emotional support. Lyles also stresses that while spouses should give emotional support before a deployment, they should also give their husbands space. Trying to talk it out wont necessarily help. Men are wired differently than women, he says. They dont want to talk about it. Dont seek an explanation for their detaching. Just know the explanation is they are trying to go to war. Dont take it personally. Know that its not you and its not them, Lyles says. Its just them trying to transition to go to battle. They have to become hardened and detached to do what they do.

Once Christys husband reached Iraq, their squabbling stopped, immediately. He apologized. He told Christy he was scared before he left. I think I was a safe person to take his fear out on, because he knew I would always love him, and he also knew I was trying my hardest to be there for him, she says. Lyles says not all couples will be able to, or even should, talk about the subject once the soldier is deployed. You may have to table the issue once they are there. Its not going to help to talk about it, he says. Instead, keep conversations, in the now. Support them, let them know you care about them, tell them about life back home without burdening them with little problems of such day-to-day grind as the kids bickering. He doesnt need to hear that, Lyle says. Whats going to happen is hes going to start to worry about you and the kids, and if hes worried about you, hes going to take his eye off the ball, and thats not good for anyone. That could be a life or death situation. He says spouses should rely on each other during this time of transition during deployments. You have to come together and vent and share and detox to protect spaces, he says. The more you can empower other spouses and help them understand whats happening, the easier it is to get through. Your spouses are doing it in the field. Theyre venting and supporting each other. Its part of what keeps them alive.
For copyright information, check with the distributor of this item, WBNS-TV.
Police escort Edward Cagney Mathews (balding man in center) on Monday, July 5, 2021, through the crowd of people who had gathered outside his Mount Laurel, New Jersey, home after he yelled racist slurs at a neighbor. He was charged with bias intimidation and trespassing.
Some wont ever remember the parents they lost because they were too young when COVID-19 struck. Others are trying to keep the memory alive by doing the things they used to do together: making pancakes or playing guitar. Others still are clutching onto what remains, a pillow or a photo, as they adapt to lives with aunts, uncles and siblings stepping in to fill the void.

The 4 million people who have died so far in the coronavirus pandemic left behind parents, friends and spouses  but also young children who are navigating life now as orphans or with just one parent, who is also mourning the loss.

Its a trauma that is playing out in big cities and small villages across the globe, from Assam state in northeast India to New Jersey and points in between.

And even as vaccination rates tick up, the losses and generational impact show no sign of easing in many places where the virus and its variants continue to kill. As the official COVID-19 death toll reached its latest grim milestone this week, South Korea reported its biggest single-day jump in infections and Indonesia counted its deadliest day of the pandemic so far.

Victoria Elizabeth Soto didnt notice the milestone. She was born three months ago after her mother, Elisabeth Soto, checked into the hospital in Lomas de Zamora, Argentina, eight months pregnant and suffering symptoms of COVID-19.

Soto, 38, had tried for three years to get pregnant and gave birth to baby Victoria on April 13. The mother died six days later of complications from the virus. Victoria wasnt infected.

Her father, Diego Roman, says he is coping little by little with the loss, but fears for his baby girl, who one day will learn she has no mother.

I want her to learn to say mom by showing her a picture of her, Roman said. I want her to know that her mother gave her life for her. Her dream was to be a mom, and she was.

Tshimologo Bonolo, just 8, lost her father to COVID-19 in July 2020 and spent the year adjusting to life in Soweto, South Africa, without him.

The hardest thing has been her new daily routine: Bonolo's father, Manaila Mothapo, used to drive her to school every day, and now she has to take public transport.

I used to cook, play and read books with my papa, Bonolo said. What I miss most is jumping on my papas belly.

In northwest London, Niva Thakrar, 13, cuts the grass and washes the family car  things her dad used to do. As a way to remember him, she takes the same walks and watches the movies they used to watch together before he died in March after a two-month hospital stay.

I still try to do what we used to do before, but its not the same, Thakrar said.

Jeshmi Narzary lost both parents in two weeks in May in Kokrajhar, in the northeastern Indian state of Assam.

The 10-year-old went on to live with an aunt and two cousins, but could only move in after she underwent 14 days of quarantine herself during Indias springtime surge that made the country second only to the U.S. in the number of confirmed cases.

Narzary hasnt processed the deaths of her parents. But she is scrupulous about wearing face masks and washing her hands, especially before she eats. She does so, she said, because she knows that coronavirus is a disease which kills humans.

Kehity Collantes, age 6, also knows what the virus can do. It killed her mother, a hospital worker in Santiago, Chile, and now she has to make pancakes by herself.

It also means this: My papa is now also my mama, she said.

Siblings Zavion and Jazzmyn Guzman lost both parents to COVID-19, and their older sisters now care for them. Their mother, Lunisol Guzman, adopted them as babies, but died last year along with her partner at the start of the violent first wave of the pandemic in the U.S. Northeast.

Katherine and Jennifer Guzman immediately sought guardianship of the kids  Zavion is 5 and Jazzymn 3  and are raising them in Belleville, New Jersey.

I lost my mother, but now I'm a mother figure, said Jennifer Guzman, 29.

The losses of the Navales family in Quezon City, Philippines, are piling up. After Arthur Navales, 38, died on April 2, the family experienced some shunning from the community.

His widow, Analyn B. Navales, fears she might not be able to afford the new home they planned to move into, since her salary alone wont cover it. Another question is whether she can afford the kids taekwondo classes.

Ten-year-old Kian Navales, who also had the virus, misses going out for noodles with his dad. He clutches onto one of the pillows his mother had made for him and his sister with a photo of their father on one side.

Our house became quiet and sad. We dont laugh much since papa left, said Kians 12-year-old sister, Yael.

Maggie Catalano, 13, is keeping the memory of her father alive through music.

A musician himself, Brian Catalano taught Maggie some guitar chords before he got sick. He presented her with her own acoustic guitar for Christmas on Dec. 26, the day he came home from the hospital after a nine-day stay.

Still positive and weak, he remained quarantined in a bedroom but could hear Maggie play through the walls of their Riverside County, California, home.

He texted me and said, You sounded great, sweetie, Maggie recalled.

The family thought he had beaten the disease  but four days later, he died alone at home while they were out.

Devastated, Maggie turned to writing songs and performed one she composed at his funeral in May.

I wish he could see me play it now, she said. I wish that he could see how much I have improved.

___

AP photographers Mary Altaffer in Belleville, New Jersey; Jerome Delay in Soweto, South Africa; Aaron Favila in Quezon City, Philippines; Esteban Felix in Santiago, Chile; Jae C. Hong in Riverside County, California; Anupan Nath in Kokrajhar, India; Natacha Pisarenko in Lomas de Zamora, Argentina; and Thanassis Stavrakis in London contributed.
Yvens Rumbold is the 32-year-old director of communications for Policite, a public policy think tank in Haiti. He lives in Delmas, part of the Port-au-Prince metropolitan area, with his mother and cousin. He shared his story in his own words. His account was slightly edited for length and clarity.

- - -

Port-au-Prince has been in a circle of violence for the last three years. Last week we woke up in my town, Delmas, with a series of killings. Among the victims were a journalist and a female activist. The journalist, his name was Diego Charles. I knew him. The killings were like three minutes by car from my street. Two of my colleagues were shot and attacked in Martissant, which is in the south of Port-au-Prince. Some of my friends have been kidnapped.

Every day there is something new. In Port-au-Prince, in the south of the city, there are gangs that are fighting against each other and they block the streets between Port-au-Prince and other towns. I never go down to downtown Delmas or downtown Port-au-Prince, close to the Parliament, because of the violence. Luckily, I'm not too far from the supermarket and I'm working from home because of covid. But because of the violence, I only go to three places: my friend's house, the supermarket and home.

When you go to the streets, there is trash everywhere. Is there anyone in this city that is taking charge of the environment? There are gas shortages due to the gang violence in the south. I never go to the gas station. One of my friends lives in front of a gas station so he can go in the morning at 6 a.m. The last time he called me to come, there were six cars in line. And by the time they got to the fourth car in line, they closed.

Nothing is working. When we as Haitians ask, "What is one good thing that is functioning in the country?," we cannot think of one. But when you think about who is responsible, you cannot just say Haiti is a failed state without looking at its past - and the interference of the international community.

On Wednesday morning, I was sleeping and my cousin woke me up because everyone in the neighborhood was talking about the assassination. I saw a lot of missed calls from people who were telling me the news. It was like 6 in the morning. I said, no, it can't be true. I stayed home all day in the living room, monitoring the TV, the radio, the Internet. I could see on the TV that the streets were empty, totally empty.

I live with my cousin and my mom, and my mom is mentally ill. She doesn't really grasp the situation right now. When the president was killed she wanted to go out. She sells things in the neighborhood - bar soaps, vegetables. I was telling her, "This is not safe right now." I had to actually close the gate and hide the keys. The feeling was maybe people are going to go on the street, they're going to ransack things. Nobody knew what was going to happen. I didn't want her to risk her life.

Yesterday was the first time I decided to go out. I went out to see what was going on in town. I passed a gas station and there were long lines and people arguing, and I didn't go. There's a water crisis as well. People can't find water to buy in my neighborhood. You can't drink the tap water here, so you have to buy a big cistern. But the cisterns aren't being delivered.

But I can kind of see a semblance of normal activity in Delmas. I saw police cars parked in their usual places. Young people were playing in their streets. People are selling their things in the street market. I was like, oh my God, life is going back to normal.

People in Haiti, they are used to events like this. I'm very shocked by the assassination of the president because he represents the country. I couldn't believe that a commando could pass not only his personal security but the security of the neighborhood and kill him. It's unbelievable. But at the same time, when you step back, you think of all of the events ongoing in the country and you think, huh, it's not that surprising. Gangs are killing people not too far from the National Palace. Two weeks ago, the president was giving a press conference and you could hear the shots firing in the background. I just say, okay, anything could happen in this country.

I think people that can afford to leave Haiti will go. That has been happening in the last two years. I have personal friends that went to the U.S. and were supposed to come back, but they didn't come back, they stayed. I think we're going to see more of those cases.

I don't want to go. I have electricity, I have water, I work from home. I can bear the stress. I can bear the insecurity, so far. I love Haiti, and I want to be engaged. I want to be a part. I love the idea of Haiti and the foundation of Haiti, what it represents to the world and to Black people all over the world. That's the significance that is holding me in Haiti right now.

Ten years ago, I was optimistic. Right now, I don't know. This optimism is shaken. But I want to try.
PARIS (AP)  France will withdraw more than 2,000 troops from an anti-extremism force in Africas Sahel region by early next year and pivot its military presence to specialized regional forces instead, President Emmanuel Macron said Friday.

Macron announced last month a future reduction of Frances military presence, arguing that its no longer adapted to the needs in the area. The French Barkhane force, operating in Mali, Chad, Niger, Burkina Faso and Mauritania, had also met opposition from some Africans.

After discussions Friday with leaders of the African countries involved, Macron announced that France would reduce its force to 2,500 to 3,000 troops over the long term. The country currently has 5,000 troops in the region.

The French leader insisted that his country is not abandoning African partners, and would keep helping them fight groups linked to Al-Qaida and the Islamic State group.

France doesnt have the vocation or the will to stay eternally in the Sahel, Macron said. We are there because were asked to be.

French troops have been present in Mali since 2013, when they intervened to force Islamic extremist rebels from power in towns across the countrys north. Operation Serval was later replaced by Barkhane and was expanded to include other countries in an effort to help stabilize the broader Sahel region.

Islamic militants, though, have continued to launch devastating attacks against the militaries fighting them as well as increasingly against civilians.

Hundreds have died since January in a series of massacres targeting villages on the border of Niger and Mali.

While governments in the Sahel have embraced Frances military help, some critics have likened their presence to a vestige of French colonial rule.

France will focus over the next six months on dismantling the Barkhane operation and reorganizing the troops, Macron said.

The French military will shut down Barkhane bases in Timbuktu, Tessalit and Kidal in northern Mali over the next six months, and start to reconfigure its presence in the coming weeks to focus particularly on the restive border area where Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger meet.

Nigers President Mohamed Bazoum, speaking at Macrons side, welcomed the French military support and training, but on African terms.

The main thing is that France maintains the principle of its support, its cooperation and support for the armed forces of our different countries. We need France to give us what we dont have. We dont need France to give us what we already have, he said, without elaborating. He acknowledged failings of local armed forces but also praised their courage in fighting extremists.

Frances military presence in the future will focus on neutralizing extremist operations and strengthening and training local armies, Macron said. There will also a dimension of reassurance ... to remain permanently ready to intervene rapidly in support of partner forces, notably via military aviation from Niger and Chad.

This new structure seems to us to respond better to the evolution of the threat, he said. Once the reorganization is complete, he said, the Barkhane operation will close down.

Some experts say that Frances decision may be linked to growing political instability in Mali.

Macrons June announcement came days after Mali coup leader Col. Assimi Goita was sworn as president of a transitional government, solidifying his grip on power in the West African nation after carrying out his second coup in nine months.

Late in June, the U.N. Security Council unanimously adopted a resolution extending the U.N. peacekeeping mission in crisis-wracked Mali and said its imperative that the military government holds presidential and legislative elections on schedule next February.

The council maintained the ceilings in the U.N. force at 13,289 military troops and 1,920 international police, but it asked Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to make a recommendation on the force level given growing levels of insecurity and physical violence against the civilian populations in central Mali.

___

Petesch reported from Dakar, Senegal. Masha Macpherson in Paris contributed.
SAN FRANCISCO (AP)  Firefighters struggled to contain an exploding Northern California wildfire under blazing temperatures as another heat wave blanketed the West, prompting an excessive heat warning for inland and desert areas.

Death Valley in southeastern California's Mojave Desert reached 128 degrees Fahrenheit (53 Celsius) on Saturday, according to the National Weather Service's reading at Furnace Creek. The shockingly high temperature was actually lower than the previous day, when the location reached 130 F (54 C).

If confirmed as accurate, the 130-degree reading would be the hottest high recorded there since July 1913, when Furnace Creek desert hit 1,34 F (57 C), considered the highest measured temperature on Earth.

About 300 miles (483 kilometers) northwest of the sizzling desert, the largest wildfire of the year in California was raging along the border with Nevada. The Beckwourth Complex Fire  a combination of two lightning-caused fires burning 45 miles (72 kilometers) north of Lake Tahoe  showed no sign of slowing its rush northeast from the Sierra Nevada forest region after doubling in size between Friday and Saturday.

Late Saturday, flames jumped Interstate 395 and was threatening properties in Nevada's Washoe County. Take immediate steps to protect large animals and livestock, the The Truckee Meadows Fire Protection District tweeted.

The blaze, which was only 8% contained, increased dramatically to 86 square miles (222 square kilometers) as firefighters sweltered in 100-degree temperatures.

It was one of several threatening homes across Western states that were expected to see triple-digit heat through the weekend as a high-pressure zone blankets the region.

Pushed by strong winds, a wildfire in southern Oregon doubled in size to 120 square miles (311 square kilometers) Saturday as it raced through heavy timber in the Fremont-Winema National Forest near the Klamath County town of Sprague River.

The National Weather Service warned the dangerous conditions could cause heat-related illnesses, while Californias power grid operator issued a statewide Flex Alert from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday to avoid disruptions and rolling blackouts.

The California Independent System Operator warned of potential power shortage, not only because of mounting heat, but because a wildfire in southern Oregon was threatening transmission lines that carry imported power to California.

Gov. Gavin Newsom issued an emergency proclamation on Friday suspending rules to allow for more power capacity, and the ISO requested emergency assistance from other states. On Saturday, Newsom issued another proclamation allowing the emergency use of auxiliary ship engines to relieve pressure on the electric grid.

Palm Springs in Southern California hit a record high temperature of 120 F (49 C) Saturday. It was the fourth time temperatures have reached 120 degrees so far this year, the Desert Sun reported.

In California's agricultural Central Valley, 100-degree temperatures blanketed the region, with Fresno reaching 111 degrees F (44 C), just one degree short of the all-time high for the date,

Las Vegas late Saturday afternoon tied the all-time record high of 117 F (47 C), the National Weather Service said. The city has recorded that record-high temperature four other times, most recently in June 2017.

NV Energy, Nevadas largest power provider, also urged customers to conserve electricity Saturday and Sunday evenings because of the heat wave and wildfires affecting transmission lines throughout the region.

In Southern California, a brush fire sparked by a burning big rig in eastern San Diego County forced evacuations of two Native American reservations Saturday.

In north-central Arizona, Yavapai County on Saturday lifted an evacuation warning for Black Canyon City, an unincorporated town 43 miles (66 kilometers) north of Phoenix, after a fire in nearby mountains no longer posed a threat. In Mohave County, Arizona, two firefighters died Saturday after a aircraft they were in to respond to a small wildfire crashed, local media reported.

A wildfire in southeast Washington grew to almost 60 square miles (155 square kilometers) as it blackened grass and timber while it moved into the Umatilla National Forest.

In Idaho, Gov. Brad Little declared a wildfire emergency Friday and mobilized the states National Guard to help fight fires sparked after lightning storms swept across the drought-stricken region.

___

Associated Press writers Bob Jablon in Los Angeles, Martha Bellisle in Seattle and Paul Davenport in Phoenix contributed to this story.
Every week, we explore a different Texas ghost story or venture into the unknown. This week, we tackle San Antonio's famous haunted house, Gillespie Mansion.

READ ALSO: Not-so-rich Texans go crazy for Southlake castle on 'Zillow Gone Wild'

The gruesome story surrounding the stately looking Gillespie Mansion, once a dwelling in San Antonio's North West side, is at its core a classic haunted house tale. Depending on where you zoom in, it also sets the scene of a cheesy '80s horror movie.

In the years somewhere between John F. Kennedy and Ronald Reagan, Gillespie, popularly known by the folkloric and not so P.C. moniker "midget mansion," was a late-night destination for San Antonio teens looking to trespass, drink their parents Lone Stars and experience brushes with the paranormal. The site is said to be haunted, a result of the violent murders that happened there. Maybe this isn't the first time you've heard this San Antonio story, maybe you're one of the ones whose visited the site before.

In the 1920's the grand house on a hill is said to have been purchased by a Navy Captain stationed in nearby Galveston, Texas. After a short time, he and his family jumped ship (nautical speak for moved out).

The occupants that replaced the military family at the residence, the Gillespies, were said to be wealthy as a result of the father's earnings from a career in Hollywood. The husband and wife duo were distinct, and known throughout the community for their unconventionally short stature. Some sources say Mr. Gillespie even adapted the interiors of the massive home to have shorter ceilings, counters and door handles to accommodate their size. All was well, that is, until one dark evening.

One night, the story goes, the father of the family returned home in a boiling rage. With his anger stemming from pitfalls in his business career approaching the depression, or mistreatment from the outside world, it is said he grabbed the nearest knife and violently slit the throats of his wife and two daughters.

Other versions claim he shot his loved ones, one by one, each with a single bullet. He stuffed their bodies in the nearest closet and sealed it shut. After finishing, he quietly retired to the master bedroom, where he ended his own life with a bullet to the brain.

Neighbors, noticing something was awry, eventually notified the authorities. Mr Gillespie of Gillespie manor was found laying in a pool of his own blood.

In the years following the incident, new homeowners reported sounds of scratching and moaning, particularly from the house's second story. In the 70s, reports of satanic teen murders clung to Gillespie Mansions legacy.

In a 2009 MySA story, spinning the greatest hits of various San Antonio Ghost Stories, the late UTSA folklorist Rhett Rushing says that no one can really tell if this story is true or not.

"There's no documentation that this ever happened. What we do know is up through the 1970s, it was a place where teenagers would come and dare each other to go to the house," Rushing definitively states.

Sifting through newspaper records from this era, I was unable to find any reports of the murder. On a whim, I reached out to the San Antonio Office of Preservation, to see if they had any information on the stately home. Still, nothing.

As with all ghost stories, the lack of material evidence doesn't necessarily mean the horrific eve didn't happen, as archives are not fully complete. And sometimes, stories are stories for a reason.

Even if fake, the horror of the incident has already burrowed itself in the city's collective memory. The legend of it all doesn't exactly beg to be disturbed.

Facebook groups dedicated to the site are filled with writings of the fond and spooky memories of the Boomer generation that once poked around the ruins and crumbling pillars of the haunted Greek Revivalist home.

Deborah Moore Wolff used to work at the Mama's Cafe off I-10. Sometimes, she would visit the ruinous mansion after she would get off a shift late at night. "I would go by myself. I felt it was special and I felt peace, even though it was burnt down," Wolff tells mySA.

She would also often visit the site to explore the grounds with her younger brother. She alleges the grounds were spooky, but very inviting. As a young woman, she took the photo featured above.

The exact address of the manor is disputed, though absolutely cemented in the city's North West side, near the Medical Center. The coordinates are said to be either off Callaghan and I-10, at the Preston Peak Apartments, which can be found at 4114 Medical Drive in San Antonio, Texas, or at 8139 Donore Place.

Flickr/Chester Paul Sgroi

In a Facebook post, one user reported paranormal occurrences at the Preston Peak Apartments, where they identified as a resident.

All these years later, my guess is that this story is still in the San Antonio airwaves because of so many peoples shared histories exploring the grounds. However, something about the violent and grotesque nature of the tale, and the association with decrepit buildings with decrepit spirits, likely plays into a morbid curiosity.

"It's something we can't control. We can't control what happens after death, and we don't know. It gives us a teaser, a taste of the afterlife," says Rushing from the grave in the 2009 MySA story.

"Human beings think in stories. That's how we order the world around us. Humans can't stand chaos. As long as there have been people, we make a story to explain the chaos, the things we don't understand."
Muskogee, OK (74401)

Today

Scattered thunderstorms during the morning. Partly cloudy skies this afternoon. High 87F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%..

Tonight

Partly cloudy skies. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 69F. Winds light and variable.
Ben Franklin may have been right that nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes, but we hate preparing for both.

Many people put off writing their last wills and testaments, perhaps to avoid confronting their own mortality. But when they do, their decisions about distributing their estates can reveal much. Let us consider the quirky, eccentric, and downright weird tidbits tucked in the farewell documents of famous folks:

You learned as a child, Listen my children and you shall hear, of the midnight ride of Paul Revere. He was a true Patriot  and a darn good silversmith, too. Which made him wealthy in Revolutionary Boston.

But Paul had a beef with one relative. He left his children and grandchildren $500 each  a big chunk of change in 1818  with one exception: One grandson received just $1. Imagine the family discussion when that will was read! Historians arent sure why the grandson fell out of favor.

Harriet Beecher Stowe penned an incendiary novel about slavery called Uncle Toms Cabin. Abraham Lincoln told her, So youre the little woman who wrote the book that caused this great war.

Her literary career was so successful that when she died in 1896 she left her son valuable railroad stocks  and a Florida orange grove.

Daniel Webster was a flinty Granite Stater who served as senator and secretary of state, and who fictitiously bested Satan in The Devil and Daniel Webster. But he couldnt best death.

When his time came in 1852, his will disposed of every last belonging, including his fishing tackle and a gold snuffbox decorated with George Washingtons likeness. A lucky grandson got those goodies. (And what young boy wouldnt want a gold snuffbox?)

J.P. Morgan was the richest man in America in his day. Were talking Jeff Bezos, Warren Buffett, Bill Gates wealthy. During the Panic of 1907, Morgan personally saved the U.S. government from bankruptcy. Thats how rich he was.

When he died six years later, his handwritten will left One Million Dollars (the emphasis was his) to his wife. That would be nearly $40 million today. The Widow Morgan did not go without.

W.C. Fields called death the Man in the Bright Nightshirt. He may have been a brilliant comedian, but he was also deeply paranoid, often imagining people were out to get him. And he repeatedly changed his will on a whim.

Adolf Hitler was a horrible human being. So, its no surprise his final wishes contained horrible ranting.

Dictated in a Berlin bunker in the last hours of his life, with Russian soldiers literally outside the door, he left his art collection to a gallery in my hometown of Linz on the Danube (which was never established) and bequeathed items of sentimental value or necessary for the maintenance of a modest simple life to a handful of relatives and faithful co-workers in his inner circle. The rest was to be given to the Nazi Party. But since there wasnt any party after his suicide, the will was moot.

Then there was his last testament, in which he insisted World War II wasnt his fault. Nothing was ever his fault (to him, anyway). It is untrue that I or anybody else in Germany wanted war in 1939. He was a liar and lunatic right up to the end.

Finally, history provides an object lesson. Abraham Lincoln died without a will. Remember what he did for a living before the presidency? He was a lawyer. Thats right; the man famous for writing the Gettysburg Address forgot to write a will for himself, thus proving the old saying, Cobblers children need shoes.

That caused tremendous problems for his widow, the emotionally tormented Mary Lincoln. Settling the estate was a long, bitter, costly affair that played out in the newspapers.

So do your loved ones a huge favor. If you dont have a will, prepare one.Your relatives will be happy to know the gold snuffbox will be staying in the family.

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.
JOHANNESBURG (AP)  Violent rioting has erupted in two South African provinces against the imprisonment of former President Jacob Zuma, with supporters blocking roads and looting shops. At least 62 people were arrested, South Africa police said Sunday.

Zuma started serving a 15-month sentence for contempt of court last week. Zuma has been imprisoned for defying a court order to testify before a state-backed inquiry probing allegations of corruption during his term as president from 2009 to 2018.
PLAINS, Ga. (AP)  Former President Jimmy Carter on Saturday turned to his wife Rosalynn and thanked her for 75 years of marriage, telling her that she's always been right for him.

I want to express particular gratitude for being the right woman that I chose for my wife," Carter said at a 75th wedding anniversary celebration in his hometown of Plains, Georgia. About 300 friends and family members attended the event at Plains High School, part of which was livestreamed.

Rosalynn Carter, sitting by his side, recounted how she didn't care for dating young men while growing up and never thought she'd get married.

I didn't know how to talk to them, I didn't want to go out with them," she said. She added that she used to urge her mother to tell suiters calling for her on the phone that she wasn't around.

And then, along came Jimmy Carter and my life has been an adventure ever since," she said.

In a recent interview, the 39th president told The Associated Press that the couple's marriage is a full partnership."

The two met in Georgia when Jimmy Carter, at the time a young midshipman, was home from the U.S. Navy Academy. His younger sister set him up on a date with Rosalynn, who was a family friend who already had a crush on the future Georgia governor and U.S. president.

The two were married on July 7, 1946, in Plains, a town of fewer than 1,000 residents.

Their anniversary is the most recent milestone for the longest-married presidential couple in American history. Rosalynn Carter is 93. The former president, at 96, is the longest-lived of the 45 men whove served as chief executive.

Those who attended Saturday's celebration included former U.S. President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, along with U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. Country music stars Trisha Yearwood and Garth Brooks; and media businessman Ted Turner also attended, the Carter Center said in a statement.

Carter, wearing a dark suit jacket with a yellow flower on the chest, closed his brief remarks with six simple words to those gathered: I love you all very much."
ROME (AP)  Pope Francis on Sunday made his first public appearance since major intestinal surgery last week, greeting well-wishers as he stood for 10 minutes on a hospital balcony, offering hearty thanks for the prayers for his recovery and calling health care for all a precious good.

Francis, 84, has been steadily on the mend, according to the Vatican, following his July 4 scheduled surgery to remove a portion of his colon that had narrowed due to inflammation. But it hasn't said just when he might be discharged from the Gemelli Polyclinic in Rome. On the morning after his surgery, a Holy See spokesperson said his hospital stay was expected to last seven days, barring complications.

At first the pontiff's voice sounded a bit weak as he began his remarks after stepping onto a balcony outside his special suite at Gemelli at noon. But he smiled broadly at those gathered below, including some hospital patients well enough to temporarily leave their rooms to cheer for him.

Noon is when traditionally he would have appeared from a window at the Vatican overlooking St. Peters Square to recite the Angelus, or prayer. Exactly a week earlier, in his noon remarks he had given no hint that in a few hours he would be having surgery.

I am happy to be able to keep the Sunday appointment of the Angelus, even here from Gemelli Polyclinic," Francis said. "I thank everyone. I felt your closeness and the support of your prayers.''

"Thank you from my heart! exclaimed the pontiff, smiling as he peered over the balcony railing to better see the faithful below.

Standing on the balcony with him were some children who are also hospitalized at Gemelli, a major Catholic teaching hospital on the outskirts of Rome. The crowd below clapped often.

Francis underwent three hours of abdominal surgery under general anesthesia on July 4, and later that night was described by the Holy See as having responded well.

Reading from prepared remarks Sunday, he kept one or both hands on a lectern for support, including when he raised an arm in blessing. The pope praised the tenderness of those who care for the sick, which he said was like a caress that makes you feel better, eases the pain and picks you up."

In these days of hospitalization, I experienced yet again how important a good health service is, accessible to all, as it is in Italy and other countries, Francis said.

"We mustnt lose this precious thing, the pope said. He added that sometimes it happens in the (Catholic) church that some health care institution, because of poor management, doesn't go well economically, and the first thought that comes to our mind is to sell it, he said. "But the vocation in the church is not to have money, it's to give service.''

Francis added his appreciation for all the health care workers, then, referring to the pediatric patients on the balcony with him, said why do children suffer?

Why children suffer is a question that touches the heart, Francis said, asking prayers for them.

As he usually does on Sundays, Francis spoke of current events and of issues close to his heart. He reiterated his closeness to Haiti's people, as he recalled the assassination last week of its president and the wounding of the first lady. Francis prayed that the people of Haiti could start going down a path toward a future of peace and of harmony.

The world's environmental fragility has been a major theme of his papacy since it began in 2013. On Sunday, as countless people were vacationing at the shore, Francis urged them to look after the health of seas." No plastic in the sea! he pleaded.

He also voiced hope that Europe may be united in its founding values, a possible reference to tensions between European Union leaders and member Hungary over LGBTQ rights crackdowns. Francis noted that Sunday marked the feast of St. Benedict, the patron saint of Europe.

Francis ended with his usual invitation don't forget to pray for me, drawing rousing applause.

Also Sunday, inside the hospital, the pope chatted with other patients as an aide wheeled him down a corridor. In a video from Vatican News, Francis could be seen clasping a woman's hand as she lay on her bed, which had been moved into the corridor for the occasion, and she can be heard telling the pontiff they are both 84.

Besides seeing the faithful again, Francis had another reason to smile on Sunday. Argentina beat Brazil 1-0 in the Copa America soccer final. Francis is a huge soccer fan, and roots for the San Lorenzo squad in his native Buenos Aires.
WASHINGTON (AP)  A month after approving a controversial new Alzheimers drug, U.S. health regulators on Thursday signed off on new prescribing instructions that are likely to limit its use.

The Food and Drug Administration said the change is intended to address confusion among physicians and patients about who should get the drug, which has faced an intense public backlash since its approval last month.

The new drug label emphasizes that the drug, Aduhelm, is appropriate for patients with mild symptoms or early-stage Alzheimer's but has not been studied in patients with more advanced disease. That's a big change from the original FDA instructions, which said simply that the drug was approved for Alzheimer's disease in general.

Drugmaker Biogen announced the change in a release Thursday, stating that the update is intended to clarify the patient group studied in the company trials that led to approval. The FDA first approached the company about narrowing the label and OK'd the language.

Hearing these concerns, FDA determined that clarifications could be made to the prescribing information to address this confusion, the agency said in an emailed statement. Despite the update, the FDA added that some patients may benefit from ongoing treatment if they develop more advanced Alzheimers.

When the drug was first approved, a top FDA official told reporters the drug was relevant to all stages of Alzheimers disease.

The FDAs OK last month quickly sparked controversy over Aduhelm's $56,000-a-year price-tag and questionable benefits. Three of FDAs outside advisers resigned over the decision with Harvard researcher Dr. Aaron Kesselheim calling it the worst drug approval decision in recent U.S. history.

On Thursday, Kesselheim tweeted that the change was a welcome step but added that the FDA and Biogen should do much more to combat misperceptions about this drug.

Sweeping changes to drug labels are rare, particularly only a few weeks after approval.

Its a responsible move by both the FDA and Biogen to maximize the safety while giving the drug the best chance to work, said Dr. Ronald Petersen of the Mayo Clinic, who has consulted for Biogen and other drugmakers. The drug's side effects include brain swelling and bleeding.

Aduhelm hasn't been shown to reverse or significantly slow the disease. But the FDA said that its ability to reduce clumps of plaque in the brain is likely to slow dementia. Many experts say there is little evidence to support that claim.

Biogen is required to conduct a follow-up study to definitively answer whether the drug slows mental decline. Other Alzheimer's drugs only temporarily ease symptoms.

Because of its price and broad approval some analysts have worried that Aduhelm could add tens of billions in new expenses to the U.S. health care system, particularly the federal government's Medicare program. Alzheimers affects about 6 million Americans, the vast majority old enough to qualify for Medicare.

Two congressional committees in the House have launched an investigation into the FDA's review of the drug. And lawmakers in the Senate have called for hearings into the drugs cost and impact on federal spending.

The narrower label may ease some of those concerns by shrinking the number of patients likely to get the drug, which requires monthly IVs. Many hospitals have already stated that they plan to limit the drug's use to patients with earlier stage disease. Doctors could still prescribe the drug for more advanced patients, though insurers might refuse to pay for it, citing the FDA label.

It was pretty troubling that the previous label was so broad and included groups of patients in whom the drug had never been tested, said Dr. Suzanne Schindler of Washington University in St. Louis. I think this is a positive change because it better reflects the patients in whom the drug was actually studied.

Wall Street analysts said the change wouldnt significantly impact projected sales for Biogen. Michael Yee of Jefferies said in a research note that the company already planned to target the drug for the 1 million to 2 million Americans with mild Alzheimer's.

___

Follow Matthew Perrone on Twitter: @AP_FDAwriter

___

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.
Branson Blasts Off: Mach 3 to Zero G in a Natty Blue Spacesuit Bloomberg

BUZZ OFF, BEES. POLLINATION ROBOTS ARE HERE. WSJ

The Surfside condo collapse and NYCs BQE NY Daily News

Greeks Bearing Gifts Laphams Quarterly. Simon Winchester.

True Bromance London Review of Books. Review of Ravi Shankar biography.

The Resurrection of Bass Reeves Texas Monthly

The Tin Man Gets His Heart: An Oral History of Terminator 2: Judgment Day The Ringer

When evangelical snowflakes censor the Bible: The English Standard Version goes PC Salon (chuck l)

Sea otters defy our understanding of metabolism Popular Science (The Rev Kev)

Stonehenge: Did ancient machine move stones from Wales? BBC (chuck l)

Billion Years of Tectonic Plate Movement in 40 Seconds Visual Capitalist (furzy)

On This German Farm, Cows Are in Charge. Or at Least Coequals. NYT

#COVID-19

Boris Johnson: The Prime Etonian Prospect

Class Warfare

Jewishness as property under Israeli law Mondoweiss (chuck l)

Health Care

Sports Desk

Biden Administration

How the FBI played a role in the capture of Princess Latifa of Dubai Yahoo News

Waste Watch

Thats Lethal, Communities Completely Exposed to This Kind of Heat FAIR

Reservoirs are drying up as consequences of the Western drought worsen WaPo

California wildfire advances as heat wave blankets US West AP

Gas Sellers Reaped $11 Billion Windfall During Texas Freeze Bloomberg

Quest for green cement draws big name investors to $300B industry Ars Technica

Our Famously Free Press

Brazil

Bolsonaros escalating rhetoric about canceling the 2022 election is coinciding with polls showing Lula almost certain to defeat him. The latest today, from @folha, shows Lula with a 21-point lead. Lula would win in the run-off by 58%-31%.https://t.co/cjHyU6bSIH pic.twitter.com/CK4kwWW1m7  Glenn Greenwald (@ggreenwald) July 9, 2021

Myanmar

India

China?

Europeans pretend to do antitrust but dont. The U.S. is starting to get into gear on big tech. But the real action is in China. https://t.co/NrViA7Gwfc  Matt Stoller (@matthewstoller) July 11, 2021



Antidote du Jour (via):

See yesterdays Links and Antidote du Jour here.
By Jerri-Lynn Scofield, who has worked as a securities lawyer and a derivatives trader. She is currently writing a book about textile artisans.

Last week, fifteen states, including Massachusetts and New York, dropped opposition to the bankruptcy exit plan of Purdue Pharma, making it likely the plan will be approved when it comes before federal bankruptcy Judge Robert Drain on August 9, according to NPR, 15 States Drop Opposition To Controversial Purdue Pharma OxyContin Bankruptcy.

Faced with thousands of lawsuits over Its sales of OxyContin, Purdue filed for bankruptcy in September 2019 (as I discussed in Purdue Files for Bankruptcy, Agrees to Settle Some Pending Opioids Litigation: Sacklers on Hook for Billions?)

Recall at the time:

But 24 other state attorneys-general  including California, Massachusetts, New York, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania  as well as the District of Columbia, oppose the efforts of Purdues lawyers to wield the bankruptcy shield to protect the personal assets of the Sacklers  none of whom has sought to declare personal bankruptcy.

That earlier post discussed the shenanigans in which various Sacklers had engaged to preserve personal assets  including a New York Times report of $1 billion in family wire transfers  as well as other avenues the state AGs might pursue to reach personal Sackler assets, despite the Purdue bankruptcy filing.

These state efforts have now apparently come to naught and this exit plan vindicates Purdues lawyers, who have succeeded in sheltering the bulk of Sackler family assets from Purdue-related claims, without any need to declare personal bankruptcy.

As part of the exit plan, Purdue has agreed to release tens of millions of documents and pay approximately $4.2  $4.5 billion over nine years. The Sackler family would cede ownership of Purdue and would be shielded from future opioid lawsuits.

Purdue has on two occasions, in 2007 and 2020, pleaded guilty to federal criminal charges related to its opioid marketing practices. According to a report local CBS television affiliate, KKTV 11, Opioid giant Purdue Pharmas bankruptcy exit plan gains steam with OK from more states :

Last year, the company pleaded guilty to federal criminal charges and agreed to pay $225 million to the federal government. In a separate civil settlement announced at the same time, Sackler family members agreed to pay the federal government $225 million, while admitting no wrongdoing.

Yet as part of this bankruptcy exit plan, no member of the Sackler family will have to apologize or admit responsibility for fueling the opioids epidemic, let alone face criminal liability, although they will have to forgo naming rights for buildings they might endow until the all payments under the plan are made. Thatll show em!

So, no Sackler will go to jail. And the Sackler family will retain much of its current fortune, which the Wall Street Journal reported in April is worth roughly $11 billion, according to Purdues Sackler Family Owners Worth $11 Billion, Documents Show. This $4 billion and change Purdue payout will not even knock the family out of the billionaire class. (Note that $11 billion is only for the Sackler branches with current Purdue holdings; it thus excludes another branch of the family.)

According to the WSJ:

Members of the Sackler family who own bankrupt OxyContin-maker Purdue Pharma LP are worth approximately $11 billion, documents released Tuesday by a congressional committee show. . Summaries of the family wealth, turned over to Rep. Carolyn Maloney (D., N.Y.), also were seen by Purdues creditors during settlement talks, according to representatives for the two branches of the companys family owners. A third branch of the family is no longer involved in Purdue Pharma and wasnt included in Tuesdays release by Rep. Maloney, who chairs the House Committee on Oversight and Reform. A spokesman for the descendants of the late Mortimer Sackler said no party in the bankruptcy has challenged the accuracy or completeness of the wealth disclosure and that we hope the focus will now be on concluding a resolution that will deliver timely resources to individuals, families and communities in need.

Jerri-Lynn here. I wondered if they did make such a challenge, what might they find?

Back to the WSJ:

A lawyer for the late Raymond Sackler side of the family said the amount of the familys settlement offer exceeds the profits they retained from OxyContin sales. He added that the family supports the release of company documents that demonstrate Sackler family members behaved ethically and legally.

The terms of the settlement allow $175 million held in Sackler family charities to be repurposed towards the bankruptcy exit plan, according to CBS (Jerri-Lynn here: see item 6, July 7, 2021 Mediators Report.)

Nine other states, including Connecticut, where Purdue is headquartered, and California, Delaware, Maryland, New Hampshire, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Washington, as well as Washington, D.C., still oppose the latest agreement.

Connecticuts William Tong continues to seek too stymie this exit plan; Tong outlined his thinking in an interview with NPR, Connecticut Attorney General Discusses Opposing Purdue Pharma Bankruptcy Settlement:

TONG: It just doesnt provide enough justice. We lose more than a thousand people every year in Connecticut. Thats more than a thousand Connecticut families wrecked by the opioid and addiction crisis in which the Sacklers and Purdue Pharma played a central role. And this causes more than $10 billion of economic damage to the state of Connecticut. And as far as I can tell, the Sacklers have stashed away their wealth. Theyre not selling any cars or boats or art or houses. And they have to do more to pay for the harm that they caused people in Connecticut and across the country. And this isnt enough.

Interviewer Mary Louise Kelly pressed Tong on why he wouldnt accept the settlement:

KELLY:  Let me push you, though, because, you know, we all know perfect can be the enemy of the good. And I dont hear anyone arguing this is a perfect settlement. But is it not better than no settlement? TONG: Yeah, its never going to be enough, and I acknowledge that. But at the end of the day, this is not just a normal litigation. My job is to pursue justice for families and victims here in Connecticut. And frankly, its really important to note, this is an abuse of the bankruptcy process. The Sacklers are not bankrupt. They have tens of billions of dollars that theyve pilfered from this company. And for them to use the bankruptcy process to shield themselves and protect themselves is an outrage. [Jerri-Lynn here: My emphasis.]

Tong has a key role to play, as Purdue is headquartered in Connecticut. Per the NPR interview:

KELLY: On a practical level, does this fight get harder for you, with Massachusetts and New York among the states dropping opposition? TONG: Its always been a hard fight. I knew that when I got into it. But the reason why Connecticut is so aggressive in playing a central role in this is, of course, because Im the home state attorney general. Purdue Pharma is based in my home city of Stamford, Conn., and many of the Sacklers have in the past and still do call Connecticut their home. So to me, it means that I have a special obligation to be aggressive to hold them accountable. KELLY: So whats your next move? TONG: Im in constant communication with the eight other states and the District of Columbia who are a no on this settlement proposal, and we are considering and pursuing all of our viable options.

Vermonts AG, T.J. Donovan, is also fighting on and was quoted as saying, The idea that billionaires can use their wealth go to bankruptcy court and have their cases dismissed from a statebecause theyre essentially putting money toward the deal in bankruptcy courtI find objectionable, according to ABC affiliate News 10, Vermont wont join states backing Purdue Pharma bankruptcy plan.

CBS reported:

One of the holdouts, Washington Attorney General Bob Ferguson complained: This settlement plan allows the Sacklers to walk away as billionaires with a legal shield for life. A 10th attorney general, West Virginias Patrick Morrisey, opposes the deal on separate grounds: That his state would get shorted when the money is allocated. He reiterated that position Thursday.

Alas, the consensus seems to be that despite the continued opposition from the AGs of ten states and Washington, D.C., Judge Drain will approve the exit plan in August.

Massachusetts and New York State AGs Have Decided to Throw in the Towel

Two prominent state AGs, Maura Healey of Massachusetts and Letitia James of New York, who had previously targeted Purdue and the Sacklers, have now capitulated. According to NPR:

Speaking with NPR in May, Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey blasted the plan, describing it as a dangerous precedent. The bankruptcy system should not be allowed to shield non-bankrupt billionaires, she said. Healey also objected to a provision of the plan that will generate funds to pay Purdue Pharmas creditors in part through the future sale of opioids.

Healey has now changed her tune:

In a statement sent to NPR early Thursday morning, Healey said the modified deal brought significant accountability. While I know this resolution does not bring back loved ones or undo the evil of what the Sacklers did, forcing them to turn over their secrets by providing all the documents, forcing them to repay billions  will help stop anything like this from ever happening again, Healey said.

According to NPR, NY state AG James issued a statement Thursday:

 saying the settlement is not perfect, but describing it as an important step for communities harmed by the opioid epidemic. Well be able to more quickly invest these funds in prevention, education, and treatment programs, and put an end to the delays and legal maneuvering that could possibly continue for years and across multiple continents, James said in a statement emailed to NPR.

At the end of June, James had announced another significant opioid settlement, in which Johnson a& Johnson a greed to settle a New York lawsuit on the eve of trial, as I wrote in Johnson J & J Agrees to Pay New York $230 Million to Settle Opioids Lawsuit; Global Settlement Soon?

The rationale for capitulating on the Purdue exit plan now appears to be that signing onto a settlement now will speed up states getting access to funds to address the ongoing opioids criss. According to CBS:

In a joint online news conference Thursday, some of the attorneys general who signed on noted that their states are in line to get more money faster to fund drug treatment and prevention. But they continued to express ire with the company and especially members of the wealthy Sackler family who own the company and have not accepted any blame. No one is happy with the settlement, New York Attorney General Letitia James said. Can the Sacklers do more? Hell yeah, they can do a lot better, but it should first begin with an apology.

Jerri-Lynn here. Is she serious? An apology? Ohh, that demand must have had them quaking in their boots. Say sorry and well all be happy. According to NPR.

While I understand the the appeal of getting access quickly to funds to address the opioids crisis, this proposed exit plan is just the latest in a sad and sorry litany of erosion of the principle of accountability for corporate misdeeds. I reiterate: no Sackler will go to jail. The family wont even drop out of the billionaire class, and instead, will hang onto the bulk of its fortune.

This doesnt look like justice to me. Nor, I imagine, to the many people whove lost family, friends, and loved ones to opioids.
(Natural News) Leaders of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), the largest socialist political organization in the US, met with Venezuelan dictator Nicolas Maduro on Friday. The DSA has previously endorsed Reps. Rashida Tlaib (D-MI.), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY), Cori Bush (D-MO), and Jamaal Bowman (D-NY).

(Article by Ari Hoffman republished from ThePostMillennial.com)

According to Telesur, DSA members who attended the meeting included: the chairperson of the National Political Committee, members of the International Committee, the organizations Political Formation committee, Foreign Policy committee, and Bilateral Relations committee. The goals of the meeting included strengthening the fight against the blockade and the coercive and unilateral measures imposed by the government of the United States.

Tidewater DSA, the organizations Virginia chapter, as well as Maduro himself confirmed the meeting.

#EnVivo  | Encuentro con Socialistas Democraticos de los Estados Unidos. https://t.co/8UkEcJ3NfD  Nicolas Maduro (@NicolasMaduro) July 3, 2021

DSA claimed they had close to 10,000 members join the organization after Ocasio-Cortez was first elected in 2018. DSA also claimed to have over 92,000 members and chapters in all 50 states. According to the DSA website, We know our economic system is rooted in white supremacy and the capitalist class depends on racism to divide and oppress the working class.

Many other Democrat adjacent groups have made similar trips. In 2019, Sarah Chambers, a board executive for the Chicago Teachers Union (CTU) led a group to Venezuela on behalf of the organization, to provide support for Maduros regime.

The CTU is affiliated with the American Federation of Teachers, which heavily supported the Biden presidential campaign, as well as many other liberal campaigns. Chambers has a long history with the more activist elements of the union, including the #RedforEd movement, which has socialist roots, and advocates for a leftist Democrat uprising designed to flip purple or red states blue, using the the education system.

In March, the Chicago Teachers Union passed a resolution to oppose US intervention in Venezuela. The Marxist-Leninism Today provided the details of that resolution.

Amnesty Internationals most recent report on Venezuela and Maduros human rights violations stated: The continuing human rights crisis in Venezuela saw further reports of extrajudicial executions, excessive use of force, and unlawful killings by the security forces during the year. People expressing criticism of government policiesincluding political activists, journalists, and health workerswere subjected to repressive measures including criminalization, unfair trials, and arbitrary detention.

The DSA issued a statement in March criticizing the Biden administrations policies toward Venezuela.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with right-wing opposition leader Juan Guaido and, illegitimately and against the wishes of the Venezuelan people, recognized him as interim president of Venezuela. This act by the Biden administration is just the latest in a long history of feckless and illegal US interventions in the region, carried out with bipartisan consent. We take this occasion to reiterate our condemnation of historic and ongoing meddling by the US in Venezuelan internal affairs, as well as our broad support for movements for democracy and socialism in Venezuela.

The statement concluded, Finally, DSA IC calls on DSA-endorsed candidates and elected officials to use their positions to decry all US interference in Venezuela, and on its chapters and members to organize protests against this interference and hold educational events to learn more about how to support movements for Bolivarian socialism in the 21st century.

Former President Donald Trump imposed a series of crippling sanctions on Venezuela. The Biden administration rejected a plea from Maduro to lift sanctions according to The Epoch Times.

Read more at: ThePostMillennial.com
(Natural News) A new study warned that more than half of popular cosmetics sold in North America contain high levels of toxic chemicals. Researchers found that 52 percent of the cosmetic products they analyzed, which included concealers, lip products and foundations, contained per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Earlier studies have linked PFAS to health issues such as cancer, hypertension and thyroid disease.

Notre Dame University researchers tested more than 200 cosmetic products for fluorine, the presence of which indicates that PFAS were used in the product. They discovered that 52 percent of the products they tested contained the aforementioned chemical. Further analysis also revealed that 56 percent of foundations and eye products, 48 percent of lip products and 47 percent of mascaras contained high levels of fluorine.

The researchers also performed additional tests on 29 products and found that they contained up to 13 PFAS, but only one actively listed the chemicals as part of its ingredients. Products advertised as long-lasting and wear-resistant, in particular, contained high levels of PFAS  something the researchers did not find surprising. They said PFAS are often used because of their water-resistant and film-forming properties.

Professor Graham Peaslee, the studys senior author, said: PFAS [are] persistent [chemicals]  when [they get] into the bloodstream, [they stay] there and [accumulate]. Theres also the additional risk of environmental contamination associated with the manufacture and disposal of these products, which could affect many people.

Peaslee also noted that PFAS in cosmetics can be absorbed through the skin or at the tear duct since these products are applied around the eyes and mouth. PFAS can also be ingested or inhaled.

Our measurements indicate widespread use of PFAS in [cosmetic] products. But its important to note that the full extent of use of fluorinated chemicals in cosmetics is hard to estimate due to lack of strict labeling requirements in both [the U.S. and Canada], said Peaslee.

These so-called forever chemicals are found in everyday products

Peaslee remarked that his teams findings are particularly concerning, given the size and scale of the industry that produces these products, as well as the high risk of exposure to disease-causing chemicals that comes with their use.

Earlier studies have found that PFAS are present in many everyday items besides cosmetics. Non-stick cookware, fabrics and food wrappers also contain these so-called forever chemicals. PFAS are known as such because they dont degrade naturally. This property makes them a threat to the environment as they can contaminate groundwater for decades. (Related: Toxins in the environment found to impact male reproductive health.)

On its website, the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences said that PFAS are widely used in household products. PFAS keep food from sticking to cookware, make clothes and carpets resistant to stains and create very effective firefighting foams. They are also used in various industries, such as the aerospace, automotive, construction and electronics industries.

However, despite their usefulness, the ubiquitous PFAS have been linked to a wide range of health issues. Previous studies show that forever chemicals contribute to various health issues, such as low birth weight, thyroid disease, hypertension and kidney and testicular cancer. Meanwhile, another study reported detecting PFAS in the bloodstream of pregnant women.

Back in March 2021, University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) researchers found more than a hundred different chemicals in blood samples extracted from pregnant women. Out of the chemicals they detected, seven were identified to be PFAS. (Related: US scientists detect MORE THAN 50 chemicals from everyday products in pregnant women and newborns.)

The UCSF researchers said they focused on samples from pregnant women as pregnancy is a critical period of development for future health risks. Their findings suggest that the substances travel through the placenta, where the developing fetus absorbs the chemicals. They also noted that PFAS and the other chemicals most likely came from everyday products, such as cosmetics and plastics.

Chemicals.news has more articles about PFAS in everyday products and their long-term negative effects on health.

Sources include:

DailyMail.co.uk 1

NIEHS.NIH.gov

DailyMail.co.uk 2
(Natural News) As many observers have noted, staying safe has become a religion. Safetyism, as it is sometimes called, like all religions, places what it values  in this case, being safe  above other values. Safetyism explains the willingness of Americans to give up their most cherished values  including liberty  in the name of safety for the last year and a half.

(Article by Dennis Prager republished from TownHall.com)

Millions of Americans not only gave up their right to go to work, earn a living, attend church or synagogue, and visit friends and relatives, but they even gave up their right to visit dying relatives and friends. One can assume that nearly every person recorded as having died of COVID-19 died without having a single loved one at their bedside from the moment they entered a hospital until their death. The acceptance of such cruelty  irrational and unscientific cruelty, one might add  can only be explained by the failure of generations of schools and parents to teach liberty, while successfully teaching the worship of safety. If your father had to die alone, it was worth it for the sake of safety; if your mother had to be in what amounted to solitary confinement in a nursing home for more than a year, that, too, was worth it for the sake of safety. And, of course, if political leaders and leaders in science and medicine have to lie for the sake of safety, so be it; truth, too, is less important than safety.

None of this is new. Twenty-five years ago, I wrote and broadcast about the willingness of Americans to watch individual rights crushed in the war against smoking, and especially in accepting the absurdity of the allegedly lethal dangers of secondhand smoke. No one denies that intense exposure to secondhand smoke can exacerbate preexisting illnesses such as asthma. But the anti-smoking zealots claim that 50,000 Americans die each year from exposure to secondhand smoke is nonsense. For example, in 2013, the Journal of the National Cancer Institute reported that there was no statistically significant relationship between lung cancer and exposure to passive smoke.

Yet, in the name of that nonsensical 50,000-a-year claim, people were forbidden not only to smoke on airplanes  which on courtesy grounds alone was appropriate  but even in smoke shops. In the city of Burbank, California, run for decades by leftists who, like all leftists, have contempt for personal liberty, smoking is banned even in cigar shops. Despite the fact that no one is forced to work in any cigar shop, and even if the shop is well-ventilated, no smoking is permitted.

What is important to note is that these irrational prohibitions on personal liberty bothered no one except smokers. The number of nonsmoking citizens of Burbank who objected to these laws was probably zero. Had Burbank announced a ban on alcohol, there would have been a revolt  despite the fact that at least half the instances of spouse- and child-abuse are accompanied by alcohol, and every instance of death, brain damage, paralysis and other permanent injury caused by a drunk driver is caused by alcohol. Has anyone been killed by a smoking driver? Has anyone been murdered, or any child or spouse been molested or beaten because the murderer or abuser had been smoking?

So, the safety zealots learned from the anti-smoking and anti-secondhand smoke crusade the great lesson that if you told Americans something wasnt safe, you could deprive them of their rights and they would willingly go along with it. And, for the record, this is equally true in virtually every country in the world. Safety uber alles.

They didnt only learn this lesson from the anti-smoking fanatics. For two generations now, safety has increasingly deprived Americans of joys as well as freedoms. Children, in particular, have been so coddled that American children of the last two generations have probably had far less joy and far more fear than children of any previous American generation. Young children cannot take walks on their own lest child protective services be called; diving boards, once found on nearly every home swimming pool, are widely banned; and monkey bars and seesaws have been removed from playgrounds. As an article in the Australian website Babyology headlined: Monkey bars are dangerous and must be removed from playgrounds, experts say.

Young people up to age 15 cannot fly without adult supervision by the airline. Why not? I flew alone from Miami to New York when I was 7 years old, and no one thought my parents acted in any way irresponsibly.

Two Norwegian scientists, Ellen Sandseter (Queen Maud University College of Early Childhood Education) and Leif Kennair (Norwegian University of Science and Technology), wrote a study on children and risky play published in Evolutionary Psychology in which they concluded: We may observe an increased neuroticism or psychopathology in society if children are hindered from partaking in age-adequate risky play.

The desire to lead as safe a life as possible is a major factor that explains why fewer and fewer young Americans are getting married and even fewer are having children. Neither marriage nor having children is safe. Both are filled with risks. The headline of an article this past week on NBCs Today show website reads, Child-free adults are just as happy as parents, study finds. Aside from the question of whether one can compare the happiness of two groups of people with entirely different experiences (would it be meaningful to say that most dogs are happier than human beings?)  or even whether one can expect honest answers (how many people claim their choices in life made them unhappy?)  the article well illustrates the point of this column. Be safe would certainly include not getting married and not having children.

You can live a safe life. Or you can live a full life. You cant live both.

Read more at: TownHall.com
(Natural News) A medical research group in the U.K. pointed out that the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccines are unsafe for humans based on adverse event reports. Scientists and doctors looked at data from the British governments Yellow Card vaccine event reporting system. They found that the overwhelming number of adverse reactions from COVID-19 vaccines definitely raised alarm bells.

The Yellow Card system is the British equivalent of the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) in the U.S. The system is run by the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). Through the Yellow Card system, the MHRA keeps track of COVID-19 vaccines on an ongoing basis to ensure their benefits continue to outweigh any risks.

However, researchers at the Evidence-based Medicine Consultancy (EbMC) research group based in Bath, England unveiled concerning findings. EbMC Director Dr. Tess Lawrie wrote about her groups findings in a June 9 letter to the MHRA Chief Executive Officer Dr. June Raine.

Lawrie wrote in her letter that between Jan. 4 and May 6 of this year, a total of 888,196 adverse events and 1,253 deaths were reported to Yellow Card. Similar to VAERS data, these were not directly proven as correlated with the COVID-19 vaccine. Despite this, the EMBC director raised safety concerns for those getting the vaccine. She wrote that given the Yellow Card figures, the MHRA now has more than enough evidence  to declare the COVID-19 vaccine unsafe for use in humans.

Lawrie then asked urgent questions for the MHRA to answer as the soonest. She asked how many people have died within 28 days of vaccination and how many people have been hospitalized for the same period. She also asked the total number of people disabled by the vaccination.

In a later interview with TrialSiteNews, she described the total number of cases as concerning and called for follow-ups on persons who reported adverse reactions to ensure there are no further problems. Lawrie said: The scope of morbidity is striking, evidencing a lot of incidents and what amounts to a large number of ill.

Reports in the Yellow Card system only prove the coronavirus vaccines are unsafe

Lawrie also lamented that Yellow Card was incredibly opaque during her TrialSiteNews interview. She shared that researchers are unable to filter vaccine safety incidents by age, gender or other attributed. According to the EbMC director, about 60 percent or more of COVID-19 vaccines in the U.K. came from AstraZeneca, with the remainder from the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine.

The letter called on the MHRA to urgently make reports of vaccine adverse reaction public, given that pharmacovigilance data is known to be subsequently under-reported. It also called on the regulator to assist people with reporting adverse reactions. (Related: British mainstream media insists coronavirus vaccines are effective even though most covid deaths now occur in vaccinated people.)

Lawrie concluded the letter: Preparation should be made to scale up humanitarian efforts to assist those harmed by the COVID-19 vaccines, and to anticipate and ameliorate medium to longer term effects. As the mechanism for harms from the vaccines appears to be similar to COVID-19 itself, this includes engaging with numerous international doctors and scientists with expertise in successfully treating COVID-19.

But according to an article published in late June 2021, vaccine deaths and adverse reactions are no cause for alarm. It even argued that people who died from COVID-19 vaccines served as proof of their effectiveness. (Related: The Guardian says people dying from covid vaccines is proof that they work.)

In a June 27 piece for The Guardian, David Spiegelhalter and Anthony Masters called on people to avoid thinking of vaccine deaths as a bad sign. Rather, they insisted that such deaths were expected from an effective but imperfect vaccine. They wrote: Does this mean the [COVID-19] vaccines are ineffective? Far from it, its what we would expect from an effective but imperfect vaccine.

The two also took a swipe at reports of vaccine-related deaths circulating on various social media platforms. Coverage and effectiveness are important  for assessing vaccination programs. It is better to look at cool analysis by analysis, rather than hot takes on social [media], they wrote.

Visit DangerousMedicine.com to read more about the risks of adverse reactions brought about by the COVID-19 vaccines.

Sources include:

WakingTimes.com

TheFreeThoughtProject.com

Gov.uk

TrialSiteNews.com 1 [PDF]

TrialSiteNews.com 2

TheGuardian.com
(Natural News) Public health measures to curb the spread of the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) such as mask mandates ended up causing more harm than the disease itself. Children especially were greatly affected by these restrictions as they were implemented in schools and subsequently impacted their mental, social and emotional development. Despite children having a very high COVID-19 survival rate  99.997 percent  authorities still mandated that they mask up, maintain social distance and attend classes virtually.

Centner Academy co-founder and CEO Leila Centner elaborated the effect of COVID-19 restrictions on children during the Advanced Medicine Conference held last May 30. According to the head of the Miami-based school, the school did not require their students to mask up during the pandemic  yet it did not have any hospitalizations from the disease. Centner added that while the eponymous academy had COVID-19 cases, most that occurred among students were asymptomatic.

During the event, Centner presented a video from ophthalmologist and preventive medicine specialist Dr. Jim Meehan. He conducted an evidence-based scientific analysis on masks  and found that healthy people should not wear face coverings as they could be harmful. Meehan also warned in the video that the mandate requiring children to wear masks is experimental.

He mentioned the different health problems children risk contracting while wearing masks. These included facial rashes, dental problems, oral ulcers, cavities, throat abscesses, anxiety, panic attacks and difficulty breathing. Meehans findings followed 17 risks of mask-wearing he earlier outlined. Some of his earlier discoveries regarding masks included how they negatively affect respiratory functions, how they lower oxygen and increase carbon dioxide levels in the blood and how they collect and colonize other pathogens.

Centner also featured New York pediatrician Dr. Lawrence Palevsky who warned about the negative effect of face masks on childrens brain development. According to the childrens doctor, masks promote fear, stress, panic and anxiety similar to the brains fight or flight response. This subsequently affects childrens cognitive development negatively, Palevsky added.

Fortunately, states are standing up to mask mandates for children

Researchers from Germanys Witten/Herdecke University established an online registry for individuals to enter their observations about mask-wearing in children. Based on data from 25,930 children, the researchers found 24 health issues stemming from face masks. A majority of parents reported that their children experienced different issues from wearing face coverings. These included irritability, headache and difficulty in concentration. (Related: Five-year-olds told to wear face masks in the classroom.)

Many states have seen the risk of making children wear face masks in schools, which led to these mandates being banned as a result of public outcry. Republican states have led the effort to prohibit face coverings for children.

The state of Iowa banned masks in schools back in May 2021. According to the Des Moines Register, lawmakers endorsed a bill prohibiting school district heads in the Hawkeye State from requiring students or staff members to wear face coverings. The measure passed the Iowa Legislature on May 20, with Gov. Kim Reynolds immediately signing it into law.

The Iowa governor said in a statement: The state  is putting parents back in control of their childs education and taking greater steps to protect the rights of all Iowans to make their own health care decisions.

The state of Florida also enacted a ban on mask mandates in schools, local news channel WPTV 5 reported. A memo sent by the states Education Commissioner Richard Corcoran said that face masks should be voluntary for the 2021-2022 school year. Face coverings are a personal decision and certainly, families and individuals should maintain their ability to make a decision  unique to their circumstances. [Mandatory] face-covering policies serve no remaining good at this point in our schools, he wrote.

Corcorans sentiments echoed that of Gov. Ron DeSantis regarding face masks. The governor of the Sunshine State said during a May 11 news conference: These kids do not need to be wearing these masks. We need to be able to let them be kids and let them act normally.

Utah also announced that it will no longer require students to mask up. We now have the ability for those that have concerns about the virus to protect ourselves much more. We have better masks available and opportunities for people to make those decisions, Gov. Spencer Cox told the Associated Press last May 6. (Related: Utah governor says students will no longer be required to mask up.)

Following the announcement, the governor added that students in the Beehive State with a higher risk of infection will have more options to protect themselves. They can either wear N95 masks while attending in-person classes or continue distance learning if their school offers it.

Visit MedicalTyranny.com to read more about the effects of COVID-19 mask mandates on children.

Sources include:

WakingTimes.com

DesMoinesRegister.com

WPTV.com

APNews.com
(Natural News) Prisons in New York are offering care packages, barbecue parties and even conjugal visits to encourage inmates to get vaccinated against COVID-19, according to a memo issued Wednesday, June 30, by Anthony Annucci, Acting Commissioner of the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS).

The perks are part of an incentive program that includes awarding five, fully vaccinated inmates in each of New Yorks 50 prisons with care packages up to $75 worth of the most popular food items sold at the assigned facilitys commissary. The six facilities with the highest rates of vaccinated inmates will also host a barbecue for the vaccinated population.

In his memo, Annucci also said inmates would have to be vaccinated to qualify for conjugal visits when the Family Reunification Program resumes in September. To qualify for the program, inmates have to be well-behaved and receive approval from the commissioners office.

According to Annucci, only 45 percent of New Yorks prison population has been vaccinated against COVID-19, compared to more than 70 percent of the general population. Annucci also noted that several other state prison populations have much higher vaccination rates.

The memo followed recent announcements of COVID-19 vaccination incentives from Gov. Andrew Cuomo and New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio. The incentives include lottery tickets worth as much as $5 million each, college scholarships, gym memberships, Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) MetroCards and railroad passes.

As of Thursday, July 1, 6,603 inmates and 5,175 prison staff have been diagnosed with COVID-19, according to the DOCCS.

More important work to do than care packages, barbecues

State Sen. Tom OMara spoke out against the incentive program. In a statement issued Thursday, July 1, he said Cuomos administration has more important work to do than spend resources on care packages and arrange barbecues for inmates. Instead, state prison officials should focus on stopping the rising tide of violence inside prisons and ensuring adequate staffing levels.

Moreover, OMara said Cuomo and the Legislatures Democratic supermajorities have been coddling inmates by severely hampering disciplinary sanctions, findings ways to parole more inmates and diminishing correctional officers ability to deal with violence inside prisons.

The ongoing attacks inside state prisons should serve as a stark reminder that steps are needed to protect staff, correctional officers and inmates themselves, added OMara. Ideally, those steps should include an action plan to cut down the dangerous drugs, weapons and other contraband that contribute to violence in prisons.

In other words, Cuomo and New Yorks current leadership are taking a carefree approach to criminal justice. It is irresponsible and dangerous, said OMara. (Related: Cuomo busted AGAIN, this time for prioritizing covid testing for his relatives.)

In response to criticisms of the incentive program, a DOCCS spokesperson said the prioritization of vaccines in prisons is important in that having inmates vaccinated ensures a safer work environment for prison staff and visitors, making no mention of the outbreaks experienced in many prisons earlier in the pandemic, which would have resulted in large populations of inmates having natural immunity. The spokesperson also said that such programs have been shown to be effective across the country.

But according to Mike Powers, president of the New York State Correctional Officers and Police Benevolent Association (NYSCOPBA), prison staff and correctional officers have been on the front lines during the coronavirus pandemic. Therefore, they should be included in a state incentives program as well.

Powers said a large number of members were infected with COVID-19 over the past couple of months. Many of them had to quarantine themselves, causing staffing issues. We feel New York should think about its own essential employees who continue to serve the community and follow the lead of other states who have correctional officer-specific incentives available, said Powers.

Colorado, for instance, offers its correctional officers $500 to get vaccinated against COVID-19.

Conspiracy.news has more stories about how the government is withholding privileges from people who refuse to get the COVID-19 vaccines.

Sources include:

FoxNews.com

NYSenate.gov
(Natural News) A number of U.S. states launched lotteries to encourage Americans to get the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine. Under these lotteries, inoculated citizens had the chance to win huge cash prizes. However, a study has shown that these vaccine lotteries did not increase coronavirus vaccination rates at all  despite news reports claiming otherwise.

Researchers from the Boston University School of Medicine penned the study published July 2 in JAMA. They focused on the Vax-a-Million lottery in Ohio, which reports claim led to an increase in COVID-19 vaccinations in the Buckeye State. Despite intending to increase inoculations in the state, the study found that it was not linked to a rise in vaccinations.

The study authors looked at data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to evaluate trends in vaccination rates among Americans 18 years old and above. They then compared vaccination rates before and after the Ohio lottery vis-a-vis other states that did not have similar programs yet. The vaccination rates in other states served as a control for trends measured in Ohio, permitting the researchers to account for other factors.

Study author Dr. Allan Walkey said: Our results suggest that state-based lotteries are of limited value in increasing vaccine uptake. Therefore, the resources devoted to vaccine lotteries may be more successfully invested in programs that target underlying reasons for vaccine hesitancy and low vaccine uptake.

News reports also claimed that Ohios example led other states to implement similar incentives as a response to declining vaccination rates. However, the study posited that the downtrend in vaccination rates slowed to a greater extent in the U.S. than in Ohio after the lottery was announced on May 12. It added that the expansion of vaccine eligibility to adolescents was linked to an increase in adult vaccination.

Walkey explained: Prior evaluations of the Ohio vaccine incentive lottery did not account for other changes in COVID-19 vaccination rates in the U.S., such as those that may have been due to expansion of vaccination to ages 12 to 15.

Vaccine lotteries put peoples lives at stake for cash

Walkey and his colleagues said identifying steps that can increase COVID-19 vaccination rates are necessary to curb the pandemic. It is important to rigorously evaluate strategies designed to increase vaccine uptake, rapidly deploy successful strategies and phase out those that do not work, he said.

Back in May, Ohio announced the Vax-a-Million promotion  which awarded $1 million to five Americans inoculated with COVID-19 vaccines. According to Gov. Mike DeWine, coronavirus relief funds from the federal government would be used for the lottery. He added that only adult residents would be eligible for the lottery draws that began on May 26.

The Ohio governor said that a separate lottery for those below 18 years old was in place. Winners of this other lottery could win a full four-year scholarship to one of Ohios state universities.

DeWine tweeted: Truly, the real waste at this point in the pandemic  when the vaccine is readily available to anyone who wants it  is a life lost to [COVID-19]. (Related: SPOOKY: Health Ranger predicted vaccine lottery ten years ago, now Ohio just announced a $1 million vaccine lottery for experimental covid injections.)

But in spite of the hype surrounding Ohios vaccine lottery, it failed to boost COVID-19 vaccination in the Buckeye State. NBC News reported in late June 2021 that the state ended the lottery on June 23. Originally planned to end on July 7, the lottery was concluded a week earlier than planned without Ohio breaching the 50 percent vaccination threshold.

The report said DeWines May 12 announcement of the lottery led to a 43 percent increase in COVID-19 vaccinations in the state compared to the week prior. But the numbers went downhill instead of increasing. Clearly, the impact went down after that second week, DeWine said on June 23.

Despite the short-lived success of the vaccine lottery, the Ohio governor insisted that it contributed significantly to the states mass vaccination efforts. DeWine explained that it got Ohioans who were undecided or those who declined to get inoculated. (Related: STUPID: New Mexico residents are now participating in a vaccine lottery by receiving the coronavirus vaccine.)

As of June 23, about 5.5 million people have received either one shot of the Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna mRNA vaccines or the single-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine. About 5 million people  43 percent of Ohios population  have completed the two-dose schedule for the mRNA vaccines.

Visit Vaccines.news to read more articles about Ohios vaccine lottery to promote COVID-19 vaccinations.

Sources include:

ScienceDaily.com

JAMANetwork.com

BBC.com

NBCNews.com
(Natural News) The World Economic Forum (WEF) is an international non-governmental organization supposedly dedicated to improving the world through business, politics and academia. Recently, it has been delving into the world of cybersecurity. In reality, the WEF is pushing for a Great Reset using a cyber-attack with COVID-like characteristics.

The WEF has taken a leading role in the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. It has pushed for vaccine passports, digital barcode tracking and, most importantly, the Great Reset. Now, it is warning the world about a possible globe-spanning cyberattack that could cripple the global financial system. (Related: World Economic Forum seeks to enslave Americans by replacing free-market capitalism with Great Reset to roll out global socialism.)

WEF priming people to expect globe-spanning cyber attack

In early 2021, the WEF Center for Cybersecurity announced Cyber Polygon 2021. This is an online cybersecurity conference. This years Cyber Polygon has one agenda: figuring out what a cyberattack with COVID-like characteristics looks like.

In earlier releases, the WEF said Cyber Polygon 2021 would focus on ransomware, the vulnerability of the global supply chain to cyberattacks and digital currencies. The WEF also promised to hold live training exercises that respond to a targeted supply chain attack on a corporate ecosystem in real life.

We all know, but still pay insufficient attention to, the frightening scenario of a comprehensive cyberattack, which would bring a complete halt to the power supply, transportation, hospital services, our society as a whole, said Klaus Schwab, the founder and executive chairman of the WEF. The COVID-19 crisis would be seen in this respect as a small disturbance in comparison to a major cyberattack.

Schwab added that it was important for the WEF to use the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic to reflect on the lessons of the cybersecurity community to draw and improve our unpreparedness for a potential cyber pandemic.

Schwab made these comments last year, showing that the WEF has been planning to prime people for a cyberattack-induced Great Reset for some time. On July 9, the day the Cyber Polygon conference began, Schwab reiterated his fearmongering by reminding people about the recent cyberattacks that have occurred.

We have seen in the past few months, for example, ransomware attacks targeting hospitals, critical infrastructure, school systems, the power grid and many other essential services, he said.

Ransomware attacks are complex, and criminal enterprises are increasing their scale and impact. This highlights the need for a structured multi-stakeholder, multi-lateral approach to secure our society against them.

WEFs worldwide cyber pandemic drill underway

The Cyber Polygon training exercise is comprised of over 200 teams from 48 countries. Companies like IBM, Santander and Ernst and Young have sent their respective cybersecurity teams to participate in this worldwide exercise.

It is inevitable that some larger attack is going to occur one day, said John Sancenito, president of a security consulting firm based in Pennsylvania. What is being talked about today and over the next couple of days is a potential real-world situation.

Sancenito is interested in the live drills focus this year. If a cyberattack targets the United States supply chain, it can impact peoples daily lives by shutting down critical infrastructures like the power grid or water treatment facilities.

What would you do if you cant access your bank accounts, the internet, or your cell phone suddenly stopped working? These are the kinds of things people really do need to think through because one day we may be facing a crisis like that, said Sancenito.

The Cyber Polygon live exercise goes on for several days. As of press time, it is still ongoing.

Learn more about how the WEF is planning to bring about a Great Reset by reading the latest articles at GreatReset.news.

Sources include:

OffGridSurvival.com

TheStreet.com

Sociable.c0 1

Sociable.co 2

ABC27.com
Sign up to get breaking news, weather forecasts, and more in your email inbox.

Sign Up Now
DEAR ABBY: Last year, after a falling out with someone I have been friends with for more than 20 years, I was OK with writing this person off and going on with my life. From my understanding, this person felt the same way.

Last week, their teenage son died in a terrible accident. I was heartbroken. I truly cared about the boy and had watched him grow up. I reached out and received no response (as I expected). I'm torn about whether I should go to the funeral and how it would be perceived. I want to show support, but I'm concerned I'm not wanted there. I'm also concerned that if I don't go it will look awful and disrespectful, since I have been a part of this boy's life. I don't know what to do. -- CARED FOR HIM IN OHIO

DEAR CARED FOR HIM: You may not have heard from the family because they are grieving and not communicating with everyone. As I see it, you have several choices: Send a condolence card, send flowers, contribute to a charity in the young man's name and/or go UNOBTRUSIVELY to the funeral and sit in the back. If, however, you decide to do this, do not go with any expectation it will heal the breach in your relationship.

DEAR ABBY: I was happily married for almost 20 years. Suddenly my husband became withdrawn, obviously unhappy, and moved out. He keeps telling me we are going to spend the rest of our lives together, that we aren't divorced, just "taking a break."

Although I had a great relationship with his family, they no longer speak to me. My family still treats him the same. He has a friend who is always whispering in his ear about how terrible I am. My husband denies it, but I have seen the text messages. As far as I know, I haven't done anything to this friend.

Between my husband's paydays, I help him out financially. We're both close to retirement age because we married late, and we still have a teenager at home. Do I wait for him to come around, or move on with my life? I still love him, but I'm feeling used. -- DISILLUSIONED IN THE SOUTH

DEAR DISILLUSIONED: You are not only being used, but also being lied to. In addition, your in-laws' behavior is emotionally abusive. (Could they have been told things about you that aren't true?) Offer your husband the option of marriage and family therapy and a chance to repair what went wrong. However, if he refuses, quit being so accommodating, close your checkbook and move on with your life.

DEAR ABBY: After an invitation to visit, how long can I stay before I'm imposing? -- TOO LONG IN NEW MEXICO

DEAR TOO LONG: It depends upon the relationship you have with the person who invited you. Usually, when an invitation is extended, it is for a specified time period -- a week, a weekend, etc.

Two truisms apply here: "Guests, like fish, begin to smell after three days" (Benjamin Franklin), and "One of the most important things that Hollywood teaches is to always leave your audience hungry for a little more" (Howard Bragman).

P.S. When in doubt, ask!

Wife discovers her place in pack's hierarchy

DEAR ABBY: When my husband and I got married a year ago, he had seven rescue dogs, which was a lot for me, but I accepted it. Two of the small dogs slept in our bed, and I was OK with that, too. My husband promised he would never put the dogs before me, and when those dogs died, he would not replace the big ones. (At that time, he had only two small ones.) Well, he has lost a big one and a small one, which left us with five dogs.

Not only did my husband go to the shelter and adopt two, he is going to buy another one! Everything he promised was a lie. The two from the shelter are allowed to sleep with us, although I've explained to him I can't sleep with all these dogs in our bed. Rather than have them sleep somewhere else in the house, he has pretty much told me to pack my things. When he told his dog-loving mother about our problem, she advised him that it's OK for me to sleep in another room so he can sleep with his dogs.

I feel like he knew all along what his intentions were. I almost left and I am still thinking about it. I've talked to him, but he won't change his mind. I'm not sure why he even married me. Help me, please. -- SLEEPING POORLY IN TENNESSEE

DEAR SLEEPING POORLY: Unfortunately, I can't help you. You are going to have to help yourself. Your husband has made clear to you that his animals come first. Now that you know what his priorities are -- and you appear to be at least sixth on the list -- pack your bags and get out of there. He isn't going to change, and you will both be happier.

DEAR ABBY: I have three children, ages 10, 8 and 5. I live about 45 minutes from my sisters and my parents, so we spend holidays and more together. My younger sister is pregnant and wants to name the baby "Bradley" because she and her husband can't agree on any other name. When she asked my opinion, I was taken aback because my 5-year-old's name is "Bradford." At first I said it would be OK. But after a few days of thought, I asked her to please not use Bradley as a first name because my son (and hers) may want to use "Brad" in school or sports at some point, and it would be confusing. This has caused a family rift, as everyone thinks I'm being unfair.

At this point, it's not about the name. It's more about her deciding to ignore my wishes. Are there baby-naming rules of etiquette to follow? I will, of course, love the child regardless, and I love my sister. We are close. However, I'm surprised they can't come up with any other name, knowing that it bothers me. Help! -- NAME GAME IN ILLINOIS

DEAR NAME GAME: For whatever reason, your sister and her husband seem unable to find another name. Accept it and move on. Because of the five-plus year age difference between the boys, there shouldn't be a problem with "confusion" because by the time her son is ready for kindergarten, your son will be so much further along in grammar school. He will also be out of high school by the time his cousin enters. Rather than fume over something you can't control, let it go.

Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.
BEIJING (AP)  China on Sunday said it will take necessary measures to respond to the U.S. blacklisting of Chinese companies over their alleged role in abuses of Uyghur people and other Muslim ethnic minorities.

The Commerce Ministry said the U.S. move constituted an unreasonable suppression of Chinese enterprises and a serious breach of international economic and trade rules.

China will take necessary measures to firmly safeguard Chinese companies legitimate rights and interests, the ministry's statement said.

No details were given, but China has denied allegations of arbitrary detention and forced labor in the far western region of Xinjiang and increasingly responded to sanctions against companies and officials with its own bans on visas and financial links.

The U.S. Commerce Department said in a statement Friday that the electronics and technology firms and other businesses helped enable Beijings campaign of repression, mass detention and high-technology surveillance against Muslim minorities in Xinjiang.

The penalties prohibit Americans from selling equipment or other goods to the firms. The United States has stepped up financial and trade penalties over Chinas treatment of Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities, along with its crackdown on democracy in the semi-autonomous city of Hong Kong.

The Chinese government since 2017 has detained a million or more people in Xinjiang. Critics accuse China of operating forced labor camps and carrying out torture and coerced sterilization as it allegedly seeks to assimilate Muslim ethnic minority groups.

The U.S. Commerce Department said 14 companies were added to its Entity List over their dealings in Xinjiang, and another five for aiding China's armed forces.

The Department of Commerce remains firmly committed to taking strong, decisive action to target entities that are enabling human rights abuses in Xinjiang or that use U.S. technology to fuel Chinas destabilizing military modernization efforts," Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo said in a statement posted on the department's website.
WASHINGTON (AP)  Pfizer says it plans to meet with top U.S. health officials Monday to discuss the drugmakers request for federal authorization of a third dose of its COVID-19 vaccine as President Joe Bidens chief medical adviser acknowledged that "it is entirely conceivable, maybe likely that booster shots will be needed.

The company said it was scheduled to have the meeting with the Food and Drug Administration and other officials Monday, days after Pfizer asserted that booster shots would be needed within 12 months.

Pfizers Dr. Mikael Dolsten told The Associated Press last week that early data from the companys booster study suggests peoples antibody levels jump five- to 10-fold after a third dose, compared to their second dose months earlier  evidence it believes supports the need for a booster.

On Sunday, Dr. Anthony Fauci didn't rule out the possibility but said it was too soon for the government to recommend another shot. He said the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the FDA did the right thing last week by pushing back against Pfizer's assertion with their statement that they did not view booster shots as necessary at this time.

Fauci said clinical studies and laboratory data have yet to fully bear out the need for a booster to the current two-shot Pfizer and Moderna vaccines or the one-shot Johnson & Johnson regimen.

Right now, given the data and the information we have, we do not need to give people a third shot, he said. That doesnt mean we stop there. ... There are studies being done now ongoing as we speak about looking at the feasibility about if and when we should be boosting people.

He said it was quite possible in the coming months as data evolves that the government may urge a booster based on such factors as age and underlying medical conditions. "Certainly it is entirely conceivable, maybe likely at some time, we will need a boost,'' Fauci said.

Monday's planned meeting between Pfizer and U.S. health officials was first reported by The Washington Post.

Jim Lo Scalzo/AP

Currently only about 48% of the U.S. population is fully vaccinated. Some parts of the country have far lower immunization rates, and in those places the delta variant is surging. Last week, Dr. Rochelle Walensky, the CDC director, said thats leading to two truths  highly immunized swaths of America are getting back to normal while hospitalizations are rising in other places.

Fauci said it was inexplicable that some Americans are so resistant to getting a vaccine when scientific data show how effective it is in staving off COVID-19 infections and hospitalizations, and he was dismayed by efforts to block making vaccinations more accessible, such as Biden's suggestion of door-to-door outreach.

Gov. Asa Hutchinson, R-Ark., agreed Sunday that there is a vaccine resistance in Southern and rural states like his because you have that more conservative approach, skepticism about government."

Describing his efforts to boost vaccinations in his state, which is seeing rising infections, Hutchinson said no one wants an agent knocking on a door," but "we do want those that do not have access otherwise to make sure they know about it.

The grassroots component of the federal vaccination campaign has been in operation since April, when supplies of shots began outpacing demand. It was outlined and funded by Congress in the $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief bill passed in March and overwhelmingly is carried out by local officials and private sector workers and volunteers.

Rep. Adam Kinzinger, R-Ill., blasted opposition to vaccination efforts from some GOP lawmakers as absolute insanity." He said House Republican leader Kevin McCarthy of California and others in the party need to speak out against these absolute clown politicians playing on your vaccine fears for their own selfish gain.

Fauci appeared on CNN's State of the Union, ABC's This Week and CBS' "Face the Nation"; Hutchinson spoke on ABC, and Kinzinger was on CNN.


Norwich lecture on evolution, science and faith Norwich lecture on evolution, science and faith

Norwich Cathedral is currently host to the skeleton of a fossil dinosaur which roamed the planet about 150 million years ago. How can dinosaurs and an old earth be reconciled with the biblical account of creation?



This topic will be discussed in a lecture in the Cathedral on Tuesday July 20 at 7.00 pm. The speaker, Ernest Lucas, will explain how biblical teaching that humans are created in the image of God can be interpreted in the light of scientific understanding about our evolutionary origins.



The Revd. Dr Ernest Lucas undertook research in biochemistry at Oxford University before switching to theology and biblical studies. After a period as a Baptist minister, he moved into theological education at the London Institute for Contemporary Christianity. He is currently Vice-Principal Emeritus at Bristol Baptist

College and Associate Research Fellow at Spurgeons College, London.



His books include Can we believe Genesis today? The Bible and questions of science (IVP, 2005). He has recently lectured at the Faraday Institute for Science and Religion at Cambridge.



The open lecture will take place close to the dinosaur fossil in the Cathedral nave on Tuesday July 20, beginning at 7.00 pm. Tickets (5 each) can be booked via the online booking system on the Cathedral website: https://dippy.netlify.app/dippy-events/evolution-and-scripture .



The talk is the first in a series of evening events on Talkative Tuesdays during the visit of Dippy the Dinosaur from the Natural History Museum. It is organised by Science and Faith in Norfolk (SFN), a Norwich-based group that provides a forum to explore contemporary scientific issues from a Christian perspective. For further information, consult the SFN website or contact sfnorfolk1@gmail.com.

Event details

Title: Evolution and Scripture

Speaker: The Revd Dr Ernest Lucas

Date: Tuesday 20 th July

Time: 7.00  8.30 pm

Format: Lecture with Discussion

Location: Norwich Cathedral



Visit the SFN Website: https://sites.google.com/site/scienceandfaithinnorfolk/

Visit the Facebook page and YouTube channel.

Contact: SFN Secretary, Dr Nick Brewin (07901 884114); sfnorfolk1@gmail.com;
University of Massachusetts Boston graduate students Nicholas Densley, left, of Missoula, Montana, and Kiara Montes, of Boston, right, use brushes while searching for artifacts at an excavation site on June 9 on Cole's Hill, in Plymouth. The archaeologists are part of a team excavating the grassy hilltop that overlooks iconic Plymouth Rock one last time before a historical park is built on the site. David Landon, not shown, of the University of Massachusetts-Boston's Fiske Center for Archaeological Research, says his team unearthed a cache of personal items he thinks were buried there in the late 1800s, most likely by a brokenhearted settler who had outlived all three of her children. (Steven Senne/AP file photo)
By PTI

NEW DELHI: The Delhi prisons department currently has no inmate or jail staff who is COVID-19 positive, officials said on Sunday.

However, they said Covid-appropriate behaviour is still strictly being followed.

"Even though there is no case of the coronavirus infection in the prisons presently, the jail authorities are taking all the precautions. Covid-appropriate behaviour, including social distancing among the inmates, is being strictly followed. The new inmates are initially isolated and later shifted to the barracks," Director General (Prisons) Sandeep Goel said.

The prisons department launched a Covid vaccination drive for the inmates in the 45-plus age category on March 18, while the inoculation of the inmates in the 18-44 age group began on May 18.

As on Saturday, a total of 1,212 inmates above 45 years of age and 3,157 below 45 years of age in the Tihar jail were vaccinated against the viral disease.

In the Rohini jail, 132 inmates above 45 years of age and 600 below 45 years of age have been administered the vaccine.

In the Mandoli jail, 483 inmates aged above 45 years and 1,794 below 45 years of age have been vaccinated, according to data.

Since March, around 400 coronavirus cases have been reported among the inmates of the jails in the national capital and eight of them have succumbed to the disease.

Among the prison staff members, over 200 have been infected with the virus since March.

Over 2,800 prisoners were released on interim bail or emergency parole from the three Delhi jails, including Tihar, to decongest the prisons during the second wave of the pandemic, officials had said.

These include the inmates who were released last year and then surrendered with no adverse report and also new prisoners who were eligible for such interim bail or emergency parole in view of the pandemic under the criteria laid down by a high-powered committee at its meetings held on May 4 and 11.

Last year, around 5,500 undertrial prisoners and 1,184 convicts were released on interim bail and emergency parole from the three Delhi jails -- Tihar, Rohini and Mandoli -- during the lockdown imposed to curb the spread of the infection.

The first COVID-19 case was reported in the Rohini jail on May 13 last year.

Two Covid-positive inmates of the Mandoli jail -- both senior citizens -- died on June 15 and July 4 last year.

Officials have said ever since the outbreak of the pandemic in March last year, the prisons department has remained vigilant and instructed its staff to not only maintain hygiene and social distancing among themselves but also spread awareness about the infection among the inmates in the three jail complexes.
Toby Antony By

Express News Service

KOCHI: Security has been enhanced at the court complex in Kaloor as the second phase trial in the palm chopping case will commence at the NIA Court-II on Monday. Already, the court complex is buzzing with activity as the NIA Court-I has started trial in Vellamunda armed attack case in which suspected key Maoist leader Roopesh is an accused.According to a top police official in Kochi, more security personnel will be deployed at the court complex as accused persons in two important cases are to be produced on a regular basis.

Apart from that, the trial in Valapattanam Islamic State (IS) case is in the concluding stage. These cases are of sensational nature and high-profile accused have to be brought on a daily basis to the court. There will be presence of a large number of armed personnel inside the court complex when the accused persons are brought. We have also increased surveillance in surrounding places. People coming to the court complex will be thoroughly checked.

We already have two units of bomb detection squad at the court complex equipped with door frame metal detectors and hand-held detectors, a police official said. Though the NIA Court had scheduled to start the trial in the palm chopping case in April, it was postponed as some of the accused persons contracted Covid. Recently, some of the accused persons filed petitions to adjourn the trial further due to Covid which was dismissed by the court. The court directed to start the trial on Monday. A close relative of retired professor T J Joseph, whose palm was chopped off by the accused, will be examined on the first day, an official said.

Sajil, who was among the seven-member group that attacked Joseph, M K Nazar, one of the key conspirators, Shafeeq, Najeeb, Asiz Odakali, Mohammed Rafi, Subair T P, M K Noushad, Mansoor, P P Moideen Kunju and P M Ayoob will be facing the trial in the case. Of the 51 persons accused in the case, 45 were chargesheeted by NIA. As many as 31 persons faced trial and 13 were convicted in 2015. Saved, who chopped off the teachers palm, is the sole accused still on the run. These 11 persons were arrested after the first phase trial commenced in 2013 and verdict was announced in 2015. There are over 200 witnesses in the case, sources said.

On July 4, 2010, when Joseph, then a teacher at Newman College, Thodupuzha, and his family were returning from church, the car was blocked by a seven-member group near his residence in Muvattupuzha. After breaking the vehicles glasses and assaulting other family members, Joseph was pulled out and his right palm was chopped off by first accused Savad, saying that Joseph had ridiculed Islam using his hand and that he should not write anymore with that hand.

TRIAL ON ANOTHER VITAL CASE ALSO ON

Already, the court complex is buzzing with activity as the NIA Court-I has started trial in Vellamunda armed attack case in which suspected key Maoist leader Roopesh is an accused.
By PTI

KOLKATA: At least 37 people, including 20 women, were arrested in the early hours of Sunday from a five star hotel in the city for partying in defiance of the ongoing restrictions to combat COVID-19 pandemic, an officer said.

An FIR was lodged against the hotel authorities and they were called for questioning in connection with the matter, he added.

Two high-end vehicles along with several other materials including 38 mobile phones and two sets of guests' lists were seized, he said.

"Acting on a tip-off, a raid was conducted at the Park Hotel at around 01.15 hrs and 37 people were arrested from the 2nd and 3rd floor for partying with loud DJ music defying the restrictions of Government order during COVID-19 and spreading infectious disease," he said.

"During the raid, some of the arrested persons pushed and manhandled police officials preventing them from discharging their duties," he added.

Two pioneer DJ discs, one amplifier, two sound boxes, one DJ light, three hookahs, four liquor bottles, four empty glasses and one ganja puria were also seized, the police officer said.

Police were trying to find out whether some other banned drugs were used in the party or not, he added.

A case was regitered at the Park Street Police Station under relevant sections of the IPC as well as under the Disaster Management Act, the officer said.

A forensic team visited the hotel and collected samples from the two floors of the hotel, where the party was held on Saturday night, the officer said.

Hotel authorities said that they had strictly followed all norms to keep the bars and restaurants inside the hotel open.

The West Bengal government has eased coronavirus restrictions in the state and allowed bars and restaurants to operate from a particular time in the day following improvement in COVID-19 pandemic situation.

The COVID-19 tally in West Bengal mounted to 15,12,129 on Sunday as 924 more people tested positive for the infection, while 13 fresh fatalities pushed the death toll to 17,916, a health department bulletin said.

The discharge rate in the state rose to 97.83 per cent with 1,314 more people recovering from the disease since Saturday, it said.

West Bengal now has 14,901 active cases, while 14,79,312 people have so far been cured of the disease.

Four fresh fatalities were reported from Nadia district, two each from Kolkata, North 24 Parganas and Darjeeling while one person each succumbed to the infection in Hooghly, Howrah and Jalpaiguri, it said.

North 24 Parganas recorded the highest number of new cases at 94, followed by Purba Medinipur at 87, Kolkata at 82 and Darjeeling at 80, the bulletin said.

Altogether, 1,47,69,734 samples have been tested for COVID-19 so far, the bulletin said.
Express News Service By

Express News Service

MADHYA PRADESH: Known as the rice bowl of Madhya Pradesh, the tribal-dominated Balaghat district is now witnessing the advent of the black & red rice revolution. Around 1,000 farmers in 40 villages of the densely forested district are meeting the fresh demands of a Kerala-based rice company. They are also developing the red and black rice variety seeds for farmers in 19 states of western and northern India as well as Nepal. Guiding the revolution is 41-year-old famous political science postgraduate organic farming trainer Tarachand Belji.

He along with his former lecturer wife Mitali started red and black rice farming through organic farming practices at his 8-hectare agricultural farm in 2017.Though we were already cultivating our very own old black and red rice varieties, during the first Covid lockdown in 2020, we decided to go big in the entire Balaghat district, says Belji. They started out from their village Kanai. It has now spread to 39 more villages through the efforts of 1,000-plus farmers  all under the banner of Farmers Producers Organisation (FPO), Belji adds. The collective efforts of the farmers, who employed organic farming practices, have led to a yield of around 500 tonnes of Chinnor, Vishnu Bhog aromatic rice and black and red rice varieties in the last season.

Around 100 tonnes was supplied to a premier company in Kerala, while the remaining rice was used for supplying rice seeds to 500 farmers in 19 states and Nepal. The red and black rice varieties have immense nutritional value, with the low-fat containing black rice being very helpful for diabetic patients and Vitamin B12 and anti-oxidant rich red rice being beneficial to cancer patients. Thats why were running a comprehensive seed production programme, which is supplying seeds and organic fertilisers to farmers in these states and Nepal, said Belji.

He and his team of 1,000 farmers are set to supply around 400 tonnes of black and red rice to the Kerala-based company this season. Balaghat district agriculture officer CS Gaur said: Though the cultivation of old and timetested aromatic black and brown varieties has been underway in small portions by farmers in the district, it is the organised efforts by Tarachand Belji under his FPO that has made this farming more extensive and viable. Beljis success story is incomplete without his wife and excollege lecturer Mitali, who had quit her lecturers job in 2005 in Narsinghpur district to accompany her social activist, small-time farmer husband to Rajya Sabha member-cum-social reformer Nanaji Deshmukhs Deendayal Shodh Sansthan in Chitrakoot.

We started working under Nanaji Deshmukh (who was conferred with Bharat Ratna in 2019) in three villages of MPs Satna district and UPs Chitrakoot district, says Mitali. We worked there for three years furthering Nanajis guiding mantra of transforming villages by removing human ailments, poverty, illiteracy, unemployment and unnecessary disputes. It was while working as Samaj Shilpi Dampati that we realised that organic farms can help villages immensely, recalls Mitali. The couple returned to Narsinghpur district (Mitalis home district) in 2009 and started organic farming with 100 farmers by establishing an organisation  Prakritik Kheti Shodh Sansthan  which worked in Narsinghpur, Seoni, Balaghat and Mandla districts.

The success of the organic farming movement was best exemplified in a single plant rendering 1,000 laukis (bottle gourds) and a single plant yielding 550 plus brinjals. The couple subsequently started releasing an annual calendar of organic farming for farmers across the country. Their well-organised efforts attracted the likes of then MP Agriculture Minister Ramkrishna Kusmaria along with a team of his departments experts to Beljis farm in Narsinghpur to study the success of the initiative in 2010. Environmentalist and ex-Union minister Anil Madhav Dave, too, trouped down to Narsinghpur to see Beljis organic farming success story.

In 2014, Belji became a national- level organic farming trainer and has, so far, organised 200-plus organic farming training workshops across the country. He has also served as an expert for GB Pant University of Agriculture and Technology at Pantnagar (Uttarakhand). He is now an organic farmer registered with the MP government and is ushering in the organic cultivation of black and red rice in his native district Balaghat since the Covid-induced lockdown in 2020.
Harpreet Bajwa By

Express News Service

PUNJAB: In their craze for settling abroad, many young Punjabi brides and grooms end up being cheated and abandoned by their husbands and wives. Satwinder Kaur of Toosa village in Ludhiana district of Punjab is one such woman. She was cheated on by her husband and dumped back in Punjab around 11 years back. Satwinder has helped 700 young women abandoned by their husbands. She is also helping 40 husbands duped by their wives. In 2016, Satwinder formed an NGO Abb Nahi Social Welfare Society and started helping the abandoned women. She got the society registered in 2018.

I got married on February 23, 2009. He was a teacher. In 2010, he decided to go abroad. He went to Georgia and then from there to Ukraine. He works there as a foreign student coordinator in a private company, recalls Satwinder. I never knew his intentions that he would not take me along with him. He left in 2010 and then after almost five years, returned on July 20, 2015. I was very excited to see him. But five days later, he was disowned by his family and we moved to rented accommodation. On August 16, 2015, he told my parents that within three months, he will take me with him. That never happened, says Satwinder. In January 2016, Satwinder complained to the state NRI cell.

In July that year, her husband filed for a divorce in a Ludhiana court which was dismissed, and then in February 2017, a case was registered under the IPC Sections 406 and 498 against her husband and in-laws. I then filed a maintenance case and on October 30, 2017, and I was granted `10,000 per month. My husbands passport was impounded in August 2018, she says. Satwinder says the idea to start the NGO came when she had to visit the court frequently where she saw many young girls struggling to get justice. I then decided to form a society.

While a few girls met me in police stations and courts, I contacted others through Facebook and other social media platforms, besides at seminars conducted by NRI cells and the National Commission for Women, she adds. She also contacted then MP Parneet Kaur and later on, other MPs Sunny Deol , Bhagwant Mann and Ravneet Singh Bittu. In 2018, Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (DSGMC) held conferences after which notices had been sent to gurdwaras across the world about Sikh youths who had abandoned their wives after marriage. The Ministry of External Affairs was also approached to intervene and talks with other countries and procure documentation of such husbands.

The Regional Passport Office (RPO) of Chandigarh and Amritsar started impounding passports of such NRI husbands. But a few of them have changed their names and are getting new passports issued, she says. According to her, there are 32,000 women in Punjab and Haryana who have been duped by their husbands.

The honeymoon brides are in the age group of 22 to 65 years and have been waiting for their husbands for decades. Most of these women are yet to get justice due to lack of action against their husbands by the state government, she says. Around 700 girls and 40 men have approached our NGO. We have got the cases registered and also got lookout circulars issued and passports impounded. We have also got 20 couples reunited after counselling, she says.
Sudhir Suryawanshi By

Express News Service

MAHARASHTRA: For many, policewoman Rahena Sheikh Bagwan is known as Mother Teresa  she has adopted 50 tribal students in Maharashtras Raigad district. She has also been in the forefront to help the needy and poor whenever they have been in trouble during the Covid-19 pandemic. Recognising her role in helping those in dire need, police commissioner Hemant Nagrale has honoured her. The social worker had joined the police force as a constable in the year 2000.

In addition to a compassionate asset to the police force, she is also a volleyball player and an athlete. Her passion to serve the needy has earned her allaround admiration. We were about to celebrate our daughters birthday last year. Then I learnt about Dnyani Vidyalaya in Raigads Waje Taluka. I spoke to the principal and he invited us. The kids mostly come from poor backgrounds. Some of them didnt even have footwear. We used up the money saved for my daughters birthday and Eid shopping to help them, says Rahena. I told my kids that this Eid we would not do any shopping to buy new clothes or invite guests.

My family supported the decision immediately, says Rahena. Due to travel restrictions, she could not go to the Raigad school. I called up the principal and expressed my wish to help his school students. He said instead of sending money, we should make an in-person visit to the school, she recalls. On the scheduled day, we went to Raigad to visit the school. I was pleasantly surprised to see the discipline among the students.

They wore masks and followed all Covid-appropriate behaviour while warmly welcoming us, says Rahena. We spent the entire day with them and then decided to adopt 50 students from the school. It gives me an immense pleasure and satisfaction that I can help someone. I want to see each one of them as successful citizens. Education is the key to change, she says. Her service beyond the official duty doesnt end here. When the pandemic wreaked havoc on Mumbai, Rahena helped her colleagues to get the plasma or blood. I am happy that I saved several lives by helping people in getting Remdesivir, hospital beds, or oxygen cylinders, says Rahena, who stays in a small house and chose the small kitchen to attend the calls at night and resolve the issues.

Rahena always believes that one should match the high ideals with action. Serving the needy is something more than just preaching. We have to do it in reality, she says, thanking her husband for his support. One day, I got a call asking for the A+ blood group for a cancer patient. Seeing my anxiety, my husband drove me to the hospital where the patient was waiting. My husband volunteered to donate his blood. I am very fortunate that I have got a very supportive family. Their encouragement has propelled me to earn appreciation from my seniors in the police department, adds Rahena. The policewoman appeals to people to help every needy and poor person in whatever manner  by food, shelter, education, or medication. We cannot see people going to bed without food and children without education in the 21st century. We should help without any expectation, she says.
Mira Gupta By

Express News Service

Fabrics from India have historically been far more than just fabrics. They were sold in Europe, traded for spices in South-East Asia, powered the Industrial Revolution, became the symbol of Indias struggle for Independence and the economic basis of an interwoven modern world. There is a story here, and it is fascinating when a furnishing brand tells the tale.

In 1664, the French East India Company brought the first of the colourfully printed cotton cloths known as indiennes, from India into France. These printed cotton fabrics were so popular that the word indiennes entered the French language, referring not only to the cloth but to garments made from it.Moliere in his book, Le Bourgeois Gentilhomme, describes Monsieur Jourdain as being dressed in the latest fashion with ... une echarpe de toile peinte a lindienne, a printed cotton scarf from India, forerunners of Hermes scarves.Toile Indienne joins this yarn of human history, telling stories through collections of furnishing and wallpaper.

Akila Seshasayee and Pankaj Kehr

Founded in 2017 by Akila Seshasayee and Pankaj Kehr, Toile Indienne is an award-winning company and has won the Lexus Design Award for Textile design in 2018, the Elle Decor Design Awards for best in fabrics in 2019, and the Elle Decor Design Awards for Wall finishes and Coverings in 2020. Inspired by the romance of history, crafts and legends, what sets this brand apart is the way it discovers a theme and its potential: from an understanding of the socio-economic, cultural and design history of the subject.

For instance, lets look at the Love & War Collection, which is an animated re-imagination of the thrilling swayamvara of Draupadi. Painstakingly illustrated, based on hundreds of historical references, the design is rendered in Mughal miniature style as homage to Emperor Akbar, who commissioned the profusely illustrated translation of the beloved Indian epicthe Mahabharatainto Persian, called the Razmnama or Book of Love and War. Each character adds to the dramatic tension of this set piece, while the fresh and romantic colours express the excitement of love and celebration.

The brand prints to order on pure, high-quality cotton, cotton linen and linen, using sustainable manufacturing processes such as non-toxic certified dyes. Besides, printing to order ensures minimal waste ending up in landfills.The upholstery fabrics are tested as per the Martindale Rub test which is a measure of the durability and suitability of a fabric for various usesthat is frequently used for sofas, decorative accent chairs or commercial heavy-duty use.

India has several design houses in the home decor space, and many do lovely work, but what is special about Toile Indienne is its rootedness in history and culture. The prints come to life after a meticulous process of research and documentation and thus go beyond mere surface decoration. The company sees its work as a means to document, comment, record, disseminate and celebrate our shared Indian heritage, not as passing fancies but things to treasure because of the stories they contain.

India has a long tradition of pithy kahaavats or idioms. The Kahavat Collection is based on sayings and idioms plucked from different regions and tongues of India. The diversity of languages makes the idioms fascinating, because of their sharp wit and local flavour. Tamils often describe what they consider an impossible task with the phrase You cant put butter on a cranes head. Cranes are notoriously difficult to catch; attempting to put a pat of butter on the head of one is a task of even greater magnitude. A life lesson that makes for an involuntary chuckle.

The writer is a well-known curator of craft-based luxury, and writes and speaks on craft and culture with their connection to history
Shagun Segan By

Express News Service

Now that the home and office are one, many employees are choosing to make their work environment salubrious. Most destinations have good internet connectivity and hostels have become great co-working spaces. Here are a few places in India that could be considered to set up your workstation.

1. The Blue Sheep Hostel (Tirthan), Banjaar, Himachal Pradesh

A cozy family-run hostel where Sheena and Adi will make you feel at home. They have two lovely dogs to keep you company. They also own farms where you can take a stroll. This is a safe place, especially for women and LGBTQ travellers.

Internet: 25 Mbps connection for all guests. Both Jio and Airtel work well with 4G.

Price: Approx. Rs 6,000 per week

Getting there: Get off at Aut on the way to Manali and hop on a bus or a cab to Banjaar.

2. Moustache Hostel, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

If you have a spiritual edge, Rishikesh is the place to be. Moustache Hostel offers a luxurious stay with a pool and dedicated spaces to work. The cafe offers amazing food.

Internet: High-speed Wi-Fi connectivity is not a problem.

Price: Rs 5,242 per week with meals for an eight-bed dorm. Rs 7,699 per week with meals for a private room.

Getting there: Rishikesh is 25 km from Haridwar. The hostel is 10 minutes away from Laxman Jhula.

3. goSTOPS, Alleppey, Kerala

One of the biggest hostel chains in India, goStops in Alleppey is ideal for those looking for a quiet place to work yet explore Kerala.

Internet: High-speed Wi-Fi connectivity available.

Price: Rs 2,567 per week for an eight-bed dorm. For Rs 300 a day, you can get three meals as well.

Getting there: Alleppey is an hour drive from Kochi.

4. Flugler Hostels, Dharamkot, Himachal Pradesh

This Victorian hostel is close to the bustling McLeodganj and has stunning 360-degree views of the mountains. They do a lot of activities over the weekend to help travellers unwind.

Internet: Dedicated 50 Mbps fibre-optic Wi-Fi connection.

Price: Rs 5,900 per week with two meals for the bunk beds. Private rooms start at Rs 2,200 per night.

Getting there: Best way is to get a cab from Dharamshala to Dharamkot.

5. Musafir Hostel, Udaipur, Rajasthan

This is a hostel run by a community of travellers. They aim to promote a travel culture and create a memorable experience for everyone.

Internet: Wi-Fi is available but they suggest people carry dongles.

Price: Rs 2,450 per week for an AC dorm. Private AC room is at Rs 5,600 per week.

Getting there: It is a 20-minute auto ride from the Udaipur railway station.

In case you are aching for a trip and have the flexibility to work remotely, check out these options. After all, this might be the only chance you get to do this.


Ritesh Mishra By

Helicopters of war are fearsome machines. Nothing can stop a Chinook, not even the pandemic. Taking a small yellow helicopter from the Sahastradhara helipad to the army base at Gauchar to cover a covert operation involving CH-47 Chinook was like getting on a bicycle to learn you are riding a spaceship. My yellow transport dropped me at Rudraprayag, from where I took a taxi to Gauchar where the Chinook was supposed to arrive the next day.

In the backdrop of the Himalayas, I did a recce of the landing pad premises beforehand so that I could get perfect shots of the heaviest lifting Western helicopter in the world. The Boeing CH-47 Chinook is an advanced multi-mission helicopter, efficacious both in combat and humanitarian missions. It can carry heavy payloads of troops to high altitudes, making it ideal for high Himalayan operations. I almost felt pity for the Chinese soldiers across the border.

The next morning, in the excitement of waiting for the sky monster to land, I did not feel the biting chill of the mountain wind. After half an hour or so came a throttling sound from afar. As I saw the beast appear and hover above me, a black object of strength and size against the glare of the sun, its great rotor blades whipping the air like some prehistoric beast, I could imagine the terror of the enemy and the relief of the Indian Army.

For two days it showed off its machine muscle, carrying heavy machinery to Kedarnath for the development of the area and the border zones. From Gauchar, it was Kedarnath Valley next, where Operation Chinook continued. The temperature was minus two. Photography was dangerous as there was limited space for such a monstrous helicopter to manoeuvre since the flash floods have wrecked the area. But the sight of the massive flying machine suspended against the background of Kedarnath mountain as it balanced its load, made me aware of how these huge war machines determine the outcome of victory and defeat.

In 2020, the Indian Air Force received 15 CH-47F(I) Chinook helicopters it had ordered from Boeing.


Manju Latha Kalanidhi By

In the 2020 Netflix film Yeh Ballet, Nizamuddin J Shah played the brother of the ballet dancer who supported him in a big way. In real life too, he can be found training a bunch of slum kids in street theatre under the Vashi Flyover or the Wadala Park in Mumbai.

Street plays are powerful message amplifiers and 25-year-old Shah is gearing up with his team to perform in the villages around the metropolis to talk about vaccinations. We mix local language, film songs, humour and social message to entertain audiences, he says.

Maharashtra was in lockdown earlier this year, suspending street plays. Street theatre needs people coming together to watch. We plan to recruit volunteers who will ensure that social distancing is followed. After all, we are trying to create awareness about Covid facts, he adds.

The Marathi street plays that Shah directs normally last about 20-30 minutes and are performed in places with good floating crowds. The actors are from the nearby slums. Shah has trained 200 kids so far, including Tanvi Bharve and Mansi Ghatge who are now full-time TV actors. Picking up a child from the slum, putting him or her under the spotlight and giving them a chance to speak itself does wonders to their personality, he says.

Shah takes about a week to train the child actors in voice modulation, dialogue delivery, body language and music. They feel privileged to be part of social change which gives them enormous confidence, remarks Shah. He mentions Sushma Jaiswal who started giving tuitions after doing three street plays since she said she wasnt worthless and can earn through her knowledge.

In these days of WhatsApp status message videos and YouTube shorts, where does street theatre stand? Street theatre is live, customised for the audience, and is interactive. In middle-class Mumbai, it works best to deliver the message, he says. A possible reason why the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation had approached him to stage street plays about Swachh Bharat, tuberculosis, cancer and vaccination in the past. Being out on the street is a good thing sometimes.
Medha Dutta Yadav By

Armed with his Crayola white chalk, Canadian actor, author, chalk artist and calligrapher Rajiv Surendra works with quiet confidence. He knows that if he doesnt like what he is drawing on the wall, all he has to do is "just erase it".

Surendra, who is equally at home carving and shaping his own cutting board from wood that he chopped down, weaving cloth from wool of sheep sheared by him, or even re-caning a wicker chair, is drawn to the ephemeral beauty of chalk.

Twenty-nine-year-old Bengaluru artist Harshit Agrawal, who became the first Indian artist to join the NFT art bandwagon, would understand this love for the ephemeral. As many as eight of his AI-generated artworks that can only be viewed in a digital medium were minted as NFTs. "NFT loosely means that its unique and cant be replaced with something else. And this is the future," he says simply.

Simply put, NFTs or non-fungible tokens are a unit of data stored on a digital ledger or blockchain. A unique system that has been in the making since 2012. May 2014 saw the creation of the first so-called NFT at the New Museum in New York by Kevin McCoy and Anil Dash 2021 gave it the much-needed fillip, especially in the art community.

Christies and Sotheby's both entered the NFT market. While Christies spearheaded the trend by auctioning digital artist Beeples Everydays: The First 5,000 Days for a whopping USD 69.3 million, Sothebys followed up with digital artist Pak's works bringing in USD 16.8 million.

Of course, the pandemic served as the right moment. Physical art venues were shut and artists -especially digital artists - realised that here was a worthy platform to market their efforts.

"Digital art has long been around, but never quite entered the mainstream art market because of the worry of it being easily replicated and thereby lacking authenticity. NFTs solve that problem by tamper-proof provenance on the blockchain. This has suddenly made digital art a great collectible, and big art institutions and the art world at large are responding to this," says Agrawal.

The pandemic also saw the birth of Indias exclusive blockchain-powered online platform - Terrain.art - focusing on art from South Asia. The platform has mounted its first edition of Masters, showcasing 27 works by legendary Bengal artist Lalu Prasad Shaw, certified using NFTs.

The year 2021 has turned NFTs into a Gold Rush movement for the art world. Nothing is suddenly impossible. Delhi-based artist Pratul Dash agrees, "Keeping in mind the current development around blockchain technology, NFTs are definitely the future. Paradigms are changing worldwide. We are in a very exciting yet transitional phase. Indian artists can monetise their artworks on the internet; unlike earlier when the works on the net could easily be stolen or copied."

Why the Craze?

Indrajit Chatterjee, director of Mumbai-based auction house Prinseps, will host the country's first-ever NFT auction on July 15. Oscar-winning costume designer Bhanu Athaiyas sketches will be on sale, as will be 35 digital prints of 1950s artist Gobardhan Ash's 'Avatar' series.

While NFTs or digital receipts prove ownership - be it a piece of art or even a tweet - it does not mean that the owner can hold the physical art in his hands or display it on her walls.

Why the interest in NFTs, then? For one, theres big money involved. Established institutions are also coming forward to take a share of the cake. The owner of an NFT-certified art does not even get to be the only one who can view the art - anyone with digital access can view it - s/he has no exclusive right over the artwork or its distribution.

In short, it is the unique token that one buys, not the artwork per se. But in the art world, this unique token is yet another form of investing. Also, with the US dollar no longer enjoying the high returns it once did, NFTs could be the way forward for many to park their investment.

Additionally, these unique tokens solve a very important pain point of vouching for the authenticity of any artwork. And in doing that through digital solutions, it also becomes a new channel for the discovery of newer works.

It becomes a foundational solution for connecting art and its buyers. And big names are hopping on. It began as early as February, with the first-ever NFT performance art by Russian artist Petr Davydtchenko.

Internationally renowned art curator Francesco Bonami - or The Bonamist as he is known on Instagram - Snoop Dogg and Paris Hilton have also taken to the new medium to showcase their art. Milan, the global capital of design, is opening a new contemporary art gallery - Plan X Art Gallery - that will host NFT-certified works of Costa Rican artist John Paul Fauves.

And, of course, there is the eccentric genius of Banksy, whose artworks were shredded and even burnt at live-streamed auctions even as the digital tokens went for millions.

Entering the Digital Space

With big institutions such as Christies and Sothebys adapting to NFT, it only endorses the idea and brings the right eyes and ears to it. "This will improve and proliferate the awareness of art in general. More global institutions, as well as personnel associated with them, will warm up to the new system," says Bengaluru-based artist Abhigna Kedia.

"Also, with more art going digital, NFT definitely does to the ecosystem what e-mails have done to communication. It will become more accessible and hence it would lead to more adoption. Im convinced it will become omnipresent. Its just a matter of time, evolution and adaptability," she added.

And as Agrawal has pointed out earlier, art is evolving and becoming more tech-oriented. The pandemic has led to the digitisation of art on a major scale - from creation to its presentation. So the physical barriers are already being breached.

The curation-only NFT platform - SuperRare - hosts both artists and collectors. Agrawal is Indias only AI artist to be featured on the platform. His art is inspired by traditional Indian motifs such as mask cultures and rituals of India, and bright Thangka (Buddhist) paintings.

Through his practice, Agrawal explores what he calls the 'human-machine creativity continuum'. Using machines and algorithms, he juxtaposes traditional art media, tools and processes along with computation.

"AI art opens up new possibilities of creating art with data. I feel this is the best way of commenting on our technology-centred reality," says the artist, who believes India should get more actively involved in the NFT space. "There are some Indian artists, but not enough. Collectors, art institutions and galleries should realise the potential of NFTs," he adds.

Out with the Fakes

It is no secret that the art world is riddled with fakes. In fact, such is the penetration of fakes in the market that it has given rise to a new band of 'art authenticators', who charge anywhere between Rs 20,000 and lakhs (if the painting is by one of the old masters) to decide whether the SH Raza you quietly acquired from a private collector is actually worth the small fortune you paid for it.

Says a prominent gallerist, who rather not be named, "You'd be surprised with the kind of stories people spin to sell fakes. Years in the business and I still find it both hilarious and frustrating. The most recent story I heard was how a family 'suddenly discovered a painting by one of our famous masters'."

"Apparently, the patriarch of the family had bought it (or, had been gifted, I forget, which), and left the canvas unattended in a locked room in a Mumbai apartment, where it stayed for 20 years. Can you imagine someone possessing an apartment in Mumbai where one room has been locked away for 20 years? It immediately raises suspicion," the gallerist added.

Imitation, they say, is the highest form of flattery. But that is definitely not the case in the art market. In fact, in July 2017, shock currents went through the global art world when it was discovered that as many as 21 works by Italian painter Amedeo Modigliani, on exhibition at the Palazzo Ducale in Genoa, Italy, were fake.

Some of these paintings were on loan from private collections and even major art institutions such as the Musee de lOrangerie in Paris, France, and the Fitzwilliam Museum in Cambridge, the UK.

Such has been the chaos that fakes wreak that once an anguished FN Souza, who had often been on the receiving end of his fakes being peddled while the originals had no takers, wrote an open letter to Geeta Mehra, the director of Sakshi Art Gallery in Mumbai in 1997, complaining "there are numerous fakes in the art market, not only in India but in Europe".

The Indian art scene is full of so-called art owners who often claim that they came into the possession of an Indian great thanks to their supposed royal lineage. Even the best fall for fakes. Bengaluru-based auction house Bid & Hammer ran into two major controversies in 2010 and 2014.

While in 2010, it had fake Souzas on its catalogue, 2014 saw paintings by Rabindranath Tagore and Nandalal Bose, when the original Tagore was locked up in the vaults of the Visva Bharati in Shantiniketan, and the original Bose was hanging in the National Gallery of Modern art, Delhi.

Add to all this, fresh art graduates who stand to make a quick buck by producing fake works, and its become a booming business. Rakhi Sarkar, director, CIMA Gallery, Kolkata, has often said how the city has become a hub of fakes because of a new tribe of artists, who are taking on the masters.

Since the paintings history, paper trail, receipt, etc, often lose to the passage of time - more so if it is an unsigned workit becomes near impossible to establish provenance, something NFTs are aiming to get right. Chandigarh-based self-taught artist Ashima Raizada says, "I feel moving to NFT is a positive shift. It is more inclusive, accessible and democratic in nature, not to forget, forging a safer eco-system for art. Sure, it will take some time to catch up, but the possibilities are limitless and it is the need of the hour."

Is it a GenZ Thing?

Anupa Mehta, director, Anupa Mehta Arts, Mumbai, says, "Given the uniqueness of an NFT-certified item, its acquisition is likely to catch on as a trend, particularly with younger collectors. They seek the thrill of the exclusive, one-of-a-kind art object. The online space has really bloomed during the pandemic, and those who are familiar with the realm of technology and art in the digital space will go in for such artworks."

While it is true that millennials and GenZ spend a lot of time with newer technology, it is not necessary that they alone would drive the NFT trend. Eighty-four-year-old Shaw taking to the new platform is a case in point. The initial adopters might be the more technically-inclined people, but that is changing too, especially with mainstream art institutions such as Christies and Sothebys getting into action.

Delhi artist Seema Kohli says, "Though NFTs are still at a very speculative stage, artists are slowly taking to the medium. Of course, abroad they are making steady strides. In India too it may eventually have a future. At the end of the day, I believe that NFTs will chart out their own parallel course in the art world."

The evolving system has the potential to be the breakout for art in India. Since it uses technology, it can help push awareness of art, artists and their thought process, and most importantly, connect the young tech-savvy generation with the world of art that is often viewed as an 'elitist forum'.

Also, the emerging interest in NFTs can be an added advantage for Indian artists - both young and established - who can command a better audience and monetary return in the global market. "With NFTs, the sky is the limit when marketing and creating awareness of your art," says Kedia.

The Pitfalls

The art market is a constantly evolving one, and especially the pandemic has taught it to expect and adapt to change. While NFTs are getting a lot of traction, there are sceptics too. There has been a narrative emerging about how NFTs are bad for climate change. The ethereum blockchain requires a network of computers and this gives rise to high carbon emissions. Many artists have refused to issue NFTs on these grounds.

Says Kiran Nadar, founder, Kiran Nadar Museum of Art, "I'm personally not sure how it will play out just yet. While fast adopters like Christies and Sothebys have already started dabbling in digital art, my concern is related to the huge amounts of computing power required to make them."

The problem of environmental concern is real. But with conversations around it, and independent initiatives, the next stage is likely to mitigate climate issues. A new NFT platform - Hic Et Nunc - is already attracting artists for its negligible carbon impact.

The other issue plaguing purists - for want of a better word - is what should be digitised and minted for the future, and what should be allowed to remain as it is. A believer in the true sense of art, Nadar feels that there is nothing to compare to the experience of viewing an artwork in person - to witness the nuances of the artists hand, each brushstroke telling its own story "All said and done, its difficult to predict art markets. Spurred on by the pandemic, many galleries may embrace NFTs," she adds. Like Nadar, many in the art world are still wary of the new trend.

To some, using NFTs to mint works that are specially created for this kind of a format is the way forward, not digitising The Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci, or Birth or Lovers by Souza. "The texture, the application of paint and many such features are hallmarks of the modern masters which cannot be replicated digitally. Also, the government has still not accepted cryptocurrencies and NFTs and till it receives a legal framework, its hard to predict the future," says Uday Jain, director of Delhi-based Dhoomimal Gallery.

While a lot of questions still need to be answered or things to be established, at the moment it looks like both the physical art world and NFTs are going to coexist.

But whether NFTs will one day replace physical art or change the dynamics of possessing art completely, is a question that does not have any concrete answers as of now. As David Linden, a neurobiologist at US-based Johns Hopkins University, famously said, "You can't turn off touch. It never goes away."

The Top 10 Going, Going, Gone

Crossroads

USD 6.6 million

A Beeple piece, this iconic work with a dystopian twist mocks public figures

Everydays: The First 5,000 Days

USD 69.3 million

Artist Mike Winkelmann, known as Beeple, made history when his accumulative piece made up of 5,000 imagesone for each day since May 2007, spanning the past 13 yearssold for an astronomical $69.3 million at Christies first-ever NFT auction

CryptoPunk #7804

USD 7.57 million

Only USD 10,000 behind its #3100 peer, this CryptoPunk may just be sold for more in a few years

CryptoPunk #3100

USD 7.58 million

The most expensive CryptoPunk (CryptoPunks are 10,000 unique collectible characters) ever sold, character #3100 started its journey with a USD 76 bid in 2017, ultimately going for USD 7.58 million

CryptoPunk #6965

USD 1.6 million

NFTs are in love with CryptoPunks. And the algorithm-generated pixel art pieces do not disappoint either.

Metarift

USD 904,413

Created by an artist, who goes by the name Pak, this features a group of spherical objects cocooned within an infinity symbol moving against a black background

Jack Dorsey (and Twitter's) first-ever tweet

USD 2.9 million

Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey auctioning his (and the platforms) first-ever tweet. This probably added the fillip that NFT needed. The proceeds went to charity.

Axie Infinity Virtual Game "Genesis" Estate

USD 1.5 million

You have heard of virtual games being sold, and estates being sold, but have you heard of estates in virtual games being sold? Danny, the virtual property seller, told his Twitter followers, This is the largest digital land sale ever recorded on the blockchain.

Forever Rose

USD 1 million

When it was sold in 2018 on Valentine's Day, it became the most expensive virtual art ever. This unique digital photograph has been created by artist Kevin Abosch.

CryptoPunk #4156

USD 1.5 million

Yet another CryptoPunk. They were the first NFTs on Ethereum, and have retained the fascination.

What are NFTs?

An NFT or a non-fungible token is a collectible digital asset. It represents a one-of-a-kind item, for example, a particular painting; since no two paintings are the same. It may 'look' similar to another, but will always be differentiated by a change in texture, medium, even context. Similar to a cryptocurrency - Bitcoin or Ethereum - NFT has its own uniqueness. It cannot be exchanged like-for-like.

The Master's View

With a career spanning over six decades, Indian modernist Lalu Prasad Shaw is the first of the masters to adapt to the new world of Non-fungible Token (NFT)-certified artworks. For those who have been following Shaws artistic oeuvre, this comes as no surprise.

After all, this legend - born in Bengal in 193 - was felicitated with the National Award for Graphic Art as early as 1971. "Simplicity is the key to my artworks. I like to depict the happiness in my surroundings through my artworks. I've been working with the same theme on all my new artworks as well," says the contemporary of Jamini Roy, as he talks of his recent set of 27 works on display at the Terrain.art exhibition, on show till July 27.

In the last five decades, this unique artist - who is not just a painter, but also an accomplished printmaker - has expertly used his creative language to frame the Bengali middle class, or the 'babus', and dramatise the routine everyday on his canvas.

One finds elements of 19th-century Company School style and the Kalighat Pat painting in his art. The master chuckles, "Many have asked me about this. And I enjoy talking about it every time. You see, being a Bengali, I've naturally grown up observing the Kalighat Pat painting style. Needless to say, I have always been interested in these folk art forms. And the influence has seeped into my artwork as well."

Shaws canvas of minimalism draws from the economic hardships he faced as a child. In his forever-evolving journey, Shaw decided to mould in bronze his babus and bibis in his late 70s. But it was rural Bengal - the impoverished countryside - that is, as he says, "the heart of all my paintings".

"It's all about the originality, the essence it holds, the stories and all that you can find in a beautiful village. From the mightiest tiger to the Terracotta Temples, every small detail has impacted my artworks," he stresses.

While he may be the first Indian master to have taken to NFTs, which till now is largely a youth-oriented space, Shaw understands that an artists journey can be really tough. "Every artist has his or her own ups and downs. At times the paintings you put the most effort into don't get the appreciation and attention you were expecting...," he says

"Regardless of that you still pour your heart out on every new art, because you enjoy it. Becoming a master in itself is a task. It means you have proven yourself many times in your art journey," he adds wistfully. So, will the masters rule the NFT race some day? Or will the NFTs leave them behind? That is a question only the next decade can answer.
Vineet Upadhyay By

Express News Service

DEHRADUN: Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal announced 300 units of free electricity to the urban populace in Uttarakhand, given his party forms the government after state assembly elections due in March 2022.

"After we form government in Uttarakhand, our first pen will be used to provide 300 units of free electricity. We are not the ones who forget promises and then come back after 5 years at the time of elections," added Kejriwal.

The AAP leader also announced free electricity for farmers and promised to waive their pending power bills.

"We will provide free electricity to the farmers of Uttarakhand. Today our farmers are the poorest and we charge them for electricity. If we do this, our farmers will have spare money for their children and family's well being. We have seen wrongdoing and corruption in generating power bills. Pending dues, bills for electricity will be waived," said the Delhi CM while talking to the media in Dehradun, the state capital.

Arvind Kejriwal also promised that there will be no power cuts in Uttarakhand.

"After getting elected a second time in 2015, my MLAs, ministers walked into every lane, bylane in Delhi to ensure overhauling of wires, transformers etc. Now people of Delhi have stopped using inverters and generators. It will cost only Rs 1200 crores out of Rs 50,000 crores of Uttarakhand's budget. We have done this in Delhi and will do it here. CAG report says Delhi is the only govt in the country without deficit," added the Delhi CM.

Kejriwal assured the people of Uttarakhand that there will be no new taxes in the garb of providing free power to the people of the hill state when his party forms the government.

Recalling BJP's Rs 15 lakh 'Jumla', Kejriwal says the announcement of 100 units of free electricity can also be another 'Jumla' of the BJP.

"My apprehensions were proved right after the CM of Uttarakhand denied any such scheme to provide free electricity to the people of Uttarakhand," alleged the Delhi CM.

Critical of the change of guard in the hill state for a second time within four months, Kejriwal said that the ruling party which has now multiple times accepted that their CMs have been good for nothing.

"There is no precedent for this in the last 70 years history of Independent India. The ruling party itself has proved that they have no suitable candidate for the CM post in Uttarakhand. Though this is the job of opposition, the ruling party is doing it well," said the Delhi CM.

Launching a scathing attack on the Bhartiya Janta Party and Indian National Congress, the Delhi CM said, "God has bestowed Uttarakhand with gifts galore like rivers, mountains, flora and fauna but politicians, parties in Uttarakhand have left no stone unturned to destroy the state. Both parties are in agreement as we can see from the year 2000. They took turns to loot the state."

He further alleged that none of these two parties (BJP, Congress) cares about Uttarakhand and its people.

Kejriwal further added, "Both these parties are busy fighting for a power grab. Who will think about the development of Uttarakhand and the welfare of the people of Uttarakhand?"

He also invited people from other parties to join the AAP.

"I invite everyone who is feeling suffocated in other parties to join AAP. Till date, there was no other option but now you have a good party which is committed to working for people," said Kejriwal in the PC.

Addressing the people of Uttarakhand, Kejriwal said that in present times, the country has two types of education systems- one for the rich and another for the poor.

"We aim to make government schools so good that people, like in Delhi, will send their children to government schools. A large number of people from Uttarakhand, who live in Delhi, want the same development in their home state too. We promise to fulfil their dreams," said the Delhi CM.

Interestingly, Kejriwal in his visit to Punjab last month made the same promises, including free power for farmers, 300 units of free electricity for the urban populace, among others.

The visits to Chandigarh and Dehradun are seen in the light of upcoming state assembly elections in Uttarakhand and Punjab.

Aam Admi Party has been trying to make roads in Uttarakhand as well as fortify its position in Punjab to reap gains in both states.
By Express News Service

GUWAHATI: To provide social and financial security to the widows of Covid victims, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma launched the Chief Ministers Covid-19 Widows Support Scheme on Sunday.



Under it, a one-time financial assistance of Rs 2.5 lakh will be provided to Covid widows with an annual income up to Rs 5 lakh. Additionally, they will get a financial assistance of Rs 830 per month under Arunodoi scheme and monthly widow pension.



CM Sarma handed over cheques to 176 of the 883 beneficiaries from eight districts. The remaining beneficiaries would receive the cheques from the ministers.



Sarma said, Losing the loved ones is always painful. However, our government, in its bid to provide a little support at this testing time, has decided to assuage the sufferings of the family members of the deceased with financial support.



The scheme has been launched to help the beneficiaries to lead a life of dignity in spite of pecuniary hardship that fate might lead them to in view of the death of the head of the family, he said.



Sarma said the government has already launched Sishu Seva Scheme to secure the academic future of those children who lost both parents to Covid. He said the government was creating budgetary support to help other Covid victims.
Prasanta Mazumdar By

Express News Service

GUWAHATI: A Delhi-based Assam advocate has petitioned the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) alleging that the state police force was indulging in fake encounters since the installation of the Himanta Biswa Sarma-led government on May 10 and seeking a probe into the incidents.

The complainant, Arif Jwadder, alleged the Assam Police were on an encounter spree where small-time criminals were being shot and the reason cited for such encounters was that they had tried to flee from police custody snatching pistols.

More than 20 such encounters took place and most of the persons at the receiving ends were alleged drug dealers, alleged cattle dealers. In some of the cases, the alleged criminals have died on the spot, Jwadder wrote in his letter to the NHRC.

Listing 10 cases, the lawyer said the police personnel were staging fake encounters with impunity following the CMs recent statement that policemen should shoot at the legs of criminals as permitted by law.

The injured or dead persons are/were not militants and hence, not trained to use pistols. It is very unlikely that they could use pistols after snatching against the policemen who were heavily armed, the advocate wrote.

He refused to believe the petty criminals could snatch a pistol from a trained police officer.

It cannot also be believed that an army of policemen couldnt stop the alleged criminals from fleeing from custody, he said, adding the police were denying the right of a fair trial to the alleged criminals.

It is requested to take cognisance of the matter and institute an inquiry into all such fake encounters which have taken place since May 2021, Jwadder wrote to the Commission.

At a conference of police officers, CM Sarma had said: Somebody asked me if it has become a pattern in Assam that criminals are fired upon when they attempt to flee from police custody. I would say that should be the pattern.

However, opposition Congress was critical of the police force for frequent use of firearms.

It may have dangerous results if it becomes a habit. Today, it may be a criminal. Tomorrow, it may be an innocent man. This kind of freedom to shoot is against human rights to get a fair trial and undermines the whole judicial process, the party had said.
Rajesh Kumar Thakur By

Express News Service

PATNA: Bihar is among the top five states including West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, and Assam, in providing tap water supply to rural households in its 15 Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (JE-AES) affected districts.

The districts include Muzaffarpur, East Champaran, West Champaran, Samastipur, Vaishali, Saran, Siwan, Gopalganj, among others.

These districts report AES cases every year with Muzaffarpur reporting the most number of infections.

This year too, more than 28 cases of AES have been reported and at least eight children have died with symptoms akin to that of AES.

According to an official statement issued from the Jal Shakti Ministry, an average of 85.53 per cent tap water connections have been provided in all the 15 AES-reporting districts so far.

In Nalanda, 96 per cent of tap water supply connections have been provided while districts of Saran and Gopalganj followed suit with supply connection at 94 per cent.

Ninety-one per cent water supply connections were provided in Vaishali and Siwan, 84 per cent in West Champaran, and 80 per cent in East Champaran.

On a whole, about 97 lakh households have been provided the tap water supply in five Encephalitis affected states, including Bihar in the last 22 months.

The Japanese Encephalitis or the Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (JE-AES) poses a serious health hazard to children, who grow up are malnourished and live amid unhygienic surroundings.

As many as 61 high priority districts in five states, Bihar included, are identified for strengthening prevention and control measures through five union ministries with Ministry of Health and Family Welfare as the nodal ministry. Jal Jeevan Mission is a key program in reducing the burden of disease in these districts, the Jal-Shakti department's official notice stated.

Quoting figures, Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said that when the Jal Jeevan Mission was announced on 15 august in 2019, only 8.02 lakh (2.67%) households in 61 JE-AES affected districts across the five states had tap water supply facilities.

But in the last 22 months, tap water connections have been provided to additional 97.41 lakh households in these districts. Now, 1.05 Crore (35%) households have assured tap water supply in JE-AES affected districts. This 32% increase in household tap water connections in JE-AES priority districts is about 12% higher than the national average increase of 23.43% in tap water supply across the country during the same period, Shekhawat's official statement stated.

He also claimed the Jal Jeevan Mission significantly strengthens Encephalitis Preventive Measures, has allocated Rs. 463 crore to 5 states as JE-AES component for 2021-22.

Shekhawat in his letter to the Chief Ministers of Bihar Nitish Kumar and the other four states requested for provision of tap water to all households in the affected districts, as well as SC/ ST majority villages on a priority basis.

He also requested for provision of safe drinking water to schools, ashram shalas and Aanganwadi centres within the next few months.
Ejaz Kaiser By

Express News Service

RAIPUR: More than 10,000 cases were disposed off during the National Lok Adalat, held in all civil courts across Chhattisgarh.

The first of its kind Lok Adalats were held right from Taluka to the High Court in the state by the Chhattisgarh State Legal Services Authority for swift disposal of pre-litigation and pending cases through virtual and physical mode while complying with the Covid protocol.

Over one thousand cases withdrawn on the initiative of the state government were those related to violation of guidelines during the Covid pandemic under Section 188.

Special cases like Sections 321, 258 (Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973), petty offences, and cases registered under the Disaster Management Act 2005 during the covid-19 lockdown were also resolved.

Pre-litigation cases not presented in the court were also disposed of through joint agreement of the parties.

According to the directions of Chhattisgarh High Court acting Chief Justice Prashant Kumar Mishra, who is also an executive chairman of State Legal Services Authority, each district has been given the power of special sitting of the magistrate for the Lok Adalat, on the basis of which, small cases were resolved with the approval of the parties.

A total of 123 cases were also resolved by the High Court in the National Lok Adalat through four division benches.

The Lok Adalat was held following the instruction by the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA).
Vineet Upadhyay By

Express News Service

DEHRADUN: Speaking about Kanwar Yatra, newly appointed Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said God would not want people to lose their lives for faith.

"Kanwar Yatra is a matter of faith but God would not want people to lose their lives for faith. Every life is precious," said the chief minister while talking to the media in New Delhi.

The state government had on June 30 issued orders cancelling the yatra in view of the Covid-19 situation, but has been requested by its Uttar Pradesh counterpart to reconsider the decision.

CM Dhami is on Delhi visit where in the last three days he has met President Kovind, Prime Minister Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah. He also met the power minister, aviation minister, BJP national president JP Nadda and many other party leaders.

ALSO READ | Uttarakhand govt to send Gangajal in tankers if Kanwar yatra not allowed due to Covid situation

Thanking the Prime Minister and all union ministers for listening as well as 'promising' to look into the proposals for various sectors in Uttarakhand, Dhami added, "I am thankful to the party leadership and the Prime Minister for choosing me to work for the people of Uttarakhand as the Chief Minister."

He further asserted that multiple developmental works have been done in last four years in the state.

"The quality as well as quantity of the work done since the Modi govt came in Centre supersedes earlier 60 years before him. You look at Char Dham Pariyojana, you go to Dehradun from Delhi and see the roads, go to Rishikesh from Dehradun, Srinagar from Rishikesh or Karnprayag from Srinagar you will realize the volume work done. A lot of development projects are still in pipeline to transform the state," said Dhami -- the youngest CM in the history of Uttarakhand.

Dhami added, "We passed a resolution as well as took decision in the cabinet to implement what we promised in terms of jobs. We will generate lakhs of jobs through various means including self-employment too."

Responding to queries related to dissent of senior cabinet members, Dhami said that no one is angry or dissatisfied.

"We are a good team of highly experienced cabinet members. No one is junior or senior. All work as a team for welfare of the people," said the Chief Minister.
By PTI

NEW DELHI: India has pulled out around 50 diplomats and security personnel from its consulate in Kandahar in Afghanistan in view of the deteriorating security situation and the Taliban gaining control of new areas around the southern Afghan city, people familiar with the development said on Sunday.

They said that special aircraft of the Indian Air Force was sent on Saturday to bring back the Indian diplomats, officials and other staff members including a group of Indo-Tibetan Border Police personnel. External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said India-based personnel have been brought back for the time being in view of intense fighting near Kandahar city.

Describing the pull out of the India-based personnel as a temporary measure, he said the consulate continues to operate through the local staff members. He said Ithat ndia is closely monitoring the evolving security situation in Afghanistan.

"The safety and security of our personnel is paramount. The consulate general of India in Kandahar has not been closed.However, due to the intense fighting near Kandahar city, India-based personnel have been brought back for the time being," Bagchi said.

ALSO READ | Afghan Taliban says it sees China as a 'friend', promises not to host Uyghur militants: Report

He was replying to a media query on the issue. "I want to emphasise that this is a purely temporary measure until the situation stabilises. The consulate continues to operate through our local staff members," Bagchi said.

He said arrangements are being made to ensure continued delivery of visa and consular services through the Indian embassy in Kabul. "An important partner of Afghanistan, India remains committed to a peaceful, sovereign and democratic Afghanistan," the spokesperson said.

India's move to temporarily bring back its Indian staff came in view of Taliban fighters rapidly seizing control of a number of key areas in the region as well as in western Afghanistan triggering huge security concerns.

On Tuesday, the Indian embassy in Kabul said there was no plan to close the embassy and the consulates in Kandahar and Mazar-e-Sharif. Two days back, the Ministry of External said India was carefully monitoring the deteriorating security situation in Afghanistan and its implications on the safety and security of Indian nationals. "Our response will be calibrated accordingly," External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Bagchi had said at a media briefing on Thursday.

Afghanistan witnessed a series of terror attacks in the last few weeks as the US looked to complete the withdrawal of its forces from Afghanistan by August-end, ending a nearly two-decade of its military presence in the war-ravaged country.

There were reports that at least two foreign missions in Mazar-e-Sharif, the capital of northern Balkh province, have closed their operation in view of the escalating violence in the region.

Amid growing concerns in India over the deteriorating situation in Afghanistan, Afghan Ambassador Farid Mamundzay on Tuesday briefed Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla on the situation in Afghanistan.

The Indian embassy last week asked all Indians visiting, staying and working in Afghanistan to exercise the utmost caution with regard to their security and avoid all types of non-essential travel in view of rising incidents of violence in various parts of the country.

In an advisory, the embassy said the security situation in Afghanistan remains "dangerous" and that terror groups have carried out a series of complex attacks including targeting civilians, adding Indian nationals additionally face a "serious threat" of kidnapping.

India has been a major stakeholder in the peace and stability of Afghanistan. It has already invested nearly USD three billion in aid and reconstruction activities in the country. India has been supporting a national peace and reconciliation process which is Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled.

In March, Afghan Foreign Minister Mohammad Haneef Atmar visited India during which Jaishankar conveyed to him India's long-term commitment towards a peaceful, sovereign and stable Afghanistan.
By PTI

AHMEDABAD: The annual rath yatra of Lord Jagannath in Ahmedabad city, which generally attracts massive crowd, will be taken out amid a curfew on its route on Monday to bar people from taking part in it in view of the coronavirus pandemic, officials said.

Apart from no public participation, the 144th rath yatra would be a shorter affair in terms of duration as the authorities plan to conclude it within four to five hours as against the usual time of around 12 hours, although the procession would cover the entire 19-km route as earlier, they said.

The state administration and temple authorities have made all the arrangements for the rath yatra without public participation and any fanfare.

Tight security arrangements have been put in place so that the yatra passes off peacefully with strict adherence to COVID-19 protocols and guidelines, officials said.

In view of the pandemic, the state government has made it clear that except for three chariots and two other vehicles, no other vehicle, singing troupes, akhadas, elephants or decorated trucks will be allowed to take part in the procession.

To stop people from gathering along the route for a glimpse of the deity, a curfew will be imposed on the entire yatra route from early morning till afternoon, they said.

Traditionally, the procession, led by chariots, starts around 7 am from the 400-year-old temple and returns by 8 pm.

Before the COVID-19 outbreak last year, lakhs of people used to gather along the route on 'Ashadhi Beej' every year to catch a glimpse of the decorated elephants and tableaux moving around in some 100 trucks.

The procession used to come back to the Lord Jagannath temple after covering a distance of 19 km in about 12 hours, which included an hour-long lunch break at Saraspur.

This time, the authorities have planned to complete the yatra in four to five hours.

There will not be any large gathering in Saraspur for the lunch break.

Since people from other districts and those living in western parts of the city also flock the route to watch the procession, police will regulate the traffic movement on all bridges to stop people from reaching near the route.

The government has appealed to the people to watch the yatra which will be telecast live on television channels.

As per the tradition, youths from the Khalasi community pull the chariots.

This time, only 60 youths, 20 for each of the three chariots, have been given permission to pull the chariots on the route.

Effectively, no one except those 60 youths along with some priests on each chariot, chief priest Mahant Dilipdasjee and trustees of the temple will take part in this year's rath yatra.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah would perform the 'mangla aarti' at the temple on July 12 morning before the idols of deities are taken out for the yatra.

Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani and Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel will perform Pahind rituals (symbolic cleaning of road before the rath yatra starts).

The CM visited the temple on Sunday evening to take part in evening aarti of the temple.

Heavy security deployment has been put in place on the entire route.

City police commissioner has also banned flying of any drones for a day in Ahmedabad on Monday.

Last year, only a symbolic rath yatra was organised in the premises of the Lord Jagannath temple in Jamalpur area here after the Gujarat High Court denied permission for the usual public procession due to the pandemic.
By PTI

MHOW: Activist Medha Patkar on Sunday led a morcha here in Madhya Pradesh to protest the alleged delay by authorities in taking action against three men in connection with the discharge of pollutants in the Ajnar river.

Congress' Dharampur MLA Pachilal Medha also joined the march taken out from the Phoot Talab to Manpur police station.

The rally caused traffic snarls.

"An incident of pouring hazardous waste into the river had occurred on June 23. The authorities knew about it by June 24. A case was registered against three persons but police have not arrested any of them so far," the Narmada Bachao Andolan leader said while addressing a gathering organised by the Jai Adivasi Yuva Sangathan (JAYS), a tribal outfit near Manpur area.

"The Ajnar River is a major source for both potable and irrigation water for the people of nearly 50 villages from Indore, Khargone and Dhar districts and any attempt to pollute it amounts to affecting thousands of lives of tribal people and their animals", she said.

The MLA demanded the river be cleaned and the accused arrested immediately.

He accused the local police of shielding the accused persons and demanded the suspension of local police station-in-charge.
Rajesh Kumar Thakur By

Express News Service

PATNA: Bihars ambitious Patna Metro Rail Project has moved at a snail's pace so far with not more than 1% of its total work having been executed in over two and half years.

Rajya Sabha MP and former Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi took stock of the situation and held a meeting with Mangu Singh, MD of Delhi Metro Rail Project, and its director Daljit Singh, who are also handling the Patna Metro Rail Project works.

The foundation stone of the proposed mega project was laid down in February 2019 with a budget of Rs 13,000 crore.

A loan of Rs 5,520.93 crore for the same has also taken from the Japanese government, according to Sushil Kumar Modi.

Works commenced in September 2020, before the assembly elections, but so far only one per cent of it has been completed.

During 10 months, one percent work is in the form of physical progress and 3.1 percent in the form of financial progress has been completed. It will expedite soon after 20 hectares of land is made available for the project," Modi said.

The metro lines are to be built covering a distance of more than 32 km in two corridors at a cost of Rs 77 crore besides other structures.

Its first corridor will cover a distance of 17 km and the second one of 14.55 km from Danapur to Mithapur and from ISBT to Patna railway station, respectively.


By ANI

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to visit his parliamentary constituency Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh on July 15, official sources informed. Prime Minister is scheduled to inaugurate Rudraksh International Convention Centre at Sigra in Varanasi during his visit to the state.

The Convention Centre, which was built with the help of Japan, will be inaugurated by the Prime Minister along with the Ambassador of Japan to India, post which a video message of Japan Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga will be broadcasted there, sources added.

In view of the security arrangements, the Special Protection Group (SPG) will reach Varanasi by today evening and will prepare a blueprint for the security of the venue.
Chetana Belagere By

Express News Service

BENGALURU: While some of the states are yet again witnessing a rise in Covid-19 cases, hinting at a possible third wave, Dr Shahid Jameel, renowned virologist and former chairman of the Indian SARS-COV-2 Genomics Consortia (INSACOG), and also one of the co-founders of Ignite Life, in an exclusive interview to TNSE says that India needs a quick seroprevalence study to know if there will be a consorted peak or a ripple, or how and when each state may peak.

He also speaks about Ignite Life Science Foundations first funds granted by Biocon founder and executive chairperson Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw to trigger funding for research on mRNA-based vaccines.

Will the coming together of two variants of concern, the Delta and Delta-plus, spark a third wave?

The third wave is now dependent on three things - 1) Behaviour of people post relaxation measures; 2) How many people have already been exposed and how many are yet to be vaccinated. So far, about 360 million doses have been given, which means roughly about 24 per cent of people have got one dose.

This is still a small number. The third wave depends on how many people have been exposed and we dont have good estimates of that. Ideally, there should be a serosurvey done very quickly to find out what percentage of people in India are exposed and that will provide the right kind of data to predict whether there will be enough of a third wave or not. If 70 per cent of people have already been exposed, the nature of things will be very different than 50 per cent being exposed and 50 per cent not exposed; 3) Whether there will be a more infectious variant emerging. By more infectious, I mean more infectious than the Delta variant. Delta was about 100 per cent more infectious than Alpha. Whether there will be another variant that is significantly more infectious than Delta will decide whether there will be a big third wave. Delta-plus is not very infectious. What about vaccines for children? Will there be a need for it?

People saying that children will be more affected are basing it on the assumption that children have largely been left unexposed. While there is no reason to make that assumption, I do not believe that children are less exposed. I think if we do a proper serosurvey, we will know that they are as exposed as adults. If our regulator approves that, then the DNA vaccine can be made available for children. Though I agree that children should be tested before giving it to them, I dont know of any vaccine that is safe for adults, but unsafe for children. The scenario looks good and we should just vaccinate children.

Do you think that labs under INSACOG are doing enough sequencing? Should they rope in private players?

Sequencing is done strategically. It is not about brute numbers, but yes, they are important. Because, unless you sequence at scale, you may not be able to find what is beginning to emerge. The INSACOG is sequencing at around 0.03 per cent and even at that rate, it did find the Delta-plus emerging precedently. What we need is smart and strategic sequencing, more in areas where it is still emerging instead of areas where it is subsiding. I think it is working well. There are a lot of companies in India that have a lot of sequencing capacity. Yes, I do believe that private players should be allowed in and they should work within a certain mandate and within a certain reporting structure, but strengths of private players should be utilised.

Ignite Life Science Foundation has awarded its first grant for pandemic preparedness research. How important will this kind of research be? And what will be the focus of research?

The mission of Ignite is to fill the space between government funding and large foundations. We do a lot of hand-holding. The whole idea is, whoever we fund, we make it possible for them to succeed. The very first grant was made possible by a very generous donation by Biocon founder and executive chairperson Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw. So we were able to roll out our first grant and that was awarded to IISc, Bengaluru and Translational Health Science and Technology Institute, Faridabad. The idea is to develop an RNA vaccine platform and also to try and make it thermostable. Remember, India doesnt have an RNA vaccine platform. Our first plan is to see if we can develop a vaccine with an RNA platform and can be stored in the fridge at 4 degrees Celsius. Yes, pandemic preparedness is very important, but so is antimicrobial resistance and nutrition. There are many things. We are working on many of those. But it depends on philanthropic donations. The time frame for the grant is three years.

Was there any particular reason for your exit from the INSACOG?

Thats not a story at all. Dont look back, look ahead!
By ANI

NEW DELHI: Former Union Ministers Ravi Shankar Prasad and Prakash Javadekar may soon receive senior organisational positions in the BJP.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is soon likely to announce new positions for the senior former Union Ministers Ravi Shankar Prasad and Prakash Javadekar, sources said.

These leaders may get National General Secretary or Vice President position in the party, sources told ANI.

Also, major responsibilities will be given to them for the upcoming Assembly poll pound states. BJP president JP Nadda will soon make an announcement regarding the same, sources added.

Nadda on Sunday called for a meeting of National Secretaries at BJP headquarters in the national capital at 3 pm. According to sources, the upcoming Assembly polls strategy is expected to be part of the agenda of the meeting

As many as 43 leaders took oath on Wednesday in the first Union Cabinet reshuffle and expansion after Prime Minister Modi returned to power for a second term in May 2019.

The swearing-in ceremony, which took place at Rashtrapati Bhavan amid COVID-19 protocols, came days ahead of the monsoon session of Parliament.

Ravi Shankar Prasad and Prakash Javadekar were among the 12 Union Ministers who had resigned from their posts of Council of Ministers ahead of the Union Cabinet expansion on July 7.
By PTI

LUCKNOW: The Uttar Pradesh government on Sunday extended the relaxation in the coronavirus curfew imposed in the state by two hours, a senior official said here.

As per the new guidelines issued by Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Awanish Awasthi, markets, shops and establishments can now remain open from 6 am to 10 pm from Monday to Friday.

Weekly closure will be observed on Saturdays and Sundays, it said.

The new arrangement takes effect on July 12, the order said.

Earlier, the relaxation in the coronavirus curfew was from 7 am to 9 pm from Monday to Friday.

With five more COVID-19 deaths, the toll in Uttar Pradesh has risen to 22,698, while the tally of cases has climbed to 17,07,350 with 125 fresh coronavirus infections in the state, the government said on Sunday.

Of the fresh deaths, two were reported from Gorakhpur, while one death each was reported from Jhansi, Mirzapur and Jaunpur, the Uttar Pradesh government said in a statement.

Out of the 125 new cases, 20 were reported from Sultanpur, while six cases were reported each from Lucknow, Prayagraj and Varanasi.

In the past 24 hours, 134 COVID-19 patients have recovered from the disease, and been discharged.

This has pushed the total number of recoveries to 16,83,058.

Active COVID-19 cases in the state stand at 1,594, the statement said.

In the past 24 hours, more than 2.40 lakh samples in the state have been tested, it said.
By PTI

MUMBAI: Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut on Sunday said the death of Elgar Parishad-Maoist links case accused Jesuit priest Stan Swamy in custody cannot be justified even if Maoists are "more dangerous than Kashmiri separatists".

In his weekly column Rokhthok in the party mouthpiece 'Saamana', Raut wondered whether India's foundation was so weak that an 84-year-old man could can wage a war against it, and said being critical of an incumbent government doesn't mean being against the country.

Swamy, 84, possibly the oldest person to be accused of terrorism in India, died in a Mumbai hospital recently in the middle of his fight for bail on health grounds.

"A government that is scared of an 84-year-old physically challenged man is dictatorial in character, but weak in the mind," said Raut, who is the executive editor of 'Saamana'.

The activities of the Elgar Parishad cannot be supported, but what happened later should be called a "conspiracy of cracking down on freedom", Raut said, referring to the arrest of activists like Varavara Rao, Sudha Bharadwaj, Gaurav Navlakha and others in connection with the Elgar Parishad-Maoist links case.

Raut said all those arrested (in the case), including (scholar-activist) Anand Teltumbde, belong to a particular ideology who voice their rebellion through literature.

"Can they overthrow the government with this?" he asked.

Raut said Stan Swamy died in custody while Prime Minister Narendra Modi held talks with those who want autonomy for Kashmir and are demanding restoration of Article 370 there.

"We may not agree with the ideology of Maoists and Naxals.

Swamy's death in custody cannot be justified even if Maoists and Naxals are more dangerous than Kashmiri separatists," the Rajya Sabha member said.

He expressed surprise over Prime Minister Modi's name figuring in the list of global leaders who crack down on press freedom.

"The situation has not gone out of hand in India even if it is true that the government's critics are put in jail under sedition laws. The Indian press also raises its voice against such incidents," he said.

"Is the country's foundation so weak that it can be threatened by an 84-year-old man?" Raut asked.
By PTI

THANE: The Bombay High Court has rejected the Maharashtra government's application seeking cancellation of bail to four accused in the suicide case of Thane-based builder Suraj Parmar in 2015.

While three of the accused are sitting corporators in Thane civic body, the fourth one is a former corporator.

Parmar had committed suicide by shooting himself dead in October 2015.

In his suicide note, he had blamed four corporators for his extreme step, accusing them of harassing him for money.

A Thane district court had earlier granted bail to the four accused- NCP corporators Hanumant Jagdale, Najeeb Mulla, Congress corporator Vikrant Chavan, who is presently also the president of the party's Thane city district unit, and former MNS corporator Sudhakar Chavan.

In its order dated July 7, the copy of which was made available on Saturday, high court judge Justice Prakash D Naik, said, Long time has lapsed after the bail of the applicants.

Hence, all the applications (seeking cancellation of bail) be disposed of.

 In view of the submissions, all the applications stand disposed of as rejected, the court said.

(If you are having suicidal thoughts, or are worried about a friend or need emotional support, someone is always there to listen. Call AASRA's 24x7 Helpline: +91-9820466726 for assistance)
By PTI

KOLKATA: Three suspected terrorists of Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB) were arrested from south Kolkata's Haridevpur area on Sunday afternoon, police said.

The arrests were made by the Kolkata Police's Special Task Force (STF), they said.

The three suspected JMB terrorists were living in a rented accommodation for a few months in the middle-class locality, raising concern among the locals.

The three suspected terrorists were nabbed following a tip-off, a senior police officer said.

"We are investigating the matter and interrogating them. It is at a very initial stage," the officer told PTI.
By PTI

KOLKATA: Trinamool Congress members protested across West Bengal on Sunday against the spiralling fuel prices that are causing hardships for the common people amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Petrol is retailing at over Rs 101 per litre and diesel at more than Rs 92 in West Bengal, while domestic LPG touched Rs 861 per cylinder.

The protests, which continued for the second consecutive day, were held at important junctions in Kolkata, including Paikpara, Baguiati, Chetla and Behala.

Demonstrations were also held in Belgharia, Bolpur, Katwa, Ratiganj and Siliguri, besides other parts of the state.

TMC MLA Atin Ghosh, who led the protests at Paikpara in north Kolkata, said the unabated rise in prices of petrol, diesel and LPG has burdened the common people.

However, the BJP-led government at the Centre is not bothered about the people as they are solely concerned about revenues and serving the interests of big oil companies, he alleged.

At the Baguiati protest site, TMC members cooked on a firewood oven and served the food to those who were attending.

"This is a symbolic protest. The fuel price hike is pushing us backward and we are going back to the age of such ovens and bullock carts," TMC MLA Aditi Munshi said.
By Express News Service

LUCKNOW: Just four days before Prime Minister Narendra Modis possible visit to his parliamentary constituency Varanasi, the Uttar Pradesh police claimed on Sunday to have foiled an alleged plot by global terror outfit Al- Qaedas Indian arm to carry out serial blasts and lone-wolf human bomb attacks in various parts of the state.

Carrying out day long search operations at houses of suspects in Dubagga (Kakori) and Mandiyaon areas of Uttar Pradesh's capital Lucknows outskirts, the state polices anti-terror squad (UP ATS) claimed to have busted the alleged UP module of Al Qaedas in Indian Subcontinent (AQIS)s Indian arm Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind (Helpers of the Conquest of India) by arresting two men, identified as Minhaz Ahmad (30) and Masiruddin alias Mushir (50).

According to the UP Polices additional director general (ADG Law and Order) Prashant Kumar, the UP ATS team under supervision of IG-ATS GK Goswami foiled the plot of the UP module of the AQISs Indian arm to carry out serial blasts-human bomb attacks across the state, including Lucknow before the Independence Day.

The two men arrested from separate police station areas on Lucknows outskirts were among the three key members (a man named Shakil being the third one) of the global terror outfits UP module, which has members in other parts of UP also. The arrested duo and their aides were being handled by their AQIS handler identified as Umar Al-Mandi, who has been handling them from Quetta and Peshawar cities of Pakistan close to the Pakistan-Afghanistan border, the UP ADG(L&O) added.

The search operation at Minhaz and Masiruddins house has led the police to explosives and a pistol. The seized explosives included fully finished and preparatory pressure cooker borne Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), which are being defused by the bomb detection and disposal squad of state police, Kumar maintained.

Similar search operations are being carried out in other parts of the state also by the ATS units in association with local police forces to track and nab remaining members of the busted module, including men from Lucknow and Kanpur, Kumar informed.

As per the police officials, the preliminary questioning of the arrested men has revealed that men across the state were being radicalized by this module at the behest of modules handler Umar-Al-Mandi, who is presently heading the AQISs India operations under the banner of Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind (Helpers of the Conquest of India).

Importantly, the AQIS (Indian subcontinent arm) of Al-Qaeda was formed by the global terror outfits head Ayman-al-Zawahiri in September 2014 with Asim Umar (a native of Sambhal district of West UP) as its Emir. Five years later, AQIS chief Asim Umar was killed during a joint US-Afghanistan military raid in Helmand province of Afghanistan.

"During interrogation, the accused persons said that their accomplices ran away from their house. The ATS team along with the local police has undertaken intensive checking," Kumar said and added that a case has been registered in this connection at the ATS station.

They will be produced before a court, and then taken into police custody.

The official said that an improvised explosive device (IED) was found at Ahmed's house along with a huge amount of explosive and a pistol. Explosives were also seized from Maseeruddin's residence, he said.

The IED is being defused by the bomb squad, the ADGP said.

He said that in 1988, at the time of Soviet-Afghan war, Osama Bin Laden and some of his associates had formed the Al-Qaeda, a militant Sunni Islamic multi-national terror organisation.

The module of the Indian sub-continent was announced by then head of the terror group Ayman al-Zawahiri on September 3, 2014.

Maulana Asim Umar, who headed the Al-Qaeda in the sub-continent was killed on September 23, 2019 in an US-Afghan operation, Kumar said.

He had links with Sambhal in Uttar Pradesh, Kumar said.

Umar Halmandi had started the work of recruiting men for the Al-Qaeda in India, and radicalise them, he said.

"For this, he had identified some aggressive persons in Lucknow, appointed them, and built the Al-Qaeda module. This module was made to unleash terror activities under the Ansar Ghazwatul Hind. Prominent members of the module are Minhaz Ahmed, Maseeruddin and Shakeel," he said.

(Inputs from PTI)
By PTI

LUCKNOW: The BJP on Saturday claimed victory on 635 of the total 825 seats of block panchayat chiefs in Uttar Pradesh, where the local bodies elections were held amid scattered incidents of violence with the opposition alleging misuse of official machinery by the ruling party.

Polling for the 476 posts of block panchayat chiefs was held from 11 AM to 3 PM, following which counting of votes had commenced. A total of 349 candidates for the block panchayat chief posts were elected unopposed on Friday, the last day for the withdrawal of nomination papers, State Election Commissioner Manoj Kumar said.

A spokesman of the Commission said that though at most of the places, counting had been completed, in some areas it was still continuing and the results were expected late in the night.

According to state police, clashes and other untoward incidents were reported from 17 districts during the election process and orders have been issued to respective district police heads to take strict action against those responsible for it.

Victory processions have not been allowed and officials were keeping a strict eye on the situation, the state police said in a statement.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath held a press conference at the BJP headquarter and claimed victory on 635 seats, where counting had been completed, and attributed the success to the teamwork of the government and party organisation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah and other top BJP leaders congratulated the state unit for the performance. "The benefits that the people have got from the Yogi Adityanath government's policies and public interest schemes have been reflected in the party's massive victory. All the party workers deserve congratulations for this victory," PM Modi tweeted.

The panchayat election results are an important morale-booster for the BJP ahead of assembly polls next year in the politically crucial state as it had drawn a lot of flak over its handling of the COVID19 pandemic.

Chief Minister Adityanath also praised the State Election Commission for conducting peaceful and fair elections. The contribution of the State Election Commission in conducting the peaceful and fair elections was praiseworthy. Getting such a massive election process peacefully, in a state where democracy was mortgaged to professional criminals and mafia on the basis of caste religion and sects...Every citizen and party can fight election now peacefully, Yogi said.

However, the opposition parties accused the BJP government of misusing official machinery in the elections and unleashing anarchy. In a statement, Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav alleged that the BJP had "forcibly" captured the posts of block chiefs with the help of government machinery and called it an insult of the mandate.

"The BJP government has no faith in democracy and the Constitution, he said and alleged candidates were "abducted openly" and those opposing these tactics were being harassed.The former chief minister said that his party had given a memorandum to the state Election Commissioner about malpractices and rigging, but no action was taken. Democracy in Uttar Pradesh has been held hostage by BJP, he alleged.

Hitting out at the BJP government, BSP chief Mayawati alleged that "jungle raj is prevailing" in the state. "There has been widespread violence in the panchayat polls, and there was indecent behaviour with a woman in Lakhimpur Kheri.This is highly condemnable. Is this their (BJP's) rule of law and democracy? This is something to ponder upon," she said.

The Congress too slammed the BJP government, with party leader Rahul Gandhi derisively saying that the poll violence has been renamed "masterstroke" in the state. Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra alleged that the BJP had "crossed" all limits to stop the nomination of a woman in the polls.

Uttar Pradesh Congress Committee's media and communication department convenor Lalan Kumar alleged that "anarchy is being spread by the leaders and workers of the BJP". "BJP workers armed with bombs, bullets and sticks are making their district panchayat presidents and block chiefs and it is surprising that the entire administration is playing a big role in the murder of democracy," he alleged.

According to a report from Sonbhadra, after the election of the BJP candidate in Nagwan block, SP workers alleged rigging in the counting and created a ruckus in which policemen including a Circle Officer and a former chairman of Robertsganj Municipality were injured. Some vehicles were also damaged by the miscreants.

Sonbhadra SP Amarendra Prasad Singh said that in Nagwan block after BJP candidate Alok Singh was declared the winner, SP workers started protesting and pelted stones when police tried to clear the area, prompting the cops to lathi-charge.

CO Sadar Ashish Mishra and a policeman were injured in this incident, he said. Several purported videos of clashes between supporters of rival parties were also posted on social media. A total of 1,778 nomination papers were received for 825 posts of the block panchayat chiefs, of which 68 were cancelled and 187 withdrawn.

A total of 1,710 candidates were left in the fray for the elections held on Saturday.
By PTI

PUNE: Days after Maharashtra Congress president Nana Patole reportedly asked the party workers to install "our person" as guardian minister of Pune in place of NCP leader Ajit Pawar, party chief Sharad Pawar on Sunday said he will not react to what "small people" say but will speak if Sonia Gandhi says something.

Pawar was responding to a query on the remarks made by Patole at the meeting of the Pune district Congress committee held in Lonavala on Friday.

Sources had said that some local party office-bearers had complained to Patole that Pune district guardian minister and NCP leader Ajit Pawar did not help them, and Congress workers were not being appointed to various committees in the district.

"Who is the district guardian minister of Pune? Someone from Baramati. Whose work is he doing, is he doing our work? Turn these hardships into strength. Do not get mentally weak. Create strength with a resolve that we will install our person on that (guardian minister's) chair," Patole told Congress workers.

When asked to comment on Patole's remarks on his nephew Ajit Pawar, the NCP chief said, "I do not get into these things. These are small (junior) people. Why should I speak on it. If (Congress president) Sonia Gandhi says something, then I will speak".

Pawar also downplayed Patole's repeated vow that Congress, which is a constituent of the Shiv Sena-led Maha Vikas Aghadi government along with the NCP, will contest future elections solo.

"Every party has a right to expand its base and there is nothing wrong in it. The Shiv Sena took that stand so did Congress. The NCP has also adopted the same stand (of expanding the base of the party)," he said, adding the three parties are running the government together but their organisations are separate.

"What is important is that all the three parties have the same thinking while running a coalition government," Pawar added.
By PTI

RAIPUR: Amid speculations over the purported two-and-a-half-year power-sharing formula in the ruling Congress in Chhattisgarh, Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel on Sunday reiterated that if the party high command asks, he would vacate the post.

Baghel was speaking to reporters at the Raipur airport after returning from Delhi where he met AICC leaders Priyanka Gandhi and PL Punia.

On July 9, Baghel visited Shimla where he paid last respects to former Himachal Pradesh chief minister Virbhadra Singh.

He returned here this afternoon via Delhi.

"I was in Himachal Pradesh to pay tribute to Virbhadra Singh ji, After the second wave of COVID-19 broke out (in March end), it was my first visit to Delhi. Today I held a formal meeting with Priyanka ji and Punia ji there," he said.

"A lot of discussions were held with Punia ji over politics in the state, various government programmes and appointments to the posts of corporations and boards," he added.

When told questions are being raised over the purported arrangement for the rotational chief ministership in the state, Baghel said, "You keep asking this question, the reply will be given and every time the answer will be the same. The party high command has given this responsibility, and if the high command orders to vacate, then I will do so."

"Media people ask this question again and again and every time the answer remains the same. Two plus two will always be four. It will neither be more than it nor less than it. Every time you ask I will give the same reply."

The Baghel government completed two-and-a-half years in office last month.

Sharing the CM's post on a rotational basis has been a buzz in Chhattisgarh's political circles after Congress came to power in December 2018 when Baghel and his two senior cabinet colleagues TS Singh Deo and Tamradhwaj Sahu were the leading contenders for the CM post.

When Baghel took oath as Chief Minister on December 17, 2018, Deo and Sahu had sworn in as cabinet ministers.

The speculations were rife that consensus was built for the CM's post based on a two-and-a-half-year power-sharing formula between Baghel and Deo.

Meanwhile, Baghel slammed state BJP leaders for calling the ruling Congress a "nikammi" (useless) government over the alleged unavailability of anti-COVID-19 vaccines in the state.

"It is the habit of the BJP to blame others for its mistake. The latest example can be seen in the recent reshuffle in the Union cabinet. Modiji decided to carry out the vaccination drive, impose a lockdown (during the surge of the pandemic) and export vaccines abroad. But when the Centre faced criticism over the vaccination drive, all blame was put on Dr Harsh Wadrhan, who was removed as Union health minister," he said.

No decision taken by the Modi government turned out to be successful, be it the GST, demonetisation, lockdown, or agriculture policy, the CM said.

The Centre has also failed to ensure a smooth supply of fertilisers, he alleged.

"Over one crore shots of vaccines have been administered to people (in all categories) in Chhattisgarh. Now if they do not provide vaccines, how the vaccination drive will be conducted. We cannot administer fake vaccines like it was done in Madhya Pradesh and Gujrat," he said.

"They (Centre) should just supply vaccines to us and if we fail to vaccinate people, then put blame on us. BJP leaders blame and criticise Jawahar Lal Nehru for every issue but they cannot question the incumbent Prime Minister because if they do so it will be considered as 'deshdroh'," he said.

Baghel wondered why state BJP leaders can't question the party brass for not inducting MPs from Chhattisgarh in the recently-expanded Union cabinet.

"Then who is nikamma (useless)?. Those who are sitting in the Centre or those who are here (in Chhattisgarh)," he asked.

Of the total nine BJP MPs in Chhattisgarh, only Renuka Singh is a Minister of State (tribal Affairs) in the Union government.
N Sathiya Moorthy By

Going by media reports, the American exit from Afghanistan now seems to be more ignominious than from Vietnam decades ago. Else, there is no reason why the US troops should have exited from the Bangram air field in the middle of night, without informing the host-government of two decades. With that they also left behind 5,000 prisoners from the Taliban, which has been taking control of one distant district after another through months of gradual American down-sizing.

It is not unlikely that the Taliban, which has been on the move all over again, would fight for Bangram, if there is any resistance, to have those 5,000 freed. More importantly, they could not let such a military airfield to stay in the hands of the government troops. If it happened, Taliban would be at knocking distance from Kabul, less than 50 km away.

He who controls Kabul alone is considered the legitimate ruler of Afghanistan, though it should also include international recognition. This time round, if Taliban takes control of Kabul, even if months and years later, will Pakistan and/or China, or any of the latters vasal States confer such legitimacy?

To be fair, the post-9/11 American military operations in Afghanistan were justified than the ideologydriven Cold War era engagement in Vietnam. They needed to hunt down Osama bin-Laden, and that they did with great persistence, and billions in burnt dollars. But as always, they did not have a plan for the Day After, and it has taken them a little more than a decade to make a dignified exit. But the American exit has also meant that the Taliban now has the whole of Afghanistan mostly to themselves with no al-Qaeda to share it with. The US thus has done Taliban a service.

From IC 814 to 9/11: To the average Indian mind, the Taliban is linked to the Christmas eve hijack of IC 814 Kathmandu- Delhi Indian Airlines flight in 1999. The Taliban-controlled Kandahar, via Amritsar, Lahore and Dubai, became its revised destination. There were 191 on board, including the five hijackers. The hijackers made their point by fatally stabbing one passenger and injuring many others.

As it became clear, the choice of Kandahar, as different from better-equipped Kabul was precisely for the same reason  that India could have reached rescuers to the Kabul Airport under Afghan government control, but not to the Taliban-held Kandahar. Apart from the humiliation caused by the Vajpayee government having to hand over four terrorists in return for the hijacked aircraft and its hapless passengers and staff, the hijackers choice of Kandahar over Kabul showed that 21st century terrorists thought before the act, unlike their emotive brethren since the sixties.

The Kandahar hijack drama had a global message. If its India now, that too in a way the regional power was haplessly and hopelessly disarmed and unable hit back, it could be any other nation next  but it had to be someone more powerful than India. Under the then prevailing geo-strategic circumstances, it had to be the US. The terror groups could not be seen repeating the same modus, so more daring it would have to be. The 9/11 happened less than two years later in 2001.

Indian concerns: Today, Indias concerns viz Afghanistan is as much geo-political as it is geo-strategic. Through the past years of American draw-down, it has been deliberately kept out of the regional initiative for peace in Afghanistan. The Russian initiative included Pakistan and China, nations adversarial to India, but sharing borders with Afghanistan. It was a clear indication where Moscows sympathies lie now.

Both Pakistan and China share borders with Afghanistan, but not Russia. Yet, for Islamabad, using border-sharing with Afghanistan as the yardstick, letting New Delhi in would have meant accepting PoK as an integral part of India. This was because for India, PoK shares border with Afghanistan.

Through the past two decades since the Vajapyee era, New Delhi has successfully shaken off continual American enticements to have Indian boots on Afghan soil. The humiliating American exit now has proved India right  as far as New Delhis assessment of regional political and ground-level situations are concerned. For now, the US has acknowledged the India-taught lesson that Pakistan is the fountain-head of international terrorism.

Yet, it is anybodys guess why Washington continues to venture out in the region on its own, side-stepping the Indian Quad ally. They are not going to understand Sri Lanka or Maldives, Bangladesh or Nepal, any time soon, if they could not comprehend Pakistan and Afghanistan in decades. Still, they continue to do business in the region without New Delhi and at times behind its back  handing over an unpalatable fait accompli to the Indian ally.

For India, the Afghan message is clear, given especially the shaky nature of bilateral ties with Iran in the immediate neighbourhood  whatever be the reasons and circumstances. The Haqqani Network has been targeting Indian diplomatic offices for years now in Afghanistan. Today, with Taliban back in full, if not fuller control, India cannot afford to be lax, nor can it afford to be pro-active  given the complexity of circumstances.

N Sathiya Moorthy

Distinguished Fellow & Head-Chennai

Initiative, Observer Research Foundation

sathiyam54@nsathiyamoorthy.com
Ravi Shankar By

Enochs Recording Angel may not give Narendra Modi credit for many things, but the Prime Minister can never be accused of corruption. Rahul Gandhis slogan in 2019, Chowkidar chor hai was a flop. Now he is back, after a French judge opened a probe into the Rafale deal, which our esteemed former CJI and BJP-nominated MP Ranjan Gogoi deemed as spotless as his reputation. Since ideas and personalities occur twice in history, Rahul is historys victim. The Bofors Scandal slogan that doomed his father Rajiv Gandhi in the late 1980sGali gali mein shor hai, Rajiv Gandhi chor hai!is being redirected in another form at another prime minister. The braggadocio is Rahuls redemption. Inquiries have found no evidence that Rajiv took a payoff.

It is not Rahul Gandhi that Modi should worry about, Modi the Man is Modi the Image. For seven years and more, the centrality of Modi in Indian public consciousness defined politics. Modi was the pivot on which the country revolved, whose torque made the Opposition dizzy. A master coiner of phrases and quipsMann ki Baat, Swachh Bharat, Congress-mukt Bharat, Vikas Purushhe created epiphanies that excelled at colloquial cleverness. They were chapter headings in the new Discovery of India. The first blow delivered to the Indian economy was demonetisation, but it deified Modi in the hearts of poor Indians for punishing the rich who hoarded black money. Surgical strikes and the Pulwama retribution showed Modi was Might.

Now, Modis national nucleus seems to be in jeopardy. The centrifuge of his charisma is slowing. Modi is still Indias most popular prime minister, but his numbers have declined after the lethal chaos of the pandemic. The insensitivity of his ministers and chief ministers who defended, threatened or outright lied to save face reflects poorly on Modi. Their crackpot callousness towards the insane rise in petrol prices suggests arrogant ignorance. But through it all, the phrases kept rollingVaccine Maitri, Vishwaguru, Dilli ki doori, Dil ki doori. Events feel like photo-ops, not etchings on the walls of time.

Suddenly the Opposition has begun to occupy national mind space. Mamata Banerjee is back with a bang bigger than the Central Vista. MK Stalin and his progressive economics are getting rave reviews in the foreign press which has been lambasting Modi for his Covid-19 response. Sharad Pawar is grabbing headlines. Agitating farmers are still in the news, and BJP politicians fear visiting their constituencies. Corruption has cast its shadow on the sanctity of Ayodhyas land. Political instability in Uttarakhand and UP reflect poor planning and execution. Sure, lapdog TV anchors keep barking with joy, but they are just TRP emperors without clothes.

Narendra Modi is at his best when he is winning. He has never lost so far. Varanasi is the eternal city of purification, and Modi is its son. Sir, atma nirbhar does not work in a global economy, but it is a good pep talk for national pride. Instead, revamp the economy as a modern powerhouse. Pour funds into healthcare immediately. Stop glorifying the pastthe future lies ahead waiting to be moulded. Respect your opponents, because they won elections beating your party. And last, please stop your ministers from thanking you each time they get a haircut. You dont need the sycophancy.

Ravi Shankar

ravi@newindianexpress.com
T J S George By

So they succeeded in getting rid of Stan Swamy. It can be described as a politico-judicial killing. The politicians could not accept his fight for tribal rights and the way his simplicity gave muscle to that fight. The judiciary would not accept that he was fighting even as he was suffering from advanced Parkinsons. The special court rejected Swamys bail application with the remark: The collective interest of the community would outweigh the right of personal liberty of the applicant and, as such, old age and or alleged sickness would not go in his favour. After that bit of wisdom, it was easy for Death to take over.

The courts high-mindedness did, indeed, have the effect of a death sentence. There was a lack of medical facilities in the prison. The allopathic medicines given to him were on the prescriptions written by the Ayurvedic practitioners in the jail hospital. Besides, overcrowding in the jail made physical distancing impossible. The prison authorities justified all their actions and declared that Swamy had a stable pumping heart and good blood circulation. They made no mention of him suffering from abdominal problems and pain due to lumbar spondylitis.

Swamy said he would undergo treatment at the Holy Family Hospital at his own cost. But the authorities insisted on the government-run JJ Hospital. Swamy was unwilling to accept that suggestion. I have been there, he said. Thrice. I know the setup there. I dont want to be hospitalised there. Id rather die. This should be read in conjunction with the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) asking the Taloja jail superintendent to respond to charges of denying medical facilities to Stan Swamy.

Taloja jail is famously overcrowded. Just as famously it is known to have only three doctors on call, all of them qualified in Ayurveda. The way Swamy was treated amounted to killing him softly as retired Supreme Court judge Madan Lokur put it.

At every turn, the Government had made it clear that it was out to get Stan Swamy. This is the central fact that needs to be understood and recorded. For reasons that are rather obvious, the Government had come to the conclusion that Swamy, weak and sick though he was, had become a symbol of the Governments intolerance towards those who had different opinions. This was evident from the time they moved him from Ranchi, his base, to Mumbai. Despite his old age (83) and visible infirmities, there was no medical examination as stipulated by law. The journey all but crippled him, but the Governments determination was clear when he was arrested under the antiterror law, the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act, charged with participating in Maoist conspiracy to foment caste violence and assassinate Prime Minister Narendra Modi. No scope for mercy in the case of such a dangerous scoundrel.

Maharashtra police had interrogated him and searched his Ranchi residence. They had found nothing incriminating. But the Powers Above could not accept that finding. So they brought in the National Investigation Agency (NIA). Which of course produced the desired results and the Prime Minister was saved from assassination.

The number of would-be assassins jailed before they could strike is a tribute to the efficiency of our security forces. Sudhir Dhawale, Shoma Sen, Mahesh Raut, Rona Wilson and Surendra Gadling were arrested in June 2018. Sudha Bharadwaj, Vernon Gonsalves, Arun Ferreira and Varavara Rao were taken in two months later. All were denied medical bail, with the exception of Varavara Rao whose condition had deteriorated drastically. Imagine how many people they would have assassinated if they were free.

Add to these names those of journalist Siddique Kappan whose mother passes away when he is in jail, and student activist Natasha Narwal whose father passes away when she is in jail. Why were they in jail? Who decided that they had committed crimes that made them too dangerous to be free? Why do those who have the power to arrest define as crime what ordinary citizens see as the routine of life? Why do honest and law-abiding citizens who want nothing but glory for their country end up as suspects in the eyes of this Government? Can such a Government be called democratic?

Questions dont stop there. Why is Narendra Modis India scared of citizens who work for the glory of the country? Why does the Prime Minister see patriots as a threat? Why is he intolerant of those whose opinions differ from his? Why is he afraid of democracy? Is the answer somewhere in Mahatma Gandhis words: To safeguard democracy the people must have a keen sense of independence, self-respect and their oneness, and should insist upon choosing as their representatives only such persons as are good and true.
By Express News Service

VIJAYAWADA: The State government on Saturday issued an order renaming the Telugu Akademi as Telugu and Sanskrit Akademi to promote Sanskrit on par with Telugu. The Akademi will come up in Tirupati. A decision to rename the Telugu Akademi was taken in the State cabinet meeting held in June. The government nominated D Bhaskar Reddy, retired professor, Department of Chemistry, Sri Venkateswara University, Rajakumar Nerella, Astro counsellor and teacher in Astrology, M Vijayasree, associate professor (retd) in Telugu, JKC College, and Kappaganthu Ramakrishna, lecturer in Telugu, SRSV BEd College, to the Board of Governors of Akademi.

V Muralidhara Sharma, Vice- Chancellor, National Sanskrit University, Tirupati, has been appointed nominee of the University Grants Commission in the Board of Governors. The Special Chief Secretary/ Principal Secretary/Secretary to Government, School Education Department, is ex-officio member of the governing body. Experts in the field of Telugu literature opined that the decision would revitalise the Akademi, which has been largely dysfunctional since the bifurcation of the State.

Telugu Akademis assets division yet to be completed

As it is in Schedule X of the AP Reorganisation Act, 2014, the division of Akademi assets are yet to be taken up, an expert said. Once Telugu and Sanskrit Akademi starts functioning, there may be some progress in the division of assets, he felt. At present, the Telugu Akademi headquartered in Hyderabad, has its regional centres at Tirupati, Anantapur, Guntur, Vijayawada and Visakhapatnam in the State.

TDP senior leader and former chairman of Official Language Commission Mandali Buddha Prasad said the Telugu Akademi was formed in 1968 with the then Education Minister PV Narasimha Rao as chairman. Even after becoming the Chief Minister, he held the post. It was mandated with preparing textbooks for all subjects of Intermediate to postgraduate courses in Telugu medium. Buddha Prasad added that over the years, Akademis assets increased to nearly Rs 300 cr and sharing of its assets between the two States is yet to be completed. Jana Sena chief Pawan Kalyan found fault with the governments decision. He questioned the governments commitment in protecting Telugu language.
Bala Chauhan By

Express News Service

BENGALURU: The city police, as on June 30, have registered 45 cases of human trafficking out of which 40 are registered under the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act (ITPA), 1956. The police have rescued 111 women victims and arrested 134 people, including 28 women, in these cases, said an official source.

Recently, the police registered two cases in connection with the gangrape of a Bangladeshi woman in Ramamurthy Nagar and Jeevan Bima Nagar police stations under Sections 3, 4, 5, 6 of the (ITPA) and Sec 370, read with Sec 34 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) for trafficking of persons. Twelve people have been arrested and chargesheeted in the case. Out of these, 11 accused and the rape survivor are Bangladeshi nationals.

Following the investigation, the police have unearthed a well-organised network of traffickers, which include Bangladeshi and Indian nationals, who trap young girls from vulnerable backgrounds and traffic them on the pretext of providing them jobs, said official sources. The Ramamurthy Nagar case (of gangrape) is an eyeopener to international trafficking. The survivor was trafficked at a very young age of 16 from Bangladesh to Dubai and from there to India, added the sources.

The victim has reportedly told the police that hundreds of young women from her country have been trafficked to India by the network. Last year, the city police had registered 93 cases of human trafficking under various sections of the IPC and Special and Local Laws (SLL). Of these, 77 cases were registered under ITPA and 245 female victims and two minor girls were rescued. The police had arrested 216 people for their alleged involvement in these cases, out of whom 172 were men and 44 women.
By PTI

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Rising COVID-19 cases in Kerala, coupled with the recent outbreak of the Zika virus, is causing concern to the health authorities here as the southern state battles to bring down the fresh infections.

After winning accolades for its "Kerala model" of combating the contagion about a year ago, the state is now seeing daily fresh cases between 12,000 to 15,000 with no end in sight to the 'prolonged surge', as some experts put it.

The state had reported 14,087 fresh covid infections on Saturday and 109 deaths taking the total caseload to 30,39,029 and toll to 14,380.

The active cases touched 1,13,115.

Health Minister Veena George had recently said the virus numbers spiked due to certain unlock measures and that they were expected to go down.

While on June 1 this year, Kerala reported 19,760 positive cases, there was a slight decline for a week with 9,313 new cases being recorded on June 7.

However, two days later it again shot up to 16,204.

For over a month, the state has been reporting cases between 11,000 to 13,000 on a daily basis.

Incidentally, India's first Covid-19 case emerged from the state in January 2020 when a third year medical student from Wuhan, the epicentre of the virus in China, tested positive.

Two other Wuhan returnees from the state had also tested positive and all the three had subsequently recovered.

According to experts, the steady rate of COVID infection in Kerala would help the state to fight off the virus and ensure medical facilities are not overwhelmed, but the more it prolongs the more stressful it would be for doctors and healthcare workers.

While the medical experts who spoke to P T I praised the Kerala government for its preventive measures which helped keep the infection rate from peaking drastically, some opined the administration's inability to enforce COVID appropriate behaviour after the unlock phase came into effect was one of the reasons that the numbers have not gone down.

Vaccination was the key and the state government should try to procure the vaccines by whatever means instead of just relying on the central government for supply, they said.

Dr T S Anish, who specialises in community medicine, said the present situation has its pros and cons.

A prolonged infection rate would put stress on the doctors and other healthcare workers and in case a third wave comes, the medical system which is partially filled could be overwhelmed.

He also said it was a matter of concern that the government was unable to reduce the rate of infection.

According to him, some of the measures taken by the government were unscientific, like allowing overcrowding at shops and liquor vends and not making available services online that could be.

"Crowding has to be prevented at any cost," he said,adding, while people wear masks out in the streets, they do not do so in their workplaces or during a celebration.

Virologist Dr Sarada too said people were not following COVID appropriate behaviour which was also a reason for the cases not declining.

She and Anish were of the view that vaccination was the key, the only solution and the state government should try to get the vaccine in more quantities by whatever means.

Sarada also said that other states may not be showing such high numbers as they probably were not testing their rural population unlike Kerala.

Citing the positive side of the situation, Dr Anish said the government was able to prevent a sharp increase during the peak of the second wave of COVID by putting in place a lockdown and thereby, ensured the healthcare system was not overwhelmed.

This steady rate of infection could also help to prevent a third wave as the health system or machinery would be vigilant and would quickly detect any new variant or mutation.

According to him, if the cases go down substantially, the system would be less vigilant as there would be less testing and therefore, by the time a new variant or mutation is detected the third wave would have already hit.

Dr Amar Fettle, the state nodal officer for COVID-19, said that the Kerala government was carrying out extensive testing to ensure no one who is infected is missed out and it was taking measures to ensure elderly people and children, who would be vulnerable to infection, are protected.

Testing is being carried out in high risk groups, he added.

ALSO WATCH |

Fettle said that after a long period of lockdown, when the unlock phase comes into effect people venture out and therefore, the infection re-enters homes.

A prolonged surge is better than a short spike or wave, as then the healthcare system will not be overburdened, he said.

However, he said it cannot be predicted how long this trend will go on and when the numbers will go down.

Health Minister Veena George had on Friday had said "the government's endeavour was to ensure the number of infected persons never goes above the medical capacity of the state, so that no one dies due to non-availability of beds or oxygen.

" Vaccination was the only way to prevent spread of the virus, she had asserted.

She had also said preventive mechanisms like enforcing lockdowns, earmarking containment zones, aggressive testing and tracing by the state government ensured large number of people susceptible to the infection were protected.

According to the minister, the Health department with the help of the police would be taking steps to ensure people follow the COVID protocols like social distancing and wearing of masks when they step out of their homes.

On Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had expressed concern over the persistently high number of COVID cases coming from Maharashtra and Kerala.

The opposition Congress and BJP in Kerala have attacked the ruling dispensation over the covid-related casualties, alleging a 'mismatch' in their numbers while George has maintained the government has nothing to hide and all deaths were being reported.

Former health minister K K Shailaja had also been slammed when the COVID cases had gone up steadily during her tenure.

To add to its woes, the state now has 14 active Zika virus cases and a Central team would reach here later to assist the government in handling the situation.

Meanwhile, the state on Sunday recorded 12,220 fresh COVID-19 cases, pushing the infection caseload to 30,65,336, while the toll rose to 14,586 with 97 more deaths.

Recoveries outnumbered fresh cases with 12,502 people getting cured, taking the total number to 29,35,423, a state government release said.

The number of active cases stood at 1,14,844 Malappuram accounted for most number of cases (1,861), Kozhikode (1428), Thrissur (1307),Ernakulam (1128), Kollam (1012), Thiruvananthapuram (1009) andPalakkad (909).

Of the new cases, 40 are health workers, 71 had come from outside the state and 11,497 were infected through contact, with the source of contact not being clear in 612 cases, the release said.

In the last 24 hours, 1,16,563 samples were tested, taking the cumulative number of specimens examined so far to 2,44,24,563 The Test Positivity Rate (TPR) was 10.48 per cent.

There are currently 3,86,876 people under surveillance in various districts of the state.

Of these, 3,62,022 are in home or institutional quarantine and 24,854 in hospitals.
By Express News Service

PURI: The three grand chariots are decked up and ready. So is the Grand Road, painted in myriad hues of colours, spreading its arms to carry the Holy Trinity on the annual sojourn. Even as no devotees are allowed at Rath Yatra for the second year running, the chariots and the grand road have been decorated as usual with rangolis, graffiti and flowers. While the road on which the chariots will be pulled by servitors has been painted in white with floral designs, the chariots have been decorated with a variety of colours and pravas (archs).

The decorations on the chariots will be completed on Sunday evening when the deities will issue ajnamallyas to the chief carpenters to bring the chariots to Singhadwar and get them ready for the journey. The process of parking the chariots in front of Singhadwar facing towards Gundicha temple will be over by midnight.

Meanwhile, to keep devotees away from the festival and maintain law and order, the pilgrim town is being turned into a heavily protected fortress. As many as 65 platoons of police force along with 500 officers of various ranks will be deployed for the festival. Additional DGP, Law and Order RK Sharma who reviewed the arrangements said, the entire stretch of Grand Road has been divided into four security zones and police personnel deployed on rooftops of private houses, hotels and lodges located alongside the road.

The rest of the town has been divided into eight zones. All entry points to the town have been sealed and Indian Coast Guard vessels and aircraft deployed to patrol the coast. In order to ensure smooth conduct of the festival, the district administration has set up as many as 20 first-aid centres on both sides of the 3 km stretch of Grand Road on both ends of which two large rest sheds have been set up. Around 2,200 servitors have already been tested for Covid-19 and the results are expected by midnight. Only those testing negative will be allowed to pull the chariots after being issued passes by the temple administration.

Hundreds of young servitors, interested in pulling the chariots, have been keeping themselves fit by working out at the Jagaghars (schools of martial arts) since June. The town has around 40 such schools.

Meanwhile, the Gundicha temple has been given a facelift and Saradha Bali refilled with fresh sand. While the entire Grand Road has been blacktopped, only a 500x500 metre patch of the area in front of Nakachanadwar of Gundicha temple (exit gate) has been left untouched to recount the memory of Saradha Bali.

The Gundicha temple is described as Janma bedi (birthplace) of the deities in the sacred texts. The lords during their stay in the temples Adapa Mandap sample the delicacies called Adapa Abhada prepared by their mother. The deities, during the journey stop midway, to taste Podapitha, a delicacy prepared by their Mausima (aunt). Of the 135 sevas recorded in the record of rights, researcher Dr Bhasker Mishra said, 17 were abolished for various reasons during the course of time. These include Kalabethia Seva, the ritual of conducting the dakshina moda of the chariots by labourers who worked without any wages, Kumbhar Seva and Mahari.
CP Balasubramanyam By

Express News Service

CHENNAI: DMKs rationalist beginnings have always been used against the party. It has, however, always comfortably fought such campaigns. This time, the party picked up the gauntlet way before the elections and announced a host of initiatives for temples, priests, and devotees in its manifesto. BJP leaders had taken credit for the pressure they exerted and went ahead with the campaign but DMKs TR Baalu rebuffed it and reiterated the partys secular credentials.

Even on the campaign trail, the Chief Minister M K Stalin had reiterated that most of the partys cadre were Hindus. After coming to power, one such party member P K Sekar Babu was given the charge of the sensitive department, another attempt to silence such criticisms. An ardent devotee of Lord Ayyappa and a regular visitor to the temples, Sekar Babu is purportedly well aware of the administrative functions of temples. He actively participates in the departments affairs and visits temples across the State.

In about two months, the seemingly tepid department sprang to life and made headlines. The department has initiated about six major tasks till now, undermining the campaign against the party. Digitisation of temple records and retrieval of encroached temple lands are regarded as the two major initiatives aimed at bringing in transparency, which also a poll promise.

Seeking anonymity, a source in the department said that the activities of a former minister were confined just to his constituency. Tamil Nadu has more than 36,000 temples under the ambit of the department and 4,78,272 acres of land belong to these temples. In the last two months, the department has retrieved acres of land worth crores of rupees in cities, including Chennai and Coimbatore.

In one such exercise, the department has retrieved 32 grounds of land (worth Rs 160 crore) belonging to a temple in Kancheepuram Ekambareswarar Temple on Poonamallee High Road in the city. Seetha Kingston Matriculation Higher Secondary School that was functioning on the land was also taken over after the school authorities expressed their inability to run the institution. The department announced a name-change and its decision to run the school considering the future of around 700 students.

Similarly, the department increased the number of people it feeds every day through 754 temples from 56,000 to a lakh. Tamil Nadu BJPs State media president A N Subramania Prasad welcomed the efforts.He, however, said that several initiatives have hidden intentions and has the potential to create confusions. The government should ensure that the initiatives are taken without affecting the established practices, culture, and legacy of respective temples, he said, seeking more transparency..

Another source in the department said that the minister has streamlined the works comprehensively by setting deadlines. Arun Kumar, an assistant professor in Mount Caramel College, Bengaluru, said that DMK has always brought out initiatives in favour of non-Brahmin Hindus belonging to OBCs and SCs.

Kumar said that the DMKs present efforts have been amplified due to the influence of social media but the party has always been inclusive of temples and Hindus, referring to scores of initiatives brought out by former chief ministers Annadurai and M Karunanidhi.

Highlights

1. Digitisation of property and asset records of temples

2. Online platform to file petitions and call centre (044-28339999) between 10 am and 6 pm for petitioners who are not comfortable using gadgets

3. Retrieval of encroached lands

4. Food for one lakh people till the number of Covid curve flattens

5. Plans to bring rope car facilities in four more temples located on hills

6. Opportunity for women to become priests

Major changes

1. Streamlining the approval process for renovation of temples. Additional commissioner of IAS cadre to oversee process

2. To fill the various vacancies in temples across the State

3. Instructions given to officials to bring Tiruchendur and Palani temples on par with Lord Venkateswara Temple in Tirupati
By Express News Service

NIZAMABAD: Karimnagar MP and BJP State president Bandi Sanjay Kumar, on Saturday, claimed that after the saffron party secured more seats in the GHMC elections, Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao rushed to Delhi to meet Amit Shah and offered the Mayoral post to the BJP.

However, the Union Home Minister rejected an alliance with the TRS, stating that the BJP did not want an alliance with parties and leaders facing corruption charges, said Sanjay Kumar.

Speaking at the BJP Nizamabad district committee meeting, which was held on Saturday in a private function hall at Chittapur village of Balkonda mandal in Nizamabad district, Bandi said that after the GHMC elections, Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao had told his family members and elected representatives that they would very soon join the NDA.

He also alleged that KCR told his ministers that if the alliance happened, he would become the Minister for Agricultural in the Union Cabinet. "The BJP will not go for an alliance with the TRS. They share power with the AIMIM in the GHMC. The people of the State will decide their fate at an appropriate time," said Bandi.

He directed party activists to start agitations on peoples issues in the district to build pressure on local MLAs. He said that there was no development in the constituencies and that BJP cadre should demand that MLAs take up development works or submit the resignation.

He said that due to the BJPs agitations, the Chief Minister had fianlly come out from his farmhouse and was touring in the State. "We will force the Chief Minister to intensively tour in State to address public issues. The dream of the party is to see that the saffron flag is hoisted on the Golconda Fort. By keeping this in mind, the party network should be strengthened at all levels," he said.

He has said with these aims in mind, BJP leaders and activists should strengthen the party at the polling booth level. BJP district president Baswa Laxminarasaiah presided the meeting and Nizamabad MP Arvind Dharmapuri and several other party leaders addressed the meeting.
Express News Service By

NEW DELHI: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Saturday held talks with Georgian Foreign Minister David Zalkaliani. The two leaders decided to work towards an ambitious roadmap to elevate bilateral ties. We discussed economic cooperation, tourism, trade and connectivity. Our relationship is doing well. There are some big Indian projects in Georgia, power projects and steel projects, the external affairs minister said at a joint press conference, with Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili.

Jaishankar is on a two-day visit to Georgia, a strategically important country in the intersection of Eastern Europe and Western Asia. Late Friday night, upon landing in Georgia, Jaishankar handed over the Holy Relic of Queen St Ketevan to Zalkaliani. The Queens relics were found in Goa and she is believed to have been martyred in Shiraz, Iran, for refusing conversion to Islam. Jaishankar said he has also invited his Georgian counterpart to India with a business delegation.

I invited the Vice Prime Minister to visit India with a business delegation. In India, people need to know about Georgia, especially about their high ranking in the ease of doing business. He met Indian community representatives and appreciated their hard work in the agriculture sector. As I begin the day, nice to meet Indian community representatives from Tsnori, Khaketi. Their hard work in the agriculture sector has earned a good name. Enterprising Indians are our global bridge. Jaishankar also participated in a ceremony at the Sameba Holy Trinity Cathedral to install the Holy Relic of Queen St Ketevan.

The holy relics were preserved at the St Augustine Church in Goa since the 17th century. Given the immense spiritual value that this relic holds for the people of Georgia, we had kept this sacred heritage as our own. Its return is a testimony to our warm and friendly relations. I thank the people of Goa who have been reverential custodians of this holy treasure. They have done India proud by being true to our tradition of respecting faiths, he said at the Cathedral.
Kumar Vikram By

NEW DELHI: Only 26% of funds sanctioned under three different verticals of the governments flagship PM Awas Yojana (Urban) has been utilised in last six years of its implementation and as a result, only 30% of the sanctioned houses could be constructed during the period.

Only 25% of the sanctioned funds have been spent under In-Situ Slum Redevelopment (ISSR), while the percentage for Affordable Housing in Partnership (AHP) segment is 26%. Beneficiary Led Construction (BLC) vertical also showed similar pattern with only 27% of sanctioned budget spent.

Poor fund utilisation reflected in delivery of houses. According to the data from Ministry of Housing (till mid-March 2021), only 5,16,764 houses have been delivered under AHP segment against the sanctioned number of 23,31,229. Similarly, 19.53 lakh houses have been constructed under BLC as against the sanctioned 68.69 lakh houses.

Under slum redevelopment segment, only 4,54,460 houses were sanctioned and 4,46,777 houses completed till mid-March this year and majority of this includes incomplete works of earlier JNURM scheme taken up and completed for slums after 2014. Government document disclosed only about 18,000 houses have been completed under ISSR in a few states. Recently, a parliamentary committee in its report noted that only 8 states have taken up projects under the ISSR vertical.

The focus of the ISSR, AHP and BLC verticals of the Mission is to provide housing assets to economically weaker sections of society. Under AHP, central assistance of `1.5 lakh per house is provided in projects where at least 35% of the houses are for EWS category. Under BLC, upto `1.5 lakh of central assistance is provided through States/UTs to each of eligible beneficiaries.

Nearly 14 lakh houses have been acquired by the beneficiaries under credit linked CLSS component which provides interest subsidy of 6.5% to EWS/Low Income Group (`3-6 lakh per annum) and interest subsidy of 4% and 3%, respectively, to Middle Income Group (`6-12 lakh and `12-18 lakh per annum, respectively) on housing loans.

The housing ministry recently celebrated the sixth anniversary of PMAY-U, under the aegis of Housing for All, which addresses urban housing shortage among the EWS/LIG and MIG categories including slum dwellers by ensuring a pucca house to all eligible urban households by 2022, when the nation completes 75 years of Independence. A total of 1.12 crore houses have been sanctioned under the scheme.

The ministry is implementing PMAY(U) since June 2015 for addressing the housing requirement of people belonging to EWS, Low Income Group and Middle Income Group categories in urban areas. The estimated demand under the scheme reported by States/UTs is around 1.12 crore.
Kanu Sarda By

NEW DELHI: A draft bill on population control prepared by Uttar Pradesh State Law Commission proposes to make people with more than two children ineligible for government jobs, disentitle those already in service to promotions and exclude them from the benefits of 77 schemes.

Legal experts says it needs to be seen whether the bill, if passed, will have penal provisions in case of any violation. The draft bill also suggests incentives such as tax rebates for those with two or less children.

There has been a clamour for population-control laws, even though experts say coercive policies will not have the desired effect. In Assam, a law similar to the one that the UP Law Commission has proposed is already in place.

ALSO READ | UP population draft bill: Those with over two kids can't contest local polls, apply for govt jobs

In 2019, the state government approved restrictions on parents with more than two children, while debarring those with more from government jobs. Supreme Court lawyer KV Dhananjay said: While the law proposed by the UP government is permissible under the Constitution, the will and enthusiasm of future state legislatures to implement it in proper spirit determines whether it makes any impact.

It is common knowledge that such laws do not make much impact unless they involve consensus from a broad spectrum of political parties.

Highlighting the other perspective, Supreme Court lawyer Virag Gupta said: On the first reading of the bill, I noticed that mere violation of certain provisions will not attract any criminality. But in present times, when government jobs are already on a lower side, how will the government assure the couples to adhere to such policy?
By Associated Press

HELSINKI: A passenger arriving in Finland may soon be fined hundreds of euros for refusing to take a coronavirus test.

A new amendment to the Finnish infectious diseases act with regard to border security imposes a fine to a tourist who enters Finland and opposes a required COVID-19 test.

The law takes effect July 12 and is valid until October 15.

It already was possible for the police to fine those refusing of COVID-19 tests, but authorities say the amendment will remarkably clarify the situation in judicial terms.

Konsta Arvelin, an inspector at the National Police Board, told the Finnish newspaper Helsingin Sanomat on Saturday that the change creates a completely new criminal offense in Finland, titled "violation of the COVID-19 test."

Finland has a population of 5.5 million and one of the lowest coronavirus figures in Europe.

The Nordic country has maintained tight border control during the pandemic.

ALSO WATCH:
By Associated Press

SAN FRANCISCO: Firefighters struggled to contain an exploding Northern California wildfire under blazing temperatures as another heatwave blanketed the West, prompting an excessive heat warning for inland and desert areas.

Death Valley in southeastern California's Mojave Desert reached 128 degrees Fahrenheit (53 Celsius) on Saturday, July 10, 2021, according to the National Weather Service's reading at Furnace Creek. The shockingly high temperature was actually lower than the previous day, when the location reached 130 F (54 Celsius).

If confirmed as accurate, the 130-degree reading would be the hottest high recorded there since July 1913, when Furnace Creek desert hit 134 F (57 Celsius), considered the highest measured temperature on Earth.

About 300 miles (483 kilometers) northwest of the sizzling desert, the largest wildfire of the year in California was raging along the border with Nevada. The Beckwourth Complex Fire  a combination of two lightning-caused fires burning 45 miles (72 kilometers) north of Lake Tahoe  showed no sign of slowing its rush northeast from the Sierra Nevada forest region after doubling in size between Friday and Saturday.

Late Saturday, flames jumped Interstate 395 and was threatening properties in Nevada's Washoe County.

Firefighters from Cal Fire's Placerville station monitor the Sugar Fire, part of the Beckwourth Complex Fire, in Doyle, Calif., on Friday, July 9, 2021. (Photo | AP)

"Take immediate steps to protect large animals and livestock," The Truckee Meadows Fire Protection District tweeted.

The blaze, which was only 8% contained, increased dramatically to 86 square miles (222 square kilometers) as firefighters sweltered in 100-degree temperatures.

It was one of several threatening homes across Western states that were expected to see triple-digit heat through the weekend as a high-pressure zone blankets the region.

Pushed by strong winds, a wildfire in southern Oregon doubled in size to 120 square miles (311 square kilometers) Saturday as it raced through heavy timber in the Fremont-Winema National Forest near the Klamath County town of Sprague River.

The National Weather Service warned the dangerous conditions could cause heat-related illnesses, while California's power grid operator issued a statewide Flex Alert from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday to avoid disruptions and rolling blackouts.

The California Independent System Operator warned of potential power shortage, not only because of mounting heat, but because a wildfire in southern Oregon was threatening transmission lines that carry imported power to California.

Firefighter Kyle Jacobson monitors the Sugar Fire, part of the Beckwourth Complex Fire, burning in Plumas National Forest, Calif., on Friday, July 9, 2021. (Photo | AP)

Gov. Gavin Newsom issued an emergency proclamation on Friday suspending rules to allow for more power capacity, and the ISO requested emergency assistance from other states. On Saturday, Newsom issued another proclamation allowing the emergency use of auxiliary ship engines to relieve pressure on the electric grid.

Palm Springs in Southern California hit a record high temperature of 120 F (49 C) Saturday. It was the fourth time temperatures have reached 120 degrees so far this year, the Desert Sun reported.

In California's agricultural Central Valley, 100-degree temperatures blanketed the region, with Fresno reaching 111 degrees F (44 C), just one degree short of the all-time high for the date, Las Vegas late Saturday afternoon tied the all-time record high of 117 F (47 C), the National Weather Service said. The city has recorded that record-high temperature four other times, most recently in June 2017.

NV Energy, Nevada's largest power provider, also urged customers to conserve electricity Saturday and Sunday evenings because of the heatwave and wildfires affecting transmission lines throughout the region.

In Southern California, a brush fire sparked by a burning big rig in eastern San Diego County forced evacuations of two Native American reservations Saturday.

In north-central Arizona, Yavapai County on Saturday lifted an evacuation warning for Black Canyon City, an unincorporated town 43 miles (66 kilometers) north of Phoenix, after a fire in nearby mountains no longer posed a threat. In Mohave County, Arizona, two firefighters died Saturday after a aircraft they were in to respond to a small wildfire crashed, local media reported.

A wildfire in southeast Washington grew to almost 60 square miles (155 square kilometers) as it blackened grass and timber while it moved into the Umatilla National Forest.

In Idaho, Gov. Brad Little declared a wildfire emergency on Friday, July 9, 2021, and mobilized the state's National Guard to help fight fires sparked after lightning storms swept across the drought-stricken region.


By AFP

TEL AVIV: Israeli same-sex couples can have children via surrogates within the country, the Supreme Court ruled Sunday, a step advocates hailed as strengthening equality and critics blasted as eroding family values.

The court ruled that restrictions on surrogacy for same-sex couples and single men within the Jewish state must be lifted within six months.

The decision by the court, headed by Chief Justice Esther Hayut, was a result of a battle that began more than a decade ago.

Israel is a leader in the Middle East on LGBTQ rights and has several openly gay men serving in parliament, but until now surrogacy remained off-limits to gay couples and single men.

People who couldn't have children with surrogates in Israel resorted to solutions overseas in countries including India, Nepal, Thailand and the United States.

Surrogacy, where a woman agrees to bear a child for another person or couple, was legalised in Israel in 1996, at first only for heterosexual couples before single women were added.

The male same-sex couple Etai and Yoav Arad-Pinkas in 2010 first appealed to the courts for the right to surrogacy.

When that attempt failed, they filed a new petition in 2015 together with other LGBTQ rights groups.

Last year the Supreme Court ordered lawmakers to end discrimination in surrogacy within 12 months, saying excluding gay couples and single men was unconstitutional.

But conservative ultra-Orthodox lawmakers in Israel's parliament, the Knesset, thwarted a proposal to expand access.

After Israeli elections in March yielded a new parliament, lawmakers continued to come up empty-handed.

"We cannot reconcile with the continued difficult harm to human rights that is a result of the existing surrogacy arrangement," Hayut wrote in the ruling.

Gay rights advocate Oz Parvin, head of the Association of Israeli Gay Fathers, celebrated the ruling as "amazing".

He said he and his partner resorted to surrogacy in India to have twin daughters nine years ago.

Now, he said, other couples will be able to go through the entire surrogacy process in their own country.

"It's a lot easier and more sane," he said.

Hard-right lawmaker Bezalel Smotrich with the opposition Religious Zionism party said the ruling was a sign of "crumbling of the Jewishness of the state of Israel".

The ruling is likely to reveal friction in the new governing coalition, which includes Meretz, whose chair Nitzan Horowitz is openly gay, and the conservative Islamist Raam, which has called homosexuals "deviants".
By Associated Press

DHAKA: Bangladesh on Sunday reported 230 deaths from COVID-19 in the last 24 hours, the highest single-day toll since the pandemic began, as health officials warned that the situation could deteriorate further in the coming weeks.

The number of COVID-19 cases reached 1,021,189 after 11,874 people tested positive in the last 24 hours in the country, said a spokesman for the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS).

"These two figures are so far the highest in terms of deaths and infection cases recorded in a single day We do not expect the situation to improve in next few weeks," the spokesman said.

Bangladesh registered 230 new deaths from COVID-19 in a day, taking the total toll to 16,419, the spokesman said.

The new record surpassed the previous high of 212 on Friday.

The new hotspot Khulna reported 66 deaths, the highest among the eight divisions, followed by Dhaka with 56 deaths, Chittagong 39 and Rajshahi 26, Rangpur 22, Barisal and Sylhet 8 each, and Mymensingh 5.

The single-day deaths had exceeded the 200-mark on July 7.

The country has witnessed above 200 deaths for the third consecutive day on Sunday.

The fatality rate on Sunday rose to 1.61 per cent, which was 1.60 per cent on Saturday, according to DGHS data.

"The existing (Delta) variant is not causing deaths of elderly people alone but also claiming lives of the young people as well, DGHS spokesperson Robed Amin said.

He said the situation would take a turn for the worse in the next one week if the virus transmission cannot be brought under control.

Bangladesh's daily case positivity rate, however, fell to 29.67 per cent from Saturday's 31.46 per cent as 40,015 samples were tasted during the period.

On Friday, the health authorities proposed enforcement of a nationwide curfew as the ongoing shutdown appeared not adequate to contain the virus.

Hundreds of people and vehicle owners have been fined for defying movement restrictions in the past several days as authorities deployed mobile courts as well.

A senior DGHS official said that a 15-day countrywide curfew could have been the best move to contain the situation.

"This (pandemic) is a war and in war you do not consider the human rights factor," said the official on the condition of anonymity.

Bangladesh is currently facing a renewed surge in COVID-19 cases and deaths, prompting the government to impose its harshest lockdown yet.
Antonette Acupinpin was 7 when the sexual abuse started.

She had already endured years of beating and physical violence from her mother and stepfather, she said -- but then he took it a step further.

He would put a long knife near her face during the abuse, and threaten to kill her mother and brother if she reported him, she said. Terrified and ashamed, she didn't tell anyone for a year and a half -- until a school teacher saw her with a black eye and notified the police.

"I felt hopeless," said Acupinpin, now 23. "It felt like I had nowhere to go because it's my family who was hurting me. I didn't know anyone who could really help me."

She's not alone. Child sexual abuse is rampant in the Philippines, which activists say is partly driven by the country's law regarding the age at which girls can legally consent to sex. 

At just 12 years old, it's the youngest age of consent in Asia -- and one of the youngest in the world. Opponents of the law say children that age are incapable of giving consent, and less likely to know how to call for help.

The law protects predators, critics say, because they can claim victims consented -- and children as young as 12 can often be coerced or threatened into silence.

Victims' advocates also argue the low age of consent contributes to what international rights organizations have described as high levels of sex trafficking and teenage pregnancy in the Philippines, compounded by gaps in the enforcement of existing laws.

"In the Philippines, we have about one woman or child raped every 53 minutes," said Rep. Arlene Brosas of the Gabriela Women's Party, citing 2016 data from non-profit organization Center for Women's Resources. "We believe it is much worse -- especially that child victims of sexual abuse are very prevalent."

Brosas and a number of lawmakers are now fighting to raise the age of consent to 16, which is standard in many other countries, including the majority of the United States. The movement took a significant step forward last December when their proposed bill was overwhelmingly approved by the Philippines House of Representatives.

Raising the age is just one step -- the bill includes a raft of other provisions to strengthen enforcement, improve the investigation and legal process, and provide more support and confidentiality for victims of sexual exploitation and abuse.

But the bill still has a long way to go before it becomes law, and time is running out. Elections are less than a year away -- at which point lawmakers will have to start over from scratch. If it doesn't pass before then, the bill's supporters say millions of children will remain vulnerable to exploitation -- and with reports of images depicting child sex abuse skyrocketing during the pandemic, the threat has never been more urgent.

A 90-year-old law

Activists in the Philippines have been pushing to change the law since the 1980s.

The age of consent is enshrined in the country's Revised Penal Code, passed in 1930. Under the penal code, rape is defined as "having carnal knowledge of a woman" through the use of force, when the woman is unconscious, "deprived of reason" -- or "when the woman is under 12 years of age."

The age seems shockingly low by modern standards, but it reflects historical attitudes. In many places across Europe -- including Spain, which ruled the Philippines as a colony for more than 300 years until 1898 -- early laws placed the age of consent between 10 and 12 years old.

During the 19th century, some countries began raising it to between 13 and 16, according to Stephen Robertson, historian and professor at George Mason University. By the early 1900s, legislators in the US and Britain were pushing to raise the age to between 16 and 18, with other parts of the world following suit throughout the century.

But as other countries amended their laws to reflect their evolving understanding of sex and adulthood, the Philippines' age of consent stayed the same.

The penal code is "one of the oldest laws in the Philippines," said Selena B. Fortich, Philippines country program manager for child protection at the NGO Plan International. "It has many archaic provisions -- many do not apply and should not exist in contemporary society."

Some clauses have been amended over the years, but not the age of consent -- meaning there are now "inconsistent" legal ages, she added. "The minimum age for getting married is 18, to enter into contracts and to vote is also 18. Yet, the minimal age for sexual consent is 12."

The Philippine Commission on Women, a government agency, told CNN in a statement that it has pushed to raise the age of consent to 16 years old, and has included the recommendation in its policy briefs.

There are a few reasons the age of consent hasn't changed in the past 91 years. A major one is the lack of education and understanding among lawmakers and the general public of concepts like children's cognitive development and the ability to give informed consent, said Patrizia Benvenuti, child protection chief at UNICEF Philippines.

And though public awareness about the issue has expanded in recent years, the child rights sector is relatively new in the country and less established than other social movements, such as the campaign for women's rights.

Why some lawmakers don't want change

Some lawmakers argue there is no need to change the age of consent because the country already has laws against child abuse.

An anti-child abuse law passed in 1992 criminalized sex with children under 18 "for money, profit, or any other consideration or due to the coercion or influence of any adult, syndicate or group." Another anti-trafficking law, enacted in 2003 and expanded in 2012, prohibited the sexual exploitation and prostitution of children, as well as the creation of images depicting child sexual abuse.

However, the existing laws require young, traumatized victims and their lawyers to prove they were coerced into sexual exploitation. It's an easier task if a child is trafficked to multiple abusers -- but much more difficult when a child is abused by just one person, which is typically the case with abusive family members, said Benvenuti from UNICEF.

An amended statutory rape law would automatically criminalize sex with children under 16.

"Why can't we increase this age? The answer (from Congress) has always been, 'Well, because we already have laws about this,'" said Bernadette J. Madrid, executive director of the Child Protection Network Foundation and head of the Child Protection Unit at the University of the Philippines Manila's Philippine General Hospital.

All four advocates CNN interviewed agreed the failure to act suggests a lack of concern or urgency in Congress.

The age of consent "was never prioritized as much as other issues," said Fortich, from Plan International. "That's a big challenge in terms of enforcement of the law. There's a gap in terms of implementation."

Abused at home

The Philippines is the world's largest source of livestreamed child sex abuse, according to UNICEF -- but children are also being abused offline at home.

In a 2015 study involving 3,866 Filipino respondents aged 13 to 24, about 3.2% said they had been raped during childhood. And more than 17% of those aged 13 to 17 experienced sexual violence, which includes "unwanted touch" or having explicit photos or videos taken, said the study, conducted by UNICEF and the Philippine government's Council for the Welfare of Children.

The study found the abuse often took place in the home, where perpetrators were frequently family members -- making it harder to detect and for victims to pursue justice.

Acupinpin said she had been reluctant to come forward as a child because she feared people would blame her for the abuse. "I was scared that they might say, he's my stepfather, I gave him my consent," she said.

After Acupinpin's teacher notified the police about her injuries, she was removed from her parents' care and placed in a care center for abuse survivors -- but she didn't initially tell anyone about the sexual abuse. "I kept it to myself because I was so scared, because his threats still lingered in my mind," she said.

It was only after she spoke with other children at the orphanage who had also been abused, that she finally disclosed the full extent of her stepfather's abuse to her social worker.

Activists and international human rights organizations say online abuse of children has proliferated during the coronavirus pandemic, which has caused people -- perpetrators and consumers of explicit materials -- to stay home and spend more time online.

Rampant sex industry

A higher age of consent enshrined in law could help young children better identify and report abuse -- and curb the country's flourishing sex trafficking industry, said Brosas, the lawmaker.

Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Error! There was an error processing your request.

The country's poorest children are particularly vulnerable to grooming and exploitation. There have been cases of children who are lured by traffickers' promises to fund their education, or to provide food and shelter, she said.

Though poverty in the Philippines is a long-standing issue that its leaders have worked for years to combat, conditions have become even more desperate during the pandemic, with many families left unemployed and hungry.

"Sometimes because of impoverishment of our families, the parents themselves are the ones who are the perpetrators," Brosas said. "As long as they are being sent money from people ... they force their children into sexual abuse."

Before Covid-19, the Philippines was a popular destination for sex tourists, due to lax regulations and poor enforcement against sex trafficking or abuse.

"Pre-pandemic, there are tourists with very young people with them -- 16, 15 (years old), in hotels," Brosas said.

The Philippines is ranked Tier 1 by the US State Department's anti-trafficking agency, which means it "meets the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking."

However, on the ground, there are often gaps in enforcement. The Philippine government "did not vigorously investigate and prosecute officials allegedly involved in trafficking crimes," consistently prosecute trafficking recruiters, or increase support for child victims of sexual exploitation, said the US agency.

Lack of legal action

Even though reports of online child sexual abuse have surged, only a small proportion of cases make it to court, and even fewer reach a conviction.

From March to late May alone last year, as the country entered a strict coronavirus lockdown, the government's cybercrime unit received 280,000 reports of online child sexual exploitation located in the country from a US nonprofit that receives referrals from major internet companies. That's more than three times the number of reports received during the same period the year before.

Some of those reports were about the same piece of content, or were "inaccurate reporting," said the government's official news agency. The reports from that period led to seven arrests, and the rescue of 34 children.

But although the government's anti-trafficking agency received 1.2 million online tips of alleged online child sexual exploitation in 2020, only nine of those tips were opened for investigation, according to CNN affiliate CNN Philippines. It's not clear why so few were taken up by investigators.

In a statement to CNN, the anti-trafficking agency said police had rescued 197 victims of online child sexual exploitation in 2020, after conducting 63 operations nationwide. Prosecutors filed 163 child trafficking cases to court, the majority of which involved sexually abused children.

Since the country passed its anti-trafficking law in 2003, it has recorded 2,116 child trafficking cases, of which 58% were successfully prosecuted with convictions, while 8% of cases were resolved with acquittal, the agency said.

It added that though it received a higher number of online tips about potential online child abuse during the pandemic, these "are only 'suspected' online activities which are not automatically actionable."

All these factors -- combined with the fact most minors under 18 can't access birth control without parental consent -- help explain why the Philippines, a predominantly Catholic country, has one of the highest rates of teenage pregnancy in Southeast Asia.

As of 2019, the Philippines recorded 55 births annually per 1,000 women aged 15 to 19, according to the World Bank. To put that in perspective, the global average for that age group is 41.6 births per 1,000 women, according to the World Bank; in the US, that figure is 16.7.

"We have so many 15-year-olds who give birth in our wards, and their partners are 30, even 40 years old," said Madrid. "When we look at our statistics in our women and children's protection units (in hospitals) ... we find that the age where we have the highest incidence of sexual abuse is 13 to 15. It's a mountain peak -- just so high compared to the rest of the age groups."

'This is our best shot'

After decades of lobbying to change the age of consent, it has never felt more possible or more needed than now, said Brosas.

The bill that passed the House in December -- HB 7836 -- combined several disparate bills, including one by Brosas, into a single unified proposal. It lays out a sweeping list of amendments to the existing penal code and the anti-child abuse law; apart from raising the age of consent to 16, it would also expand the definition of rape, add a new clause for grooming, and raise the punishment for rape to up to 40 years' imprisonment.

The bill does allow legal consent for younger teens under 16 as long as their partners are also close in age; for instance, a 13-year-old can consent to sex if the age difference with their partner does not exceed two years.

Its supporters hope the bill has a better shot of being passed due to growing public awareness of the issue and a newly sympathetic Congress.

"Previous to (the current legislature), there was really an active opposition in Congress," said Madrid, the child protection director. Some opponents said legal change was unnecessary, given the existing laws. Newer members of congress weren't aware of the issue, she said.

"Some of the new congressmen were amazed -- they didn't know that the age of statutory rape was below 12," she said. "So they asked me the same question: Why? I said, you tell me!"

The new Congress was much more receptive, she added, as evidenced by the near-unanimous approval of the bill in the House. "This is our best shot for -- forever," she said.

But she and other advocates are nervous. For the bill to become law, first the Senate has to draft and pass a counterpart bill; then, the House and Senate must meet to negotiate any points of disagreement; once they've reached a bicameral agreement, the bill must then be signed by President Rodrigo Duterte.

Duterte promised in 2016 to investigate the rise of child and sexual abuse, and in February this year approved new measures to combat online child sexual exploitation -- but he has also received harsh criticism from activists for sexist or offensive comments, including his claim in 2018 thathe molested a maid while in high school, which his office later walked back.

'We have no more time'

It's been more than six months after the House bill passed, and the Senate still hasn't produced a draft counterpart bill.

Next May, the current congressional session will end and seats will be up for election. If the bill hasn't passed by then, it will be shelved and lawmakers will have to start over again. "We have no more time," Brosas said.

And next year, they may find fewer allies in the House if former opponents return. "We don't know who will be in the next Congress," said Madrid. "We may be dealing with the same people, or not -- we don't know who will get elected. Maybe the people who were opposing (the bill) before will win again."

Acupinpin was eventually moved from the orphanage to a rehabilitation center by Cameleon, a non-profit organization that supports victims of sexual abuse, where she now works as a member of their advocacy staff. She, too, is anxiously watching the bill's progress, hoping it can help protect children from the abuse she endured.

After police intervened, her stepfather was arrested and charged with violating the anti-child abuse law, but the case dragged on for years and was ultimately never adjudicated. The legal process -- countless invasive interviews, testimonies, hearings and disrupted daily life -- was like continually reopening a wound, Acupinpin said.

"Until now, I still have nightmares," she said. "I had to balance my psychological well-being, my mental battles, by talking to psychologists. At some points, it still comes back to me."

If the bill, which includes clauses to make the process less traumatic for victims and provides a harsher penalty for those found guilty, had been law during her childhood, she said she would have pursued the case to the end.

"I felt like the justice system failed me at some point," she said. "Even though I wanted to fight for justice, I felt like I had to sacrifice something -- the trauma that I have to experience over and over again."

"Many victims weren't able to get the justice that they wanted because they were 14 or 15 at the time," Acupinpin added. "We are defending children who cannot give consent ... There's a lot of victims suffering in silence."

The-CNN-Wire

 &  2021 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved.
Champaign, IL (61820)

Today

Cloudy skies early, then partly cloudy this afternoon. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 81F. Winds E at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Clear skies. Low 62F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph.
Paul M. Collins Jr. is a professor of legal studies and political science at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Artemus Ward is a political-science professor at Northern Illinois University in DeKalb. They wrote this for The Conversation, an independent, nonprofit source of news, analysis and commentary from academic experts.
This Oct. 8, 2020 photo shows the Miami-Dade County Courthouse in Miami. Officials say the Miami-Dade County Courthouse will begin undergoing repairs immediately after a review found safety concerns within the building. A joint statement from multiple leaders late Friday, July 9 says the review was prompted by the collapse of a condo building in Surfside.
The major cause of Parkinsons Disease is a dysregulation of immune genes central for fighting against viruses, a new study reveals. Researchers from the University of Copenhagen show that this dysregulation leads to a malfunction in the cells powerhouse, which cannot produce sufficient energy for neurons to stay alive, causing them to gradually die.

12,000 people in Denmark and 7 to 10 million people worldwide suffer from Parkinson's Disease (PD). It is the second most common neurogenerative disorder of aging and the most common movement disorder, but the cause of the disease is largely unknown.

In a new study, researchers from the University of Copenhagen show that the most common form of the disease, encompassing 90 to 95 percent of all Parkinson's Disease cases known as sporadic PD, is caused by a blockage of a pathway that regulates the nerve cell's powerhouse, the mitochondria.

Just like when people eat, cells take what they need and get rid of the rest waste products. But if our brain cells have this specific kind of signaling blockage, it means that the powerhouse of the cell - mitochondria - cannot get cleaned up after being damaged." Professor Shohreh Issazadeh-Navikas, corresponding author and group leader, Biotech Research & Innovation Centre

The blockage leads to an accumulation of high amounts of damaged mitochondria, while not being able to produce enough energy for the cells. It causes neurons to gradually die, which is the reason for the development of Parkinson's Disease symptoms, and why it leads to dementia.

The blockage is caused by a dysregulation of the immune genes, more specifically a pathway called type 1 interferon, which is normally important for fight against viruses, but now we show that it is also responsible for regulating the energy supply of the nerve cells.

'Every part of our body needs to be regulated. We get a signal to stop eating, when we are full, and the same thing happens everywhere else in our body. If we get an infection, parts of our body need to fight it and stop it from replicating. But when the infection is cleaned up, the signal should subside. This is the job of a protein called PIAS2. That causes the blockage of the type 1 interferon-pathway, and when the infection is over, the blockage should stop and go back to normal. But that does not seem to be the case in patients with Parkinson's Disease. We further demonstrate that this dysregulation leads to a defect in the mitochondrial energy supply, as mentioned before', says Shohreh Issazadeh-Navikas.

These pathways are very important for brain functions, but they are also associated with microbial and virus recognition. For example, they are very important for fighting COVID-19, and a mutation in the related gene has been shown to be linked to a deadly outcome after contracting COVID-19.

The researchers combined and analyzed four data sets, which studied neurons from brains with Parkinson's Disease and looked at what type of genes they express.

They then looked at which gene patterns were disturbed in patients with Parkinson's Disease and especially those who had also developed PD with dementia.

In order to test the results, the major findings of the combined data was tried in three different mouse models using a negative regulator of the type I interferon pathway, PIAS2, which had been identified from the patients study as one of the key proteins linked to the progression of Parkinson's Disease and dementia.

'We show that a high accumulation of the PIAS2-protein is what is causing the blockage in the pathway, which should have activated the processes responsible for removing damaged protein and mitochondrial garbage', says Shohreh Issazadeh-Navikas.

'The accumulation of damaged mitochondrial mass further leads to increase of other toxic proteins. So when we compare patients to same-aged healthy patients without Parkinson's Disease, we see that this PIAS2-protein is highly expressed in the neurons, which is why this pathway should be evaluated for potential roles in the other forms of familial Parkinson's Disease that we have not studied here.'

The researchers hope the study will encourage research to counteract the pathway blockage, which could have a beneficial impact on the disease and towards preventing dementia.

In the next stages, the Shohreh Group will study how the pathway contributes to neuronal homeostasis and survival, as well as how its dysregulation causes neuronal cell death.
Split liver transplantation (SLT) provides an opportunity to divide a donor liver and offer transplants to two small patients, one or both of whom could be a child. SLT, which is underused in the United States, could be used more widely to decrease the number of deaths of people on transplant waiting lists. In a new article, researchers address some of the ethical decisions that go into decisions to split a liver and provide a model to help hospitals make SLT decisions.

The article, by researchers at Carnegie Mellon University (CMU), appears in The BMJ, which is published by the Institute of Medical Ethics.

Should a large liver always be split if it is medically safe to do so? We say not always, and clarify under what circumstances SLT is ethically desirable." Sridhar Tayur, Professor of Operations Management at CMU's Tepper School of Business, Coauthor

Both the Organ Procurement and Transplant Network and the United Network for Organ Sharing have identified SLT as an important ethical issue. To flesh out the issues at play, the authors - including UCSF Transplant Surgeon, John Roberts who previously served as UNOS President - present several case studies regarding what to do with a large liver available for transplantation when recipients are different sizes and ages and have different levels of need.

Using philosophical theory, the authors - that include Alan Strudler, an ethicist from University of Pennsylvania -- address considerations that limit transplantation of portions of the liver. SLT requires that the relative size of the donor and the recipient match because if the portion of the liver is too small for the recipient, it will fail. The most common split results in one part of the liver that is about 75 percent of the original mass (typically transplanted to an adult) and one part that is 25 percent (typically transplanted to a child). However, the larger part may be inadequate for a large adult, and splitting raises logistical issues, such as preparing two recipients in the same operating room, the time and expertise needed to split the liver, and the transportation of the parts of the liver.

The authors suggest that hospitals use a flexible decision support model to allow for analyses that ask "what if" questions about the patients who need transplants and how their needs are changing. The model should consider various metrics of fairness and efficiency. For example, the medical community should reach reasonable consensus about what items constitute fairness, including patients' scores on measures of the severity of liver cirrhosis, which prioritize decisions about transplantation; waiting time until transplant; and likelihood of death.

"Much of the ethics involved in SLT suggest a dynamic problem whose answer requires a dynamic solution," explains Tae Wan Kim, Associate Professor of Business Ethics at CMU's Tepper School of Business, who coauthored the study. "The problem of liver transplantation is dynamic, so the solution must be dynamic and oscillate qualitatively between different demographics."

As an example of a dynamic allocation policy, decisions about SLT would oscillate between splitting a large liver if the health of the small patients involved were worse than that of the large patient and not splitting the liver if the opposite were true.
Food insecurity is a major problem in the U.S., and it worsened during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides some relief, but millions of Americans still lack adequate access to healthy food. A new study from the University of Illinois proposes a potential solution.

Restructuring SNAP as a Universal Basic Income (UBI) program or modified UBI is a straightforward way to eliminate food insecurity in United States. It's expensive but it is not difficult." Craig Gundersen, Distinguished Professor, Department of Agricultural and Consumer Economics, U of I

Gundersen authored the study, published in Food Policy.

While the existing SNAP program effectively reduces food insecurity, it has some limitations. For some SNAP recipients, the amount of aid they receive is insufficient. Some people who are food insecure and eligible for SNAP do not participate. And finally, more than half of those who are food insecure are not eligible for SNAP, Gundersen explains.

Using data from the 2019 Current Population Survey, Gundersen estimates the effects of expanding SNAP to become a UBI program under three different scenarios.

"The first scenario is a standard UBI program, where everybody in the United States gets SNAP at the maximum level," Gundersen explains. "Under the current program, your SNAP benefits go down if your income increases. Under this proposal, the amount would remain the same. If people wanted to work more and earn more money, they wouldn't lose their SNAP benefits."

Under this scenario, food insecurity could decline by 88.8 %, assuming the $730 billion cost would be funded through higher taxes for top-earning households.

"With the current distribution of taxes in the United States, the top 10% of incomes pay 70% of the taxes, and the top 50% pay 97%. Even if you were to raise taxes on the higher-income brackets to implement this program, it is unlikely to influence the probability of these households becoming food insecure," he states.

The second scenario in Gundersen's study would be a modified UBI program where households with incomes up to four times the poverty line; that is, approximately $100,000 for a family of four, would receive SNAP benefits.

Compared to the first scenario, the decline in food insecurity would be almost the same - 88.5%  - but at a much lower cost of $408.5 billion.

Gundersen's third scenario addresses the issue that current SNAP benefits are not enough for some recipients to become food secure.

"Under this scenario, I consider what would happen if we increase the maximum SNAP benefit by 25% and give it to all households with incomes up to about $100,000 a year. In that case, there would be a 98.2% decline in food insecurity, and the cost would be $564.5 billion," he notes.

"I believe the third scenario is the best one," Gundersen says. "While the second one is also good, it would not be adequate for some of the most vulnerable groups; that is, SNAP recipients who need more assistance than they currently receive. The third scenario would ensure that they get what they need to become food secure."

Gundersen acknowledges that his proposals are costly, but so are other government programs.

"Essentially, I propose a way of eliminating food insecurity in United States, and the cost of this would be about a half trillion dollars per year. That seems like a lot, but to put it in context, the cost of the COVID-19 pandemic stimulus packages from the Trump administration and the Biden administration were roughly $6 trillion. It's a lot of money. But if we want to be serious about alleviating food insecurity, this is a simple, straightforward way to do it," he concludes.
The Delta variant was detected for the first time in India in October 2020 and has since spread throughout the world. It is now dominant in many countries and regions (India, the UK, Portugal, Russia, etc.) and is predicted to be the most prevalent variant in Europe within weeks or months. Epidemiological studies have shown that the Delta variant is more transmissible than other variants.

Scientists from the Institut Pasteur (CNRS joint unit), in collaboration with Hopital Europeen Georges Pompidou (part of the Paris Public Hospital Network or AP-HP), Orleans Regional Hospital and Strasbourg University Hospital, studied the sensitivity of the Delta variant to monoclonal antibodies used in clinical practice to prevent severe forms of the disease in people at risk, as well as to neutralizing antibodies in the sera of individuals previously infected with SARS-CoV-2 or vaccinated. They compared this sensitivity with that of the virus previously circulating in France (known as the Alpha or "British variant") and the "South African variant" (Beta variant). The scientists demonstrated that the Delta variant is less sensitive to neutralizing antibodies than the Alpha variant. Three of the four therapeutic monoclonal antibodies tested are effective against the Delta variant, but one of them (Bamlanivimab) loses its antiviral activity.

The scientists demonstrated that sera from convalescent patients collected up to 12 months post symptoms were 4 fold less potent against the Delta variant, relative to the Alpha variant. They also studied sera from people vaccinated with two doses of the Pfizer or AstraZeneca vaccine: their sera effectively neutralized the Delta variant, although efficacy was slightly lower than against the Alpha variant. Sera from individuals who had received a single dose of vaccine (Pfizer or AstraZeneca) were inactive or barely active against the Delta and Beta variants. In summary, the Delta variant is slightly more resistant to neutralizing antibodies than the Alpha variant. The study was published as a preprint on the bioRxiv website on May 28, 2021 and published in the July 8th, 2021 issue of Nature.

Epidemiological studies demonstrate that the Delta variant is approximately 60% more transmissible than the Alpha variant. The Delta variant's biological characteristics are still relatively unknown. It is characterized by the presence of nine mutations in the Spike protein and has been designated a "Variant of Concern" by several public health organizations including WHO.

In the United Kingdom, for example, the number of cases diagnosed has risen in recent weeks. Between June 23 and 30, 2021, 135,000 people tested positive, with the Delta variant representing 70-90% of sequenced viruses. Two months ago, most cases were imported from India, but a significant rise in the number of indigenous cases has been observed since mid-April.

In France, the Delta variant accounted for over 20% of new cases in the last week of June, compared to 9% the previous week.

In a new study, scientists from the Institut Pasteur, in collaboration with Hopital Europeen Georges Pompidou (part of the Paris Public Hospital Network or AP-HP), Orleans Regional Hospital and Strasbourg University Hospital, examined the sensitivity of the Delta variant to antibodies compared with the strains circulating in France and other variants referred to as the British (Alpha) and South African (Beta) variants. The aim of the study was to characterize the efficacy of therapeutic antibodies, as well as antibodies developed by individuals previously infected with SARS-CoV-2 or vaccinated, to neutralize this new variant.

The scientists isolated SARS-CoV-2 variant Delta from a nasal sample of a patient who developed COVID-19 a few days after returning from India in April 2021. Therapeutic monoclonal antibodies and serum samples from people who had been vaccinated or previously exposed to SARS-CoV-2 were used to study the sensitivity of the variant to neutralizing antibodies.

We isolated an infectious strain of the Delta variant and used a novel semi-automated rapid neutralization assay developed in our laboratory. This collaborative multidisciplinary effort involved the Institut Pasteur's virologists and specialists in the analysis of viral evolution and protein structure, together with teams from Hopital Europeen Georges Pompidou and the hospitals in Orleans and Strasbourg. We demonstrated that this variant, which spreads more rapidly, has acquired partial resistance to antibodies. For example, the sera of patients previously infected with COVID-19, collected up to 12 months after they experienced symptoms, and of individuals who had received two doses of the Pfizer or AstraZeneca vaccine are still neutralizing but are three to six fold less potent against the Delta variant as compared with the Alpha variant. And the sera of individuals vaccinated with a single dose of the Pfizer or AstraZeneca vaccine are relatively or completely ineffective against the Delta variant." Olivier Schwartz, co-last author of the study and Head of the Virus and Immunity Unit (Institut Pasteur/CNRS)

The scientists also demonstrated that one therapeutic antibody, Bamlanivimab, no longer functions against this strain, although Etesevimab, Casirivimab and Imdevimab remain active.

The scientists concluded that the mutations in the Spike protein of the Delta variant potentially modify virus binding to the receptor and allow partial escape from the immune response. Ongoing studies are now focused on understanding why this variant is more transmissible.
A new study from Queen Mary University of London has demonstrated that immune cells can be stimulated to assemble into special structures within pancreatic cancer such that, at least in a pre-clinical model, researchers can demonstrate an improvement in the efficacy of chemotherapy.

The body's immune system is a critical defense against illness such as infections, as has been highlighted by the recent COVID-19 pandemic. The same immune system can also help us fight cancer. However, pancreatic cancer is different; a key feature of this cancer type is that the pancreatic cancer cells are surrounded by a dense, impenetrable barrier known as the stroma, which often blocks the access of immune cells to the tumor. For this reason, immunotherapies - drugs that harness the power of the body's immune system to kill cancer cells - have shown limited success in the treatment of pancreatic cancer, whilst they are effective in fighting other cancer types including skin and lung cancer.

Research has found that in some patients with pancreatic cancer, immune cells can assemble into clusters known as tertiary lymphoid structures (TLS) within the stroma, which are associated with improved survival outcomes in patients. However, TLS do not form naturally in all patients with pancreatic cancer. With this in mind, in this study the team set out to investigate the structure and role of TLS in pancreatic cancer when present, and to evaluate their anti-tumor activity.

The research was published in Cellular and Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology, and funded by Cancer Research UK, Pancreatic Cancer Research Fund and Medical Research Council.

To determine the presence of TLS within human pancreatic cancer, the team analyzed tissue samples donated by patients to the Pancreatic Cancer Research Fund Tissue Bank. In this study, TLS were defined by the presence of tissue zones rich in B cells, T cells and dendritic cells - three cell types that have an important role in the immune response. By using specialized staining techniques to visualize the different cell types present within the samples, the team found that TLS were only in a third of patients whose samples were analyzed.

To study the development of TLS in pancreatic cancer, the team generated a pre-clinical murine model of pancreatic cancer. TLS were not present in the model initially; however, following the injection of two signaling proteins (known as lymphoid chemokines) into the tumors of the mice, B cells and T cells infiltrated into the tumor site and assembled into TLS.

TLS induction can improve the effectiveness of chemotherapy

The team then combined the chemokine injection with administration of gemcitabine - a chemotherapy commonly used in the treatment of pancreatic cancer patients. The combination of gemcitabine and chemokine injection resulted in smaller tumors in mice, an effect that was not achieved by either treatment alone.

Pancreatic cancer is known as a cold tumor, which means it does not have many immune cells near the cancer trying to fight it. In this study we have shown that immune cells can not only be harnessed but also made to assemble into TLS within a pre-clinical model of pancreatic cancer to make chemotherapy more effective. Formation of TLS is critical in mounting the anti-tumor response close to the tumor to overcome the problem posed by the barrier of the stroma. These findings suggest that combining chemotherapy with appropriate immunotherapy to stimulate immune cells in the tumor microenvironment could be used to tailor more personalized treatments against pancreatic cancer." Hemant Kocher, Professor of Liver and Pancreas Surgery at Queen Mary University of London and Consultant at Barts Health NHS Trust

The anti-tumor activity seen after TLS formation in the pre-clinical model was associated with B cells triggering the activation of dendritic cells, which is required for the initiation of an immune response. The findings suggest that lymphoid chemokines, when used in combination with chemotherapy, may represent a viable therapeutic strategy for promoting an anti-tumor immune response that could lead to better clinical outcomes.

As this study used a mouse model, further research is now required to determine whether the same outcomes can be observed in other experimental models and in patients. The team believe that a more detailed understanding of TLS formation may aid in the development of personalized therapies that can harness the potential of the body's own immune system to fight cancer.
(Newser)  A Texas man waited in line for six hours to do his civic dutythe last one to vote in the 2020 presidential primary at his polling station. A photo of him with his hard-won I voted sticker went viral. Then he got arrested, Houston Public Media reports. Hervis Rogers had served time for a felony charge and had been out on parole for some time. His parole was set to end in June 2020, but he voted in March. He also voted in 2018. He said didnt know it was illegal, the Texas Tribune reports, and as written, its only illegal to knowingly vote while ineligible. Rogers was arrested just last Wednesdaya day before the Texas legislature convened to discuss new voting restrictions.

story continues below

Rogers was being held in jail because he could not pay the $100,000 bail. The Bail Project, a national nonprofit, paid his bail so he could go home, the New York Times reports. Tommy Buser-Clancy, an attorney with the ACLU says the organization is investigating the charges. Rogers is facing a stiff penaltypossibly 20 years for each vote, or 40 years in prison. Second-degree felonies are normally reserved for aggravated assault, and to apply it to Mr. Rogerss case, it just shows how unjust that is, Buser-Clancy said. (Read more voters stories.)
(Newser)  A malfunctioning carnival ride in Michigan could have spelled disaster for riders on Thursday were it not for the quick thinking of bystanders who leaped to the rescue. Video taken at the National Cherry Festival in Michigan showed a ride identified by People as the Magic Carpet Ride spinning in circles, as it's meant to, while also appearing to rock dangerously back and forth with powerless riders strapped to their seats. In footage obtained by Up North Live, one brave carnival-goer is the first to jump onto the ride in a bid to stabilize it. First slowly, then all in a rush, others join.

story continues below

The heroic bid appears to work as the weight of the bystanders seemed to hold the ride in its proper place. After several minutes, the ride finally came to a stop as the gathering crowd cheered. No injuries were reported. An official with the Traverse City-based festival released a statement Friday saying the ride was disassembled and sent to its manufacturer to be inspected. Ride company Arnold Amusement maintained the ride is inspected daily by employees, yearly by the state, and three times per year by a third party. (Read more carnival ride stories.)
(Newser)  Pope Francis led prayers before a Rome crowd Sunday as he does every week, albeit from a different balcony this time. "I am happy to be able to keep the Sunday appointment of the Angelus, even here from the Gemelli Polyclinic," the pope said from a balcony on the 10th floor of a university hospital where he's recovering from intestinal surgery, CNN reports. He thanked the hospital staff caring for him in particular and talked about the importance of the health care system in general"free health care, that assures good service, accessible to everyone," Francis told the crowd of hundreds. "This precious benefit must not be lost. It needs to be kept!" The pope stood while speaking, using a lectern for support, per NPR, and appeared with several children who are patients. He also said he's been praying for Haiti, whose president was assassinated last week.

story continues below

The Vatican has not disclosed when the pope, 84, will leave the hospital, but a spokesman said he is recovering from the surgery, walking and starting to resume work, and described his blood test results as satisfactory. The procedure on July 4 removed much of his colon that had narrowed after becoming inflamed. Colon diverticulitis is common and usually brings no symptoms, though the Vatican had said the pope was symptomatic. He led the Angelus prayer and gave his blessing in St. Peter's Square that day before reporting for surgery, the first time he's been publicly known to be admitted to a hospital since he took office in 2013. "I have deeply felt your closeness and the support of your prayers," Francis told the crowd Sunday, per the BBC. "Thank you from the bottom of my heart." (Read more Pope Francis stories.)
(Newser)  Hotel housekeepers have seen it all. One in Denver definitely hasan unnamed hotel employee saw 16 long guns and more than 1,000 rounds of ammunition in room near Coors Field Friday night, Denver7 reports. The room on the Maven Hotels eighth-floor had a balcony overlooking the downtown area, offering a good view of the festivities. And authorities say that view and the guns had them worried that a shooting similar to the one in Las Vegas in 2017, which killed more than 50 people, was planned.

story continues below

Four people, Richard Platt, 42; Gabriel Rodriguez, 48; Ricardo Rodriguez, 44; and Kanoelehua Serikawa, 43; were arrested, the Denver Post reports. The three men have criminal histories, and were charged with possession of controlled substances as well as the guns. But, an FBI spokesperson said Sunday that there was no reason to believe that a terrorist plot had been foiled. We are not aware of any threat to the All-Star Game events, venues, players, or the community at this time, Courtney Bernal of the FBIs Denver FBI office said in a statement. (Read more Denver stories.)
Mohamad has not spoken to the producers of They Are Us and after being contacted by Newshub asked to see the parts of the script her family members featured in.

After we showed it to her, she said she felt "very angry".

"It was very difficult for me reading that. It's bringing all the bad memories," Mohamad said.

"I think it's a very bad idea to make a movie and earn money from our pain."

She said the idea of the film was "unacceptable".

"The movie is just like the livestream. It's worse - worse than the livestream.

"It would encourage others to do the same, or even to make it better, to avoid the mistakes the terrorist made.

"I just want to ask the producers: if one of their loved ones was killed, would they like to see that and see how they died in a movie? And their children? Is it something good for them?

"I want to ask them to put themselves in my shoes."

The producers of They Are Us have pointed out the script is still in development and is subject to change. The film's Dubai-based producer Ayman Jama told Newshub "any victim family who does not want to share their story we... will not mention or showcase their loved ones' stories".

Newshub supplied questions to the agent representing both Rose Byrne and the Kiwi writer and director of the film, Andrew Niccol, but has yet to receive a response.
The pair's newborn daughter Lilibet arrived in May and their son Archie was born in 2019. UK charity Population Matters, which campaigns to have a sustainable population, says the couple is being recognised as "a role model for other families" for their decision to have just two children.

"In choosing and publicly declaring their intention to limit their family to two, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are helping to ensure a better future for their children and providing a role model for other families," a spokesperson says.

"Having a smaller family reduces our impact on the Earth, and provides a better chance for all our children, their children and future generations to flourish on a healthy planet. We commend the Duke and Duchess for taking this enlightened decision, and for affirming that a smaller family is also a happy family."
No cases of COVID-19 have been reported in New Zealand's community, and three cases have been detected in managed isolation and quarantine (MIQ) facilities since Friday, the Ministry of Health says.

The total number of confirmed cases in New Zealand is now 2411. The Ministry of Health said one of the cases detected in MIQ was a traveller arriving from the United Kingdom, via the United Arab Emirates, one was an arrival from Malaysia, via Singapore, and the third was a passenger from Russia, who was also coming via the United Arab Emirates.

One previously reported case, from July 8, has now been reclassified as 'under investigation' and has been removed from the tally of active cases, the ministry said.

"As a result, the number of active cases in New Zealand has only gone up by two. It is now 34."
But Research NZ managing partner Emanuel Kalafatelis said things do not look so good when only the responses of those who strongly agree with the statements are considered.

"Forty six percent said they strongly agree that at alert level 2 or above we should be wearing face masks on public transport - so what are the other half doing? They're either agreeing in a soft sort of way or they're disagreeing.

"Similarly with scanning only 42 percent strongly agreed that we should be doing that when we get on public transport and the rest gave us a soft response or disagreed with that."

Kalafatelis said the poll suggests that most New Zealanders are complacent about wearing masks and in terms of their scanning behaviour.

He said the poll also seemed to suggest that some of those who are wearing masks are not wearing them correctly.

Respondents were asked about masks with regard to the Health Ministry's guidelines which include washing your hands before putting on a mask and keeping them in a clean place, such as a clean plastic bag, between uses.

Kalafatelis said the survey found that only a third of respondents said they always did this, which meant the others were not doing that.

"The fact that they're wearing face masks in this particular inappropriate way means that of course the face masks are having no effect whatsoever."

RNZ
A 23-year-old man accused of shooting a police officer in Hamilton overnight has been charged.

The man, who was the passenger in a car pulled over for a routine traffic stop on Bankwood St, Hamilton just before midnight on Friday, allegedly shot the officer in the arm and shoulder before stealing a police car and fleeing.

He was later found at an address in the Waikato town of Ngaruawahia and taken into custody. On Saturday night, police confirmed he had been charged with aggravated wounding, unlawful possession of a firearm and unlawfully taking a motor vehicle.

He is expected to appear in the Hamilton District Court on Monday.

The driver, a 27-year-old, also fled the scene but was found at an address on Sherwood Dr. He appeared in court on Saturday on an unrelated matter.

Police say further charges are likely.

The officer remains in Waikato Hospital in a stable condition.
Freezing cold mornings, severe gales and dangerous sea conditions are in store for New Zealand next week.

Several fronts associated with a large and complex low-pressure system just north of New Zealand will sink southwards and bring heavy rain and strong wind to northern regions.
Final decisions are yet to be made but more than 100 investors are in a queue waiting to be approved and they are likely to be sent packing, according to sources.

Immigration experts have approached The AM Show - these are people who have previously helped the Government design the immigration system. They are well regarded and concerned that scrapping this category leaves the country worse off.

They feel shut out by a Government that has not consulted much on immigration.

Australia recently dropped its investor category to $2.5 million to attract 13,000 millionaires.

New Zealand, it is understood, is going the other way in an attempt to attract the very top dogs by raising the bar to $25 million.

Big business has approached The AM Show's source expressing concern that New Zealand stands to miss out big time.

And we've been here before.

We might live in paradise but by pricing the point of entry too high, we might end up killing the golden goose.

That's the last thing our economy needs - especially with big events like America's Cup poised to be raced overseas.

Why does the Government want to make it so hard for the rich?

Duncan Garner hosts The AM Show.
But Opposition parties have been highly vocal in their criticism of the report, with Collins accusing the Government of a "separatism by stealth" agenda.

"Kiwis were never told about it at the time and it was never campaigned on by Labour," Collins said on Sunday.

"The He Puapua report contains recommendations for fundamental changes to our legal, constitutional, and democratic governance arrangements. Changes like separate health and justice systems, separate RMA rules, and separate electoral arrangements.

"These proposals must be taken to an election so all Kiwis can have their say.

"While they claim publicly it's not their policy, the Labour Government has already started to implement large parts of He Puapua like Maori Wards and a Maori Health Authority, without the wide-ranging public debate that these changes deserve."

Collins said "Labour was elected on a COVID-19 mandate" and the recent announcement of several policies the party did not campaign on meant "New Zealanders are starting to feel left out".

Despite Collins' comments, not everyone is against the recommendations included in the He Puapua report. Last week Maori Party co-leader Rawiri Waititi told Newshub Nation there were some recommendations in the report didn't go far enough.

He said New Zealand's current system isn't working and Maori need another way of taking control over their affairs.

"Our people have tried to manipulate and work in the system for a long, long time. But I think it's time for us to start looking at some new systems where it's more equitable and more equal for indigenous people.

"We need to start looking at how Maori can participate more equally and equitably in that particular space in a Tiriti-centric Aotearoa. Not in a democracy, because democracy is majority rules, and indigenous peoples - especially Maori at 16 percent of the population in this country - will lose out, and we'll sit in second-place again."

Maori Development Minister Willie Jackson has also said the time is right for the country to develop a plan that advocates for Maori in real and "meaningful ways".

"This must reflect New Zealand and it's an important conversation for us to all have together as a nation," he said earlier this month.

"As we have previously said, He Puapua is not Government policy nor the basis of a declaration plan. Instead, it is a starting point for discussion."

Collins said National's new campaign would also tackle other issues it felt were not being adequately addressed by the Government.
Danica Young's trip to Sydney to see her sisters she hasn't seen in two years was meant to last one week. It's now been three weeks and counting - and most of that's been in lockdown.

"I'm put off, I'm put off a 100 percent. I won't be coming back anytime soon. And that's what's sad is I think it's going to put off a lot of people," she explains.

She's now waiting to secure a flight back to New Zealand and faces having to quarantine for two weeks.

"That's one of the big things that's making me wanna come home so bad is the guilt of not being able to help out my work," she says.

Travel agents say the uncertainty with Australia's COVID situation is seeing Kiwis cancel trips across the ditch.

"School holidays is normally the busiest time of the year and so there were a number of people heading over to NSW," says Brent Thomas, president of Travel Agents Association of NZ.

New South Wales residents coming here are suffering too as - for now - they now have to do quarantine.

Tourism operators Newshub spoke to say while they can absolutely see why the constant ups and downs of stopping and starting the bubble are frustrating.

"The best term I can use is 'gutting'," says NZ Ski CEO Paul Anderson.

"When that happens we're gutted, we understand the reasons for it but you can't help going 'argh'."

At Queentown's Coronet Peak they're mainly catering to a domestic market as Australians cancel trips down under.

The industry wants to see a plan from the Government about opening the borders once it's safe.

"I think what they need to do is give a better clarity around the pathway out of this situation," Thomas says.

"Of course health comes first but then what is the plan once we get fully vaccinated. What does fully vaccinated actually mean so that we can travel once again?"

The goal is for every New Zealander to be vaccinated by the end of the year.

Until then it's a battle for survival for local tourism operators and a gamble for all Kiwis wanting to head offshore.
South Africa extended tight COVID-19 rules on Sunday for another 14 days, maintaining restrictions that include a ban on gatherings, a curfew from 9 pm to 4 am and a prohibition on the sale of alcohol.

The country, the worst-hit on the African continent in terms of recorded cases and deaths, is in the grip of a third wave of infections driven by the more infectious Delta coronavirus variant.

"Our health system countrywide remains under pressure," President Cyril Ramaphosa said in a televised address to the nation.

Early this month South Africa recorded a new record of more than 26,000 daily cases, stretching hospitals to breaking point. Ramaphosa moved the country to the fourth level of a five-tier restriction scale in late June as infections climbed, promising to review the restrictions after two weeks.

On Sunday he said the cabinet had decided to maintain "adjusted alert level 4" for another 14 days, but restaurants would be able to operate again subject to strict health protocols. Gyms would also be allowed to reopen under certain conditions.

Ramaphosa added that a government advisory committee was working on how soon the country could bring Sinovac's CoronaVac vaccine into the COVID-19 immunisation programme.

Immunisation is the priority for many countries as COVID-19 continues to spread.

On Sunday the Chinese sales agent for Germany's BioNTech SE (22UAy.DE) said - it had signed a deal to provide 10 million COVID-19 vaccine doses to Taiwan, part of a drawn-out and highly politicised process for the island to access the shots.

Taiwan's government has tried for months to buy the vaccine directly from BioNTech and has blamed China, which claims the self-ruled island as its own territory, for nixing an agreement the two sides were due to sign earlier this year. China denies the accusations.
Trump reportedly told Pence he was "so disloyal" as he threw the newspaper.

"Trump was holding a newspaper article about the hiring and said it made him look weak, like his team was abandoning him as he was probed for his campaign's role in Russian election meddling. He crumpled the article and threw it at his vice president," the book says.

The former Vice President told Trump that his senior advisor and son-in-law Jared Kushner had asked him to hire Lewandowski and he had lunch with Trump to talk about the move.

Pence then threw the scrunched newspaper article back at Trump and "pointed a finger a few inches from his chest".

"'We walked you through every detail of this,' Mr. Pence snarled. 'We did this for you - as a favor. And this is how you respond? You need to get your facts straight.'"

Trump denies the fight with Pence ever happened.

"The story written by third-rate reporter Michael Bender, that Mike Pence and I had a big fight over Corey Lewandowski, is totally false. No such fight ever happened, it is fiction as are so many other stories written in the vast number of books coming out about me," he said.

"They write whatever they want to write anyway without sources, fact-checking, or asking whether or not an event is true or false. Frankly, so many stories are made-up, or pure fiction."
China's treatment of Uyghurs has come under intense scrutiny in recent years, with a number of countries - including the United States and the United Kingdom - calling the country's treatment of the Muslim minority population genocide.

Taliban leaders say while they are concerned about the treatment of Muslims in China, they will not cause any trouble for the Chinese government.

"We care about the oppression of Muslims, be it in Palestine, in Myanmar, or in China, and we care about the oppression of non-Muslims anywhere in the world. But what we are not going to do is interfere in Chinas internal affairs," a senior Taliban official in Doha, Qatar, where the group's political office is based, told the Wall Street Journal.

The Taliban's recent resurgence comes as US troops pull out of the country. Earlier this week, US President Joe Biden said the country's "military mission in Afghanistan will conclude on August 31". According to the Pentagon, more than 90 percent of the withdrawal operation has already been completed.

As the US leaves, Taliban officials say their fighters have now taken control of 85 percent of the country, the BBC reports.

According to one expert spoken to by the Wall Street Journal, China's influence in the region is set to grow once the US has left the country for good.

"The Taliban want to show China goodwill," Qian Feng, head of research at the National Strategy Institute of Tsinghua University in Beijing, told The Journal.

"They hope that China can play a more important role, especially after America pulls out its troops."

Despite reports of the Taliban's power growing, Biden has defended the US' withdrawal from the country after 20 years of war.

"I will not send another generation of Americans to war in Afghanistan with no reasonable expectation of achieving a different outcome," he said this week.
Let us know what you're seeing and hearing around the community.

Submit here
Gov. Mike Dunleavy talks with the media outside the Westmark Hotel after meeting Thursday, June 10, with the Greater Fairbanks Chamber of Commerce. Photo courtesy of Kevin Goodman, Office of the Governor
The Daily News-Miner encourages residents to make themselves heard through the Opinion pages. Readers' letters and columns also appear online at newsminer.com. Contact the editor with questions at letters@newsminer.com or call 459-7574.

Community Perspective

Send Community Perspective submissions by mail (P.O. Box 70710, Fairbanks AK 99707) or via email (letters@newsminer.com). Submissions must be 500 to 750 words. Columns are welcome on a wide range of issues and should be well-written and well-researched with attribution of sources. Include a full name, email address, daytime telephone number and headshot photograph suitable for publication (email jpg or tiff files at 150 dpi.) You may also schedule a photo to be taken at the News-Miner office. The News-Miner reserves the right to edit submissions or to reject those of poor quality or taste without consulting the writer.

Letters to the editor

Send letters to the editor by mail (P.O. Box 70710, Fairbanks AK 99707), by fax (907-452-7917) or via email (letters@newsminer.com). Writers are limited to one letter every two weeks (14 days.) All letters must contain no more than 350 words and include a full name (no abbreviation), daytime and evening phone numbers and physical address. (If no phone, then provide a mailing address or email address.) The Daily News-Miner reserves the right to edit or reject letters without consulting the writer.
TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

July is a good month for planet gazers. Experts point out that not only pluto is reaching opposition, but Venus and Mars are coming close to one another. And they will be separated by less than the diameter of a full moon at its peak.

This amazing sight will be only visible in the western sky or horizon under clear sky conditions after sunset. The event is up for skywatchers until next Tuesday. Experts point out that Venus and Mars at their closest can are viewable using ordinary binoculars.

Astronomer Ali Al-Hajri says this event called conjunction occurs after sunset at 06:33 pm next Tuesday. This planetary meet up at its closest approach will be a mere 28.1 apart. The peak of the celestial magic occurs at 04:38 pm, says Al Hajri, citing the surface calculation of the Bahrain horizon. This conjunction that occurs before sunrise could be seen only using a telescope. It might be possible to see Venus through a telescope, given that the atmosphere is clear. So, one should wait a few more minutes after sunset to see the pairing with naked eyes.

Al Hajri further said that the day before the conjunction on Monday, the crescent of DulHijjah would also be a distinctive sight on the western horizon after sunset. Dul Hijjah, which begins this year on 11 July, is the month of the Hajj pilgrimage and the last month of the Islamic calendar. Hajj will start on Dul Hijjah 7 (17 July) and end on Dul Hijjah 11 (21 July). The day of Arafat will fall on Dul Hijjah 9, 19 July.

Spot Venus

Al Hajri further explained that it is easy to spot Venus for its brightness in the western sky. This also allows us to monitor the spacing between the planets, starting next Wednesday. Al Hajri said that the closest interplanetary coupling occurred was on 24 August 2019. This event, however, was not visible to naked eyes due to its proximity to the Sun by about 3 degrees. The last visible phenomenon to our eyes occurred on 5 October 2017 and will repeat, he added.

The event will come back on 8 January 2026 but will not be visible to naked out for its proximity to the Sun, Al Hajri said. It was also just nine months ago that Mars came within 38.8 million miles (62.43 million kilometres) of Earth, the closest it had been to us since August 2003, and it will not be that close again until September 2035.
TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain Bourse announced adopting the Global Industry Classification Standard for listed companies, effective today, to enhance transparency and meet best international practices.

The deal aims at providing better information to international investors on the performance of sectoral indices and easier comparability with global peers and between companies and sectors. Shaikh Khalifa bin Ebrahim Al-Khalifa, CEO of Bahrain Bourse, said: With globalisation taking place at a fast pace, our market has also shown dynamic interaction with numerous changes in the global markets. It is imperative that we consistently aim to meet the growing needs of the global investment community.

The Global Industry Classification Standard successfully resolves many of the issues with previous classification systems, by reflecting the current state of all industries, identifying very specialised sub-industries, and portraying an accurate reflection of the marketplace as much as possible, Shaikh Khalifa added. GICS will reclassify the companies on Bahrain Bourse in 11 sectors into seven sectors, based on their principal business activity
TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain Kuwait Insurance Company has announced its commitment to contributing to the national, regional, and global strategy for sustainable development and achieve long-term competitive success. The move will be in line with Bahrain Economic Vision 2030 and United Nations Sustainability Development Goals on protecting the planet and the global well-being of people.

We have taken an initiative to embed 32 metrics and indicators of Environmental, Sustainability and Governance (ESG) in our business functions and share transparent and balanced information about our performance through annual ESG reporting, BKIS said. BKIC said it aims to:  Create shared value and inclusive growth;

 Mitigate the environmental risks such as climate change, carbon emission, waste, etc.

 Contribute towards sustainable development of the community, and

 Enhance transparency in our ESG performance. Dr Abdulla Sultan, Chief Executive Officer of BKIC, said: Setting up a robust ESG compliance function at BKIC has been a top priority for the company considering the strategic outlook of the Kingdom of Bahrain in terms of the countrys Vision 2030.

We have appointed a management consulting firm AJMS Global Consulting, a pioneer in ESG implementation across GCC region, for incorporating ESG framework at BKIC. BKIC also announced formulating an ESG Management Committee Chaired by Ahmed Bucheeri and includes members: Ali Al Fardan, Aysha Al Mahmeed, Fatima Kadhem, Zahra Jassim and Ahmed AlNaser. Ahmed Bucheeri, chairman of the committee, stated: We strive to be a sustainability leader in our sector, provide a fair and inclusive workplace and be transparent in our performance and commitments towards material ESG issues.
TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

In a significant stride towards incorporating Voice Biometrics Technology and a first in Bahrain, Invita Company has signed a teaming agreement with Kaizen Secure Voiz Inc, a company specialising in voice biometrics. The deal integrates the benefits of voice biometric into its contact centre offerings.

Invita is an ISO and PCI-DSS certified leading provider of Business Process Outsourcing and Digital Transformation services. Rahul Bhalla, CE of Invita, said, We have seen increased adoption of our services like AI Chatbots, RPA and Sentiment analysis. As leading experts in CX solutions, we are always looking for breakthrough ways to bring new value to our customers.

We are delighted to be one of the first providers to deliver voice biometrics to companies who wish to eliminate customer friction without any compromise on security. The customer only needs to speak, there is no need for any other additional authentication methods, all achieved with unparalleled real-time accuracy and precision.
From concerts to parades, festivals and more, News-Press NOW is the place to find out about events in the community.

Subscribe for only 25/ week.
DENVER (AP)  Four people have been arrested and more than a dozen weapons and hundreds of rounds of ammunition have been seized at a downtown Denver hotel that is close to several events planned in conjunction with the upcoming Major League Baseball All-Star Game.

Officers responding to a tip searched two rooms at the Maven Hotel, a block from Coors Field, on Friday night. Three men and a woman in their 40s were arrested, and two vehicles were impounded to be searched for evidence.

The recovered weapons included several rifles, a law enforcement official told The Associated Press.

So far, investigators have not found any evidence to suggest the group was plotting a mass shooting or other similar attack, the official said, while cautioning that the investigation is still in its early stages. The official could not discuss the matter publicly and spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity.

Authorities were called after an employee found the guns in a hotel room, the official said.

The men who were arrested are being investigated for possession of a weapon by a previous offender, and the woman, who has a separate warrant, is being investigated on a drug charge.

We have no reason to believe this incident was connected to terrorism or a threat directed at the All-Star Game, the FBI said in a statement released Sunday. We are not aware of any threat to the All-Star Game events, venues, players or the community at this time.

Meanwhile, Mayor Michael Hancock and police Chief Paul Pazen praised the hotel's staff for alerting authorities and sought to ease any concerns that the area around the ballpark is unsafe. They declined to say what, if anything, the suspects were planning to do with the firearms.

We don't know what we don't know. That's what the investigation is all about, Pazen said during a news conference. We need to identify exactly, to the extent possible, why (the) individuals were here in the first place, why (the) proximity to downtown. We dont have those answers.

Coors Field will host the All-Star Game on Tuesday, but festivities have been underway in and around the ballpark and downtown for the past several days.

Police said in a statement that visitors should always be aware of their surroundings and report any suspicious or illegal behavior.

___

Balsamo reported from Washington, D.C.
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has conducted raids at various locations in J&K. Those booted out allegedly had links to terror outfits and were involved in terror-funding activities.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has conducted raids at various locations in J&K. This comes a day after 11 employees of J&K Govt were sacked. Those booted out allegedly had links to terror outfits and were involved in terror-funding activities. Among those sacked, two were sons of Hizbul founder Syed Salahudin.

Four employees were from the education department, two in J&K police, one in Sher-I-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences & one each in Agriculture, Skill Development, Power & Health Dept respectively. The charges pressed on 11 employees by the Central agency are of raising, receiving, collecting & transferring funds through hawala transactions for terror activities of Hizabul Mujahideen.

The cases registered pertained to online radicalisation and some links with foreign shores are being investigated. Five kashmiri youth are arrested for links with ISIS terror group. Suspects under surveillance for the last 3 months and raids were conducted across the valley in areas such as Anantnag, Awantipore & Baramulla.

Also Read: Chinese new centres dedicated to Xis thought: Another move towards consolidation of power?

NIA is being assisted by the Intelligence Bureau, RAW and the Jammu and Kashmir police in the search operations that are taking place in capital Srinagar and Anantnag, Baramulla districts in the Union Territory.

Jammu and Kashmir Lt Governor Manoj Sinha ordered the termination of 11 government employees, including the two sons of Hizbul Mujahideen chief Syed Salahuddin.

These employees were dismissed under Article 311 of the Indian Constitution under which no inquiry is held and dismissed employees can only approach a high court for relief.
The move came in response to the intense fighting near Kandahar city and the Taliban gaining control of new areas around the southern Afghan city. The fighting started as the Taliban tries to regain control over the country as the US pulls out its forces after nearly two decades

India has pulled around 50 diplomats, security officials and other staff members posted at the consulate in Afghanistans Kandahar in view of the intense fighting near Kandahar city and the Taliban gaining control of new areas around the southern Afghan city. The fighting started as the Taliban tries to regain control over the country as the US pulled out its forces after nearly two decades, sources have said. The personnel at the consulate were flown to New Delhi by Air Force planes on Saturday.

The decision comes a day after the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said the embassies were not shut but the administration is monitoring the situation carefully and will take a call accordingly. On Thursday, MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said The Consulate General of India in Kandahar has not been closed. However, due to the intense fighting near Kandahar city, India-based personnel have been brought back for the time being. I want to emphasize that this is a purely temporary measure until the situation stabilizes. The Consulate continues to operate through our local staff members.

Since reports emerged of thousands of Pakistan-based terror group Lashkar-e-Taibas associates joining the Taliban fighters in the intense clashes mainly in southern Afghanistan, the Indian security establishment had to take a call on the safety of Indian personnel. Amid growing concerns in India  which has been supporting the peace and reconstruction efforts  Afghan Ambassador Farid Mamundzay on Tuesday briefed Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla on the ground situation.

The Indian embassy has alerted all Indians visiting, staying and working in Afghanistan to exercise the utmost caution and avoid all non-essential travel in the country. In an advisory, the embassy said the security situation remains dangerous and terror groups have carried out a series of attacks targeting civilians, adding Indian nationals additionally face a serious threat of kidnapping.
On one hand, China publicly objected the American decision to pull out its troops and is in the process of bringing all Chinese citizens back, it has already jumped in bed with the Taliban, promising the economic revival of the country once the war ends.

Terrorist group Taliban was recently reported calling China as its friend. China is looking to expand its sphere of influence to include Afghanistan now that all US military presence in the country has been withdrawn. The Taliban immediately launched a huge offensive that saw it take over large swathes of territory from Afghan government control. On one hand, China publicly objected the American decision to pull out its troops and is in the process of bringing all Chinese citizens back, it has already jumped in bed with the Taliban, promising the economic revival of the country once the war ends.

China plans on taking over the rebuilding of a nation plagued for decades by civil warfare as part of its Belt and Road initiative wherein it completes infrastructural projects in developing countries so to acquire soft power. The Taliban and China alike believe that Americas withdrawal from Afghanistan will result in the regimes defeat at the hands of Taliban, which will then assume command of the entire country.

The Taliban has welcomed Chinas offer and assured the safety of Chinese workers that will help construct infrastructure and recover a war-torn country. A Taliban spokesperson named Suhail Shaheen, while being interviewed by the South China Morning Post, claimed that the Talibans still ongoing offensive has resulted in the group occupying about 85% of all territory in Afghanistan. He also vowed to fight against terrorist groups like Al Queda and ISIS.

Another incentive for China to help the Taliban is the East Turkestan Islamic Movement (ETIM) that wages an insurgency against Chinese rule in the Xinjiang province. China worries that the group may establish a base of operations in Afghanistan from whence to conduct its activities. However, Suhail stated that the Taliban have no intention of aiding ETIM, completely skimming over Chinas oppression and genocide of their geographic and religious neighbours, the Uyghur Muslims.

Afghanistan is also believed to be store to prodigious amounts of valuable minerals such as copper, coal, gold, lithium and mercury (worth at least $1 trillion) alongside larges oil reserves. Nearly all these natural resources remain unharvested and by allowing Chinese investment and construction in Afghanistan, the Taliban is basically mortgaging their country to a foreign power in exchange for support to topple a government.
Much of the focus of residential developers building apartments in Connecticut in recent years has been on the states urban centers: Stamford, New Haven and Hartford  cities with restaurants, services, commuter rail service and entertainment venues, with many of the apartments within walking distance.

But over the past two years, interest has grown in building apartment complexes big and small in New Havens suburbs and beyond. The latest evidence of that trend is The Bradley, a 30-unit apartment complex on Bradley Road in Madison.

The project is scheduled to break ground some time next month and will be built on a 1.5-acre site at 110-114 Bradley Road that once was home to the Tuxis Laundromat and one other business, as well as two other buildings. The complex is a little more than a quarter-mile from the Madison train station, which is served by Shoreline East trains.

Its also a short, two-block walk from the complex to Madisons downtown via sidewalks along Bradley Road and Wall Street.

All four existing buildings are scheduled for demolition, according to Jerry Davis, managing partner of Davis Realty in Madison and the developer of the project.

The project has support in the business community.

Ryan Duques, chairman of the Madison Economic Development Commission, said commission members in January voted unanimously to support the development.

Duques said in a letter to members of the towns Planning & Zoning Commission that the development positions the Town of Madison to further capitalize on our recent Transit Oriented Development (TOD) projects, which have included new sidewalks on Bradley Road and renovated Tuxis Walkway, which enhance the connection of Madison Center, Bradley Road our bus stop and the train station.

This development would enable residents to take advantage of our downtown amenities, beaches and access to commuter rail without requiring a vehicle, Duques wrote. Finally, we believe that this development will add vibrancy to our downtown and Madison community overall, helping to ensure long-term sustainability of our commercial base, grand list and robust community.

Luther Turmelle / Hearst Connecticut Media

John Guszkowski, Madisons interim town planner, said The Bradleys 30 units will be spread across three stories.

Guszkowski said the towns master plan has a strong focus on creating a vibrant downtown area as well as offering those who want to live in Madison an alternative to single-family homes.

Madison has a relatively monolithic housing stock, he said. It adds to the level of density (near the center of town) and accessibility with relatively small units, which will increase overall residential and business activity. This is not an option that is presently available anywhere else in the community.

Luther Turmelle / Hearst Connecticut Media

Guszkowski said developing apartment complexes in Madison and other Shoreline communities that dont have municipal sewer systems can be problematic.

Because there is a lack of public infrastructure, sewers, it can be tricky to do, he said. You have find a site where the soils work (for a septic system).

Having to provide septic systems for new apartment complexes such as The Bradley effectively limits how many units can be built, according to Guszkowski.

In a lot of towns without sewer lines you'll see these complexes of 30 units or fewer, he said. Any development that produces more than 7,500 gallons of sewerage per day is reviewed by (the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection). Anything below that threshold is reviewed by the local health officials.

Review by local health officials is considered more desirable because DEEP reviews are lengthy, Guszkowski said.

Luther Turmelle / Hearst Connecticut Media

Demand and demographics

Elsewhere outside cities, Cheshire has several apartment complexes in various stages of development.

One is Hamlet on Highland, an 11-unit luxury apartment complex located across Route 10 from Maplecroft Plaza, which has one of the towns two large supermarkets as an anchor as well as several restaurants. Tenants are expected to begin moving in to the complex this month.

Another Cheshire apartment project is located near the towns northwestern border with Waterbury.

A Stratford-based developer plans to build a 114-unit apartment complex  including 29 units of affordable housing  on the site of a former nursing home on Hazel Drive. The Cheshire Planning & Zoning Commission approved the plan in June 2020.

The Cheshire PZC also earlier this year approved a seven-unit apartment complex approved at the intersection of Higgins Road and Route 10. But John Ricci of Ricci Construction, the developer of the project, has decided to put the 0.69-acre site up for sale.

In Trumbull, the start of construction for 260 market-rate rental units along the periphery of the Westfield Trumbull Mall is imminent, said Rina Bakalar, the towns economic and community development director.

One suburban apartment complex plan that got rejected was in Milford. Dallas-based Centennial, which operates the Connecticut Post Mall, wanted to spend up to $70 million to build a four-story luxury apartment complex on a six-acre tract surrounding what used to be the Sears Auto Center. The Milford Planning & Zoning Commission rejected that plan last summer and revised plan was submitted in May.

Donald Klepper-Smith, chief economist and director of research for New Haven-based DataCore Partners, said the demand for suburban apartments, particularly complexes built along commuter rail lines, will only increase in the coming years.

The labor market in Connecticut is in such a state of flux, it implies the need for flexible housing arrangements, Klepper-Smith said. Right now, people are looking for flexibility in their lives, whether it is financial or logistical. And right now, there is not a lot of inventory along those lines.

As an example of the lack of apartment inventory in cities compared to suburbs, Jed Backus, president of the Guilford-based group New Haven Middlesex Realtors, said a search of the Multiple Listing Service real estate database Friday found 74 apartment units in available in New Haven and two in Madison.

Backus said while the development of suburban apartment complexes is relatively new, there has been a tremendous amount of growth in the market since the 2008 recession.

After the last downturn, some people started to feel that home ownership wasnt all that it was cracked up to be, Backus said.

Another reason for the surge in interest in apartments is demographics, he said.

The largest population group after baby boomer is millennials, and they are in a stage of life where it makes more sense to be living in an apartment, he said. Everything theyre doing in their lives is now happening later than it did for previous generations.

luther.turmelle@hearstmediact.com
LJUBLJANA, Slovenia (AP)  Slovenian voters on Sunday overwhelmingly rejected changes to the country's water management law, a development seen as a blow to the country's right-wing leader.

About 86.5% of people voted Sunday against the amendments approved by Prime Minister Janez Jansa's government in March that ecologists claimed threaten the environment and water quality, according to a near-complete count of ballots released by election authorities.

Around 13.5% of the votes were in favor of the government amendments. The turnout was over 45% among Slovenia's 1.7 million eligible voters  the highest in a referendum since 2007, the STA news agency said, showing high public interest in the topic.

The issue has sparked a heated debate in the small European Union nation of 2 million people known for its stunningly beautiful Alpine scenery. The right to water was enshrined in the country's constitution in 2016.

It has been shown that Slovenia is home to compassionate and tolerant people who help each other and fight for the public good and for nature, said Nika Kovac from the Institute 8 March group that campaigned against the changes.

At the center of the dispute was a provision regulating the construction of buildings  including hotels, shops and restaurants close to rivers, lakes or the sea.

While the government insisted it has tightened the construction rules and provided more water and flood protection funds, opponents said the regulations favored the interests of private investors, limited public access to water and jeopardized its quality.

The water dispute reflected heightened political tensions in Slovenia, where Jansas government has faced accusations of curbing democratic and media freedoms in the traditionally liberal nation.

Environment Minister Andrej Vizjak told public broadcaster TV Slovenia that the referendum was misused and the government's goals misinterpreted.

People have reacted emotionally" and encouraged to vote by some pamphlets that have nothing to do with the legislations purpose, he said, according to STA.

The referendum came after environmental and civil society groups joined together in a Movement for Drinkable Water and collected more than 50,000 signatures demanding the vote.

Jansa also has faced EU scrutiny over his populist ways as Slovenia took over the European Unions six-month rotating presidency earlier this month.
Niagara Falls, NY (14301)

Today

Sun and clouds mixed. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 84F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Some clouds. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 64F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph.
A popular Nigerian prophet, Primate Elijah Babatunde Ayodele of Inri Evangelical Spiritual Church has again warned of the looming disinteg...

A popular Nigerian prophet, Primate Elijah Babatunde Ayodele of Inri Evangelical Spiritual Church has again warned of the looming disintegration of Nigeria.

The renowned seer, who spoke on Saturday during the launch of the 2021/2022 edition of the Warnings to the Nations, a compendium of prophecies for countries of the world, said the imminent disintegration would be bloodless.

According to him, the forthcoming 2023 general elections would take place, stressing that nobody would be able to stop it. He, however, said the date would be shifted.

He restated that the cooperate existence of the country would not last till 2040, saying the agitation for secession currently happening would soon be a reality.

The fact remains that Nigeria cannot survive till 2040; and neither Nnamdi Kanu nor Sunday Ighoho would spearhead the break up of Nigeria. But the fact remains that whether the government likes it or not; whether any section of the country wants it or not, this country cannot be together till 2040.

There will be election in 2023. Nobody is going to stop the election. Though the date of the election might be shifted, but there will be elections, he said.

Recall that there has been rise in agitation for secession in the country, particularly in the Southeast and Southwestern part of Nigeria.

The Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, has vowed to ensure that Biafra is established as a sovereign nation for the Southeast.

Similarly, some activists led by Sunday Adeyemo, popularly called Sunday Igboho have continued to stage rallies across the Southwestern geopolitical zone as a movement for the realization of Oduduwa Republic for the Yoruba Nation.

The movements have continued to gain attention from international communities despite the efforts of the Federal Government to stop the agitation.
The widow of slain Haitian leader Jovenel Moise, who was critically wounded in the attack that claimed his life, on Saturday issued her fi...

The widow of slain Haitian leader Jovenel Moise, who was critically wounded in the attack that claimed his life, on Saturday issued her first public remarks since the assault, calling on the nation not to lose its way.

I am alive, thanks to God, Martine Moise said in an audio message posted on her official Twitter account three days after her husband was shot dead in their home.

I am alive but I have lost my husband Jovenel, she added.

The authenticity of the remarks, made in Creole, was confirmed to AFP by Haitis minister of culture and communications, Pradel Henriquez.

Martine Moise was rushed to a Haitian hospital after the attack in the early hours of Wednesday, before being evacuated to Miami for treatment.

According to Haitian authorities, an armed commando of 28 men  26 Colombians and two Haitian-Americans  burst in and opened fire on the couple in their home.

So far, 17 have been arrested, and at least three were killed. A handful remain at large, police say. No motive has been made public.

Read Also

In the blink of an eye, the mercenaries entered my home and riddled my husband with bullets  without even giving him a chance to say a word, Martine Moise said in her audio message.

I am crying, it is true, but we cannot let the country lose its way, she said. We cannot let his blood have been spilled in vain.

Her husbands killing has plunged already troubled Haiti  the poorest country in the Americas  into chaos.

Amid deep uncertainty over its political future, the international community has called on the impoverished Caribbean country to go ahead with the presidential and legislative elections slated for later this year.

I will not abandon you, Martine Moise said.

She promised to engage in a direct exchange with Haitians on Facebook in the near future.

(AFP)
Reno Omokri, a former aide to Ex-President Goodluck Jonathan, has thanked Vice President Yemi Osinbajo for acknowledging the importance of...

Reno Omokri, a former aide to Ex-President Goodluck Jonathan, has thanked Vice President Yemi Osinbajo for acknowledging the importance of an umbrella.

Umbrella is the logo and symbol of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, a former ruling party that was kicked out in 2015 by Osinbajo and others in the All Progressives Congress, APC.

Photo of Osinbajo holding umbrella went viral during the week with the VPs photographer, Tolani Alli posting more of such photos on social media.

The Vice President could be seen holding an umbrella to protect himself and others.

I thank Vice President Osinbajo for publicly acknowledging that Nigeria needs the umbrella to return to the centre and save Nigerians from the damage done by the broom, Reno Omokri tweeted.

Nigerians on social media also praised the Vice President for holding the Umbrella himself instead of his aides, which is a usual practice in Nigeria.




Watertown, NY (13601)

Today

Mainly cloudy. A few peeks of sunshine possible. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 78F. Winds NNE at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Mostly cloudy skies. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 61F. Winds E at 5 to 10 mph.
Its a north shore commuters dream: driving along Louisiana 22 and over the Tchefuncte River in traffic that flows as smoothly as the river itself. No miles-long trail of brake lights, white knuckles on steering wheels or lengthy commute times that can exponentially increase with a mechanical failure of the swing bridge in Madisonville.

Two St. Tammany residents think they can make that dream a reality by building a sweeping, four-lane bridge over the river that bypasses Madisonville. But theres a catch: all motorists crossing the Tchefuncte River, even on the existing bridge, would have to pay a toll.

+4 Stuck in traffic because of the Madisonville bridge? Town officials hope to change that The bridge on La. 22 is as much a part of Madisonville as the Tchefuncte River that runs beneath it, the distinctive span providing a scenic a

For years Clifton Royston, a forensic engineer, has pushed for a new bridge across the river to ease traffic caused by the Madisonville bridge, a swing span that regularly opens for boaters, contributing to backups along La. 22. Along with Paul Voitier, a marketing specialist who joined his efforts in 2018, Royston believes a toll bridge over the Tchefuncte is the most logical solution to the traffic problems in western St. Tammany, no matter how far-fetched it may seem.

Royston, an Alexandria native, moved to St. Tammany from Houston in 2015 and quickly realized that the post-Hurricane Katrina population surge on the north shore made the traffic worse than unbearable, particularly around the Madisonville swing bridge. The situation, he feared, was a crisis waiting to happen.

So he began drawing lines on paper maps to determine the most efficient and least destructive path across the river, finally settling on a 1.4-mile long span less than a half-mile north of the current bridge. The toll bridge would stretch over the river from the entrance of Fairview State Park to somewhere near the intersection of La. 22, Louisiana 21 and Louisiana 1077. It would be high enough to accommodate boat traffic and far enough from historic Madisonville to leave businesses and homes unscathed. Royston said they consulted with the Coast Guard, which told them the bridge would likely need to be 50 to 60 feet tall at high tide to accommodate boat traffic.

I think its our only option, he said, noting that the road could be continued to connect Ponchatoula to Madisonville and beyond. It could create a free flow of traffic amongst those communities, it would offer a hurricane evacuation route in addition to I-12 and (U.S.) 190 and it would clean all this traffic that is stuck here every single day.

He estimated the project would cost $140 million and take seven years to complete. While most major infrastructure projects are run by the state and financed through public funding, Royston had no faith in money ever coming from Baton Rouge, so he's been searching for a private builder and operator to take on the project.

But to recoup money spent on construction, financiers from one interested company told Royston they would have to either impose a toll on the existing Madisonville bridge or tear it down, because motorists would naturally gravitate to the toll-free crossing.

Thats where many people, including local officials, lose interest. Royston presented the idea to the St. Tammany Parish Council in 2018, but nothing came of it.

Madisonville Mayor Jean Pelloat said he opposes the proposal because it would be "insane" to require Madisonville residents and visitors to pay a toll every time they entered and left the town. Plus, it would encroach on a state park and  though he would support a bypass around Madisonville  he is unconvinced that this proposal would actually solve the east-west traffic problem.

Top stories in New Orleans in your inbox Twice daily we'll send you the day's biggest headlines. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up

"My fear is that it could become a reality with outside financing," he said.

St. Tammany Parish Councilmember Mike Lorino, who represents the Madisonville area, said he reviewed the proposal and found it interesting but ultimately implausible because of the toll on the existing bridge.

During non-rush hour, when traffic isn't as much of an issue, the bridge is used by "kids going back and forth to school, men going to work, ladies shopping, he said. I mean, theres just an unlimited amount of traveling during the day with no traffic, but they would be paying the toll to cross the Madisonville Bridge.

Lorino said he might support such a project if the funding came from Baton Rouge or a federal infrastructure project, rather than a toll.

But Parish President Mike Cooper said the proposal was "not out of the question" and is one of several options. The public-private partnership would require a coordination of local, parish, state and, possibly, federal officials, he said, adding that a next step might include a feasibility study.

I know that this is a bold, a drastic change in this area, Royston said. For a sleepy little town to be constructing a massive new road system, right outside on the outskirts of it is a very scary concept.

Royston and Voitier are convinced the swing bridge is the root of the traffic problems around Madisonville and that the toll bridge is the most financially and logically sound solution. Royston said a lot of time and money had been put toward developing and marketing the idea  including a sleek website, videos and podcasts  from his own pocket, but said he hoped to be compensated with involvement in the project if it comes to fruition. Voitier said he was donating his services.

Royston and Voitier are hopeful that as time goes on, and the traffic problem worsens, people will begin to seriously consider their proposal.

In a statement, the state Department of Transportation and Development said a raft of studies would be required for the project  none of which have been started  as well as a "series of public meetings to get public input to determine what the community wants. DOTD noted there are currently no ongoing DOTD projects to address the La. 22 swing bridge.

"DOTD understands the residents concerns on traffic issues in the area and will continue to look for alternative ways to alleviate this congestion," the statement said. "When a project does begin to move forward, the proper process will be followed."

Royston said he thinks he has planted the seed and that local officials should take the reins, possibly somehow putting the issue on a public ballot.

Its only going to get worse, he said. We need to plan for the inevitable now because these projects take a decade or more to implement.
For the last five years, a sign at Hessmer Avenue and 18th Street in Metairie's Fat City has advertised that the empty lot there will soon be home to a pocket park.

Since the sign went up, however, plans for the property and several others adjoining it have evolved well beyond some benches or a playground.

It will be a year before any construction begins, but the parish now envisions a roughly two-acre, L-shaped piece of property behind the Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office substation that could be home to a park, community meeting space, parking structure and more.

Jefferson Parish Council member Jennifer Van Vrancken said the initial idea has gotten more complex as other local entities have gotten involved.

"I'd rather be cautious and do this right," she said of the decision to slow things down since the sign went up.

The Metairie Business Development District owns the land marked by the sign, which is located just north of the sheriff's office substation. And over the last few years, Jefferson Parish bought the former Champagne Elevator building and the library purchased the former Budget Mail & Storage property, both on the west side of the substation on Division Street.

The parish has also contacted the owners of two other properties at Division and 18th, gotten appraisals and should begin the process of expropriating them in the coming months, she said.

Van Vrancken said that the structure for parking, which has long been identified as a problem in Fat City, will likely come first in the design process. Optimizing how cars come in and out may mean that the pocket park will have to be moved to another part of the property, but it is still very much part of the plan, she said.

Other uses for the tract are less certain, but Van Vrancken said discussions have included a technology center, a small business incubator and a test kitchen to promote entrepreneurship among workers at neighborhood restaurants. All of the ideas were outlined in a 2019 study conducted by the Urban Land Institute.

Stretching back to the 1970s, Fat City was long known as a haven for underage drinking, public drunkenness, fist fights, prostitution and gun violence.

Top stories in New Orleans in your inbox Twice daily we'll send you the day's biggest headlines. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up

In the last decade or so, however, parish officials have used various tactics to try and transform the 40 square blocks just west of Lakeside Shopping Center and north of Veterans Memorial Boulevard into a magnet for development.

The effort began under Cynthia Lee Sheng, who represented the district for years before she was elected parish president.

The parish created the Metairie Business Development District, which is funded by neighborhood tax revenue to fund the various initiatives. It also made streetscape improvements, imposed restrictions on the types of businesses allowed and changed zoning regulations to encourage pedestrian-friendly development.

There were public mural projects, facade-improvement grants, new bike lanes, tree plantings and a contest to design a new logo. In 2019, the sheriff's office opened its brand new, $6.2 million District 1 substation, bringing more than 70 employees to the neighborhood.

In January, Van Vrancken's office, JEDCO and the Metairie Business Development District issued a "request for ideas," hoping to get thoughts from local developers on what kinds of projects might suit Fat City. Van Vrancken said the request generated a lot of interest, but mostly in the form of questions about what funding or incentives might be available. She said the main takeaway was that many local developers are open to submitting proposals for something more specifically defined.

At some point before construction starts next year, a final plan for the property will be presented to the public, Van Vrancken said.

Lisa Bacques, who has lived in the The Villa DOrleans condominiums since shortly after Katrina, said shes happy to hear that the delay in the parks development is tied to the need for parking, which she said is a big problem in Fat City.

It does have so much potential, the whole area, but it definitely needs parking, so thats a step in the right direction, she said.
A year after COVID-19 ravaged Louisiana nursing homes with sickness, isolation and death, fatal cases have plunged to near zero in recent weeks, further highlighting a significant turnaround in places that were grim epicenters of the pandemic.

Only one nursing home death in the past month can be attributed to COVID-19, the latest state records show. Health experts say the steep decline in deaths is largely due to vaccines making the disease far less lethal, especially in the places where the states most vulnerable residents live.

Moreover, because many nursing homes have high vaccination rates, the statistics offer a glimpse of what herd immunity could look like.

"Given what it was like before the vaccines were available, this is very clear, unambiguous evidence about the benefits of vaccinations individually and collectively," said Tulane University epidemiologist Susan Hassig, who specializes in infectious disease.

Since March 2020, the coronavirus has infected thousands of people in long-term care centers, leading to the deaths of more than 2,700 residents. According to a Times-Picayune | The Advocate analysis of state data, nearly half of the fatal cases within nursing homes happened in the first four months of the pandemic.

Vaccine data show deep gap between nursing home residents and those who care for them Residents in Louisiana nursing homes are vaccinated against COVID-19 at nearly twice the rate of care center staff, according to newly release

A recent report by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services found that deaths among Medicare recipients jumped 32% last year nationally.

That report provided one of the first comprehensive looks at how the pandemic tore through the countrys nursing homes, infecting 1 in 5 residents. But officials also noted that in states hit by the virus earliest, including Louisiana, the rate of infection was much higher and likely closer to 1 in 4 residents across the states roughly 275 nursing homes.

But since the introduction of vaccines at the end of last year, things have improved dramatically.

We are having fewer outbreaks, said Lisa Gardner, an executive with CommCare, a nonprofit that operates 14 homes around the state. Some volunteers and services, such as beauticians, have returned to most homes, and that has made a big difference in residents morale, she said.

Administrators have turned their focus to making sure new admits to the homes are vaccinated and that their families  some of whom are resistant  understand the ramifications of refusing the vaccine.

Nonvaccinated residents and families face greater visitation restrictions, she said.

We are just trying to educate and encourage them to get vaccinated, Gardner said.

Vaccine news in your inbox Once a week we'll update you on the progress of COVID-19 vaccinations. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up

Though it isnt clear which long-term care facility logged the only death in the past month, hospitals and health officials have noted that the vast majority of people whove needed medical care for COVID-19 were not vaccinated.

The latest figures show an average of about 83% of Louisiana long-term care residents are considered fully vaccinated, though some facilities have achieved higher participation.

Employees, however, are vaccinated at far lower rates, which has drawn concern from health experts. Louisiana Department of Health data showed that an average of about 46% of long-term care workers are fully vaccinated.

Nursing homes were epicenters of coronavirus misery. Now they offer preview of what could be Once the deadly epicenters of Louisianas coronavirus outbreak, nursing homes now offer a glimpse of what a vaccinated populace might look lik

That rate roughly mirrors the 42.48% of Louisianans ages 18 to 69 who are fully vaccinated, according to state Health Department data, which is among the lowest in the nation.

Gardner said CommCare has tried several ways to persuade employees to get vaccinated. Recently, the company began lotteries for vaccinated employees within each home: a $100 lottery each week and $1,000 lottery at the end of the month.

We are trying everything we can to get staff vaccinated, she said. Thats going to be what allows us to get back to normal, she added.

State health leaders have raised warnings about the low vaccination rates and a recent surge in cases across Louisiana. They say the increase is likely due to the delta variant of the coronavirus, which is twice as infectious as the version that struck the state early last year.

The arrival of new variants, plus the potential need for booster shots of vaccine, mean vigilance within nursing homes should remain high, said Brian Lee, of Families for Better Care, an advocacy group focused on long-term care facilities.

What I have not seen is how boosters are going to be deployed, how that would happen and when that might happen, he said. We need to start thinking about what that is going to look like.

The variants will add an additional layer of complication, he said.

Every day there seems to be a new one, Lee said. Officials need to be honed in on how these variants could play with the vaccines.
A federal judge recently gave a boost to former New Orleans Police Superintendent Warren Rileys case against Mayor LaToya Cantrell, allowing his lawsuit over a yanked job offer to proceed despite the citys attempt to have it dismissed without trial.

Riley had already signed a job offer to serve as the citys public safety czar when Cantrell revoked it in May 2018, amid an outcry over his handling of investigations into police brutality as the citys police chief after Hurricane Katrina.

During his time as chief, Riley admitted that he never read his departments own report on the Danziger Bridge shootings, when NOPD officers opened fire on a group of unarmed civilians. Critics said that showed complacence in the face of a sordid internal cover-up.

The canceled job offer was a public misstep for Cantrell just as she took office, and a year later it spawned Rileys lawsuit in federal court. He alleged that the mayor had breached a contract and sought $700,000 in damages.

But the city moved to have Rileys lawsuit dismissed without trial, and U.S. District Judge Martin Feldman held a hearing on June 30.

LaToya Cantrell spikes plan to hire former NOPD chief Warren Riley New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell said Wednesday (May 16) that she won't hire former NOPD Chief Warren Riley to a top public safety post, endi

Riley wasn't in attendance at the hearing, when his attorney argued that Cantrells ability to fire unclassified employees at will doesnt apply to a prospective employee and that Riley shouldnt be left holding the bag after leaving his job based on a written offer he had signed.

To which Feldman quipped from the bench: Maybe he was stupid enough to trust Mayor Cantrells word.

That same day, the judge issued an order rejecting Rileys breach-of-contract claim, finding that Cantrell was within her rights to dismiss an at-will employee even before he started the job.

However, Feldman gave more credit to the other claim from Riley, that the former top cop was owed financial damages because he relied on Cantrells promise when he quit his $170,000-a-year job as a Federal Emergency Management Agency official in Atlanta.

+4 Feds probing possible pattern of racist abuses by Louisiana State Police, say victims' attorneys A federal investigation into a series of beatings of Black motorists by Monroe-based state troopers has spawned a broader probe into systemic 

Feldman, a Ronald Reagan appointee, said he would save for trial the factual question of whether it was reasonable for Riley to rely on Cantrells offer. The judge also said that the question of whether Riley could sue over his losses for relying on Cantrells proposal was legally murky, and he would welcome further briefing.

Top stories in New Orleans in your inbox Twice daily we'll send you the day's biggest headlines. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up

The surviving claim against the city is substantial, according to Jonathan Pedersen, a lawyer for Riley with the firm Howard & Reed. I plan to proceed forward with my case, and were ready for trial, he said.

However, the city noted that the judge dismissed the breach of contract claim and several others.

Mayor Cantrell respects the court process and believes when all is said and done the Mayors personnel decision will be supported as a matter of law, city spokesman Beau Tidwell said in a statement. As she has demonstrated repeatedly since taking office, Mayor Cantrell will always act in the best interest of the people of New Orleans, and this personnel decision was no exception.

A trial date has not yet been set. The parties are set to meet for a scheduling conference next week.

If the case does go to trial, it could feature the unusual sight of a current mayor giving sworn testimony in a lawsuit against her. Depositions in the case have provided a window into Cantrells thinking during her first controversy in office.

+4 A new sheriff in town? Susan Hutson, longtime NOPD monitor, to run against Marlin Gusman After more than a decade as the New Orleans Police Departments independent monitor, Susan Hutson wants to make the switch from watchdog to to

Sitting for questions this January, Cantrell said she'd discussed creating a position for Riley as her director of public safety and homeland security over lunch at the Central Business District restaurant Herbsaint during her mayoral transition period. She called Rileys qualifications undeniable.

But amid a groundswell in the community, the mayor said, she felt that the offer had to be put on pause. Cantrell specifically cited opposition from the victims of the Danziger Bridge shootings. In the deposition, Cantrell said the summer 2020 protests against George Floyds murder had validated her decision to rescind the job offer.

In his lawsuit, Riley claimed that Cantrell told him on May 15, 2017, a day before she finally canceled the job offer, that very powerful people who live Uptown didnt support him for the job. In her deposition, Cantrell said she didnt recall the conversation.

"I don't know what that means," Cantrell said. "'Powerful people Uptown,' bullshit."

Staff writer John Simerman contributed to this report.
New Orleans fall elections, in which almost every municipal office will be on the ballot, begin in earnest this week as candidates sign up for the ballot during a qualifying period that runs from Wednesday through Friday.

Voters will go to polls Oct. 9. Runoffs will be held Nov. 13 if necessary.

The elections are the second time that New Orleans is holding its elections in the fall, a change that was aimed at preventing conflicts between the conventional spring races and Carnival and other festivals.

At the top of this year's ticket is Mayor LaToya Cantrell, seeking election to her second term with no formidable challenger so far. Despite more than a year dominated by the coronavirus pandemic, recent flare-ups in crime and earlier crises such as the Hard Rock Hotel collapse and a cyberattack, polling shows her favorable rating remains strong, with 62% of residents supporting her in a recent survey by the New Orleans Crime Coalition.

That isnt to say Cantrell wont face opposition. Business owner Leilani Heno has announced her entry into the race, and a political action committee called Lets Save NOLA has begun running radio advertisements attacking Cantrell on multiple fronts. The groups website refers to it as a 501(c)4 organization, which means it may engage in political activities without disclosing its donors.

With the prospects for a spirited mayors race unclear, observers generally agree that the fight for an open at-large seat on the City Council will grab the most attention. District council members Kristin Gisleson Palmer and Jared Brossett and former Louisiana state Sen JP Morrell are all vying for the spot, which council member Jason Williams vacated at the beginning of this year when he became district attorney.

The councils other at-large seat is held by Helena Moreno, who has drawn no major opposition for re-election.

Several other citywide races on the ballot.

Sheriff Marlin Gusman is facing what might be his most serious challenge since he was first elected in 2004: former Independent Police Monitor Susan Hutson. The race comes after years of problems at Gusman's jail, which is currently under a federal consent decree. While Gusman has weathered those issues in the past, Hutson could get a boost from a national wave that has elected progressive candidates such as Williams to criminal justice posts, and might benefit from help from outside groups pushing for reform.

Assessor Erroll Williams is seeking his fourth term, having held the position since Orleans' seven assessors were merged into one office in 2010. Before that, he served as a district assessor for decades.

In other citywide races, voters will decide who should succeed Clerk of Criminal Court Arthur Morrell, who announced last month he will not seek another term. Morrell, JP Morrells father, has had little trouble staving off challengers in his 15 years in office, and the prospect of a race without an incumbent is likely to draw some interest.

Top stories in New Orleans in your inbox Twice daily we'll send you the day's biggest headlines. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up

Already, 1st City Clerk of Court Austin Badon has announced hell be in the race. And 2nd City Clerk of Court Darren Lombard is expected to run as well.

The office handles not only criminal court files but also runs elections in Orleans Parish.

The fall race will also be the first re-election bid for Clerk of Civil Court Chelsey Richard Napoleon, who was elected to the spot after Dale Atkins joined the 4th Louisiana Circuit Court of Appeal in 2018.

Also running for re-election for the first time is Coroner Dwight McKenna.

Beyond the citywide races, all five City Council districts will be on the ballot. With Palmer and Brossett seeking an at-large spot, there will be open seats in district C and D, each likely to generate significant interest. Palmer's district covers Algiers, the French Quarter, Faubourg Marigny, Bywater and parts of the St. Roch and St. Claude areas. Brossett has a Gentilly-based seat.

+2 New Orleans City Council race begins; see which candidates are announcing campaigns this week Election season has kicked off in New Orleans, with several high-profile contenders for the City Council announcing this week, or confirming t

Incumbents in each of the other three council seats are expected to draw challengers.

Joe Giarrusso, whose District A covers much of Lakeview, Carrollton and the University areas, will face Bob Murrell, a candidate seeking to run to his left.

Jay Banks, whose District B includes Central City, the Central Business District, the Irish Channel and parts of Mid-City, is expected to face several challengers.

And Cyndi Nguyen, whose District E takes in the Lower Ninth Ward and most of New Orleans East, is also expected to face a group of challengers including former council member Oliver Thomas, who resigned and pleaded guilty to bribery charges in 2007.

A year after scandal, Jared Brossett's entry into at-large City Council race reshuffles field Almost exactly a year after driving a city-owned SUV across the Elysian Fields Avenue neutral ground and into another vehicle while allegedly 
Public opinion polls tend to make depressing reading, with findings that suggest America is to a large extent populated by lunatics and half-wits.

It ought to raise eyebrows that LaToya Cantrell appears to be heading for an easy reelection on a tide of voter approval when hardly anything works in New Orleans anymore. But when you consider some of the preposterous yarns that people are prepared to swallow, the recent poll that gave her a 62% positive rating seems positively rational.

It certainly makes more sense than believing that the real winner of the last presidential election was Donald Trump, when every reliable authority, of either party, concludes that all the evidence leaves no doubt that Joe Biden is the rightful occupant of the Oval Office.

Even loonier than Trump's claims of electoral fraud is the cult of QAnon, to which some 25% of Republicans admit they lend credence. That means believing that the country is in thrall to satanic, blood-sucking pedophile Democrats, possibly in alliance with giant lizards and space aliens. But fear not. Trump will soon rise again and prove our savior.

Is it really possible that so many Americans are sufficiently unhinged or stupid to believe such pish-tosh? Let us console ourselves with the thought that at least some of them must be pulling the pollsters' legs.

The local poll, however, appears deadly earnest. Respondents' No. 1 concern was public safety, which was hardly surprising amid a spate of murders and other violent crimes. Why that should make anyone think the mayor is doing a good job is a mystery, especially when they believe the city is getting more dangerous. In 2020, 57% regarded the city as safe; now that is down to 35%.

Respondents evidently believe in a brighter future, and pollster Ron Faucheux reports that respondents strongly favor proposed anti-crime initiatives, which include beefing up NOPD, enhancing computer technology to aid investigations and adding crime cameras. But awarding Cantrell bigger poll numbers for initiatives that have yet to be taken or budgeted, when the upsurge is crime happened on her watch, is clearly a leap of faith. She is lucky no challenger has yet emerged to hold her to account.

Meanwhile, look at the potholed roads. There must be corrupt Third World cities where driving conditions are better than in New Orleans, particularly in the supposedly distinguished environs of Uptown.

Many residents have been complaining lately about the lousy garbage pickup service, which may admittedly be attributable to a labor shortage that is not just a local problem. Still, politicians are often blamed for failures that are beyond their control, just as they take credit for some lucky break. Generally, when the garbage is piling up, the mayor will get some blame.

Poll respondents also name drainage and flood protection as a big concern  the Sewerage & Water Board is virtually friendless  while the city's chronic lack of affordable housing continues to cause plenty of anxiety.

Cantrell's ideas don't always go down well with voters either. They voted down her plan to grab some of the tax revenue that supports the library system, while her latest brainwave  moving City Hall to the Municipal Auditorium  has been widely denounced as an intrusion on the holy ground of Congo Square.
Editor's Note This article is brought to you by the Home Builders Association of Greater New Orleans.

Nearly 20 homes in the greater New Orleans area will be on display this month during the annual Parade of Homes.

The event, which will feature both in-person and 3D virtual tours, will take place from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday July 17, Sunday July 18, Saturday July 24 and Sunday July 25. To visit virtually, attendees are encouraged to download the free New Orleans Parade of Homes mobile app from the App Store or Google Play.

This years Parade homes are located in neighborhoods across the greater metro area, including Lakeview, Bucktown, Colonial Club, Metairie, English Turn, Louisiana Trace, Parks of Plaquemines, Gabriel Estates, Shrewsbury, Algiers Point and Sugar Ridge in Thibodaux.

The Parade is an opportunity for local residents to tour new homes, see the latest innovations in building construction and industry trends and receive expert advice from the areas trusted builders, designers, lenders and real estate professionals.

In many of the homes, visitors can expect to see elegant and upscale designs that have become the latest trends.

Gold is back, said Mary Kelly of Ferguson Enterprises and Chair of the 2021 Parade of Homes. We saw this start as champagne bronze and some brushed gold, which has now evolved into bright brass gold. This is very on trend for plumbing, lighting and hardware. Its absolutely beautiful and an easy way to brighten and update your space.

Kelly said another major home design trend is the creation of large spaces that combine the indoors and outdoors, including large doors that allow residents to move freely between the two spaces. In addition, the ongoing trend of more people working remotely and staying home more frequently has prompted builders and home owners to create room for both work and play.

Home builders are creating plans with additional space for home offices, playrooms and entertaining, Kelly said. We are excited and proud to once again showcase the work of our areas most innovative builders, subcontractors, and vendors who provide inspiration while building strong relationships in the communities in which they serve.

Kelly said the Parade of Homes is an ideal opportunity for anyone looking for home design inspiration, including people searching for a home builder, those seeking ideas for new properties or renovations, or even ones gathering ideas for their dream home.

I love the Parade. It is my absolute favorite event, Kelly said. Im amazed every single year at what our builders produce.

The Home Builders Association of Greater New Orleans is also a proud supporter of the St. Jude Dream Home. Although the home will be closed to the public during the Parade, proceeds from the sold-out raffle will support St. Judes Childrens Research Hospital. The Dream Home is a 2,800 square foot, four-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom house located at 6442 Pontchartrain Boulevard in Lakeview. Built by Hyman L. Bartolo Jr. Contractors, LLC, the home is valued at approximately $725,000.

A full list of Parade homes and locations can be found at www.hbagno.org/paradeofhomes or at New Orleans Parade of Homes on the free mobile app. Attendees can pick up a print program at featured Parade homes and select businesses in the New Orleans area.

Presenting sponsors for the 2021 Parade of Homes are Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery, Hoskin Homes, Reliable Glass & Mirror and Troyer Builders. The supporting sponsor is State Title Company. Contributing sponsors are BDX (Builders Digital Experience) and New Orleans Homes & Lifestyles. Map sponsors are LCCI (Landrieu Concrete & Cement Industries), M&M Glass Company and Power Mortgage. Participating builders are C. Adams Construction, Craftman Builders, Creative Builders, Danos Development, Flick Homes, Hoskin Homes, Pentek Homes, Miller Building Company, Precision Builders of Louisiana, Reve, Inc., RMC Construction, Tela Construction, Troyer Builders, and Tyson Construction.
Norman, OK (73070)

Today

A mix of clouds and sun. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 89F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Some clouds and possibly an isolated thunderstorm late. Low 71F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 30%.
The U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas gave a ruling which continues the postponement, for another 90 days, of the implementation of the Federal Drug Administration's new warning labels for cigarette packaging and advertisements.

The new date for cigarette manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers to submit their rotational plans to the FDA, which will outline how and when the FDA's new warning labels will be put in to circulation on cigarette boxes, is April 14, 2022.

Any of those companies which create their own cigarette advertisements are required to file a plan that explains the schedule for rotating the eleven graphic health warnings.

Previously, the FDA had been urging companies to have their rotational plans submitted by June 14, 2021, but now have been extended to Sept. 13, 2021, in conjunction with the court order.

R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co., along with several other cigarette manufacturers, and five retailers, filed a lawsuit on April 3 to invalidate the requirement of Congress that the FDA is required to mandate the new graphics and warnings, which is under the Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act.

A second lawsuit, filed by Philip Morris USA, Inc., and Sherman Group Holdings, LLC., claims violations of the First Amendment, and a failure by the FDA to meet their own policymaking requirements, which were set by Congress.

The case remains to be decided by the court system.
Williamsport, Pa. One glass item in a donation bin at Williamsports American Rescue Workers can force employees to throw bunches of items away due to unsafe conditions.

An entire bin worth of donations will be ruined if a glass container or anything that could be hazardous to workers happens to break.

Related reading: Glass is becoming an issued for American Rescue Workers forced to dump entire donation bins

The American Rescue Workers are asking another with non-clothing donations to bring items to 643 Elmira Street or call 570-323-8401 extension 110 for a free home pickup.




Williamsport, Pa. Crime sucks.

Crime sucks in comic books. Crime sucks in real life. Crime is a drag. Weve adjusted here at Northcentralpa.com. With that adjustment came change.

For me, it meant diving full in on crime and becoming the full-time write forcrime. Keep up. It also meant certain things had to get pushed back. My beloved comic column was a sacrifice.

Here we are. A month missing, but back and ready to go. The balance in life has been restored, which means comic books have come back into my life. I had some time. I did some reading. Heres what I came up with.

Extreme Carnage

My boy is back! Carnage is a great Marvel bad guy. Hes crazy. Hes nearly invincible. Hes red.

This new comic is freshly released and penned by Phillip Kennedy Johnson and penciled by Manuel Garcia. The comic has almost a horror movie feel as the symbiote returns in all his glory.

The first issue tracks its return, bouncing from host to host and eventually landing on a major target. Those implications will be felt down the line. As for now, the comic is off and running with some outstanding artwork and storytelling.

Flash Thompson makes a return as Anti-Venom and Tony Starks makes an appearance as Ironman. Its one issue, but this new series has a lot going for it.

X-Force #21

A lot of fans of this series started to become turned off with the recent story line and artwork. The direction at times seemed convoluted as it bounced from character to character.

The beginning of the X-Forces relaunch was a thing of beauty. Domino being skinned alive to produce hybrid mutant soldiers was an outstanding idea. Somewhere after that it started to branch off in too many directions.

The start to this new saga with X-Force #21 looks to chance all that. It features a crossover with Man-Thing and appears to be headed back to a tight group of X-Force characters.

Ill be honest Ive never read any Man-Thing stuff before. I was stunned when he talked, but I like it so far. Its an interesting read.

Alien #4

Oh, we are getting into it now. Traditionally, at least in my experience, issues four and five are the bangers of a new series. They are the rewards for letting the story build throughout the first three issues. Alien has hit its stride.

We got family issues, both alien and human, we got action, we got artwork, and we got a story. I like this issue because of the chances Marvel is willing to take with their first Alien series.

There is a new xenomorph loose. We only get a quick glimpse at the end of the issue, but we have plenty to look forward to as this series kicks into full gear.

X-Men #1

We are off and running with a new group of X-Men. Im in.

What an amazing start to this new series. I love the mix of old characters and news ones. As always, the X-Men are fighting for acceptance and saving the world at the same time.

There will be plenty more to come on this series, but its off to a great start.

Recommendations:

1. Beta Ray Bill #4

2. King in Black TPB

3. X-Force #21

4. Xtreme Carnage

5. Wolverine #13
Whitneyville, Pa. - Young people in Tioga County will soon be able to hone their acting skills, while learning local history.

Fri., July 16 is the deadline for youth who completed the fourth through tenth grades to register for Hamilton-Gibson's "Tales of Tioga" Summer Theatre Arts Camp being held at the Tioga County Fairgrounds.

The camp is open to any child who wants to participate, no matter where they live or what sort of schooling they have.

"Our summer camps typically draw kids from all over Tioga County, the three school districts, and beyond. We need to know how many youngsters will be participating by July 16 so we can order enough T-shirts, prepare scripts and other materials to give each camper on the first day, July 20," said Thomas Putnam, camp director.

Putnam has adapted "Tales of Tioga" for this camp experience.

"The script is filled with lots of local historical figures, like Mary Wells, George Washington Sears (Nessmuk), Leonard Harrison, and many others, so that every child will have a speaking role," explains Putnam.

"We're looking forward to being at the fairgrounds because we can hold all activities outdoors. Yes, there will be a roof over our heads, but the walls are open to fresh air. We feel it's the perfect location for this nearly-post-pandemic era," he added.

Campers will learn and perform this full stage show while gaining experience in all things theatre, from improvisational acting to mime; music; choreography; art; costuming; stage movement and vocal training.

"To bring the script to life, we'll be exploring various aspects of our county's history. Scott Gitchell, Tioga County Historical Society director and historian, will be coming to the fairgrounds to talk about the county's early history, and about the farm implement museum located there," Putnam said.

The campers will also take a trip to the Pennsylvania Lumber Museum on Route 6 near Galeton to explore the history of the lumber industry. Mel Stafford will set up his blacksmithing display and explain this trade to campers. Michele Comes will demonstrate cooking with a cast iron Dutch oven.

"And, youngsters will paint a large backdrop depicting the county for the show," said Putnam.

The eight-day camp at Whitneyville will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, July 20, 21, 22 and 23, and Monday through Thursday, July 26, 27, 28 and 29.

The last day of camp on July 29 will be a regular day with the addition of two public performances at 3 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. in the Tioga County Youth Center building at the fairgrounds.

Bus transportation will be provided. Campers will be picked up and taken to Whitneyville, then returned to their pickup sites each day.

The camp is free to students living in the Northern Tioga School District. The registration fee is waived due to a grant from the Deerfield Charitable Trust.

No interested child will be turned away due to finances. Scholarships are available upon request. The registration fee is $193. There is a $40 discount for all siblings in the same household.

To register, download the 2021 Summer Theatre Arts Camp flyer and application by visiting the Hamilton-Gibson website.

Complete the application and send it with a check to Attention: Theatre Arts Camp, Hamilton-Gibson Productions, 29 Water St., Wellsboro, PA 16901. Payment by credit card is also accepted. Call the office with credit card information at (570) 724-2079.

Admission to the public performances is Pay-What-You-Can at the door.

For more information about the camp, transportation or for answers to other questions, call (570) 724-2079 or email hamgib@gmail.com.
Business

Where would Rome and Floyd County be without SPLOST?

Doug Walker Its hard to imagine Shorter Avenue before it was widened 30 years ago with help from the first SPLOST passed by Floyd County voters. Doug Walker Funding for State Mutual Stadium, home of the Rome Braves, was approved by SPLOST voters by a narrow 142 vote margin in 2001. Doug Walker The Armuchee Connector, built with SPLOST dollars, has relieved Martha Berry Highway of a lot of congestion. Doug Walker Rome police, Floyd County police and the 911 Center are housed in the Joint Law Enforcement Center, another SPLOST project approved by local voters. Sammy Rich Jamie McCord David Newby

As folks like Missy Kendrick at the Rome-Floyd County Development Authority and Jeanne Krueger at the Rome Floyd Chamber champion efforts to bring growth to Rome and Floyd County, residents should also give themselves a big pat on the back.

Over the last 35 years, voters in Rome and Floyd County have passed SPLOST referendums that, by the time all of the 2017 package projects are funded, will be a capital investment of more than $823 million across the community.

Local elected officials and their professional management teams dont always see things through the same lens.

But one thing they are in near unanimous accord on is that Rome and Floyd County would not be the place it is today without the special purpose, local option sales tax.

Imagine Shorter Avenue before it was widened thanks to SPLOST dollars. Recall the constant congestion any time there was a wreck on Martha Berry Highway before the Armuchee Connector was built. Where did cowboys ride bulls each January prior to the Forum River Centers construction?

The SPLOST law was enacted in 1985 at the request of the Association County Commissioners of Georgia. It was conceived and enacted as a county tax for funding capital projects. It is not a city tax, nor is it a joint county/city tax like the LOST, the permanent local option sales tax. As a county tax, a SPLOST can only be initiated by the board of commissioners.

In Rome and Floyd County both governments, along with the city of Cave Spring, are involved in the SPLOST planning process. In most recent SPLOSTs, a citizens advisory committee has been utilized to vet projects and develop the list that is presented to voters.

Other communities will say were going to spend X amount for transportation, X amount for recreation and X amount for infrastructure, said County Manager Jamie McCord said. Rome and Floyd County want to know what roads youre going to pave and what year youre going to pave them, and thats OK. I have no problem with that accountability.

Since the state law allowing SPLOSTs was passed, and subsequent to that the education local option sales tax, Rome and Floyd County voters have been to the polls 19 times, approving SPLOST or ELOST referendums 15 times.

SPLOST has been able help us achieve what I think is this great sense of place and this great quality of life, said Rome City Manager Sammy Rich.

Rich and McCord both say that, through the years, many SPLOST projects have been able to leverage public dollars to attract private investment.

Rich pointed specifically at the new hotel Berry College is building adjacent to the tennis center. According to data from the tourism office, the tennis center has had an economic impact of more than $18.7 million over the past five years.

The city manager also cited the multimillion dollar investment that Four Stones Real Estate is planning to make along West Third Street, where the city has a SPLOST-funded streetscape project in the works.

Richard B. Russell Regional Airport, which is owned by the county, is another potential nexus thats been a target for SPLOST dollars.

I think the runway extension could foster private growth. I could probably argue that now, McCord said. We have a waiting list for T-hangars.

And the runway extension has not even been completed yet.

The county manager said $2 million was included in the 2017 SPLOST for improvements to State Mutual Stadium. The Braves are planning to invest another $1.5 million.

I cant help but think of how much further behind we would be in terms of economic development without SPLOST, said Lisa Smith, director of the Georgias Rome Office of Tourism.

Wants and needs

Some projects are put on SPLOST simply because its the only way to make the numbers work. The Everett Springs water line extension in the 2013 SPLOST is a prime example. Wells in the area were beset by serious problems but the public utility couldnt justify the expense.

It would have been a 130-year payback to invest in that because its not really populated enough to make it work, McCord said.

The same could be said of $1.28 million in improvements to the failing Cave Spring sewer system that were included in the 2017 SPLOST.

Quality of life projects  things like trails, the Forum River Center, the Rome Tennis Center at Berry College, State Mutual Stadium  are frequently the most controversial of the projects and arguably one of the reasons that many of the votes have been extremely close, or failed.

The first time a minor league baseball stadium was pitched to voters, in July 1992, the referendum was voted down by 56.4%. That was a $2 million project and it was projected to take only three months to raise the money.

Nine years later, in November of 2001, voters narrowly approved, by less than 150 votes, a 15-month package to raise $15 million to build the stadium that currently sits on Braves Boulevard.

General purpose SPLOST votes failed in 2005 and 2012.

The very first ELOST vote also failed in 1998.

The first SPLOST vote occurred in 1986 when 67.1% of those who turned out approved a six-month tax to fund street, road and bridge projects.

The referendum did not specify an amount of money to be raised. The project raised seed money for the widening of Shorter Avenue and the East Rome Bypass.

Through the years, a number of critical infrastructure projects have been financed by SPLOST. The 1994 SPLOST vote provided money to expand the Walker Mountain Landfill. The 2013 SPLOST included $5.8 million for water lines up in the northern neck of Floyd County.

A 1995 SPLOST provided money to upgrade the Floyd County Jail, build the Joint Law Enforcement Center on Fifth Avenue downtown and construct half a dozen fire stations.

The Floyd County Health Department facility on East 12th Street was built with funds from a June 2003 SPLOST.

In 2009, residents of Rome and Floyd County approved a SPLOST for multiple projects  including a state of the art radio communications system for public safety personnel that provides much better service throughout the county.

The 2013 SPLOST package had money for the tennis center and a new animal control facility, among a variety of projects.

Currently, the 2017 SPLOST package is  and will be  funding multiple projects, with the biggest ticket item being a new agriculture center.

David Newby chaired the citizen advisory committees that put together the 2013 and 2017 packages. He said the 2013 package of projects was intentionally diverse.

We were just starting to come out of the recession in 2013 and there were a lot of things we needed, Newby said. We looked at diversification of the scope but unification of the purpose, which was to get us back to where we needed to be, back in that growth mode.

Over the years, some folks have complained that the community has simply stacked one SPLOST package on top of another and the extra penny tax will never go away.

The answer is its entirely up to the people, and I think thats the beauty of SPLOST, Rich said. Weve had failed SPLOST referendums. The community has gone back, pitched it a different way, changed a few projects and came back later and got approval.

A side benefit to the more than $800 million that will have been raised is that a significant percentage of that was contributed by folks passing through Rome over the years.
Rome, GA (30161)

Today

Mostly cloudy skies this morning followed by thunderstorms during the afternoon. High 81F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%..

Tonight

Scattered thunderstorms this evening followed by occasional showers overnight. Low around 70F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%.
Rome, GA (30161)

Today

Scattered thunderstorms this morning, then mainly cloudy during the afternoon with thunderstorms likely. High near 80F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 80%..

Tonight

Variable clouds with showers and scattered thunderstorms. Storms more numerous this evening. Low 69F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%.
LG's choice to leave the Android smartphone market has left empty space on shelves within the OEM's flagship physical stores in its native South Korea. The company had intended to put it to potentially lucrative use by allowing Apple to stock iPhones there instead. However, those plans are now on hold due to backlash from the business community in the country.

4 Reviews , News , CPU , GPU , Articles , Columns , Other "or" search relation. 5G , Accessory , Alder Lake , AMD , Android , Apple , ARM , Audio , Business , Camera , Cannon Lake , Cezanne (Zen 3) , Charts , Chinese Tech , Chromebook , Coffee Lake , Comet Lake , Console , Convertible / 2-in-1 , Cryptocurrency , Cyberlaw , Deal , Desktop , Exclusive , Fail , Foldable , Gadget , Galaxy Note , Galaxy S , Gamecheck , Gaming , Geforce , Google Pixel , GPU , How To , Ice Lake , Intel Evo / Project Athena , Internet of Things (IoT) , iOS , iPad Pro , iPhone , Jasper Lake , Lakefield , Laptop , Launch , Linux / Unix , Lucienne (Zen 2) , MacBook , Mini PC , Monitor , MSI , OnePlus , Opinion , Phablet , Radeon , Renoir , Review Snippet , Rocket Lake , Rumor , Ryzen (Zen) , Science , Security , Smart Home , Smartphone , Smartwatch , Software , Storage , Tablet , ThinkPad , Thunderbolt , Tiger Lake , Touchscreen , Ultrabook , Virtual Reality (VR) / Augmented Reality (AR) , Wearable , Windows , Workstation , XPS , Zen 3 (Vermeer) Ticker

LG has now officially given up on making and selling Android phones going forward, and had intended to try its hand at selling iPhones instead. This possibly counter-intuitive situation has arisen due to gaps in the inventory of this OEM's Best Shops, the OEM's Apple Store analogs located in South Korea.

However, this scheme has now reportedly been put on ice at LG, following backlash from other companies in the same country. Samsung had reportedly made its objections to the 'iPhones at Best Shops' plan, mainly as its Galaxy-series devices have heretofore never been stocked there either. However, the opposition that has resulted in LG's decision to halt its new mobile device revenue-spinner has come from different sources.

They consist of "small to medium" retailers in the same space, which might indeed stand to lose out should a giant such as LG suddenly muscle into the South Korean iPhone retail market. In addition, the country's government's sentiments may also be against the OEM's plan for its Best Shops for similar reasons, as are those of the public. Therefore, the OEM has now reportedly been discouraged from moving ahead with the idea at present.

Shop the LG C1 (2021) OLED TV series on Amazon
This content is provided by Travel Leaders / Fly Away Travel, located at 1445 W. Harvard Avenue in Roseburg. Call 541-672-5701 for information.
The Northwest Indiana Small Business Development Center has been celebrating Region entrepreneurs for 30 years at its annual Entrepreneurial Excellence or E-Day Awards.

The Northwest ISBDC, which provides consulting and other no-cost services to people starting or growing small businesses in the Calumet Region, is now seeking nominations for the latest crop of local business people to honor.

People can nominate entrepreneurs who have had an impact on Northwest Indiana or their industry.

Being an entrepreneur truly takes an unwavering passion and perseverance, NW-ISBDC Regional Director Lorri Feldt said. We have seen how much our small business community can handle over the last year and a half, and that needs to be recognized more so than ever as we shift into a new way of doing business. Our team admires all of our region entrepreneurs and everything that they do for our communities.

Anyone from the public can nominate any entrepreneurs with a three-year track record and the potential for growth. They must do business in Lake, Porter, LaPorte, Jasper, Starke, Pulaski or Newton country.
After a spectacular burnout that caused him to lose his high-paying job, Jamie Buckby has found work as a coffee shop barista, a job that pays much less than his previous career.

But money really isnt an issue for him. He lives with his girlfriend, a wealthy, successful businesswoman, in her wonderful historic home in a tony London neighborhood. The two have had a long and compatible relationship, but in keeping with the saying theres no fool like an old fool, Jamie risks it all when he falls for the beautiful, manipulative and much younger Melia.

This being a mystery by bestselling British novelist Louise Candlish, there are plenty of other complications as well in "The Other Passenger." We watch the story unfold through the eyes of Jamie, who commutes to work by riverboat with his neighbor Kit, who is married to Melia.

Kit and Melia are living well beyond their means, wracking up credit card debts and obviously envious of Jamies lifestyle. Then, one day, Kit doesnt turn up at the boat, and when Jamie arrives at his stop, the police are there waiting for him. Kits been reported missing, and another passenger saw Jamie arguing with him on the boat just before he disappeared.
To health.

To freedom.

To living.

To joy.

After dinner, Hakan, who always brings a van full of rugs hes shipped over, unrolled some of his wares and talked about the ancient art of Turkish rug making, a tradition that dates back many centuries, and many generations in his own family. He taught us about the fineness of the weave, the intricacies of and legends behind the patterns, the origin of the dyes, and the trained hands that tie every miniscule knot. Hungry for connection, we all listened closely.

Privately, I smiled at how far I had come. When Hakan and I met six years ago, I didnt like him at all. I was an arms-crossed skeptic. I had stereotypically put him (Turkish rug trader) in the same camp as snake-oil salesman and bridge seller. Through painstaking patience, Hakan won me over and chiseled through my ignorance until I came to appreciate both him and this art form.

As the evening wound up, a small rug somehow found a permanent home appropriately by our front door, where it marks for me a symbol for the post-pandemic moment in time when we opened our front door again to the world.
HAMMOND  You cant keep a good festival down, especially one dating back to the 12th century. As storm clouds loomed, boaters at the Hammond Marina expressed their pleasure with the return of the Venetian Night festival Saturday.

Basically, its just a great experience for our boaters," said Susan Tabers, marina coordinator. We pick a theme, and boaters decorate their boats and the docks. Its fun to see the boaters out here, having a good time.

The Hammond Port Authoritys Venetian Night featured contests, cardboard boat races, decorated watercraft, childrens games, refreshments and fireworks.

Venetian Night, Hammond Marina Things started smoothly for Matt Wilson, of Chicago, and his daughter, Bella, 6, as they paddle away from shore in the Captain Girl boat Satur

The Hammond Yacht Club kicked off festivities with a late-morning beanbag contest. The clubs Denise Schreiber coordinated the contest, adding that, after last years COVID-19 cancellation, the festival is super exciting. Its always nice to have the kids games and the fireworks are amazing. People can watch the fireworks from their boats. Its always a lot of fun.

The Venetian Night tradition started in 1161 in Venice, Italy, where the Mardi Gras-type festival, Carnevale, came just before Lent, a time of fasting and abstinence.

Venetian Night, Hammond Marina Dan Kantor tries to climb out of the Hot Shark boat while it capsizes with him and his son, Max, 7, Saturday at the Venetian Night celebration.
THORNTON TOWNSHIP  Four people suffered life-threatening injuries following a wreck on the Bishop Ford Expressway early Saturday.

At 12:37 a.m. first responders were called to a crash with serious injuries in the northbound lanes of Interstate 94 south of Dolton Avenue in Thornton Township, according to Illinois State Police.

A Chevrolet Tahoe was heading north on the Bishop Ford approaching Dolton Avenue when the driver lost control of the vehicle for unknown reasons, police said.

The vehicle veered off the road to the right, traveled across the right shoulder and struck the concrete median barrier. The vehicle came to a stop in traffic facing south.

A Honda Civic that was driving northbound then struck the front end of the Tahoe.

Police reported that the driver of the Tahoe abandoned the vehicle and ran away from the scene on foot. It is unknown if the driver suffered any injuries.

A 38-year-old Minnesota man and a 39-year-old Matteson, Illinois man, who were passengers in the Tahoe, were taken to a hospital with life-threatening injuries.
The three-judge appeals court was unpersuaded.

It noted Asbury forced the woman to perform oral sex on him and he raped her vaginally all while the woman was sobbing, crying, whimpering, and begging not to be harmed  in "complete disregard for her humanity and dignity."

The appeals court also said it was disinclined to give too much weight to Asbury's guilty plea because the rape was recorded by a security camera, the odds of Asbury prevailing in a trial were extremely remote, and the only reasonable thing for Asbury to do was plead guilty to minimize his punishment.

In addition, the appellate judges said while Asbury was incarcerated at the Lake County Jail he had five rule violations, five room violations, one inmate fight, one lock down violation and one smoke violation. He also allegedly schemed with Costello to smuggle contraband into the jail.

"After due consideration, and in light of the heinous nature of the offenses, we conclude that Asbury has not sustained his burden of establishing that his sentence for rape as a level 1 felony and burglary as a level 2 felony is inappropriate in light of the nature of the offenses and his character," the appeals court said.

Asbury still can ask the Indiana Supreme Court to consider reducing his prison term.
Bob Neumaier and Barbara McConnell of the Lake County prosecutor's office said they're seeking a $600,000 two-year grant to establish a High Tech Crime Unit with two full-time employees and specialized equipment to serve at least Lake County, and perhaps all of Northwest Indiana.

"We would be assisting all 24 police agencies here in Lake County, and since this would possibly be a regional facility, we're looking at bringing in other area counties into the unit as well," Neumaier said.

McConnell said the prosecutor's office is hoping to partner with either Purdue University Northwest in Hammond or Indiana University Northwest in Gary to give criminal justice and forensics students on-the-job experience in digital evidence processing.

Records show the existing units in Tippecanoe and St. Joseph counties have worked on homicides, sexual assaults, burglaries and other types of cases, analyzing cellphone data, cameras and computers to either connect evidence to the target of an investigation or exonerate persons of interest.
CROWN POINT  A judge pro tempore on Friday scheduled a trial in December for a Chicago man facing charges alleging he sexually assaulted a 14-year-old girl, shot her in the head and dumped her body in Gary.

Deonlashawn Simmons, 35, appeared Friday with attorney Michael A. Campbell before Lake Criminal Court Judge Pro Tempore Andrea Bonds.

Campbell said Simmons was requesting a trial setting. He's also scheduled to appear Aug. 9 and 13 for hearings on his petition to let bail.

Simmons has pleaded not guilty to one count of murder in the shooting death of Takaylah Tribitt, 14.

Murder defendants typically are not afforded bond, unless a court determines that proof is not evident or the presumption of guilt is not strong that the defendant committed murder and not a lesser offense.

Tribitt, who was reported missing by a Chicago shelter, was found face down with a gunshot wound to her head Sept. 16, 2019, in an alley near East 20th Avenue and Pennsylvania Street in Gary.

Investigators determined she had been sexually assaulted, but none of her injuries was consistent with a struggle or strangulation, records state. She was shot once in the left side of the head.
But only about 49% of the state's eligible population of people 12 or older, or 2.9 million Hoosiers, have been fully vaccinated, according to the Indiana Department of Health.

"For those who are unvaccinated, either by choice or not yet eligible such as kids under the age of 12, and for those for whom the vaccine may not be fully effective, such as those immunocompromised or with weakened immune systems, there is good reason to be concerned about the Delta variant," Pollak said. "For those fully vaccinated with Pfizer or Moderna, there does not appear to be any need for concern for themselves, although there may be greater concern about vaccinated individuals spreading the virus to others."

While it's difficult to determine exactly how widespread the Delta variant is in Indiana, evidence suggests it may already be driving cases back up across the state, Pollak said. Average new daily cases in southwest Indiana have tripled from 51 per week to 179 per week. That's low compared to the last few waves, but the high rate of increase and potential for exponential growth are reasons for concern, he said.
Chicago has been in the news lately for all the wrong reasons.

Mayor Lori Lightfoot recently came under scrutiny for poor treatment of her staff. An email brought to light by The Chicago Tribune shows Lightfoot repeating herself like a petulant child. Her loss of temper is almost comedic. Whats more concerning and far more serious, however, is the sharp increase in violent crime Lightfoots city has seen this year.

Crime rates in Americas third-largest city have risen exponentially over the last year  a problem big cities across America are all facing. And while much attention has been given to the increase in violent crime rates in the U.S., another issue plaguing major metropolises has taken the backseat, as it always does: Property crime.

Its not usually considered a pressing issue, but recent evidence shows that property crime can destroy lives, close businesses and hurt marginalized communities. As mayors all across America prepare for a summer surge in crime, they should certainly focus on abating violence, but they should be careful not to neglect the criminal property damage thats deeply affecting neighborhoods and communities.
The news from Afghanistan is not good, but what did anyone expect? As the U.S. and other NATO forces withdraw, the Taliban are attacking, killing enemies, taking over the country, including stockpiles of U.S. supplies provided for Afghan government forces.

President Joe Biden has said the Afghan government has to stand up for itself and survive on its own. For many reasons, ranging from the strength of the Taliban and the support its receiving from Russia and Iran, among others, to the inherent weakness of a regime riddled by corruption and inefficiency, its days in power in Kabul appear numbered.

Disappointment over Afghanistan mirrors other setbacks for the U.S. No one should forget the U.S. failure to stand by the Kurds, left on their own in Syria when former President Donald Trump, in one of the more controversial acts of his presidency, ordered U.S. troops to pull out. Now we wonder about the U.S. commitment to the Persian Gulf, defended by the U.S. Fifth Fleet and supported by U.S. airpower, against Iran, supported by Russia. Will we be pulling out of the region?

Thats not likely for a number of reasons, notably the U.S. commitment to Israel, by far the largest recipient of U.S. military aid. But whats going on in the Middle East has huge repercussions for Asia, especially China and the Korean peninsula.
At a time when we have historic drops in our fertility rates and marriage rates, somehow the Biden administration thinks, contrary to experience, massive new government spending and entitlement programs will be a boost to the American family.

Hoover Institution's John Cogan and Daniel Heil call this massive expansion of government entitlements "the largest expansion since Lyndon B. Johnson's Great Society."

"For the first time in U.S. history," they note, "except possibly for the pandemic years 2020 and 2021, for which we don't yet have data -- more than half of working-age households would be on the entitlement rolls."

With all our division and disagreements today, there is no disagreement about the shame that the vile institution of slavery was once present and legal in America. We all agree it is a blot.

We all also agree that racism is deplorable.

But the reason slavery and racism are terrible things is that every human being must live with dignity and in freedom.

How can we arrive to the conclusion that the remedy and antidote to slavery and racism is putting all Americans on the government plantation?
If theres a major shooting and the Justice Department has deemed it a possible hate crime, the public should probably know what constitutes a hate crime, she said. Are they on the rise? Are we seeing a trend? If someone else addresses that, great. If not, I want to make sure its said.

Ms. Karni said the best way for reporters to learn how to present their work for a television audience is simply to do it repeatedly, but first-time guests arent completely on their own. The Timess communications department offers media training for its reporters, which can include mock interviews. One thing that Ms. Karni said surprised her when she began appearing on TV was the streamlining and repetition necessary when summarizing reporting.

You want to come up with one or two things you want the audience to know and really emphasize those, she said. Even if its not the exact answer to the question youre asked, its better than trying to think on your feet.

Even though a reporter may be on camera for only five minutes, the time required for TV appearances is hardly brief, Ms. Karni said. In addition to getting to and from the studio (during normal times, that is), reporters must catch up on all the news of the day, not just their specific stories. That can be the most difficult part, Ms. Karni said: the ability to pivot and to be prepared to speak on any pressing topic after a 15-minute cram session on the car ride over.

But journalists have been appearing remotely since March 2020, which enables them to commit more like 10 minutes of their time rather than two hours. And reporters can make late-night appearances on shows like Nightline without worrying about catching a late car ride home.

Its been a totally new world since the pandemic, Ms. Karni said. I bought a ring light for my bedroom, do my own makeup, and the whole thing is much quicker.

Ms. Benner agreed but said she missed one big perk: the hair and makeup team.

I normally dont really wear any makeup, but they make you look amazing, she said. Theyre also the funniest people and always make me laugh.
Athan Theoharis, a pre-eminent historian of the F.B.I. whose indefatigable research into the agencys formerly unobtainable files produced revelations about decades of civil liberties abuses under the leadership of J. Edgar Hoover, died on July 3 at his home in Syracuse, N.Y. He was 84.

The cause was pneumonia, his daughter Jeanne Theoharis said.

Beginning in the mid-1970s, Professor Theoharis, who taught history at Marquette University in Milwaukee, deftly used Freedom of Information Act requests to pry open the F.B.I.s deep well of secrets, including the extent to which Hoover compiled damning information on public officials and his cooperation with Senator Joseph McCarthys campaign against people he accused of being Communists.

The documents showed the extent of the agencys break-ins and its illegal surveillance of left-wing organizations; its pursuit of allegations that President Dwight D. Eisenhower had extramarital affairs; and the use of the F.B.I. by presidents of both parties for political purposes.

One of Professor Theohariss most alarming finds was a surveillance program forged by the F.B.I. and the American Legion in 1940 that lasted until 1966. The F.B.I. used tens of thousands of the organizations volunteers to report information about other citizens.
The mirror deployed by the German Argentine photographer Annemarie Heinrich is a silvered sphere; capturing herself and her sister in it, she depicts the fun-house pleasures, and distortions, of being a woman made New.

Heinrichs European peers sometimes go further in disturbing their self-presentation. In Masked Self-Portrait (No. 16) Gertrud Arndt double- or maybe triple-exposes her face, as though to convey the troubled identity shes taken on as a woman who dares to photograph. (Multiple exposure is almost a hallmark of New Woman photographers; maybe that shouldnt surprise us.) In a collage titled I.O.U. (Self-Pride), the French photographer Claude Cahun presents herself as 11 different masked faces, surrounded by the words Under this mask, another mask. Ill never be done lifting off all these faces.

Its as though the act of getting behind a camera turns any New Woman into an ancestor and avatar of Cindy Sherman, trying on all sorts of models for gender.

If theres one problem with this show, its that it mostly gives us women who succeeded in achieving the highest levels of excellence, barely hinting at the much greater number of women who were prevented from reaching their creative goals by the rampant sexism of their era: talented women whose places in a photo school were given to men instead, or who were streamed into the lowest or most feminine tiers of the profession  retouching, or cheap kiddie portraits  or who were never promoted above studio assistant. Its a problem that bedevils all attempts at recovering the lost art of the disadvantaged: By telling the same stories of success that you do with white males, you risk making it look as though others were given the same chance to rise.

A quite straight shot of the Chinese photojournalist Niu Weiyu may best capture what it really meant for the New Woman to start taking pictures. As snapped by her colleague Shu Ye, Niu stands perched with her camera at the edge of a cliff. Every female photographer adopted this daredevil pose, at least in cultural terms, just by clicking a shutter.
At the same time Jackson also regularly published more sinister, enigmatic short fiction in general-interest magazines; her most famous story, The Lottery, appeared in The New Yorker in 1948 and generated more reader mail than any work of fiction the magazine had ever published. Also set in a small town much like North Bennington, The Lottery has, in print and dramatic form, transfixed and perplexed generations of readers with its depiction of a banal rural morning that segues into ritual human sacrifice. In contrast to the bemused mom she wrote about for the womens magazines, presiding over a house packed with kids, cats, friends and chaos, the rest of Jacksons fictional heroines tend to be fragile, isolated girls on the brink of unraveling. Her 1954 novel, The Birds Nest, features a young woman with dissociative identity disorder, the narration including the points of view of her alternate personalities. Any hope that Jacksons private writing might convey a more unified sense of self seems quixotic. According to her biographer, Ruth Franklin, even as a teenager Jackson kept multiple diaries simultaneously, each with a different purpose.

Image

Jackson was born in San Francisco in 1916, and raised in the posh, manicured suburb of Burlingame by a politically conservative, English-born businessman father, and a mother, Geraldine, who claimed descent from a Revolutionary War general and expected her daughter to follow in her footsteps as an elegant fixture in the society pages. Shirley  introverted, brainy and prone to frumpiness  baffled and disappointed Geraldine. Jackson met Hyman, the son of a Jewish paper merchant from Brooklyn, while the two were undergraduates at Syracuse. He announced his intention to marry her, sight unseen, after reading a story shed published in the campus literary magazine, and at first he was a great champion of her talent. The couple wed in 1940, living in bohemian precarity in Greenwich Village and Connecticut before finally settling into the rambling, book-crammed house in Vermont.

Because Jackson lived far from her parents at a time when long-distance phone calls were expensive, most of these letters, and most of the longest ones, are to them. Geraldines side of the correspondence is absent from these pages, but Franklins biography describes it as drops of poison: relentlessly critical of Shirleys appearance and housekeeping, forever nagging her toward self-improvement and decorum. You could never deduce this from Shirleys responses, however. Very much in the tone of Life Among the Savages, the daughters letters are lively, funny, studded with perfectly executed anecdotes about her childrens antics and eccentricities, with occasional cameos by Stanley as he vetoes 8-year-old Laurences requests for a mohawk, and extinguishes a fire the children accidentally set outside the house while trying to roast marshmallows. Later, when Jacksons children were old enough to spend extended periods of time away from home, she wrote them similarly amusing letters. Occasionally, a literary luminary wanders across the page. Ralph Ellison (do you know his great book invisible man? she writes to a friend, because it was written in our house) appears at Hymans side, urging Jackson to down a vile potion of castor oil and cream soda to induce labor; and driving from Connecticut to Vermont carrying the family dog on his lap.

Jackson is such merry company in this domestic mode that it feels churlish to complain how little most of the letters in this collection fit the title of Laurence Hymans preface: Portrait of the Artist at Work. She does not discuss her writing with most of her correspondents, apart from her agents. What she does talk about, and at length, is money  although this, in my experience, is pretty common in writers letters. To notice how often Shirley has to hit up her parents for a few hundred bucks is to understand why she felt compelled to keep Geraldine sweet, however much her mothers criticism ground her down. The funny stories about her kids  Jannies invisible friends, Barrys birthday request for a cluster of microbebacteria  while as snackable as popcorn, come to feel themselves a bit like currency, or a screen.

In researching her biography, Franklin discovered a cache of letters Jackson wrote to a fan named Jeanne Beatty, whose taste in books she shared. The two never met. Its only in reading these letters, written between 1959 and 1963, that it becomes evident how lonely Jackson was. Her confessions and enthusiasms come gushing forth as if she were a teenager who had finally, finally found a best friend. She explains to Jeanne her struggles to craft a sustained taut style full of images and all kinds of double meanings. At times, these letters relax into something like stream of consciousness, her habitual lowercase prose flowing from household noises to Jacksons protean plans for We Have Always Lived in the Castle: oo let us make a orchestra cries david you bang on the wastebasket. her name is jenny. she lives with her sister constance in a big old brown house saturated with family memories and her husband lives there too; they have been married for seven years and her sister constance still calls him mr harrap. they are going to kill him because he is a boor i think.
1. The assassination of Haitis president has thrown the nation into disarray.

Shootouts have erupted in the streets of Port-au-Prince, and terrified citizens have been cowering in their homes after President Jovenel Moise was gunned down in his residence on Wednesday. At least 20 people  18 Colombians and two Haitian Americans  have been detained in the attack. One told his sister he was there to protect, not to kill, shortly before he died in the bloody aftermath.

The Haitian authorities have asked the U.S. to send troops to stabilize the country. But the Biden administration showed no immediate enthusiasm for sending even a limited American force. Some in Haiti quickly criticized the request, citing other foreign interventions that left a trail of abuses.
Haiti on the brink

Since the assassination of President Jovenel Moise last week, political chaos has gripped Haiti. On Sunday, the country hurtled toward a constitutional crisis, as its top leaders both jockeyed for control.

The interim prime minister, Claude Joseph, has tried to parlay words of support from the U.S. into the appearance of a mandate, but Haitis last remaining elected officials have organized to block him. Only 10 of Haitis 30 Senate seats are filled, but eight of the remaining senators have signed a resolution calling for Joseph Lambert, the Senate president, to temporarily take control. Here are live updates.

We cant let the country go astray, a woman said to be Martine Moise, the presidents widow, said in an audio clip posted to Twitter. She suggested those behind the killing do not want to see a transition in the country.

Haiti has asked the U.S. and the U.N. to send troops and security assistance, a move criticized by intellectuals and members of Haitian civil society, who argue that international support has often added to the countrys instability.
The nation is facing once in a generation choices about how energy ought to be delivered to homes, businesses and electric cars  decisions that could shape the course of climate change and determine how the United States copes with wildfires, heat waves and other extreme weather linked to global warming.

On one side, large electric utilities and President Biden want to build thousands of miles of power lines to move electricity created by distant wind turbines and solar farms to cities and suburbs. On the other, some environmental organizations and community groups are pushing for greater investment in rooftop solar panels, batteries and local wind turbines.

There is an intense policy struggle taking place in Washington and state capitals about the choices that lawmakers, energy businesses and individuals make in the next few years, which could lock in an energy system that lasts for decades. The divide between those who want more power lines and those calling for a more decentralized energy system has split the renewable energy industry and the environmental movement. And it has created partnerships of convenience between fossil fuel companies and local groups fighting power lines.

At issue is how quickly the country can move to cleaner energy and how much electricity rates will increase.
My great predecessor in this column, David Carr, wrote at a time when the conventional wisdom was that the internet was destroying journalism.

But Davids eye was drawn to the interesting and the new, like Gawker and The Huffington Post or Twitter and WikiLeaks. Those of us who worked in the thrilling new world of online journalism were pleased to receive the gruff visitor, his head at a tilt, as he took in the exploding media world.

This is a very different time in the news business, with giant companies including The New York Times leading a wave of consolidation and many of the start-ups that Mr. Carr loved long gone. Around the world, digital news outlets that shattered the status quo, from Manila to Moscow, are hanging on for dear life. And yet in the United States, theres also a generation of ventures growing up in the cracks in the sidewalk, fueled by a new sense of mission in American journalism and by the sheer quantities of money, private and nonprofit, floating around.

Ive been writing this column through a pretty dark year, and even before I started I had a long Google doc full of story ideas. Now, 16 months in and heading out for my first weeks off, I realize Ive erred on the side of revealing messy conflicts and damaging decisions. Only occasionally have I highlighted people and companies doing things that are really new and interesting  but which you may not have heard of  in some of the hardest parts of media: local news, investigative journalism and even finding common ground. It is, to me, an inspiring list, and a suggestion that theres a lot of open space to be filled in.
While two of Fox Newss prominent hosts and their guests have questioned vaccination efforts, the channel has also produced its own vaccine P.S.A., a 30-second spot featuring the hosts and anchors Steve Doocy, Harris Faulkner, Dana Perino and John Roberts. If you can, get the vaccine, Ms. Faulkner says in the ad.

Bret Baier, the chief political anchor of Fox News, said in an Instagram post that he was grateful for the shot. In May, the hosts of Fox & Friends spoke on-air of their relief at getting vaccinated. And Ms. Faulkner hosted a prime-time special in February that sought in part to debunk common myths about the vaccine.

The prime-time Fox News host Sean Hannity, who fell behind Mr. Carlson in the ratings race during the Trump years, said on a May episode of Hannity that he planned to get a Covid-19 shot. I do believe in science, and I believe in vaccinations, he said.

Talk to your doctor, he continued. You dont need to talk to people on TV and radio that arent doctors.

Ms. Ingraham has been more skeptical. Last week she accused the news media of overhyping the threat of Covid-19 to children and often refusing to discuss adverse reactions linked to the vaccines, although such outcomes have been covered by The New York Times, The Washington Post, CNN and other outlets.

Despite everything the experts either got wrong or lied about, they still think that parents should trust them and inject their kids with an experimental drug to prevent a disease almost none of those kids will ever get sick from, she said on her show. Ms. Ingraham has not revealed whether she has received a Covid vaccine.

While children are less likely to develop severe illness from Covid-19, data from the American Academy of Pediatrics showed that more than four million children had tested positive for the coronavirus since the pandemic began, that more than 16,500 had been hospitalized and that more than 300 had died in the United States.
To the Editor:

Re When Doctors Experience a Miracle, by Daniela J. Lamas (Sunday Review, July 4):

For those of us who perhaps didnt wait long enough for that so desired miracle to occur, reading Dr. Lamass piece reaffirmed what we always feared or wondered about. What if we had waited one more day, or one more hour or one more iota of a second? Would that miracle have happened?

Ultimately those left behind are often filled with the guilt and grief of always wondering: What if? And yet, for years I have had a life-affirming sticker on my desk that reads Expect a Miracle. And thats not a bad idea.

Carrie Klein

Chapel Hill, N.C.

To the Editor:

While it is difficult to argue with Dr. Daniela Lamas being more willing to push forward in pursuit of the one in a million cure after the recovery of a catastrophically ill Covid patient, we cannot ignore the critical role of patient choice in medical practice.

As a hospice physician, I care for the other 999,999 patients  those devastated by non-beneficial I.C.U. care, and families horrified by the suffering of their loved ones. The right of patients and families to decide what their doctors should do based on facts delivered clearly and with compassion rightly drives the decision to push forward  or to end suffering despite a minuscule chance of survival  not doctors hoping for miracles.
Not long after Richard Branson re-entered Earths atmosphere on Sunday, he and other employees of his Virgin Galactic venture boasted that the company would greatly expand opportunities for the general public to travel to space. For the moment, those otherworldly views and feelings of weightlessness will still be held in rarefied air.

A seat on one of the companys spaceships originally cost $200,000. The company later raised the price to $250,000. It then stopped sales after a crash during a test flight in 2014. When the company resumes sales later this year, the price will probably rise again, said Michael Colglazier, Virgin Galactics chief executive.

Were here to make space more accessible to all, Mr. Branson said on Sunday as he was presented with his astronaut wings after his milestone flight.

For a vast majority of Americans, the cost of such a trip is out of reach. In the future, Virgin Galactic and other spaceflight companies hope broadening opportunities to fly to space will bring down the cost of a ticket. But for now, primarily people with spare cash equivalent to the cost of some houses will be able to afford a few moments at the edge of space.
This flight resembled a party for Virgin Galactic and the nascent space tourism business. Guests included Elon Musk, the founder of SpaceX; Michelle Lujan Grisham, the governor of New Mexico; and about 60 customers who have paid for future Virgin Galactic flights.

Stephen Colbert of the CBS program The Late Show introduced segments of the webcast. After the landing, the R&B singer Khalid performed a new song.

When the fuel was spent, Unity continued to coast upward to an altitude of 53.5 miles. The four people in back unbuckled and experienced about four minutes of floating before returning to their seats.

Mr. Branson was accompanied in the cabin by Beth Moses, the companys chief astronaut instructor; Colin Bennett, lead operations engineer; and Sirisha Bandla, vice president of government affairs and research operations.

Mr. Bennett said that he was busy with tasks during the first part of the flight and then he heard Ms. Moses shouting, Dont forget to look out the window.

He did. Its very Zen, Mr. Bennett said of the view of Earth below. What jumped out at me were the colors and just how far away it looked. It felt like we were just so far up there, and I was just mesmerized.

Ms. Bandlas role was to evaluate another market Virgin Galactic is targeting: scientists doing research that takes advantage of minutes of microgravity. She conducted an experiment from the University of Florida which looked at how plants react to the changing conditions  particularly the swings in gravity  during the flight, part of research that could aid growing food on future long-duration space missions.
Foundations should be assessed to ensure that construction matched the original designs, Mr. Kilsheimer said in his memo. He also recommended the use of ground-penetrating radar to analyze each buildings steel reinforcement and the thickness of concrete slabs. Concrete cores should be extracted and tested for strength, the memo said.

Mayor Charles W. Burkett sent the recommendations to oceanfront buildings  those east of Collins Avenue in Surfside  saying the proposals were intended to afford residents peace of mind until the forensic investigation into the collapse is complete.

The recommendations described in the memorandum should be undertaken for all buildings east of Collins regardless of their age, the mayor wrote.

Surfsides vice mayor, Tina Paul, said that three or four other condominiums, besides those at Champlain Towers, had contacted the city over safety concerns.

People need to use their judgment because there were just so many issues with that building besides construction, Ms. Paul said. It was poorly maintained. From my knowledge, theres more to the cause than just the issue of building maintenance  although that didnt help.

The uncertainty has disrupted many families beyond those already suffering from the catastrophic collapse, which left at least 86 people dead and dozens more still unaccounted for. Mr. Joseph said North Miami Beach was placing residents displaced from the Crestview complex into temporary housing until the building becomes inhabitable again.

City officials offered no prediction as to how long that might be. Margarita Bulgakov, whose mother and grandmother lived in the Crestview building, was pushing a wheelchair on Friday that was filled with bags of their clothing and was preparing to load them into her car. She said her mother had not been aware of the buildings maintenance problems before the evacuation.
As the West continues to bake under torrid temperatures, an out-of-control wildfire burning across southwest Oregon has scorched more than 150,000 acres, threatening the power grid that connects Oregon and California and driving people from their homes.

The Bootleg fire continued to burn for its sixth day in a row on Monday. The intense blaze escalated on Saturday afternoon, leading firefighters to leave the scene and retreat back to safety because of an immediate, life-threatening risk, according to one update from fire officials.

Charles Smith, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Medford, Ore., said the fire was especially worrying because Oregons fire season had only just begun.

Theres concern because of how early this is starting, and how far it has grown within a relatively short amount of time, he said.
Six years later, the circumstances of Ms. Highwolfs death remain a mystery, one of many involving Native women who disappear or meet violent ends with alarming regularity. Her family and the local authorities agree that the case was shoddily handled and the initial investigation haphazard, as is often the case for Native Americans.

They put her in the category of just another drunken Indian, said one of Ms. Highwolfs sisters, Rhea New Holy. But she wasnt.

Today, under pressure from her family and an advocacy group in California, Ms. Highwolfs case is under review. Pauline Highwolf is relieved it has been reopened, but she says a six-year effort to get there underscores the need for change in the way such cases are handled.

We want to keep fighting, until we are heard, she said. And we want everyone who lost someone to keep fighting and know theyre not alone.

In Montana, Native Americans, mostly young women, accounted for one-third of the 110 active missing persons cases in the missing persons clearinghouse at the end of 2019, according to a 2020 study by the states Justice Department. Big Horn County, where Ms. Highwolfs body was found, and neighboring Rosebud County, home of the Northern Cheyenne reservation, lead the state for the number of missing people reported per capita. Last year, in the same town where Ms. Highwolf died, the body of Kaysera Stops Pretty Places, 18, who had been missing, was found in a backyard. Her case remains open.
CRYSTAL LAKE, Ill.  Even President Biden thought he had been ponderous.

I know thats a boring speech, the 46th president said at the end of 31 minutes and 19 seconds filled with statistics (2,374 Illinois bridges), academic studies (on-site child care increases productivity), global gross domestic product comparisons (China used to be No. 9, but is now No. 2) and predictions of 7.4 percent economic growth (though the O.E.C.D. thinks it could be higher, Mr. Biden noted, referring to the not exactly electrifying Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development).

The presidents remarks on Wednesday, delivered to a friendly and respectful crowd of supporters at McHenry County College in this Chicago suburb, even included reconciliation, which Mr. Biden quickly admitted was a fancy Washington word.

As the president travels the country pitching his plan for spending trillions of dollars to reshape the American economy, he is facing a rhetorical reality that has long plagued many of his predecessors: There is a vast difference between explaining and inspiring, and Mr. Biden  who was recently called the explainer in chief by his press secretary  often struggles to reach the potential oratorical heights of the office he holds.

Mr. Bidens ambitions are vast and the substance of his presidency has been dramatic at times: an end to the nations longest war, a historic focus on equity and spending proposals bigger than anything before. He sometimes describes his agenda as a way to prove that the very concept of democracy itself can deliver for the people.
AUSTIN, Texas  Texas Republicans moved legislation to overhaul the states voting system closer to passage on Sunday, brushing aside fierce opposition from Democrats to gain approval from key committees in the House and the Senate after marathon weekend hearings.

The committee votes, coming just days into a 30-day special session, adhere to Gov. Greg Abbotts timetable for swift action on the legislation, which he has called a priority for his administration. The full 31-member State Senate is expected to vote on its bill as early as Tuesday. The 150-member House is also likely to take up its own version of the measure this week.

Democrats on both committees united in opposition to the bills and prepared for further combat on the floors of the Senate and the House. Beverly Powell, a state senator from the Fort Worth suburbs who voted against the bill in committee, said Senate Democrats were planning many amendments during the floor debate and might try to introduce an alternative bill.

The Senate State Affairs Committee took about 45 minutes on Sunday afternoon to approve the bill, known as S.B.1, on a 6-to-3 party-line vote after slightly modifying the bill with nine Republican amendments. We feel good about the bill, said Bryan Hughes, the Republican committee chairman.
Around here, you dont have as many Punjabi workers as we used to have in the 80s and 90s, because the kids are now doing professional things, said Simon Sihota, a prominent Punjabi Sikh farmer in the area.

Like the Sran farm, Mr. Sihotas business remains mostly a family affair. His son Arvin, 22, just graduated from California Polytechnic State University with a degree in agricultural and environmental plant sciences, and his older son Kavin, 24, has a degree from Cornell in enology, the science of making wine. His daughter Jasleen, 20, regularly helps with administrative duties for the family business.

The family works together in the same way that Mr. Sihota helped his father and grandfather in the fields when he was young. His father arrived in California from India in 1961 and eventually saved enough money to buy 40 acres; the farm has since grown to 3,000 acres of almonds, pistachios, wine grapes and peaches.

I cant see myself doing anything else, said Kavin Sihota. When I was out on the East Coast, Id always miss the farming lifestyle.
PARIS  Battered by gang violence and corruption, its Parliament near vacant, its judiciary in tatters, its Constitution subject to dispute, its poverty crushing and its history a chronicle of unrest, Haiti was in bad shape even before its president was assassinated and rival factions laid claim to power.

Now, its in meltdown.

Haitian democracy has been slipping away for a long time and with each round its been getting worse, said Peter Mulrean, a former United States ambassador to Haiti. There is not much left to save.

Claude Joseph, the interim prime minister, and eight of the 10 remaining members of Parliament in the entire country of 11 million people have both said they have a legitimate right to assume power and fill Haitis vacuum of authority.

Mr. Joseph, as the incumbent, has tepid backing from a Biden administration desperate not to be sucked into a quagmire. The vestigial Senate, having been elected, has some legal imprimatur, but is dogged by accusations of corruption and self-dealing.
Just days after the assassination of President Jovenel Moise of Haiti, a high-stakes battle for control of the country is heating up, and the president of the Senate, Joseph Lambert, is among those jockeying for power.

Although the Haitian Parliament is in a state of dysfunction  with only 10 sitting senators out of 30 because the terms of the other 20 have expired  a majority of the remaining lawmakers on Friday signed a resolution calling for a new government to replace the current interim prime minister, Claude Joseph. They declared that Mr. Lambert, who also has the support of several political parties, should become provisional president.

He seems to be quite intelligent politically, Laennec Hurbon, a Haitian sociologist and researcher at the French National Center for Scientific Research, said of Mr. Lambert.

Mr. Lambert, 60, is from the city of Jacmel in southern Haiti. An agronomist by training, he is a seasoned politician who was elected to the lower house of Parliament in 1995, before winning a seat in the Senate in 2006. He is currently in his third term as president of the Senate.
An audio recording said to be of Martine Moise, the widow of President Jovenel Moise of Haiti, has urged people to carry on his battle in a country long plagued by gang violence and now plunged into a deep institutional crisis.

But some Haitians were questioning the authenticity of the recording, which comes amid a fierce battle for control of the country after Mr. Moise was assassinated last week.

In the recording, which was posted to Ms. Moises verified Twitter account on Saturday, a woman speaking in Creole says, I am alive thanks to God, but I lost my husband Jovenel Moise.
With conditions in Haiti grim, the countrys interim prime minister, Claude Joseph, has asked the United States to send troops. But with U.S. forces only newly extricated from the long war in Afghanistan, the Biden administration has shown no enthusiasm for the idea.

It is not just a matter of the United States being disinclined to send troops abroad any time soon.

The request came from a man who has claimed to be in control of Haiti despite questions about his authority. It is not even clear if Mr. Joseph is the rightful interim prime minister, since another was poised to take over when Mr. Moise was assassinated. The two men now appear to be vying for power.

Beyond that, given their long and unhappy experience at the hands of outside powers, including a 20-year American occupation, many Haitians are opposed to a U.S. intervention.

So there are many reasons for American officials to tread lightly.

I think thats really where our energies are best applied right now: helping them get their arms around investigating this incident and figuring out whos culpable, whos responsible, and how best to hold them accountable going forward, Mr. Kirby said on Fox News Sunday.
Two people who were helping to fight a wildfire in western Arizona died on Saturday when their plane crashed, the Bureau of Land Management said.

The planes two crew members were performing aerial reconnaissance and command and control over the Cedar Basin fire, which began on Friday and has expanded over about 300 acres near Wikieup, Ariz., an unincorporated town roughly halfway between Phoenix and Las Vegas.

The Bureau of Land Management said in a statement that it would release more information about the crash after relatives of the victims had been notified. Our hearts go out to the families of our brave wildland firefighters, the statement read.

Plane crashes are one of the many risks faced by people who fight wildfires. In September, a pilot was killed when a plane that was dropping retardant on a fire in Idaho crashed. Early last year, three Americans died when their plane went down south of Canberra, the Australian capital, where they were helping to fight intense wildfires.
MASINLOC, the Philippines  The fishermen along the western coast of Luzon Island, in the Philippines, have known for generations that the seas, the tides and the weather can determine their fortunes. More recently, they have added China to that list.

Scarborough Shoal, a nearby triangular chain of reefs and rocks in the South China Sea, was once the source of bountiful catches of large reef fish. But the fishermen are no longer allowed to go near it.

The Chinese have already swallowed Karburo whole, but that area is really ours, said Johnny Sonny Geruela, using the Filipino name for Scarborough. Mr. Geruela lives in Masinloc, a small fishing community just 124 nautical miles from the shoal.

Chinas Coast Guard has had ships anchored near Scarborough for almost a decade. Five years ago this week, an international court ruled that the territory was well within Manilas exclusive economic zone, and invalidated Chinas expansive claims in the South China Sea. Beijing has effectively ignored the ruling and expanded its presence in the region.
But among Modern and contemporary artists, Carraras marble fell out of favor, the translucent, gray-veined stone becoming more the stuff of bathroom floors, kitchen counters and funerary monuments.

Mr. Massari said that many artists had dismissed marble as a medium because of the months or even years it took to complete a single statue by hand.

And fewer young people in Carrara were up for the crushing work of chiseling stone, not to mention the dust-eating and all the other health risks that came with it. Canova is said to have deformed his sternum by bending his chest on a hammer for hours.

At a warehouse down the mountain, where technicians were testing a gigantic new robot, Mr. Massari pointed at a reproduction of Psyche Revived by Cupids Kiss, a masterpiece of neo-Classical sculpture. Canova took five years to make this, he said, we took 270 hours.

Mr. Massari and his partner initially bought their robots from local technology companies. But as clients  including, among those who can be named, global stars like Jeff Koons, Zaha Hadid and Vanessa Beecroft  gave them what Mr. Massari called increasingly crazy commissions, they started producing their own machines with homemade software and German parts.

Mr. Basaldella, the technician, said many of his former art school classmates were excellent sculptors but did not stand out, because manual dexterity is not new or in demand. But robots can achieve groundbreaking results if they are built with an artistic sensitivity, he said, sitting in a control room where he inspected a 3-D marble block scanned into his computer.

I think our robots are a work of art, he said.
ROME  Pope Francis on Sunday made his first public appearance since undergoing colon surgery last week, greeting the faithful from a balcony at Gemelli hospital in Rome.

Dear brothers and sisters: Buongiorno, the pope said, smiling and waving to the well-wishers who had gathered in the vast courtyard in front of the hospitals main entrance. The crowd  a mix of Romans, tourists, nuns, priests, medical students and hospital staff  applauded and waved back. They also cheered loudly and called out, Viva il Papa, or, Long live the pope.

After thanking the faithful for their prayers during his recovery, Francis, 84, praised Italys national health service.

In these days of being hospitalized, I have experienced once again how important good health care is  accessible to all, as it is in Italy and in other countries, he said. This precious benefit must not be lost. It needs to be kept.
A Haitian-born doctor based in Florida has been arrested as a key suspect in the assassination of President Jovenel Moise of Haiti, and the national police chief suggested at a news conference that he believed the suspect was plotting to become president.

To date, some two dozen people have been arrested in the killing, but on Sunday, Haitian officials described the doctor, Christian Emmanuel Sanon, 63, as a central figure in the case.

Even as the Haitian authorities offered their most detailed account so far of the plot behind the brazen assassination of the president in the bedroom of his private home last week, there was widespread skepticism among the public of the official version of events.

An increasingly fraught struggle for control of the country is only adding to the general sense of unease and foreboding as an already grim situation in Haiti threatens to descend further out of control.
A lot has been said about the Irish weather over the years. As Pat Shortt once said in a D'Unbelievables sketch; 'it would be a lovely little country if we could only roof it.'

Well, unfortunately, we can't do that as per the guidelines recommended by NPHET and endorsed by the government. The realm of indoor hospitality is off-limits. If we roofed the country to keep out the rain, we'd have to then close it until July 19, at the earliest, possibly...you know the score!

If the ordinary punter is deeply frustrated by the restrictions and delay to the return of indoor dining, originally planned for today (July 5), then publicans and restauranteurs up and down the country are apoplectic.

Outdoor dining is fine in spells - that being sunny spells - but as we know, they are far and few in Ireland.

The Brewery Tap in Tullamore summed up the frustration as they posted a video of a ferocious shower dampening all spirits at their premises on Sunday: WATCH BELOW:

No canopy or awning was going to protect outdoor diners and drinkers from that rain and so the story goes for weary business owners. Their business depends solely on the most unreliable of old friends; the Irish summer!
Unions representing Frontline Covid-19 healthcare workers in Offaly and elsewhere say their members are deeply offended by a lack of proposal from the HSE to recognise their efforts in the fight against the virus.

The National Joint Council of Health Sector Trade Unions (SIPTU, FORSA, INMO, IMO, Unite, Connect, MLSA and Craft unions met with the employers at the Workplace Relations Commission today.

A statement from the unions claimed that the HSE said that they had no mandate to make an offer.

Unions say they want some form of special recognition for the staff, dating back to late 2020. They added that both the Taoiseach and Tanaiste have indicated that they would support some recognition, but no offer has yet been presented.

The statement added that health service employers in France, Northern Ireland, Denmark and elsewhere have offered staff bonuses or pay increases in recognition of their work and sacrifices over the past year.

Tony Fitzpatrick, chair of the National Joint Council of Health Sector Trade Unions (SIPTU, FORSA, INMO, IMO, Unite, Connect, MLSA and Craft unions).

"Healthcare workers have given their all in the fight against COVID. They have adapted rapidly, worked far beyond their normal responsibilities, and thousands have caught the virus in the line of duty.

Our members are deeply insulted that the government are still not making any proposals to recognise their efforts.

We are now facing into a fourth wave of COVID, with no sign of meaningful recognition of the ongoing efforts made by healthcare workers since the onset of the pandemic.

After all the hard work and extreme risk, it beggars belief that the HSE has once again come to the table empty handed, they said

The unions say that the Workplace Relations Commission will reconvene a meeting with the unions and the employer on this issue on August 5.
What's Included

With a Digital Only subscription, you'll receive unlimited access to our website and e-edition. Our digital products are available 24/7 and are accessible anywhere, anytime.

If you have any questions or need further assistance, please call our customer service team at 716-372-3121 or email nfinnerty@oleantimesherald.com.
Offer a personal message of sympathy...

By sharing a fond memory or writing a kind tribute, you will be providing a comforting keepsake to those in mourning. If you have an existing account with this site, you may log in with that below. Otherwise, you can create an account by clicking on the Log in button below, and then register to create your account.
Beth Stigleman, 55, co-owns Howl-A-Day Pet Resort in Homer Township, west of Midland, located near the corner of Prairie and Homer roads. Howl-A-Day provides animal care, including pet grooming, boarding, and day care. They also offer in-house pet sitting, serving dogs, cats, guinea pigs, rabbits, sugar gliders, chinchillas. It has boarded a big white farm duck and a hermit crab.

When fully staffed, Stigleman has 12-15 employees. Stigleman said they try to be the highest standard pet care facility in the area. At the height of COVID last year, they could only provide care to the pets of health care, emergency, and essential workers in emergency type situations. Stigleman works with her husband, Martin, at Howl-A-Day. Theyve been married for 11 years. They met online when she was living in Ohio and he was in Indiana. Stiglemans a graduate of Lincoln High School in Lincoln, Nebraska, and she earned a bachelors degree in English at the University of Nebraska.

1. How long have you owned your business?

I joined the business by buying into it as a partner in 2007. My partner is Heather LaClair. Weve bought another kennel in Saginaw Township, Woodland Pet Resort.

2. What inspired you to own this business?

I ran a movie theater in Cincinnati, Ohio, small company, art house movie theater. I started to feel dissatisfied. It was getting popular to go online to look for a job. I went to Monster.com. I came across a position for a kennel manager in Cincinnati. I didnt know anything about kennels but I just applied. The company called me, we had several phone interviews. They were called Best Friends Pet Care. They said they could teach anybody to do animal care but not management skills. They were very good to their employees. I learned a lot from them. I started looking for a kennel that was for sale. My now business partner, Heather, was looking to reduce her work commitment. The kennel opened in 1989, Heather bought it in 2003.

3. What makes Midland a great place to own a business?

Midlands clientele is very appreciative of small businesses. They treat business owners well. They appreciate the individuality of it and my team. They bring us cookies, Christmas gifts, talk positively about us online. Midland has a hometown feel.

4. What are some ways your business is active in the local community?

We will assist when have space with local animal shelter rescues, Shelterhouse, taking care of animals due to financial issues, stress issues, pets who belong to domestic violence victims who are trying to leave a situation and dont have a place for their pets. We also give donations of gift certificates to different groups. We used to do a lot of hands-on things. We used to run the dog part of the Ties and Tails fundraiser, and we were also in parades but we dont do that as much as the business has grown. We also have a playgroup, once a month to help dogs and owners learn to socialize. Thats on the second Sunday of every month.

5. What are some of your interests and hobbies?

Besides animals, I love movies, reading, cooking, and gaming. Right before the pandemic, we had invested in a little, teeny cottage in northern Michigan, so wed like to get up there more.

6. What are some local businesses that you work with that help make your business a success?

Every local restaurant. My team gets deliveries of food, something fresh to eat and good for the morale at work. We work with Shelterhouse and local rescues. Also work with veterinarians. I consider them to be part of our team to make sure everybody gets the kind of care they should. They provide us information, we work with them on vaccines, theyve helped us with emergency situations. One veterinarian did surgery on Thanksgiving Day, Dr. Laine Adams. Theyre essential to what we do. When our people are gone, their pets are fully cared for.

7. Other thoughts?

I think people dont want to trust their intuition about animals but I encourage people to do that. Animals are like other family members. With your vet, reach out, ask for help so you know whats going on with your animals, your dogs, cats, hermit crab. Pets now have better lives than when we were kids. People care so much more about their pets today. Our relationship with pets has changed. People shouldnt feel bad about asking questions.

Also want to thank our great customers, we call them our friends and family. We try to post helpful information on Facebook like info about heatstroke.
CANNES, France (AP)  Sean Penn has been to the Cannes Film Festival about a dozen times  from bumming around with Robert De Niro in 1984 to presiding over the jury.

But his last visit was rocky. Penn's film, 2016s The Last Face, flopped with critics in way that would make some filmmakers gun shy about returning.

Penn, though, didnt hesitate. On Saturday night, he premiered in Cannes his latest film, Flag Day, in which he also co-stars.

A few hours before walking down the red carpet, Penn sat comfortably in a hotel bar, excited to be back. The festival is the greatest in the world, he said. Everyone knows its the big game.

And its a game Penn welcomes. Cannes is worth it, even if he takes a few lumps.

The bad stuff, these days, Ive been on such extreme ends on that. Its like: whatever, says Penn. The thing is: I am confident that I know as much -- more --about acting than almost any of these critics. And Im very confident in the performance Im most concerned about.

With that, Penn raises his hand and points toward where his daughter, Dylan Penn, is sitting. Dylan, 30, is the star of Flag Day. She has dabbled before in acting but its easily her biggest role yet. In the film, adapted from Jennifer Vogels 2005 memoir Flim-Flam Man: The True Story of My Fathers Counterfeit Life, she plays Jennifer Vogel, the journalist daughter of a swindler and counterfeiter (played by Penn).

Her fathers confidence isnt misplaced. Dylan is natural, poised and captivating. She looks a veteran, already, which might be expected of the child of Penn and Robin Wright. And those critics? Variety said the film reveals Dylan Penn to be a major actor.

But for a long time, Dylan never wanted the spotlight.

Growing up, being surrounded by actors and being on set, it was really something that didnt interest me at all, Dylan says. I always thought, and still think, my passion lies in working behind the camera. But as soon as I expressed wanting to do that kind of thing, both of my parents said separately: You wont be a good director if you dont know what its like to be in the actors shoes.

Dylan is stepping forward in movies the same time her father is withdrawing. Penn, 60, is in the midst of shooting Sam Esmails Watergate series for Starz, with Julia Roberts. But he has recently pulled further away from Hollywood. Penn devotes more time to Community Organized Relief Effort (CORE), the nonprofit he started after the 2010 earthquake to help Haitians. Haiti has this week again plunged into crisis after the assassination of President Jovenel Moise, a situation Penn calls heartbreaking.

These people have been working so hard to bring their country up and this kind of horrible violence, cynicism  whatever my suspicions the motivation was," he says. "Im glad that our teams are safe for the moment, but its horrible.

During the pandemic, CORE has erected testing and vaccination sites, including one at Los Angeles Dodger Stadium, and dispensed millions of shots. In movies, Penn still has a pair of upcoming roles he says he promised to do years earlier. But beyond that?

Then I just dont know. Id be very surprised. I dont think I would start a movie without knowing if it was going to be a movie. And I dont think Id direct something that wasnt a movie unless it was on the Broadway stage, he says, and then smiles. Theres a simpler way of saying that: Im not interested in directing for the small screen.

Penn is increasingly at odds with Hollywoods dominant priorities. Hes never made a franchise film. He laments Marvel movies and how much its taken up the space and claimed so much time in the careers of so many talented people. He misses cinema that isnt just razzle-dazzle, Cirque de Soleil movies.

So-called cancel culture, he has issues with, too. Arguing that today he wouldn't be allowed to play gay icon Harvey Milk (2008s Milk), Penn recently said that soon only Danish princes will play Hamlet.

But his biggest gripe may be with the onset of direct-to-streaming film releases. The way Ive always put it is: Its not the girl I fell in love with, Penn says.

MGM will release Flag Day theatrically Aug. 20; Penn considers himself lucky to have a movie thats going to be a movie. But it took years to reach this stage. Dylan first read the book when her father optioned it when she was 15. Many possible iterations followed  Penn didnt initially plan to direct  but the prospect of doing the film with Dylan was appealing.

I have always thought if she wanted to do it, Id encourage it, Penn says.

For Dylan, the father-daughter relationship of Flag Day  Jennifer tries to help and stabilize her scamming father but also inherits some of his more destructive, conman habits  is a half-reflection of their own bond together.

She always strived to have this really honest, transparent relationship with her father which she never got it in return," Dylan Penn says. Ive tried to have that with my dad and got it in return.

It made us a lot closer than weve ever been, she adds. Of course, there were times when I talked back or had an attitude, but it was like: You cant. This is your boss. This is work. This is not your dad right now.

Dylan grants the experience was so satisfying that shed like to continue acting. Her dad, she feels, may be passing the torch a little bit, she says. Hopper Jack Penn, her younger brother, also co-stars in the film. The rest of the cast is more veteran, including Josh Brolin and Regina King. Original songs by Cat Power, Eddie Vedder and Glen Hansard contribute to the score.

But the most vibrant parts of Flag Day are the scenes between Dylan and her dad.

Dylan is -- and I can say this in equal parts for my feeling about her as a person and as an actress -- as uncontrived as it gets," Penn says. Thats a great quality to play off of.

___

Follow AP Film Writer Jake Coyle on Twitter at: http://twitter.com/jakecoyleAP

___

This story first published on July 11, 2021 and was updated on July 13, 2021, to correct the release date of Flag Day
LANSING, Mich. (AP)  Michigan Republicans' attempts to add an ID component to absentee ballot applications and to institute signature verification at polling places have died in the GOP-led Legislature, amid pushback from election clerks and voting-rights advocates.

Rep. Ann Bollin, who chairs the House Elections and Ethics Committee, told The Associated Press that she and many other House Republicans oppose a Senate-passed bill that would require absentee ballot applicants to include a copy of their photo ID, their drivers license number or the last four digits of their Social Security number. Those who do not would get a provisional ballot and have to either verify their voter registration or their identity and residence within six days after the election for it to count.

There was not support to make it more difficult for voters through the AV process, said Bollin, of Brighton Township.

Nearly 3.3 million people  a record  voted absentee in November. Voters currently seeking an absentee ballot by mail must sign the application, and the signature is matched to the voter file.

The Senate, meanwhile, is poised as soon as this coming week to reject the House GOP's proposal to require that in-person voters signatures be verified before they are given a ballot, by mandating that signatures in Michigan's voter file be added to electronic poll books. An existing verification requirement is effectively meaningless and unenforceable because signatures are not loaded into e-poll books.

The most positive means of proving your identity is through your photo ID. ... I don't think the signature should be used as the mechanism for verifying someone's identity over the photo ID, said Sen. Tom Barrett, a Charlotte Republican and sponsor of the legislation that will undergo changes.

Bollin, who has spoken with Barrett, said she is OK with removing the proposed signature check at precincts  citing opposition from clerks. She is a former township clerk.

GOP lawmakers, however, remain committed to toughening the state's photo ID requirement to vote in person, despite a certain veto from Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.

Voters without photo identification now can sign an affidavit and cast a ballot at their polling place. More than 11,400, or 0.2%, of nearly 5.6 million voters did that in the fall election. Under the main bill, they would instead vote a provisional ballot.

There is zero evidence that a single one of these voters who signed the affidavit since 2007 violated the law in any way, yet these bills would disenfranchise them, Dorian Tyus, deputy voter protection director at the Michigan Democratic Party, told legislators last month. The elderly, younger voters, the poor and people of color would be disproportionately affected, he said.

This is nothing but modern-day Jim Crow laws created to mute the already voiceless. These bills will only create more obstacles for those who already have so many obstacles to be able to maintain their right to vote, said Rep. Tenisha Yancey, a Harper Woods Democrat.

The legislation is tied to House-approved bills that would make it easier to obtain a personal state ID card by eliminating fees for obtaining or renewing one. The $10 fee already is waived for certain people, including the elderly, those on welfare or disability assistance, the homeless and veterans.

Republicans say photo ID is required to board airplanes, open bank accounts and buy medicines to treat colds  an argument Democrats and voting-rights advocates counter by noting that voting is a constitutional right.

The continued legislative debate comes just weeks after a GOP-led Senate panel concluded there was no widespread or systemic election fraud despite false claims by former President Donald Trump and his allies that he won reelection.

Republicans may get around the governor's expected vetoes with a maneuver that lets lawmakers adopt citizen-initiated ballot drives.

___

Follow David Eggert at https://twitter.com/DavidEggert00
SEOUL, South Korea  South Korea has reported more than 1,000 coronavirus cases for the sixth straight day as the greater capital area entered stringent social distancing restrictions to slow transmissions.

The 1,100 new cases reported by the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency were the highest ever for a Monday, when the daily increase is usually smaller because of reduced tests during the weekends.

More than 780 of the cases were from capital Seoul and nearby Incheon and Gyeonggi Province, areas where officials have enforced the countrys strongest social distancing measures starting Monday.

Private social gatherings of three or more people will be prohibited from 6 p.m., nightclubs and churches will be shut down, and visitors will be banned at hospitals and nursing homes.

South Korea has added more than 12,100 cases this month alone, brining its caseload to 169,146, including 2,044 deaths. The country last week set record daily increases for three straight days through Saturday, when it reported 1,378 new cases.

The viral surge is a worrisome development in a country where only 30.4% among a population of 51 million have received their first doses of vaccines.

___

MORE ON THE PANDEMIC:

 South Africa ramps up vaccine drive, too late for this surge

 Myanmar caught off guard as cases surge, oxygen dwindles

___

Follow more of APs pandemic coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/coronavirus-pandemic and https://apnews.com/hub/coronavirus-vaccine

___

HERES WHAT ELSE IS HAPPENING:

DHAKA, Bangladesh  Authorities in Bangladesh say the country has registered the highest number of COVID-19 casualties and positive cases in a single day.

The news comes amid concern that the coronavirus pandemic could worsen over the next seven days.

The governments Directorate General of Health Services said that 230 people died and 11,874 tested positive on Sunday. Thats a single-day record on both counts.

About 100,000 people have tested positive for the coronavirus in the last 10 days.

Experts say if the present trend continues already overwhelmed hospitals would struggle to provide treatment.

Bangladesh has been under a nationwide lockdown since July 1. But new records of positive cases are being reported everyday.

Overall, Bangladesh has reported more than 1 million positive cases, including 16,419 deaths, in the nation of 160 million people.

___

MOSCOW  Russias daily tally of confirmed coronavirus infections has exceeded 25,000 for the third day in a row.

Authorities reported 25,033 new cases Sunday.

Russia has been facing a sharp rise of contagions in recent weeks, with daily new infections increasing from around 9,000 in early June to over 25,000 on Friday. For the first time in the pandemic, the daily death toll exceeded 700 on Tuesday. Its remained at that level ever since, with 749 new deaths registered on Sunday.

Officials blame the surge on the spread of the delta variant. Theyre seeking to boost vaccine uptake, which has remained lower than in many Western countries. As of Wednesday, about 27 million Russians, or just 18.5% of the 146-million population, have received at least one shot of a vaccine, and 18.5 million, or 12.6%, have been fully vaccinated.

___

ISLAMABAD  Pakistans planning minister is encouraging the countrys 27 million citizens who are over 50 to get vaccinated against COVID-19

Asad Umar also heads the national body tasked to control coronavirus. He said people over 50 are vulnerable to serious health effects.

Umar in a tweet Sunday said that 5.6 million people, or 20.6% of those in Pakistan in that age group, have received at least one dose of the vaccine.

The federal body recorded a slight hike in the positivity rate. Its asking residents to wear masks and maintain social distance at public places.

Authorities report 27 additional death and 1,980 more cases of the virus in a single day. That brings the countrys tally of deaths due to COVID-19 to 22582 and number of total confirmed cases to 973,284.

___

CAIRO  Health officials say Libya has seen an unprecedented spike in coronavirus cases amid a slow vaccination program and concerns about the highly infectious delta variant.

The number of new cases in the oil-rich country has risen more than six times since July 1, according to daily figures from Libyas National Center for Disease Control.

We are facing an unprecedented situation, said Tareq Gibrael, a senior physician at the center. The constantly rising curve of new cases shows that we are bracing for a third wave, especially now that the delta variant is spreading in neighboring countries. We are in a very tough position.

On Saturday, the North African country recorded 2,854 new cases, up from 719 a week earlier. So far, Libya has recorded more than 200,000 total cases, including 3,232 deaths. The actual figures are believed to be much higher given the scarcity of testing and the depletion of the countrys health care system after almost a decade of civil war.

___

LONDON  Britains vaccines minister says that people in England are expected to continue wearing masks indoors from July 19 even though the legal requirement to do so would be dropped.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson will confirm Monday whether most coronavirus restrictions including social distancing and mandatory mask-wearing will be lifted the following week as widely expected.

Vaccines minister Nadhim Zahawi said new guidance will be issued Monday on mask-wearing. He said there will be an expectation of people to wear masks indoors, in crowded places, on public transport instead of a legal requirement.

The U.K. is seeing a sharp surge in coronavirus cases. Its partly driven by the more transmissible delta variant and partly by increased social mixing with the easing of lockdown rules. New cases now stand at over 34,000 a day. But deaths and hospitalizations have remained low and broadly stable.

___

JERUSALEM  Israels prime minister says the country has struck a deal with Pfizer to receive a fresh batch of coronavirus vaccines in August to help with its drive to vaccinate teenagers.

Prime Minister Naftali Bennett said at the start of the weekly Cabinet meeting that the agreement to advance delivery of new vaccines to Aug. 1 to ensure from this moment a continuous supply of vaccines in the state of Israel.

Bennett said that the country had vaccinated over 200,000 people in recent weeks. Many of them were teenagers. The country is trying to halt a fresh outbreak of the highly contagious delta variant. Children under age 12 arent yet eligible for the vaccine.

Israel has vaccinated over 61% of its 9.3 million citizens with at least one dose, and almost 56% with two doses, the vast majority with the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine.

The Health Ministry has recorded a steady climb in new infections in recent weeks, most of them among unvaccinated young children. Most new infections have been mild cases of coronavirus.

___

JAKARTA, Indonesia  Three million doses of the Moderna vaccine have arrived in Indonesia.

Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin said that the Moderna vaccine will be used as a third dose for health care workers.

Sadikin said that the plan for this vaccine, apart from (being) the first and second injections for the Indonesian people, we will specifically use it for the third booster injection for Indonesian health workers."

Many health care workers were previously vaccinated with the Chinese produced Sinovac vaccine.

___

JOHANNESBURG  New infections in South Africa have risen to record levels in recent days.

Its part of a rapid rise across the continent. And experts say the surge here hasnt yet peaked.

South Africa has reimposed several restrictions to fight the new wave. They include shutting restaurants and bars and limiting alcohol sales.

Its vaccination drive is also finding its feet after several stumbles. But experts say its too late to reduce the deadly impact of the current spike.

South Africa is instead rushing to vaccinate enough of its 60 million people to blunt the impact of the next surge.

___

TOKYO  The mayors of two Tokyo islands have asked the metropolitan government to take the planned Olympic torch relay off public roads amid a surge in coronavirus cases.

The torch relay in Tokyo, which started on Friday, has been taken off all public roads except for those on islands, because of rising cases in the Japanese capital.

Kyodo News agency reported that the mayors of Oshima and Hachijo have asked the Tokyo Metropolitan Government to take the torch off public roads in their areas, citing rising virus cases.

Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga on Thursday declared a state of emergency in Tokyo.

Olympic officials last week barred all fans from venues in Tokyo and three neighboring prefectures.

Tokyo reported 950 new cases on Saturday. That is the highest level since early May. Japan has reported about 816,000 cases and 15,000 deaths during the pandemic.

___

COLOMBO, Sri Lanka  Sri Lanka has received a further 2 million doses of the Chinese-made Sinopharm vaccine.

The country is aiming to vaccinate nearly everyone above 30 years old by September.

Sri Lanka has relied on China for most of its vaccination program.

Authorities are currently focusing on vaccinating the elderly and those connected with the tourism sector.

Sri Lanka has reported 273,031 cases including 3,467 deaths during the pandemic.

___

BANKGOK  Myanmar is facing a a rapid rise in COVID-19 patients and a shortage of oxygen supplies.

The situation comes as the country is consumed by a bitter and violent political struggle since the military seized power in February after ousting civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi.

Myanmar had weathered last years surge by severely restricting travel and securing vaccines from India and China. Her ouster came less than a week after the first jabs were given to health workers.

People shunned military hospitals after the takeover and medical workers spearheaded a popular civil disobedience movement.

Myanmar's new rulers have ordered oxygen plants to work at full capacity including converting industrial oxygen for the needs of patients.
A wildfire in northern Colorado has grown to nearly 2,000 acres on its third day of burning amid extreme fire behavior, fire officials said.

Forest closures were implemented Sunday, July 11 within Routt National Forest due to the rapid growth of the Morgan Creek fire north of Steamboat Springs.

The area closure impacts roads, trails, recreation sites, and a large section of the Continental Divide Trail. Violations of the closure could cost an individual $5,000 or imprisonment up to six months or both.

Fire Closure map for Morgan Creek fire (Photo) Courtesy USDA Forest Service Fire Closure map for Morgan Creek fire in Routt National Forest, Colorado. Current as of July 11, 2021.

CLICK HERE to view Morgan Creek Fire Area Closure Map.

NEWSLETTER: Sign-up for the free OutThere Colorado newsletter here

The fire has entered the Mt. Zirkel Wilderness, which is west of Walden, Colorado.

The closure applies to all public use of roads, trails, and other natural features such as lakes, creeks, and mountains.

RELATED: 10-year-old dies of plague in Colorado county

RELATED: At-risk Colorado teen missing since Thursday

The closed area extends approximately from the National Forest boundary on the west near the town of Clark in Routt County; north to Big Agnes Mountain; east over the Continental Divide to the National Forest boundary in Jackson County near Red Canyon; and south to Mount Ethel.

Closures also include a large section in the middle of the Mount Zirkel Wilderness, a section of the Continental Divide Trail, all Forest Service recreation sites along the Seedhouse corridor, including campgrounds, trailheads, and the Seedhouse Guard Station. Forest Road 400 is closed where County Road 64 enters the National Forest. Forest Roads 440, 442, and all associated spur roads are also closed.

CLICK HERE to view Morgan Creek Fire Closure Map

Many other trailheads and Forest Service recreation sites are impacted in both counties, such as part of the motorized Grizzly-Helena Trail in Jackson County. Read the fire closure order here.

Better mapping late Saturday shows the Morgan Creek fire has scorched 1,920 acres.

The blaze continues to move early Sunday to southeast areas and toward Floyd Peak. Flames are also reaching the Burn Ridge and Middle Fork burn scars.

Officials report the Morgan Creek fire's behavior is "extreme, with spotting, torching, and crown runs."

The Morgan Creek fire was reported about 1 p.m. Friday, July 9 about 15 miles north of Steamboat Springs in northern Colorado. The cause of the fire is currently unknown.

Sixty-five firefighters are battling the blaze amid extreme fire behavior as it is fueled by heavy dead and downed timber, officials said.

Pre-evacuation orders have been issued for residents in northern Routt County. Click here to view the voluntary evacuation map.
Tripoli, Libya (PANA) - Libyan Prime Minister Abdelhamid Al-Dbaiba has issued a decree closing cafes and banning the use of public transport, cultural and social events as the government rolls out preventive measures to fight rising cases of coronavirus
Tripoli, Libya (PANA) - The heads of state of the G5 Sahel have, at the end of the 5th extraordinary session, expressed their deep concern about the absence of a plan to withdraw foreign mercenaries in Libya, estimated at nearly 30,000 fighters, for the security of the G5 Sahel countries and the sub-region
Tripoli, Libya (PANA) - The search for alternative solutions to the deadlock in Libya's political process, after the failure of the Libyan Political Dialogue Forum (LPDF) to finalise a legal basis for the December elections, and the persistent blockage in the adoption of the budget by the parliament dominated the country's newspapers this week
It was the best of both worlds. Honorees and guests gathered in person in the beautiful Governor Fifer Courtroom in the Museum while attendees could watch the livestream event from the comfort of their home.
BLOOMINGTON  With reports revealing that many people and businesses need assistance following last month's storm damage, the McLean County Emergency Management Agency is working with the state to open a Multi-Agency Resource Center, or MARC, to bring together representatives from local and state agencies as well as essential support organizations.

We will be working with local and state agencies to bring assistance to the people and businesses affected by the severe weather from June 25  June 27, Acting Director of the McLean County EMA Cathy Beck stated. Typically, MARCs have resources such as the Illinois Department of Human Services, Illinois Department of Insurance, the American Red Cross, the Salvation Army, local social service agencies, and agencies that specifically assist seniors, veterans, and those with functional needs.

Support Local Journalism Your membership makes our reporting possible. {{featured_button_text}}

The MARC will be in operation Saturday, July 17, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday, July 18, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The location is still being confirmed.

Agencies that would like to participate, or businesses that would like to provide giveaways, may contact McLean County EMA at 309-888-5020 or ema@mcleancountyil.gov.

Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0

Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy.
A man has been charged in the shooting death last month of a father of two during an attack at the Puerto Rican Day parade in Humboldt Park, and authorities said Saturday the childrens mother appears to have been unintentionally shot to death by the father during the frenzy of the nights events.

Anthony Lorenzi, 34, was arrested Friday in San Diego in connection with the June 19 incident that led to the deaths of 23-year-old Yasmin Perez and 24-year-old Gyovanny Arzuaga, a couple from Hanover Park who is survived by two young children.

Lorenzi, who court records indicate is from Chicago, was charged with first-degree murder in the death of Arzuaga.

Officials said their investigation most likely points to Perez being killed by a bullet that Arzuaga accidentally discharged.

They also said they have not found a motive that suggests the assailants knew the couple who were attacked in what police Superintendent David Brown said was a brutal and brazenly committed slaying.

Right now, it appears that it is possibly just a car accident, and then that immediate frenzy that then occurs, Chicago polices chief of detectives Brendan Deenihan said at a news conference. Once again, we dont have any exact motive.

Arzuaga and Perez, who lived with their two children in Hanover Park, drove to Humboldt Park to attend the Puerto Rican Day parade and celebrate their culture, Arzuagas aunt, Vickie Ponciano, has said.

But a little after 9 p.m., near the end of the festivities, the couple was attacked by a group of men after a very minor traffic crash in the 3200 block of West Division Street, a police official has said.

After the crash, a group of people approached the vehicle, and you basically had a swarm of people attack the car and were beating and pulling on the two victims ... punching them, trying to pull them out of the car, Deenihan said.

Viral video of the shooting that circulated online showed Perez being dragged by several people out of a dark SUV with a Puerto Rican flag sticking out of a window. Deenihan said Saturday that she was then shot in the neck, and the bullet appears to be from a .40-caliber handgun that was later recovered under Arzuagas body.

From everything, it points to, once again, more than likely that he (Arzuaga) discharged a firearm accidentally, causing that gunshot wound to her neck, Deenihan said.

Two other people who were in the car with the couple appeared to be family members or friends and were not involved with the shootings, Deenihan said.

Arzuaga, who was seen on the ground on top of Perez to cover her body, was then wounded in the head by a gunman in a white tank top, the video showed, from what Deenihan described as execution-style shots.

Lorenzi, who authorities believe fled to San Diego the morning after the shooting, was arrested by U.S. marshals officers without incident Friday evening at a parking lot outside an apartment complex. He has seven felony convictions, Brown said. His home address is listed as in Humboldt Park, records show.

Though Lorenzi alone was responsible for Arzuagas death, Deenihan said, there is an unspecified number of other suspects who are being sought.

Theres nowhere to run, Brown said. Theres nowhere to hide. We will find you and bring you to justice, and we will go to great lengths to make sure that happens.

Arzuaga died of his injuries the night of the shooting while Perez died a few days later. Police said Arzuaga was wounded in the head, left thigh, left hip, lower back and right shoulder, and Perez suffered a through-and-through gunshot wound to the neck.

The couple was among 14 people shot within blocks of parade festivities over that weekend. Of those 14, three others also were killed.

We are all heartbroken and devastated beyond belief as they leave behind two beautiful children, reads a note on a GoFundMe page set up by one of the victims families to pay for funeral and medical expenses.

A few days after the shooting, Mayor Lori Lightfoot said police had promising leads in the case.

But as you saw from that horrific video, it wasnt just one person. Theres one person who dealt the fatal shot, but there were others who were standing by, who dragged that poor woman out of the car, the man who was killed literally used his body as a shield and he paid for that with his life, Lightfoot said, calling it a horrific statement about those involved.

Ponciano said Arzuaga was a wonderful father, who cared for his children and their mother.

She added that both of their mothers, Arzuagas and Perezs, are in deep pain, and the family has a lot of questions about the slayings.

Arzuaga and Perez were among at least nine people slain  eight by gunfire  in Chicago over Fathers Day weekend. Those shot and killed were among more than 50 shooting victims that weekend.

Tribune reporter Paige Fry contributed.

Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0
CHICAGO  A 35-year-old man thanked his victim for saving his life, at a bail hearing Saturday afternoon where he faced vehicular hijacking charges for taking a rental van at gunpoint in the Austin neighborhood.

Andrew Collins of the 400 block of North St. Louis Avenue was charged with one count of vehicular hijacking of a handicap person, one count of discharge of a weapon and one misdemeanor count of leaving the scene, police said.

During a bail hearing broadcast on YouTube, prosecutors said Collins was first involved in a gun exchange in an alley near a U-Haul business in the 1700 block of North Cicero Avenue, where he encountered at man in his 60s attempting to return a van.

Prosecutors said Collins aimed a gun at the victims head and demanded he get out of the vehicle, but when he was moving slowly, Collins fired a shot near the victims head before taking off.

Collins then crashed twice in the 3800 block of West Roosevelt Road and was taken into police custody when he exited the stolen U-Haul van, prosecutors said.

In the middle of the bail hearing Collins said, I want to thank the old-timer for saving my life, and the judge explained he would have time to defend his actions during a court hearing.

Prosecutors said the victim was disabled and using a cane at the time of the carjacking.

Collins, who had previous felonies, was denied bail, and his next court date was scheduled for July 19.

Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0
SPRINGFIELD  Dave Johnson was with his son having lunch, a delayed Father's Day get-together at Los Rancheros' outdoor tent on the far southwest side last June 26, when it suddenly seemed like "every siren in the city" started going off.

Johnson called his wife, who informed him that there had been a shooting at the Bunn-O-Matic facility on Stevenson Drive.

Johnson said his mind started racing. The pastor at South Fork Church of Christ in Rochester, Johnson said he knew people from the congregation who worked there and wondered about their safety.

Still unaware of the scope of things, Johnson, also a chaplain for the Springfield Police Department, texted Chief Kenny Winslow and Assistant Chief Ken Scarlette. Was there any way he could help out?

"Immediately, I can't remember which one got back to me, they said they could use me at the reunification center at Magro's Meats & Produce, just to be there as a support for families," Johnson recalled.

It was there in a back room that the families of Christopher Aumiller, 25, and William "Bill" Gibbons, 61, both of Springfield, were informed about their deaths by Sangamon County coroner Jim Allmon. A third victim, Marsha Strumpher, 54, of Springfield died at HSHS St. John's Hospital on the following day, June 27.

A year after the incident, Johnson admitted his heart "still breaks a little bit" for the victims' families who haven't been able to get more particular answers about that day.

The Bunn shooting made national headlines and came four months after a brewery employee killed five co-workers at Milwaukee's Molson Coors campus, then killed himself.

Experts say workplace shootings remain statistically rare, though rampages in Indianapolis on April 15 and in San Jose on May 26 claimed eight people and nine people respectively. In most conventional databases, the Bunn shooting wouldn't be captured because mass shootings are defined by four or more people being shot or killed, excluding the perpetrator.

The acknowledged gunman, Michael L. Collins, 48, of Springfield, also a Bunn employee, was found dead inside his vehicle in rural Morgan County, about eight miles from Jacksonville, on the afternoon of the shooting.

Johnson, who has been a minister for 35 years, said for him to be invited into that room, "that sanctuary," with families of the victims was something unforgettable.

"In the midst of that level of pain, I didn't know of any human way to address it," Johnson said. "There was a holy moment to it."

Johnson isn't the only one who wishes the families had more answers.

Winslow maintained, in a recent interview in his office, that the victims were targeted. Evidence shows that Collins walked by other people to pick out his victims, Winslow said.

A cell phone Collins was using was turned off and never recovered, Winslow said. Collins left no notes behind and no past incidents led police to think there was some ongoing dispute between Collins and the other workers.

Collins' last brush with the law was in the early 1990s.

"We wanted to be able to answer that for the family, that 'why,'" Winslow said. "It was frustrating for the detectives. It was frustrating for the department. I'm sure it was frustrating for the families.

"We'd still love to be able to provide that answer for families."

City of Springfield officials are working with the families of Aumiller, Gibbons and Strumpher on tree plantings as memorials on property around Lake Springfield within the next couple of weeks, said spokeswoman Julia Frevert.

Scott Lee, senior vice president of human resources at Bunn, said any remembrance of the three workers would be done internally and privately "out of respect for what everybody wanted." That included, Lee said, the workers' families.

Bunn will be making Memorial Behavioral Health professionals available to workers on Friday, but "that's been a constant since (the incident)," Lee said.

"It certainly is in the front of our minds every day and it always will be, frankly," Lee added.

Winslow said the police department's command staff was at a meeting on focused deterrence at the emergency operations center in the Municipal Building East when the first call came in about an active shooter a little after 11 a.m.

"You start running through your mind," Winslow said, "all the preps and all the plans that you've got in place and what needs to be done. You could hear the men and women already responding.

"You could hear 'there's one down in the parking lot' on the radio and you know it's the real deal. You keep hoping when it comes out, it's wrong, it's false."

Responding officers were able to get a name and description of the shooter in fairly short order, Winslow said. Police were getting reports of multiple shots fired in the building as well as outside the building and at that point, Winslow said police didn't know if there was one shooter or multiple shooters, or the number of victims.

An Illinois State Police report detailed, based on videos and CAD (computer-aided design) data, that police were on scene 33 seconds after Collins left the parking lot, said Deputy Chief Joshua Stuenkel.

Collins' GMC truck was last seen on video eastbound on Stevenson Drive at Palmer Street.

"Where his exact actions took him, we never pinpointed 100%," Winslow said.

Any plan, the chief added, probably would not have taken Collins by either of his residences, which were quickly staked out by undercover detectives.

Familiarity may have taken Collins to Morgan County, where he had a cousin, Winslow said, but even an online police case from 1992, a misdemeanor, lists his address as Springfield.

Winslow said both guns found on Collins  one registered to him and one registered to his wife  were linked to the crime scene. Winslow speculated that Collins had two guns so he didn't have to reload.

Stuenkel said there was no way to tell if Collins had either or both firearms with him earlier or if he grabbed them from his truck during a smoke break closer to the outset of the shootings.

Jaclyn Schildkraut, an associate professor of criminal justice at State University of New York at Oswego and a national expert on mass shootings, said the two most common places for mass shootings are workplaces and schools.

The location in some way is usually symbolic to the shooter, Schildkraut said, for a grievance real or perceived  they were fired from their job or they were bullied or ostracized by their co-workers.

Still, workplace shootings are rare, Schildkraut said. A database compiled by The Associated Press, USA Today and Northeastern University found that between 2006 and February 2020, there had been 13 mass workplace shootings carried out by a current or former employee

While the COVID-19 pandemic may have curtailed the rate of public mass shootings, "it didn't drop to zero," Schildkraut said.

There is always a planning element to the shooting, Schildkraut added, "but the reality is, and I don't use this context specifically, the best laid plans don't ever go the way you plan them. They could have a plan, then the gun could jam or no one is there or people respond and get behind locked doors.

"So it doesn't really matter how long you plan or how well you plan. It's not going to go according to that plan. The reality is a mass shooter has five minutes or less before the police show up and bring it to an end."

Although the case is officially closed, Winslow said, time plays a role in investigations such as this.

"We've kind of hit this dead end and that's kind of where we're at right now," Winslow said. "Sometimes things change over time and something will come forward."

For the first 45 minutes or so he was at the reunification point at Magro's, Pastor Dave Johnson watched "a lot of nervous family members being able to see their loved ones and seeing the relief in their faces."

When Coroner Allmon arrived, Magro's supplied the team a room, Johnson said. It was there that Allmon confided with the Aumiller and Gibbons families about the victims' identities.

A mental health professional from Memorial Behavioral Health and several police officers were also present.

"That's something," Johnson said, "I'll never forget, watching the families' reaction, the shock and awe of that. I've dealt with crises and those types of things, but never a shooting."

In both situations, Johnson was able to address the families.

"I remember talking about how none of this makes sense, that they weren't alone in this," said Johnson, one of three SPD chaplains. "You're just trying to give some pastoral support, that was the main thing. Do they even remember anything I said? I'm sure they didn't.

"It wasn't real yet. The coroner just tells you your loved one (was taken from you). How do you process that? How do you even begin to process that? What I saw was that once that news was finally delivered (by Allmon), there was the initial reaction then there was the now what?

"That's where I try to step in from the spiritual perspective, just to say you're not alone in this. There's a God who loves you. There's a God who cares. I can't understand why he would allow this to happen. Nobody can, but all I know is that he hasn't left us. That's when we went into prayer and tried to provide some comfort."

Getting the word of the shooting, in the middle of dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic, said Springfield Mayor Jim Langfelder was "almost like a numbing effect."

"You hope," Langfelder said, "you never go through it, but it did show, with the pandemic, how fragile life is and how much we need to embrace one another, especially family and friends."

Langfelder said a huge part of that consolation was having Arthur "Hy" Bunn, the president and CEO of the corporation, on the scene that day.

"The employees look up to him, the community looks up to him and I think it was important that he did say a few words," Langfelder said. "Hy Bunn, under the circumstances, rose to the occasion."

A year later, the victims' families are at the forefront of Langfelder's mind.

"They live that each and every day," he said. "Their loved one isn't coming through the door anymore. That's how we reflect back on it. Nobody should have to go through that."

Winslow said his thoughts turned to several things, including how the Springfield community came together and the outpouring of support at memorial services, like ones at Centennial Park and Bunn.

"We appreciated then and we still appreciate," Bunn's Lee added, "all the support we had from the community that day and forward."

A list Winslow used to keep count of all the Sangamon County agencies, and others, like the FBI and Illinois State Police, was a reminder of who responded that day.

As Saturday approaches, there is a more singular thought for Winslow.

"If anything comes out of all of this, it's just I want the families to know we haven't forgotten about them, that someday hopefully we can answer that 'why,' and that we pray for them, especially as we get to these anniversaries," Winslow said. "We think of them and their tragic losses and keep them in their thoughts and prayers."

Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0
The delta variant is the new pandemic scare story. Its spread into the U.S. hasnt led to a surge in deaths or packed hospital wards, but the news of its existence rained on the Fourth of July parades.

Public health specialists have responded with a baffling spray of contradictory recommendations, conflicting information and seemingly inconsistent scientific facts. The result, as in earlier phases of the COVID-19 scourge, has been needless confusion and rage. Should vaccinated people wear masks? It depends whom you ask. Can economic life return to normal? Expert opinions vary.

Some say it depends on local conditions. Dr. Anthony Fauci, the White House medical adviser, says everyone should mask up in Alabama, which has a low vaccination rate and climbing cases.

Rochelle Walensky, director of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, recommended indoor masking for any community with a vaccination rate under a third. But Los Angeles County wants vaccinated people to wear masks despite a relatively high vaccination rate.

Delta, first detected in India, is even more transmissible than the super-transmissible variant now called alpha (previously B.1.1.7 and originating in the U.K.), which prompted calls for double masking just last spring.

The delta variant arose as a threat around the same time that public health authorities in the U.S. were encouraging individuals to make their own decisions about coronavirus safety instead of urging uniform standards of behavior. In May, the CDC relaxed its masking recommendations and Walensky declared that fully vaccinated people can start doing the things that they had stopped doing because of the pandemic.

That shift was prompted by availability of highly effective vaccines, which appear to work against all forms of COVID-19, including the delta variant. But a shift to a focus on personal responsibility is also a political and ethical change. So its unsurprising, if also unsatisfying, that recommendations and rules vary: the World Health Organization joins Los Angeles County in saying that vaccinated people should wear a mask in most indoor settings, but the CDC maintains that mask decisions should be up to regions, businesses and individuals.

Walensky explained that vaccines are much more available in the U.S. than in most parts of the world and are more widely used in some U.S. states than others. So the CDC and WHO recommendations both can be said to have scientific support. But science also shows that vaccinated people are highly unlikely to get seriously ill even if infected by the delta variant, and are extremely unlikely to infect others in the grocery aisles.

Thats why the science isnt, by itself, a prescription for sound public health policy. Virology and epidemiology can give people an estimate of how risky something is, but cant tell people how much risk is too much, or which mitigation measures impose too much burden.

Communication separating the scientific from the political hasnt been clear. Much of the publics continued fear, and the public health guidance that reflects it, might trace back to misguided warnings early in the vaccination campaign that vaccines didnt protect others.

Proponents of universal masking considered it a worthwhile strategy in 2020, when cases were rising and vaccines werent widely available, but how much masks helped is still not well quantified.

Its still theoretically possible for some vaccinated people to develop long-term complications from a mild case, or that some serious cases will show up among people taking immune-suppressive drugs. So the risk hasnt been eliminated. But delta isnt setting us back to 2020, either.

The confusion comes from the fact that this shift to personal responsibility wasnt made clear, any more than the shift away from it was made clearly enough back in the spring of 2020.

There was a political element to the shift both times  and thats fine as long as its informed by good science and its what people want.

Faye Flam is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist.

Love 0 Funny 1 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0
100 years ago

July 11, 1921: Bloomington isnt getting a lot of new industry because of impurities in its water, making it classify as hard, says a visiting chemical and mechanical engineer. Bloomington has the second hardest water in the country. Shreveport, Louisiana, has the hardest, he said.

75 years ago

July 11, 1946: A Navy pilot was killed when his plane crashed and burned along Route 47 near Wing in Livingston County. He was identified as Mahlon Jiggs Morris of Fairbury. He had been discharged from the service but held reserve status, and was thought to be putting in flying time.

50 years ago

July 11, 1971: Hats off to Mrs. Ova Harms, 77, for winning the Golden Age Fishing Derby at Miller Park. She tied for first with two others, all of them catching three fish 5 inches long. She became the winner by lottery. Mrs. Harms posed for her winners photo, her hat still on.

25 years ago

July 11, 1996: A judge convicted Sheila Shanklin, 53, of Lexington, of 21 misdemeanor counts of animal cruelty. She was acquitted of one. Investigators raided her home earlier, removing dogs, cats, horses, goats and more in various stages of mistreatment. Shanklin faces a fine and jail time.

Compiled by Jack Keefe; jkeefe@coldwellhomes.com.
Lorde says it has been a "divine" experience coming off social media.

The 24-year-old pop star deleted all her Instagram posts other than one promoting her upcoming album 'Solar Power' and two others and she despite having 7.2 million followers on Twitter she has no tweets up.

Lorde - real name Ella Yelich-O'Connor - insists it's been one of her best ever decisions and she feels free now rather be pummelled with information all day.

Speaking on Australian radio show 'Ash London Live', she said: "Its been divine, I really enjoy it. Im a shy sensitive person.

Its a lot of information, I realise how I was just pummelling myself with headlines and thoughts from other people all day and it didnt give me much room to have ideas or brainstorm things. Im very grateful for that now."

Lorde admits there is one drawback to coming off social media - it is now much harder to keep in touch and up-to-date on her friends' lives.

She said: "The only thing I do think is that I underestimated how much of my friends loves I kept up with on Instagram. People dont really tell you what theyre up to, they just tell everyone via a story. Thats how people stay connected. I really have to make friend dates. Ive been calendaring peoples birthdays now."

The 'Royals' hitmaker previously claimed she felt as though she was "losing" her free by spending so much time on social media.

She said: "Part of what made me peace out on social media, apart from feeling like I was losing my free will, was the massive amounts of stress I was feeling about our planet, about systemic racism, and about police brutality in this country.

"I don't know how you, someone I would describe as being reasonably neurotic, cope with that."
In August 2020, Apple lost a US$506.2 million patent infringement case to Optis Wireless Technology over 4G telecommunications technology used in Apple's iPhone. Then eight months later, a US Judge agreed with Apple's argument that the Optis v. Apple Lawsuit was technically tainted and tossed $506 million in damages award.

Apple argued that the entire trial in the Optis case was tainted because the jury wasnt told of the patent owners licensing obligations. The issue wasnt brought before the jury because Optis asked that the judge, not the jury, to determine whether it was compliant with its FRAND requirements.

Optis then decided to sue Apple in the UK and that country's Supreme Court has sided with Optis Cellular Technology. Optis Cellular and Optis Wireless are under the same umbrella as linked to above

The report doesn't list the patents in this case so it's unknown if this is a new case or the same 2020 case revived. However, the amount leaping to US$7 billion would suggest It's a separate case as this time it's Optis Cellular and not Optis Wireless having won their case.

The report further noted that "Apple faces a trial in 2022 over how much it should pay. The UK Supreme Court ruled last year that a UK court is able to set the rate Apple should pay for all of its iPhone patents worldwide, even though the court only considers the infringement of UK patents."

That position sounds insane and Apple's lawyers have warned it could quit the UK market if a court forces the company to pay a 'commercially unacceptable' fee for the technology used in its iPhones.

Apple's lawyer Marie Demetriou noted that the company's position is it should indeed be able to reflect on the terms and decide whether commercially it is right to accept them or to leave the UK market. There may be terms that are set by the court which are just commercially unacceptable.'

There will be a separate court case later this month over whether Apple should make a legally-binding pledge to abide by the payout rate decided at trial in July 2022. Apple could be banned from selling iPhones in the UK if it refuses to make undertakings to the court." For more, read the UK report from 'This is Money.'

The UK and EU have shown outright open hostility towards U.S. tech firms over the last few years, with EU having executed a number of cases against Apple, Google, Amazon, Facebook and others while planning an avalanche of cases now in the making.
The Nkoranza South District Assembly and Department of Agriculture has commenced the distribution of 150,000 grafted cashew and mango seedlings to farmers in the area.



The distribution of the improved variety with a shorter maturity period falls in line with government's Planting for Exports and Rural Development (PERD) initiative, which is aimed at decentralizing the National Tree Crops Programme to promote rural economic growth and enhance the foreign exchange earning capacity of the Ghanaian economy.



Cashew is one of the six tree crops that will receive government's attention under the PERD initiative is largely being supervised by the local authorities and the District Assemblies.



Speaking at a brief forum to present the seedlings to the District Department of Agriculture for inwards distribution to the over 2,000 registered farmers, the District Chief Executive of the area, Honourable Diana Attaa-Kusiwa,said the Assembly adopted the cashew and Mango crops because of it's potential in helping boost the local economy.



She said the government of the President Akufo-Addo is committed to improving the Agriculture sector hence the birth of Planting for Export and Rural Development program which is also a subsidiary of the Planting for food and jobs policy.



She stated that farmers would receive the seedlings free of charge and also enjoy free technical assistance from the Agric department to ensure greater crop yield.



The DCE, who is hopeful that the cashew and the Mango crops will help transform the lives of the farmers for the better, urged them to take the project seriously for their own prosperity, that of the district and the Nation as a whole.



She assured the farmers of the continues support of the Assembly and urged them to channel their efforts into ensuring that the initiative records a minimal death rate of the seedlings.



She said " I am here today to hand over these seedlings to the Agric department to in turn distribute to the farmers. We have about 150,000 of the seedlings here for distribution to over 2,000 farmers in the district. The President's commitment to the Agric sector is unflinching and that is why he continues to demonstrate that by giving to farmers especially in the rural areas the needed support ".



This is an initiative that will put money into the pockets of Farmers and improve their lives. I therefore want to plead with the farmers to please do whatever you can to make sure that these cashew and mango seedlings survive. Put in efforts to ensure that we record low deaths of the seedlings and in the next few years, we will be smiling to a great yield that will improve our lives". She assured.



In his remarks, Mr. Attigah Hammond Selassie,the Nkoranza South District Director of Agriculture, thanked the Assembly for presentation, adding that his outfit will see to the supervision and monitoring of the seedlings so as to avert failure.



He noted that the department, through the Agric Extension Agents, will distribute the seedlings to farmers within their operational areas base on the number of seedlings each farmer initially requested.



He expressed optimism in the fortunes of the improved Cashew and Mango crop and urged the farmers to embrace it.



"Cashew is a crop that is now in demand in the whole country with good market for it. The demand is high right now but there are no cashew nuts in the market. So we hope to harvest from these seedlings in about 3 years time. We will be smiling by then". He said.



Some of the farmers commended the Assembly and the government for providing them with the seedlings and technical assistance. They appealed to government, through the Assembly to sustain the PERD initiative.

Source: Kwabena Mano Peacefm Bono Regional Correspondent dant









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

Featured Video
Defence Minister, Dominic Nitiwul has informed Parliament that various disciplinary measures and sanctions have been taken against the soldiers who allegedly brutalized civilians in Wa Municipality.



According to him, the swift action taken by the Military High Command (MHC), among others, was to re-enforce a sense of discipline among the troops and also to safeguard their worldwide reputation of being a professional Armed Force.



Mr Nitiwul announced the measures when briefing Members of Parliament, in Accra.



He said the measures by the Defence Ministry was to punish them for the brutalities meted out to civilians by young soldiers of the 10 Mechanised Battalion in Wa Municipality.



On July 1, 2021, 86 young soldiers of the 10 Mechanised Battalion stormed Tindamba, a suburb of Wa Municipality of the Upper West Region, in search of a colleagues smartphone which was allegedly stolen.



The assault by the young soldiers on some members of the community went viral on various social media platforms, triggering countrywide mass media condemnation.



Subsequently, on July 2, 2021, a delegation led by the Chief of the Army Staff visited Wa to assess the situation.

The Chief of Army Staff, while rendering an unqualified apology to the people of Wa for the action of the young soldiers emphasized the MHCs resolve to ensure that the necessary sanctions were meted out to the culpable.



To ascertain the circumstances that led to the brutalities, the Military High Command was tasked to collaborate with the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) to investigate the case.



Subsequently, a four-man team made up of Colonel BZ Ayorrongo, team leader; Lieutenant Colonel G B Eduah, member; Mr Francis Aboagye (NIB), member and Mr Maxwell Dassah (NIB), member was tasked to conduct the investigation.



Mr Nitiwul explained also that with the exception of the Duty Officer, all other personnel who were on duty on the day of the incident have been charged, tried and punished appropriately.



The punishment given includes a demotion of the Orderly Sergeant from Staff Sergeant to Corporal; the Guard Commander from Corporal to Private Soldier while the sentry on duty, a Lance Corporal has been demoted to Private.



The Defence Minister however stated that the trial of the Duty Officer, a Lieutenant, would commence on or before Wednesday, July 14, 2021, adding that all the trials initiated by the MHC against soldiers were without prejudice to the subjects under other forms of investigations.



He said eight other soldiers who were deeply involved and identified in various videos brutalizing some residents have been charged, tried and awarded 30 days each in detention by a Disciplinary Board chaired by the Commanding Officer.

He stated that the remaining soldiers who were involved in the incident would be transferred out of the region.







Source: GNA









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

Featured Video
Executive Secretary of ASEPA, Mr. Mensah Thompson says the recommendation by the Professor Yaa Ntiamoah Baidoo Committee to pay salaries to the first and second ladies of Ghana is unlawful.



According to him, it would not have been a bad idea to pay salaries to the First and the Second Ladies of the land except that the term of the Professor Yaa Ntiamoah Baidoo Committee was to review the salaries and emoluments of only Article 71 officeholders.



Speaking on Okay FMs 'Ade Akye Abia' Morning Show, Mensah Thompson maintained that the Professor Yaa Ntiamoah Baidoo Committee does not have the capacity to review the salaries and emoluments of anybody who does not fall under the Article 71 officeholders.



He added that there are certain public office holders that the constitution recognizes as Article 71 officeholders, making the term of reference very clear to the Professor Yaa Ntiamoah Baidoo Committee to work with.



He, therefore, asserted that the Committee does not have the mandate to recommend salaries of the Parliamentary workers, Presidential Staffers and Public workers; hence, the recommendation for salaries to be paid to the first and second ladies and also put them on the same salaries as Cabinet Ministers illegal.



Once the recommendation of the Committee is illegal or unlawful, that means any approval from the Parliament or the President is null and void. We are going to the Supreme Court and it is not even a matter of interpretation because the constitution is so clear on who is an Article 71 office holder, he posited.



He mentioned that the constitution has listed the people who fall within the Article 71 officeholder, hence, their intention to go to the Supreme Court will not be a matter of interpretation anymore but rather a matter of enforcing the law.



It is a matter of constitutional declaration, that the Supreme Court should make a declaration that the Professor Yaa Ntiamoah Baidoo Committee went outside its purview to recommend salaries for the First and the Second Ladies . . . the recommendation was unlawful. Once, the recommendation was unlawful, any approval by the President or Parliament is also unlawful and illegal and also null and void," he claimed.



He, however, made it clear that his office, will also file a motion of interlocutory injunction on the implementation of the Professor Yaa Ntiamoah Baidoo Committees recommendation in respect of the salaries of the First and Second Ladies until such a time that the Court will make a full determination of the matter.



Watch video below





Source: Daniel Adu Darko/Peacefmonline.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

Featured Video
Thank you for reading the Philadelphia Tribune.

You have exhausted your free article views for this month. Please press the "subscribe" button below and see our introductory price of $0.25 per week for 13 weeks. Otherwise, we look forward to seeing you next month.
Images

Sorry, there are no recent results for popular images.
Olivier and William spending their air time upside down

We saw so many cool tricks on the mulch jump. Everybody was confident on this trick booter so the show was on point

Style over trick ?

Alchemy Invitational was all about shredding, sharing, and spending good times with pros and rookies, all together on Olivier Cuvet's backyard. Le Labo offers a huge variety of lines, jumps, and is the perfect spot to progress and try new tricks.You'll find here two videos recap . Dive into two days of laugh and send!And for those in a hurry, check outthe highlights of this incredible weekend!Leo Grosgurin was there to shoot some photos, and the guy killed behind the lens. Enjoy this selection of some of the best shots we had from the event.Good vibes all day! Riders with different backgrounds, coming from different places in France, were all stoked to progress and push themselves together!Geoffrey Ador is steeze! Boosting higher than anybody with the steeziest tricks you can get.Ken Desmazeau couldn't stop sending it ...... It didn't work all the time. Luckily he's tough as a nail!Big climb to get the speed for the big lines. The spot is pretty flat so this tower is mandatory to get the speed.But it was definitely worth it! Big line calls big tricks!Maxime Peythieu was the most confident man on the hill. Those 270 on the hip were next level, the versatility of this man is mind-blowing.Arthur Deblonde got the Nac nac, and many more tricks, on lock.And some crashes too...William casually sending some 3 dropYes, Nicolas Rouze is up there catching humongous tail whip!Thanks for the good times everybody! We'll be back!
KAMPALA Africa marked its worst pandemic week ever, surpassing the second wave peak during the seven days ending on 4 July 2021. Yet, as the COVID-19 cases climb sharply, there are signs of progress on vaccine deliveries to the continent.

COVID-19 cases have risen for seven consecutive weeks since the onset of the third wave on 3 May 2021. During the week ending 4 July, more than 251 000 new COVID-19 cases were recorded on the continent, amounting to a 20% increase over the previous week and a 12% jump from the January peak.

Sixteen African countries are now in resurgence, with Malawi and Senegal added this week. The Delta variant has been detected in 10 of these countries.

Africa has just marked the continents most dire pandemic week ever. But the worst is yet to come as the fast-moving third wave continues to gain speed and new ground, said Dr Matshidiso Moeti, World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Director for Africa. The end to this precipitous rise is still weeks away. Cases are doubling now every 18 days, compared with every 21 days only a week ago. We can still break the chain of transmission by testing, isolating contacts and cases and following key public health measures.

The current upsurge comes while vaccination rates remain low in Africa. But there are hopeful signs. After almost grinding to a halt in May and early June, vaccine deliveries from the COVAX Facility are gathering momentum. In the past two weeks, more than 1.6 million doses were delivered to Africa through COVAX. More than 20 million Johnson & Johnson/Janssen vaccine and Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine doses are expected to arrive imminently from the United States through COVAX, in coordination with the African Union. Forty-nine countries have been notified of the allocations they will receive. Other significant donations from Norway and Sweden are expected to arrive in the coming weeks.

COVAX partners are working around the clock to clinch dose-sharing pledges and procurement deals with manufacturers to ensure that the most vulnerable Africans get a COVID-19 vaccination quickly, said Dr Moeti. These efforts are paying off. Our appeals for we first and not me first are finally turning talk into action. But the deliveries cant come soon enough because the third wave looms large across the continent.

So far, 66 million doses have been delivered to Africa, including 40 million doses secured through bilateral deals, 25 million COVAX-supplied doses and 800 000 doses supplied by the African Union African Vaccine Acquisition Task Team. The 50 million doses administered to date account for just 1.6% of doses administered globally. Sixteen million, or less than 2%, of Africans are now fully vaccinated. Nineteen countries have used more than 80% of their COVAX-supplied doses, while 31 countries have used more than 50%.

With much larger COVID-19 vaccine deliveries expected to arrive in July and August, African countries must use this time to prepare to rapidly expand the roll-out, said Dr Moeti. Governments and partners can do this by planning to expand vaccination sites, improving cold chain capacities beyond capital cities, sensitizing communities to boost vaccine confidence and demand, and ensuring that operational funding is ready to go when it is needed.

WHO has been working with countries to conduct reviews of the first phase of the roll-out so that they can implement the lessons learned during this important second phase. A series of WHO webinars have facilitated intra-country learning from countries that have had successful roll-outs, such as Botswana, Cote dIvoire, the Kingdom of Eswatini, Ghana and Rwanda.

Dr Moeti spoke during a virtual press conference today facilitated by APO Group. She was joined by Ms Aurelia Nguyen, Managing Director, Office of the COVAX Facility, Gavi the Vaccine Alliance, and Professor Tulio de Oliveira, Director of the KwaZulu-Natal Research and Innovation Sequencing Platform at the University of KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa.

Also on hand to answer questions were Dr Richard Mihigo, Coordinator, Immunization and Vaccines Development Programme, WHO Regional Office for Africa; Dr Thierno Balde, Team Leader, Operational Partnerships, WHO Regional Office for Africa; and Dr Nicksy Gumede-Moeletsi, Regional Virologist, WHO Regional Office for Africa.

Comments
Wynn Millions Rewind: Andrew Moreno's Biggest Hands on Way to Victory

July 11, 2021 Chad Holloway

Last week, PokerNews offered live updates from the $10,000 buy-in, $10,000,000 GTD Wynn Millions, which saw Andrew Moreno top a 1,328-entry field to win $1,460,106 in prize money.

Throughout the tournament, there were some memorable hands including a brutal cooler involving Bryn Kenney and Alex Foxen, as well as Ari Engel winning with straight flush over straight flush.

In this article, we rewind it back by looking at some of the biggest and most-influential hands Moreno play on his way to victory.

Moreno Hits Every Out to Send Opponent Packing

On Day 1c of the tournament in Level 10 (1,000/1,500/1,500) when action folded to the player in the cutoff, who raised all in for 16,000. Moreno called from the small blind.

Andrew Moreno:

Opponent:

Moreno was dominated but he had luck on his side as the flop fell giving him trips. Things got better for Moreno as the case dropped on the turn giving him quads leaving his opponent drawing dead to the river. That hand helped Moreno reach 200,000 in chips.

Moreno Sets Up Two Opponents

On Day 3 in Level 18 (5,000/10,000/10,000), Moreno had around 225,000 when he looked down at and raised to 16,000 from early position. The player in the cutoff called with what turned out to be and the big blind came along with .

When the flop fell with two diamonds, both the player in the big blind and Moreno checked. The cutoff bet 22,000, the big blind check-raised to 60,000, and Moreno jammed.

The big blind re-jammed for around 800,000 while the cutoff called off for approximately 600,000.

A bricked on the turn followed by a on the river and Moreno tripled on the hand to 670,000.

Moreno Calls River For His Tournament Life

On Day 5 in Level 27 (40,000/80,000/80,000), action folded around to Andrew Moreno, who limped in the small blind. Anthony Huntsman raised to 250,000 out of the big and Moreno came along.

The flop came . Both players checked.

The turn was the . Moreno led with a bet of 390,000 which Huntsman called.

The river came the . After a Moreno check, Huntsman shoved all in to put Moreno to the test.

"Im going to put the chips in and if I have to leave here back home to San Diego at least I know that I went with my gut."

Moreno took off his sunglasses and looked up, getting ready for a long tank. He studied Huntsman and replayed the hand in his head while looking at the board. After a few minutes, he placed a few chips in the middle for the call.

Huntsman immediately indicated "good call" and turned over the . Moreno then tabled the winner, which was the for second pair, enough to take down a pot worth 4.1 million.

"Once I check and my opponent moved all in, after I put the hand together, what I thought about how my opponent would play his value hands, I really thought I needed to call with my hand," Moreno told PokerNews. "However, putting all the money in was really difficult for me. Most of the time I was thinking was me just being really sure I wanted to do it."

He continued: "I just said I have to do this for myself, I think this is right. Im going to put the chips in and if I have to leave here back home to San Diego at least I know that I went with my gut."

Andrew Moreno & Clayton Maguire heads-up.

The Triple-Barrel Bluff

On Day 6 in Level 33 (150,000/300,000/150,000), it was heads-up against Clayton Maguire and Hand #201 on the final table when Maguire limped. Moreno raised to 1,600,000 and Maguire called.

The flop came . Moreno bet 900,000, Maguire called. The turn was the . Maguire called a bet of 2,600,000 from Moreno.

The river was the to put three aces on board. Moreno loaded up for a third barrel, grasping chips from his stack, and this time fired for a whopping 4,800,000. Maguire took his time but eventually, he folded.

Moreno tabled the bluff and took in the pot.

Moreno Catches Ten For Huge Double

On Hand #210 in the same level, Moreno limped the button and Maguire raised to 1,500,000. Moreno three-bet to 5,400,000. Maguire then four-bet over the top all in. Moreno checked his cards and kind of raised his eyebrows before calling.

Moreno was suddenly at risk and behind holding the vs the of Maguire who had to fade the board to take home the title.

The flop hit Moreno as it came the . The turn was the and the river the to give Moreno the massive double and snatch the win from Maguire's grasp.

Moreno Closes It Out

In what would be the final hand of the tournament, which was #215 on the final table, Maguire would once again be on the receiving end of bad luck. It happened when Maguire moved all in for 5.5 million from the button and Moreno called.

Clayton Maguire:

Andrew Moreno:

Maguire was on the better end of the big-ace cooler, though the flop made things interesting by not only giving him top pair, but also giving Moreno a pair and flush draw.

The turn vaulted Moreno into the lead with trips, and he closed out the tournament after the completed the board on the river.

Moreno shook hands with Maguire, who finished as the 2021 Wynn Millions runner-up for $1,443,757.
Would you like to receive breaking news notifications from The Post and Courier?

Sign up to receive news and updates from this site directly to your desktop.

Breaking News Columbia Breaking News Greenville Breaking News Myrtle Beach Breaking News Aiken Breaking News

Click on the bell icon to manage your notifications at any time.

Success! Please click the 'Allow' button in the 'Show Notifcations' alert in your browser if one is available. Thank you for signing up!

Please enable notifications in your browser and reload the page.
SUMMERVILLE  A mammogram is a medical procedure that most women find unpleasant.

The Summerville Medical Center is trying to make that experience a little more palatable with the opening of a $1 million specialty addition earlier this month.

The Summerville Breast Center, which is across the street from the hospital, will provide comprehensive breast health and mammography all under one roof.

The 4,800-square foot facility was designed to offer an intimate, boutique atmosphere with special robes, aromatherapy, private parking and other amenities to try and pamper patients.

The center marks a major milestone for women in our communities, said Theresa Kloewer, chief nursing officer at Summerville Medical Center. The center improves the access women have to breast health services and provides those services in a welcoming environment that we hope will put women at ease.

The Summerville Breast Center features:

Full imaging services including screening and diagnostic mammography, bone density testing, biopsies and ultrasounds.

3D mammography equipment that detects smaller cancers and masses much earlier than 2D mammography.

Greater access to minimally invasive diagnostic and surgical procedures.

Easy access to parking.

Having a mammogram is never pleasant, said Kelly Bowen, director of public relations and communications at Summerville Medical Center. We created and designed this building to be very intimate and spa-like, to make this experience as pleasant as we can. We want to provide a sense of comfort in what can be one of the scariest moments in a womans life.

Breast surgeon Dr. Autumn Shobe will treat women who receive a cancer diagnosis. From the initial mammogram and breast cancer diagnosis through the treatment regiment, a woman will be able to receive all the care in one location.

Sign up for our business newsletter. Our twice-weekly newsletter features all the business stories shaping Charleston and South Carolina. Get ahead with us - it's free. Email

Sign Up!

We are listening to what the women in our community want and need  compassion, understanding and outstanding care, Shobe said.

The Summerville Breast Center is the third breast center for Trident Health, joining others at Trident Medical Center in North Charleston and Moncks Corner Medical Center in Berkeley County. The system performed more than 25,000 screening and diagnostic mammograms in 2020.

What we wanted to do was provide all the comprehensive care under one roof, said Summerville Medical Center CEO Jeff Taylor.

Trident Health is a part of Nashville-based HCA Healthcare, one of the nations largest hospital owners.

In addition to the new Summerville center, the system this month began offering emergency and internal medicine residency programs at Trident Medical, making it the Lowcountry's its second teaching hospital. More than 2,200 applicants sought the 10 spots in the three-year programs.

Last year, more than 130,000 patients received care in an emergency room operated by Trident Health, which includes Trident Medical Center, Summerville Medical Center, Brighton Park Emergency, Centre Pointe Emergency and Moncks Corner Medical Center.
Readers: This is the second of three columns about Freedom.

I once pastored a church where our music minister, Don Smith, often greeted our congregation with a harmonious Good morning!

Sadly, our sleepy parishioners often failed to reciprocate his enthusiasm. On those occasions, Smith fired a question to resuscitate the elderly congregants: How many of you would rather be here than the best prison in Turkey?

A few hands rose in cautious favor of their current accommodations, but most offered only a groan.

As kooky as Smiths choice may be, he was trying to give our parishioners some perspective. Ten years later, in 1998, I gained firsthand appreciation of his viewpoint by visiting a Turkish prison.

At the time, I was serving as an Air Force chaplain at the Izmir Air Station when I answered a phone call from our deputy commander, Lt. Col. Horace J. Phillips.

Chaplain, how would you like to go to prison today? he asked.

Pardon me, sir?

Phillips laughed the same gotcha laugh hed often used when certifying me for scuba.

Then, as if clearing his diving mask of seawater, he expelled his bubbly mirth to explain that one of our Security Force members (military policeman) had been detained in the infamous Buca Prison.

I need you to accompany the lawyer and myself to the prison to check on the sergeants welfare.

I drew a troubled breath and asked, Whats the charge?

The Turkish Insult Law, answered the base lawyer, on speakerphone with Phillips.

The law, still in use today, makes it illegal for anyone to say or do something the government deems offensive. If convicted, our airman was facing a one- to three-year prison sentence.

Phillips explained that the drunk sergeant insulted the Turks by emptying his bladder on a statue of Mustafa Ataturk, the founder of modern Turkey.

Sounds quite insulting, indeed, I said.

During our one-hour car ride to the prison, the lawyer reminded us that Turkey did not subscribe to the typical get-out-of-jail-free agreement the U.S. military enjoys with most countries. She informed us that, normally, low-level offenses by U.S. servicemembers are addressed by an American military court.

Unless we can work some magic, she added, our boy is there to stay.

Sign up for our new opinion newsletter Get a weekly recap of South Carolina opinion and analysis from The Post and Courier in your inbox on Monday evenings. Email

Sign Up!

Just after noon, we presented identification to the guards who then passed us through gates.

Hearing Turkish prison doors close behind you isnt an experience for the faint of heart. The smell suddenly became indescribable. Rats passed us going the opposite direction. It seemed even rodents were plotting their escape.

Every bit of it recalled for me the 1978 film Midnight Express. The movie follows American college student Billy Hayes, who served four years in a Turkish prison for drug-smuggling before he finally boated across the Maritsa River to freedom.

Soon, we found our sergeant pacing his cell, a contrite cop who remembered very little of his escapades. He seemed in no condition to swim for freedom.

Im not sure how someone detained in a Turkish prison feels when seeing a chaplain enter his cell. But his pale expression suggested he may have been expecting his last rites.

Our lawyer removed her best shot from her briefcase, a typed apology. She advised him to sign, saying, If you apologize, we might get you released with your promise to reappear for trial.

By the next day, the Turks welcomed the signed apology and, with a wink to Phillips, allowed the sergeant to board a flight home.

The sergeants story often lends perspective when I hear folks endlessly complain about restrictions of their personal freedoms, such as taxes, masks or speed limits on an empty stretch of desert highway.

If Smith and I were leading worship again today, wed probably ask those complainers to join us in Lee Greenwoods song:

"I'm proud to be an American,

Where at least I know I'm free.

And I won't forget the men who died

Who gave that right to me.

And I'd gladly stand up

Next to you and defend her still today;

'Cause there ain't no doubt I love this land.

God bless the USA!"

Then, if I thought I heard a lack of enthusiasm, Id ask them all, How many of you would rather be here today than the finest prison in Turkey?
Cities and counties across South Carolina have been told to evaluate fees they charge in light of a S.C. Supreme Court ruling that invalidated one fee and a portion of a second fee in Greenville County.

Though many of the fees commonly charged by local governments across the state would likely still pass muster if challenged following the high courts June 30 ruling, road maintenance fees in particular may come under further scrutiny.

The South Carolina Association of Counties said it would lobby legislators to broaden its definition of a user fee to make it legal for counties to continue to collect the fees  especially road maintenance fees, which are prevalent across the state.

Many of the fees cities charge are likely to be upheld, but the Municipal Association of South Carolina told its members to study fees charged to ensure they are valid, said Scott Slatton, MASCs director of advocacy and communications. Cities across the state commonly charge public works fees, stormwater fees and fire fees.

Many, if not most, of the fees for services municipalities levy are going to be compliant, Slatton said.

A few cities do charge a road maintenance fee, which may be more problematic, Slatton said.

The Supreme Court ruled that user fees must provide a specific benefit to those being charged the fee beyond any benefit to the general public.

Under that scenario a fire fee charged to property owners would likely be valid because it could improve fire service and lower insurance rates for those who pay the fee, said Joshua Rhodes, deputy executive director of SCAC. The same argument could be made for sewer fees or public works fees, which specifically benefit those charged the fees, he said.

But the court found that while Greenville Countys road maintenance fee provided a service to those who paid it, the general public also benefited from the road improvements.

The county should call those types of fees what they are  a tax  wrote Justice John Kittredge.

Local governments, for obvious reasons, want to avoid calling a tax a tax, he wrote. I believe todays decision sends a clear message that the courts will not uphold taxes masquerading as service or user fees.'

Sign up for our Greenville weekly update newsletter. Sign up for weekly roundups of our top stories, news and culture from the Upstate. This newsletter is hand-curated by a member of our Greenville news staff. Email

Sign Up!

The court didnt say the fees were unconstitutional, only that they didnt comply with the states statute, so the Association of Counties plans to ask lawmakers to change the statute to make the fees legal, Rhodes said.

We will be pushing for a legislative fix, he said.

Slatton said the MASC also would support legislation that would clarify the Supreme Courts ruling to preserve the ability of municipalities to charge fees for services, though it hasnt made a formal decision to lobby for the change yet.

That fix may not be an easy sell. Three of the plaintiffs in the Greenville County fees case are lawmakers  State Reps. Mike Burns and Garry Smith, and state Sen. Dwight Loftis, all of Greenville County.

Smith, R-Simpsonville, said he would be interested to see what solution the associations come up with but he would likely be opposed to legislative changes to broaden local government ability to collect fees instead of taxes.

I think that would open up a door that would be impossible to close later, Smith said.

The lawmakers filed the case in 2018 after Greenville County raised its road maintenance fee from $15 a year to $25 for every vehicle owner who registered a car in the county. The other charged all county property owners about $15 a year over 10 years to fund an updated public safety telecommunications system.

Two lower courts ruled for the county but the Supreme Court reversed the decision.

Greenville County plans to ask for the court to rehear the case. Its motion is expected to be filed next week.
NORTH CHARLESTON  A man has been arrested in the July 11 shooting death of a woman in a domestic violence-related incident, according to the North Charleston Police Department.

Denzel Laron Washington, 28, was charged with murder and possession of a firearm during the commission of a violent crime, Harve Jacobs, North Charleston police spokesman, wrote in a press briefing.

Toni Frasier, 28, was fatally shot the morning of July 11 on the 5500 block of Blackwell Street, according to the Charleston County Coroner's Office. Frasier was from North Charleston.

Officers were dispatched shortly after 9 a.m., to a local medical facility where Frasier died from a gunshot wound, Jacobs wrote.

Detectives and the Charleston County Coroners Office and North Charleston police are investigating the death.

Washingtons bond has not been set.
NORTH CHARLESTON  South Carolina's low-wealth communities have begun disaster-relief trainings aimed at helping neighborhoods better prepare for crises.

State agencies and community groups held their first emergency preparation session June 25 at the Perry-Webb Community Center in North Charleston's Accabee neighborhood. There, dozens of attendees from across the state joined in person and virtually for the first of four trainings aimed at strengthening the state's at-risk communities for disaster risk reduction, response and recovery.

The trainings, modeled after mutual-aid sessions done in the Philippines, are the first of their kind in United States, said Omar Muhammad, executive director for the Lowcountry Alliance for Model Communities. While other cities have mutual-aid networks, none have community-managed emergency response trainings, he said.

"This is designed for the community to design its own plan," Muhammad said.

The effort is fueled by a $200,000 grant from the Environmental Protection Agency, and also involves LAMC, the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control, the College of Charleston, Clemson University and the University of South Carolina.

The idea is for DHEC to train neighborhood "block captains," who will be sources of information and supplies during crises. These people will also be contacts for health agencies, helping them more easily identify community leaders during emergencies.

In the Lowcountry, the disaster relief trainings focus on the seven North Charleston communities represented by LAMC, as well as the Rosemont neighborhood in Charleston. The June 25 inaugural training session also featured guests from Marlboro and Aiken County counties, and the city of Columbia.

Trainings will highlight four types of disasters in particular: hurricanes, flooding, chemical releases and pandemics.

Participants will learn about the risks of mold and also how to weatherize homes, which includes sealing doors and windows.

There will also be a focus on food insecurity, as Clemson hopes to expand its Food Access Map covering the Upstate to a statewide resource that identifies food resources.

The disaster relief sessions will occur quarterly and end fall 2022. Forty-five persons will be trained for the sessions, which have reached maximum capacity.

"The interest has been overwhelming," Muhammad said.

The sessions will conclude with communities developing disaster action plans that will identity potential emergencies, essential contacts, and necessary steps for responding to tragedies. LAMC will follow up with tabletop exercises to help ensure the communities' plans are updated and rehearsed.

It's important for communities to be prepared for emergencies and not rely on government help, Muhammad said.

During the early days of the pandemic, government was slow to respond with testing and vaccine access, Muhammad said.

"We realized early on we can't wait on government," he said.

Some communities didn't wait on governmental assistance. As the pandemic spread across the state, community groups in Union Heights sought to give people face coverings. Groups set up a table outside an abandoned home, distributing the supplies to those in need.

That effort was especially critical because it allowed organizations to spread proper information on the importance of mask-wearing, said Elder Carlie Towne, minister of information with the Gullah Geechee Angel Network.

"A lot of people were like  'I don't need (a mask). I'm not going anywhere,'" Towne said.

It's imperative to have identified community relief volunteers so DHEC and other agencies can readily direct donated resources to impacted communities during tragedies, said Keisha Long, environmental justice coordinator with DHEC. Confusion around where to donate can stall support, Long said.

"A lot of people want to help, but don't know who to call," Long said.
Charleston, SC (29403)

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 87F. Winds SSW at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Cloudy skies early with scattered thunderstorms developing late. Low 74F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%.
Charleston, SC (29403)

Today

A mix of clouds and sun with a slight chance of thunderstorms this afternoon. High 88F. Winds SSW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 30%..

Tonight

Cloudy skies early with scattered thunderstorms developing late. Low near 75F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%.
Before the Legislature created the S.C. Agency Head Salary Commission in 1984, the relationship between job performance and salary at the top of state agencies was  haphazard.

As the commissions Donna Foster reminded me Thursday, The salaries were just set on the floor of the General Assembly, based on a variety of factors instead of actual duties, responsibilities and market conditions.

Like, say, whether the directors made legislators constituent complaints go away quickly, or gave cushy jobs to legislators not-too-bright nephews, or showed up regularly at then-Sen. Jack Lindseys Wednesday night poker games. And lost.

It clearly was not a good way to run a state.

Todays process, part of a 1980s effort to replace cronyism with professionalism in the state government workforce, revolves around a very clinical system of pay bands, based on duties, responsibilities and pay for comparable jobs, mostly in the Southeast, for each of 62 agency directors and 28 college presidents. The bands were created by a global management company that updates them every four years; by law, pay has to fall within the bands.

Theres still room for judgment: The difference between the minimum and maximum salary for a position can be more than $100,000 and in nearly all cases is at least $50,000. The salary commission, composed of eight legislators and three gubernatorial appointees, is supposed to use annual evaluations from whoever hires each director (a board or the governor) to determine where in the band to set each salary.

The consultants most recent update, in November, said the commission wasnt moving directors up through their pay bands as expected, thus causing the salaries to lose competitiveness. So after raising the pay of 26 directors and presidents effective Jan. 1 to meet their new minimums, the commission voted earlier this month to give additional raises to five directors. Huge raises.

Columbias State newspaper reports that at its July 1 meeting, the commission raised the pay for Office of Regulatory Staff Director Nanette Edwards by 48%, from $178,619 to $265,000. Transportation Secretary Christy Hall got a 19% raise, to $298,000; Administration Department Director Marcia Adams pay was increased 27%, to $284,679; Corrections Director Bryan Stirling got a 25% raise, to $250,000; and Fiscal Accountability Authority Director Grant Gillespies pay went up 22%, to $245,000.

The raises generated the expected populist outrage, and frankly a 48% raise, worth more than the overwhelming majority of state employees make in a year, does feel steep. But the problem isnt that five directors got huge raises.

Theyre all capable, highly respected leaders, only Ms. Halls new salary comes anywhere near the top of her pay band, and four of them (Mr. Stirling being the exception) hold the jobs that consultant Korn Ferry says merit the highest pay of all agency directors.

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

Sign Up!

In particular, Ms. Edwards had to transform the Office of Regulatory Staff almost overnight from an agency whose job by law was to protect the interests of regulated utilities to one whose job is to protect consumers from those utilities  something you might surmise shes done pretty well given the outcome of Dominion Energys first S.C. rate request  while also taking on the suddenly vital task of bringing rural South Carolina into the digital age.

So in a heartbeat Id say all five ought to be well above the midpoint in their salary bands.

Assuming those bands are set appropriately.

And thats the problem.

When we hire out salary recommendations to a consultant, we buy all sorts of assumptions that dont necessarily make sense for our state government.

We assume we should be recruiting nationally, when maybe we ought to be looking internally whenever possible. We assume that were in danger of losing our best executives if we dont pay what other states and, worse, private businesses pay; in fact, a lot of directors are dedicated public officials who made a deliberate decision to make their career in state government. We also assume that directors dont value the states generous pension and vacation policies.

Now, it may seem unfair to pay people less than they're worth because we think we can get away with it, but this isnt about fairness. If it were about fairness, lawmakers would focus on raising the pay for all those rank-and-file employees that another tax-funded consultant told them they're underpaying.

Its about getting and keeping good agency directors. Thats important, no doubt. But when we cant afford to pay teachers and prison guards and social workers enough to keep enough of them employed, I don't see how we can afford to pay directors nationally competitive salaries if we dont have to.

And the problem is about to get even worse. Thanks to an insane law the Legislature passed this year, were about to start hiring out salary decisions about the now-appointed adjutant general as well as the attorney general, education superintendent, treasurer, secretary of state and other statewide elected officials whose jobs are established in the state constitution.

Some of these folks do an excellent job, but they could not be elected to those positions in another state, and I seriously doubt they could get hired for comparable jobs. Yet were going to pay Korn Ferry to design pay bands for them, and since they arent hired by the governor or a part-time board, the salary commission will set their pay  which raises all sorts of political and constitutional issues.

This latest problem, however, is easily fixed: The Legislature can repeal the provisions of H.3786  before the first unjustifiable raise is granted.
The minimum wage in South Carolina is $7.25 an hour, and legislators likely will not raise it anytime soon.

But the states Agency Head Salary Commission can give Office of Regulatory Staff Executive Director Nanette Edwards a 48% raise to $265,000; Department of Administration Executive Director Marcia Adams a 27% raise to $284,679; Department of Corrections Director Bryan Stirling a 25% raise to $250,000; State Fiscal Accountability Authority Executive Director Grant Gillespie a 22% raise to $245,000; and Secretary of Transportation Christy Hall a 19% raise to $298,000.

Wheres the accountability?

LIBBY OSBURN

Cannon Lane

Taylors

Clinical trials here

I read with great interest the article MUSC, Harvard research shows promise in Alzheimers and vascular treatment in the July 5 Post and Courier.

The need to find solutions to the ravages of Alzheimers is certainly significant, and any new approach that may be found is good news.

The article stated that South Carolina lacks an Alzheimers Disease Research Center designated by the National Institutes of Health and implies that access to one is needed to provide opportunities to participate in trials.

There was no acknowledgement that there are ongoing clinical trials based right here in Charleston.

For the past five years, I have been part of a trial for the Eli Lilly drug solanezumab, focused on anti-amyloid treatment in asymptomatic Alzheimers disease, conducted by the Clinical Biotechnology Research Institute of Roper St. Francis Healthcare.

This is part of a large nationwide study that focused on participants with amyloid plaque associated with Alzheimers but not yet showing symptoms of mental decline.

In March, I completed the double-blind portion of the study. In May, I began an open label extension of the study knowing Im receiving the drug.

I appreciate the opportunity to participate in this drug trial and am hopeful that when all the analysis is completed, it will have shown sufficient effectiveness for FDA approval.

Even if that does not happen, it feels good to be part of the scientific effort to find Alzheimers solutions, and its nice to know Charleston research is supporting it.

BRUCE VAN VOORHIS

Hope Plantation Drive

Johns Island

Renew patrols

Last year during COVID-19, I and several other downtown residents noticed something new in our neighborhoods: Charleston County sheriffs deputies patrolling the peninsula.

They were called in by the city of Charleston to assist with patrols due to an uptick in crime.

Those patrols have now ceased, however, and the crime continues.

Maybe its time to wave the white flag again and call in reinforcements before we lose control.

Its important for our community as well as our visitors.

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

Sign Up!

JACK HANDEGAN III

Beaufain Street

Charleston

College tuition high

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, overall consumer prices rose a cumulative 129% between 1986 and 2018.

During this same period, according to the National Center for Educational Statistics, a subagency of the U.S. Department of Education, the average cost of attending a 4-year college or university rose by nearly 500%.

Rather than debating new and creative ways to strap students or taxpayers with additional debt, shouldnt we focus on the underlying problem?

At a time when businesses across the country are using technology to cut costs, why are college costs seemingly out of control?

Can universities provide a rational explanation as to this disconnect? Is there no financial accountability in this sector of our economy?

GEORGE ROBERTS

River Landing Drive

Daniel Island

Politics and religion

I did a double take when I read Adam Bensons July 1 article, After passing heartbeat bill, SC political conservatives map plan to have bigger voice. 

The first sentence says, An influential and fast-growing bloc of evangelical GOP lawmakers is rolling out an updated agenda that architects hope will make South Carolina the nations most conservative state.

I focused on the words evangelical and lawmakers and remembered something about separation of church and state.

When I Googled S.C. Family Caucus, I saw that the lawmakers are members of the S.C. House. What does that mean for their constituents who are not evangelical? Are they being represented? Do their concerns have value? Do they have a voice as voters?

South Carolinas population has increased by about 500,000 since the 2010 census.

What message does this agenda send to people thinking of moving here?

If being conservative assumes the adoption of the GOP religion, for many that will be a price too high to pay.

SHARON KLOMPUS

Windy Bluff Drive

Greenville
COLUMBIA  In the summer of 1971, America enacted its last major expansion of voting rights, lowering the national voting age from 21 to 18 by adopting the 26th Amendment to the Constitution.

Fifty years later, young voters are more engaged in politics than ever, turning out in record numbers for the 2020 election. But activists working to mobilize young South Carolinians say more needs to be done to include them in the political process and ensure they don't take their hard-earned right for granted.

While the idea of lowering the voting age had come up at various moments in American history, the movement gained steam after the country lowered the military draft age to 18 during World War II, said Jennifer Frost, a professor at the University of Auckland in New Zealand who has a book about the 26th Amendment coming out later this year.

As the mantra of "old enough to fight, old enough to vote" took hold, some states began independently lowering their voting ages, including Southern states like Georgia and Kentucky.

While South Carolina did not take a similar step, the idea did gain traction with some of the state's prominent politicians, especially after President Dwight Eisenhower endorsed it.

In his 1954 State of the State address, then-Gov. James Byrnes came out in support of the move, saying age restrictions were arbitrary and the state had "wasted millions in education" if 18-year-olds were not more mature and better informed than citizens of that age a century before, according to a New York Times report on the speech.

Eventually, amid the broader civil rights movement of the 1960s, Congress opted to lower the voting age to 18 as part of the 1970 Voting Rights Act. But the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that the law could only apply to federal races, not state races  a decision that risked requiring different ballots for voters depending on their age.

"Obviously it was contradictory, but it was also going to be chaotic," Frost said. "Secretaries of state of all the states said this is going to cost millions of dollars, an incredible hassle, the 1972 elections are coming up, so we've got to do this."

So Congress proposed and passed a new Constitutional amendment, sending it to the states, with 38 needed to approve it for ratification.

On April 28, 1971, South Carolina became the 26th state to ratify the amendment without a single dissenting vote. The issue "would have sparked extended debate only a year ago," The Charleston News and Courier wrote, but Congress' decision to lower the federal voting age already had made the amendment less controversial.

Sign up for updates! Get the latest political news from The Post and Courier in your inbox. Email

Sign Up!

National ratification took just over three months, making it the fastest amendment ever to be added to the Constitution. But while adoption of the amendment seemed almost effortless by the end, Frost argues that was only because of decades of struggle by proponents of the change.

"It still was not easy, all the work that got to that moment," Frost said. "I always like that saying, 'Chance favors those who prepare.' They were prepared, and when the chance came, they were able to take it."

As the country marks the amendment's 50th anniversary this month, new efforts have popped up to make sure young voters take advantage of it.

Youth voter participation increased across the country in the 2020 election, according to an analysis by Tufts University's Center for Information & Research on Civic Learning and Engagement. But South Carolina was below the national average, with 45 percent of eligible 18- to 29-year-olds casting a ballot.

Secure the Ballot, a new nonpartisan nonprofit, formed in 2020 in an effort to register and mobilize young voters across South Carolina and beyond, providing tools to make it easier to register online and holding events to inform young voters about how they could get more involved.

Lauren Harper, a senior adviser for the organization, said she thinks there's a long list of reasons why young voters are not historically as engaged as other demographics, including the simple fact that most candidates tend to be older, making it harder for them to relate to their day-to-day concerns.

"It's not always easy for young people to engage with older generations if they don't feel like they can be understood," Harper said. "Conversely, if the candidates don't feel like they can understand young people, they don't necessarily engage young people. They think they probably won't vote anyway, so they won't even try."

South Carolina has also not taken some of the steps others have to encourage youth voting. It is one of seven states with a voter ID law that does not allow student IDs to be used as one of the accepted forms.

Patton Byars, the 18-year-old chairman of the South Carolina Teenage Republicans, said he's found the biggest hurdle to getting people in his age group is just the increasingly divisive nature of national politics.

When candidates on either side of the aisle can transcend that and offer a more uplifting message, Byars said they're more likely to interest young voters.

"At the end of the day, young voters specifically want to hear hopeful and optimistic conversations, whether that's in the classroom or on the national stage," Byars said.
Note: We've recently updated our online systems. If you can't login please try resetting your password. You must login with an email address. If you don't have an email associated with your account email circulation@postregister.com for help creating one.
@montcocourtnews on Twitter

Carl Hessler Jr. is a multi-media reporter who writes about crime and justice from the Montgomery County Courthouse for 21st Century Media Newspapers Greater Philadelphia area publications. Follow Carl on Twitter: @MontcoCourtNews
This weekend comes news that the city of Charlottesville has officially removed the statue of Robert E. Lee from Emancipation Park. Fox News story on the removal of the statue is posted reports: Viewing areas for the removal of the statues were erected so that bystanders could watch cranes lift the statues from their plinth blocks; the process was nearly complete just before 9 a.m. Politico reports: Spectators by the dozens lined the blocks surround the park, and a cheer went up as the statue lifted off the pedestal.

Yes, indeed, free at last in Emancipation Park! (If we may still call it that.)

The Spring issue of the Claremont Review of Books went to press this past May. It remains relevant and timely in every respect I can think of. However, it is especially timely in this context. Looking back on the last year, I think, the CRB commissioned and published Christopher Caldwells review/essay There goes Robert E. Lee. Caldwells essay concludes:

One of the great contemporary delusions is to assume that, when rioters tear down a statue of Thomas Jefferson or demand that an Abraham Lincoln school be renamed, they are demonstrating their historical ignorance, and have somehow got the wrong guy. Oh, no. They reject the idea that the Civil War was fought between a morally pure North and a morally irredeemable South. In this they have a point. The war was indeed fought between two sections that had each tolerated slavery to varying degrees, and finally faced an irreconcilable difference over whether any part of that institution could be tolerated. But there has been a shift in our understanding of what this means. Whereas earlier Americans understood slavery primarily as a problem of liberty, todays Americans understand it primarily as a problem of race. It seemed for several generations that the end of slavery had removed the only obstacle to honoring both sides of the Civil War. But in the newest generation, the persistence of American racial prejudice can be a reason to honor neither. Although there may have been ambivalence about the wars origins, there was none in its resolution. In the course of three and a half years, wrote the British military historian Spenser Wilkinson a century ago, the resistance of the Confederacy was crushed, its cause lost, and every interest and principle that had been invoked in its behalf abandoned for ever. Abandoned forever is right. Whether they were erected in that spirit or not, Confederate statues, road names, and ceremonies today betoken the settlement of the constitutional and moral question from which the Civil War arosenot the reopening of it. Human nature will not change, Lincoln said shortly after his re-election in 1864. In any future great national trial, compared with the men of this, we shall have as weak and as strong, as silly and as wise, as bad and as good. Let us therefore study the incidents of this, as philosophy to learn wisdom from, and none of them as wrongs to avenge. That is the spirit in which Americans have tended to remember, and should remember, Robert E. Lee, one of the bravest and most principled among them, even if his bravery is of the sort they cannot always match and his principles of the sort they cannot always honor.

Caldwells long essay makes for a timely and educational weekend read.
Afrobeat musician, Made Kuti, is still basking in the success of his recent solo gig An Evening With Made Kuti, which was held in Lagos.

He introduced his own band, The Movement, to a colourful audience comprising his growing young army of fans, music connoisseurs, brands, diplomats among others.

The grandson of Fela Kuti and son of Femi Kuti gave a foretaste of what to expect at his forthcoming gig when he performed his first show at The New African Shrine alongside his newly-formed band.

Mades early years were spent growing up in The New Afrika Shrine. There, he learned how to play the trumpet at three, took to the alto sax at five years old, picked up the piano at eight years old, the drums and guitar at 12, and the bass at 15

He spoke with PREMIUM TIMES shortly before his performance and gave an insight into his career and what it is like being the seventh generation of musicians in the Kuti family

PT: How do you think your dad and grandads legacy has affected you?

Made: I grew up around music, I grew up in the shrine and I grew up seeing my dad play four times a week at the shrine. I grew up seeing my dad play music on Thursdays. Up until 7 am, I will wake up for school, I will still catch my dad on stage in the shrine. So, their legacy is very much basically my upbringing, and politically, socially, culturally their lifestyle and what they left for us as consumers to understand from them is what I grew up with. Their legacy is my foundation.

PT: Have you been able to define your own style of Afro-beat, is it diluted or is it the original Fela and Femi Afrobeat?

Made: No. That is a tough and easy question. It is not the original Femi and Fela, because my dad took Afrobeat to his own taste and he delivered it differently, as Fela did.

What I am doing is the same thing my dad did, which is finding my own sound. Its the same thing Fela did, so, Im finding my own place within Afro-beat, where I played, where I composed. And what is tough is there is no name for it yet because Im sure with every album it will change. Just like, I dont think my dad ever changed the name, it was Afro-beat. Just like classical music is so broad and has its sub runners, thats what I imagine Afro-beat will be like.

PT: So, do you think Afrobeat music, which was essentially a form of protest music, is still viable at this time?

Made: Viable? I think musically, what is so powerful about Africa is  philosophically, psychologically, even physically, music has the power to pass through time, once you record something and it is purposeful, people can always refer to it and they can refer to it knowing where it came from, who it came from, what it meant when it was produced. So, music is definitely, and Felas music is definitely as relevant today, if not more relevant than it was in the 70s and in the 80s.

The same goes for my fathers music, he was writing and singing against Babangida during the Babangida era. He was doing something that nobody else was really doing at the time, calling out names when you do that you have a risk of low shows, you face the risks of security and most likely and possibly be as we have them targeted because of our views politically and those setbacks, they will occur.

What is important, what I feel like I have taken from him is that no matter what the purpose will preserve and if you choose that purpose and you make sure you dont dilute where the sound is coming from, you will be as relevant as the day you composed.

PT: Do you think your style of music will appeal to your generation and mine, who we know like fast-paced songs?

Made: What I have learned is that taste is subjective, it is really up to the person to decide for themselves what they like or dont like. I have met people in my generation that like Falz, I have met people in my generation that cant stand listening to Falz and they dont know where to begin with Jazz. And I dont want to think of that when I compose, what I want to think of is where my music is coming from. When it comes out, whoever likes it likes it. whoever doesnt, doesnt, Im okay with it.

PT: Do you think being born into a family of music makers is a burden or a blessing?

Made: Honestly, it is the same as most things in life, it is balanced. There are many good things, a few difficult things, there are challenging things, there are opportunities but I think what is a total blessing is that Femi Kuti is my father.

ADVERTISEMENT

I dont know if I would have had the mental or physical strength to have had Fela Kuti as my dad.

PT: Why do you say so?

Made: Fela was a different kind of father. My dad, Femi, allows me to call him dad, raised me with a lot of closeness, with a lot of love, with togetherness, with the family. He pushed me and believed in me. Whereas Fela was more or less a very strict person but he believed that everyone in the house was on the same level. So, he didnt allow my father to call him dad.

My dad left his band against Felas will and started his own career, it wasnt until much later when my dad established himself that father and son then mended their grievances, I have never had that. My dad, if anything, has been telling me to start my own music for as long as possible.

My opportunities as Femi Kutis son have been significantly greater than what I imagined my dad could have achieved. My dad, also was the first person to decide whether or not it was possible to continue after a legacy like that, and then Uncle Seun and then me and then only God knows how many people are coming up.



PT: You are the 7th generation musician in the Kuti family?

Made: Yes, Im the 7th generation of musicians.

PT: Growing up as a teen, were you certain that you would become a musician?

Made: It had to be music because this is where I grew up watching my dad play four times every week. There was nowhere I could consume this music and do away with it. I would rather love it or I would disregard it. The first day I encountered it, I loved it.

PT: What was it like recording the Legacy Plus album with your dad?

Made: The Legacy Plus album was very special because my dad and I composed it separately. He composed his side of the music while I composed my side of the music. And then I recorded on that album, on his own side of the album. I played sax and I played bass, but on my side of the album, I played every instrument myself, so, it was difficult sitting in the studio for sixteen days, no sleep, recording one instrument down to the other in a circle, get short breaks to eat but as I participated in that, I felt the value of what I was doing, and I never want to wish I was anywhere else, the key elements made me realized how much I love what Im doing.

And I think when my dad speaks of it, he said that this was the most joyous album for him to write, maybe the most special for him. I know that what I will do henceforth, this will be up there as one of the greatest projects I have ever done, because, not only that I did it for myself, I did it with one of the greatest acts to ever come out of Africa.

PT: If you werent doing music, what do you think you would be doing?

Made: If I wasnt doing music, Im not sure, I think I will do something in history, maybe astronomy or something that has to do with facts.

PT: You also graduated from your grandads alma mater, Londons Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance. What was that like?

Made: Surprisingly, I studied in the classical department; we didnt actually touch much on Fela. When I was in Nigeria, the perception of Fela was mostly misunderstood and negative by my peers, but as soon as I got to Trinity with my peers then, everything became absolutely positive.

There were no negative elements of Fela at Trinity. These were erudite human beings, they were highly talented and highly skilled, they only ever had good things to say about him.

When I realised that, I felt like I understood him more, I knew what he was worth, I knew what my father was worth, what the legacy was worth in the face of the negativity that I face in Nigeria. I almost didnt really understand, I think now absolved all that positivity, it ticked something in my head that made me realize just how much I really want to work this out.

In the classical department, it will surprise you there were so many people that knew of Fela, but in the Jazz department, everybody knew and I remember in the library, there was, his music, there was my dads music. The head of composition, which is what I studied, the head of the composition was a fan of Fela and had seen Fela live.

And when I told him, I wanted to put Afro-beat in a contemporary classical setting, he was all for it. That is one of the opportunities that I will speak about for being a Kuti. Trinity was a positive experience for me, it was very upcountry to my primary and high school life in Lagos.

PT: What are your thoughts on the recent crop of Nigerian musicians and have you featured any Nigerian popstar in your songs?

Made: I have done features with some pop stars, I have done with Runtown and several others. I think my generation of Nigerian musicians is doing incredibly and amazingly well compared to the opportunities that we have been given.

PT: Music is seen as a good instrument for protest and looking at the EndSARS protest, you came out with your dad at Akute. Do you think Nigerian musicians understand this and have been putting that to good use?

Made: When you choose the right political music, which is what Made Kuti is doing, you know that it comes with political risks and branding risks to all sorts of challenges.

When you dont choose the popular routes, it is a difficult task to ask a young aspiring musician to sing and fight for a country that he doesnt feel is fighting for him. And I feel like Im privileged to speak and sing about the things that I do because I have a platform, so it is easier for me.

However, I understand why our culture doesnt pioneer the reflection of the times in music. It is because, first, they are not given an opportunity to and the risk factor is too much and the country they are fighting for in many ways does not sync with them.

PT: Finally, this is going to be your first solo performance outside of the shrine, how are you gearing up for that, what should we expect?

Made: I have come to take things as they come. What I know is that everyone that comes will have a great time musically. But what I have come to accept is the passage of time. Things will come and they will go.

Whenever something special like this happens, I love to bask in it and to understand that one day, I will never have another first show outside of the shrine. So, I have to really appreciate this because there will come a time when I will be so tired of playing music but now that we have this, this feeling, this excitement, I will continue to bask in it.



(Mades solo gig held on July 2 at the fit-for-purpose Terra Culture Arena, Victoria Island, Lagos).
Premium Times National Desk correspondent, Samson Adenekan, tied the knot with his beautiful bride, Stella Jegede, in Ekiti State on Saturday.

The wedding was themed #OlaIfe2021, an acronym curated from the first three letters of the couples native names, Olayemi and Ifeoluwa.

The couple tied the knot at a traditional wedding ceremony with friends, family and loved ones present to grace the occasion. It was a two-day event.

The first leg of the wedding was held at the brides home on Friday. There, the groom, accompanied by his family and friends, paid homage to the brides family.

The final lap of the event which was held on Saturday saw the couple and guests stun in sky blue and gold outfits in different designs.

The reception followed almost immediately after the wedding was held at Ikere-Ekiti, Ekiti State.

Love story

Mrs Adenekan, 27, said she had her first encounter with her husband online in 2014.

According to her, she experienced a hitch while trying to pay her school fees online after securing admission to study Sociology at the Federal University of Oye- Ekiti (FUOYE).

I had issues paying my school fees online. So, I went on Facebook to find out how to resolve the issue. Luckily for me, I saw my husbands comments on the schools group chat wherein he said had successfully made his own payment.

I messaged him directly to find out how he made the payment and he obliged and explained the steps to me. From there, we exchanged contacts and we have been talking since then, until this moment, Mrs Adenekan recalled.

On the flip side, Mr Adenekan, 28, fondly called Oshiomhole of PT in the newsroom, due to his knowledge and reportage of the Nigerian political space, could not contain his excitement on his big day.

He said, To be sincere, I feel so elated taking this bold step. I am super excited and grateful to the Almighty for granting me the wherewithal to fulfill my promises to this beautiful and adorable wife.

The joy keeps bubbling in my mind. I have never felt this way in my entire life before, the groom said.

Ill try as much as I can to make this last until the end of time. Weve known each other since 2014, and this month will make it seven years since I set my eyes on her, he added.

Determination

The groom said the first time he told his bride that he was going to marry her, her response was not so encouraging.

He said they were undergraduates at the time and his wife said she did not want to be distracted from her quest of bagging a first class.

ADVERTISEMENT

Mr Adenekan persisted.

He also promised not to distract her academically.

I was into school politics, but she is this book type, I told her to be doing her thing, while I do mine, he said.

A promise kept finally, Mr Adenekan added.

Asked what the occasion meant to her, the bride said, Today is the happiest day of my life. I have been waiting for a long time to witness this day, and I am happy to see this day coming to fruition. Everything went successfully, glory be to God.

The couple are based in Abuja.
Last Thursday, Arise TVs Morning Show hosts, Reuben Abati, Tundun Abiola, and Rufai Oseni interviewed Inibehe Effiong, a human rights lawyer, and Dele Ogun, a lawyer and brother of Nigerias former finance minister, Kemi Adeosun, on the ruling of the Federal High Court, Abuja. The court held that Mrs Adeosun did not breach any law by being appointed a minister in 2015 without participating in the National Youth Service Corps scheme. Below is the interview as transcribed by PREMIUM TIMES Ifeoluwa Adeniran.

Reuben Abati: What are the big issues in this matter with regards to what looks like the vindication of former minister of finance, Kemi Adeosun, and then with regards also to the relevant provision of the 1979 Constitution, the 1999 Constitution, and also, I think Section 13(2) of the NYSC Act?

Inibehe Effiong: I want Nigerians to appreciate the issues very clearly. The first submission I want to make to you is that cases are determined based on the pleadings before the court, based on the averment made before a judge. Cases are not determined necessarily based on public perception.

I am saying that to make the point that, to the best of my knowledge, the issues submitted for determination before Hon. Justice Taiwo Taiwo of the Federal High Court in Abuja was whether or not Kemi Adeosun was required to possess a National Youth Service Certificate or an exemption letter as it were to make her eligible to occupy a ministerial position. And also whether, given that she was not a Nigerian citizen at the material time, whether she was even eligible to enrol in the NYSC.

But the saga, the conundrum, the controversy and the scandal that surrounded the NYSC certificate as it relates to Kemi Adeosun was that there was allegation reported by a credible media organisation that she forged an exemption certificate, which is a criminal offence.

But the case before the federal high court was not to determine whether indeed she committed forgery or not. That question remains undermined because the Attorney-General of the Federation, for reasons best known to him, exercised his prosecutorial discretion by deciding not to charge the former minister for forgery. So let that point be understood clearly.

And Im saying that because you asked the question whether this was a vindication and I submit to you that I do not see the judgment of the Federal High Court as a vindication because what was material, what led to her resignation, was allegation of forgery, which has not been determined, which she has not been tried for, which no evidence has been adduced because the AGF has decided not to prosecute her.

My reaction is that we will have to look at this judgment in the light of the fact. To begin with, when you look at Section 2 of the NYSC Act Cap N84 (2004), the requirement for calling up corps members is statutorily provided, including that one has to be less than 30 years at the point of graduation either in Nigeria or abroad.

Now, you must also go further to look at Section 11 of the NYSC Act, which provides that anybody that had enrolled in the Service has to be issued a certificate of participation.

You go further to Section 12, which provides that any person seeking employment must be required by the employer to produce his NYSC certificate. Again, you take it to Section 13 that prescribes for certain offences and penalties, including forgery of certificates under the Act, which is the issue that relates to Kemi Adeosun.

Lastly, I refer you to Section 17 of the NYSC Act, on exemption from participation from the scheme. And, of course, a candidate is required to make application to the national security council through the national directorate to be exempted and when that determination is made, that person will be issued what is called certificate of exemption.

The issue is this, Kemi Adeosun made a point that she submitted her certificate during her ministerial screening to the SSS, to the National Assembly, nothing was found wanting. That she didnt believe she had forged it. But do not forget, that in her resignation letter to the President, she did concede, she did make an admission that her certificate was found not to be genuine. So, to that extent, I think with profound respect to the former minister, it is an insult on the sensibilities of Nigerians for her to now come today that she has been vindicated.

READ ALSO:

Because as I have clarified, the issue before the court was not forgery, because the AGF in exercising his prosecutorial discretion decided not to prosecute her.

Now, let me take you to the Constitution, what is the requirement for a person to be made a minister? Again, I refer you to Section 147 of the Constitution that has essentially three conditions. The person must be 25 years of age; the person must be sponsored by a political party, which he must also be a member; the person must be appointed by the president; and must also have, at least, SSCE or its equivalent.

Those requirements are not expressly stated, but Section 147 says you can only be a minister if you are eligible to contest for the position of the House of Representatives.

Now Section 65 of the Constitution states the requirements to be a member of the House, which is what I have highlighted.

To that extent, the court is right in saying that she did not need NYSC certificate to be a minister because a political position is not really governed by labour law, it is not an employer-employee relationship. It is an elective or appointive position.

ADVERTISEMENT

Abati: I get the point that you have made but, you also know, as an officer in the temple of justice that a court of law does not necessarily go on a voyage of discovery. It will deal with matters that are presented before it, and I think you have already made that point.

What was before the court was Kemi Adeosun trying to protect her reputation and if you look at Section 26 of the 1979 Constitution, at the time, the case was that as at that time she was not a citizen of Nigeria, she had British citizenship. By 1989, when she graduated at the age of 22, she was still not a Nigerian citizen.

You go to the 1999 Constitution, Section 25 states how you can be a citizen of Nigeria. But by the time she returned to Nigeria, after taking visas and all of that, the law has changed. But at the time she graduated, she was not a citizen of Nigeria. That was the position that the court talked about.

Dele Ogun: First of all let me make a disclosure, Kemi is my junior sister. So I put that on the record, but that doesnt affect the legal issues that we are considering.

What the court clearly determined was that the NYSC law did not apply to her at the relevant time, so she was exempt from the law as a matter of fact and as a matter of law. That is very relevant to the issue of forgery because motive is a consideration.

Now, lets move to the allegation of forgery which was made by the Premium Times and it was repeated by them even in this coverage of this judgment which they said although Mrs Adeosun forged her NYSC certificate to be appointed as minister, the issue of forgery was not brought before the court as the federal government has refused to prosecute her.

The simple reason why the government has not charged her or prosecuted her for forgery is that there was no forgery.

Now, lets break it down for the members of the public, the starting point is this, she was entitled to the exemption certificate. The second point is this and that is what the judgment established. Vanguard Newspaper, 9th of July 2018, confirmed, they reported a statement issued by NYSC that Kemi did apply to them for an exemption certificate. So she was entitled and she applied for what she was entitled to.

READ ALSO:

Next fact, the certificate was procured for her by the Office of the Governor of Ogun State who, at the time, were looking to engage her services as the Commissioner of Finance for that state.

Next fact, the certificate was cleared by the State House of Assembly, the National Assembly and the Department of State Security prior to her employment at state and federal levels.

Now, coming to the issue of the basis of the allegation of forgery. Was there an investigation? Now, in her resignation letter, she said I have today become privy to the findings of the investigation into the allegation made in an online medium that the certificate of exemption from the National Youth Service Corps that I had presented was not genuine. The reality was that that is what she was told at a meeting in the Vice Presidents office that there had been an investigation and that the investigation found that her certificate was not genuine.

Was she issued with an investigation report? No, she was not. Has anyone seen that investigation report? No one has seen it. So, she was told orally that there had been an investigation and the finding was unfavourable. And it was in response to that statement, which she had no reason to doubt, that she decided that the honourable thing was to resign. But where is that investigation? It does not exist. And I can confirm that it does not exist because I acted for her when the Institute of Chartered Accountants of England and Wales decided to investigate the matter. Because, obviously, they heard allegation that a member of their institute had forged a document. These facts that I have presented to you are the very facts that I presented to them. They were surprised to hear that there was no written investigation.

Suffice to say that as we speak, Kemi Adeosun is still a proud member of Institute of Chartered Accountants, England and Wales. She would not have been such if they were not satisfied with the explanation that had been presented that there was no forgery.

Clearly, there are questions to be answered by the government. What happened to that investigation report, where is it? Given that it was confirmed that NYSC did receive an application from her for the exemption certificate, which this judgment just confirmed, that she was entitled to as matter of law and as matter of fact. What happened to that application? It does not make sense that somebody had submitted an application to the rightful body for an exemption certificate and that she received an exemption certificate through the office of the governor of a responsible state government and then it is said that it was forged. Absolute nonsense.

So, the government, Im afraid, does have a case to answer. Lets see the investigation report if it exists. But our evidence is that there was no investigation report.

Secondly, Premium Times definitely have a case to answer because if forgery is alleged, and it is a serious allegation, then it rests on the person making the allegation to substantiate that allegation. And the standard of the burden of proof, as my learned friend will know, is not on the balance of probabilities but beyond reasonable doubt. That is our case.

Tundun Abiola: Thank you Mr Ogun, and Kemi Adeosun resignation was honourable indeed. I have to ask you at this point that will she be bringing an action against Premium Times based on what youve said?

Ogun (Cuts in) Absolutely!

Abiola: My second question is for both of you, will you please sound a note of caution with regards to this court decision that was made in favour of Kemi Adeosun, lest we have Nigerians with dual nationality thinking that it applies to them as well. Some people might err in this regard. So Id like you to please stress that, the both of you. But, first Mr Ogun, please answer the question with regards to the possibility of bringing an action against Premium Times.

Ogun: You could be assured that if an organisation, as I understand, they claim to be Nigerias leading newspaper for reliable breaking news and deep investigative reports about Nigeria. Weve got to get away from this practice of trial by newspaper and media reports. Allegations must be substantiated and they have the responsibility now to substantiate the allegation which theyve repeated that she forged a document.



Abiola: With regards to those who might err in thinking that this court judgment that applies specifically to the facts of Mrs Adeosuns case might apply to them because they hold a dual nationality, Id like you to address those people.

Ogun: The explanation to them is this: many were affected by these changes in the definition of who is a Nigerian citizen? The real detail is this, that she was a Nigerian citizen at birth, but she was striped of that Nigerian citizenship by virtue of the 1979 Constitution which prohibited dual citizenship unless you took the positive step within one year of attaining the age of 21 to surrender your foreign citizenship. She did not surrender her British citizenship and I suspect many of our diasporan people were in the same situation probably did not know about the change of the law and they certainly did not take the step of surrendering their British and American citizenships to keep the Nigerian one. And so, the same principle applies to them, they were similarly exempt from the NYSC law and they would have committed a criminal offence had they actually participated in the NYSC in circumstances where they were not eligible to do so. So, the principle is of general application.

Effiong: Let me just highlight who a citizen of Nigeria is by birth, I think that point needs to be made under the current constitutional arrangement. Ill refer you to Section 25 of the Constitution that defines citizenship by birth under three heads. The first is that any person born in Nigeria before the date of independence, either of whose parents or grandparents were indigenous to any of the areas indigenous to Nigeria.

The second, if any person born after independence, that is after October 1st 1960, either of whose parents or whose grandparents were a citizen of Nigeria.

The third is any person born outside Nigeria either of whose parents is a citizen of Nigeria.

But I understand the point my learned friend has made regarding the definition of citizenship under the 1979 Constitution.

Now, here is the point, the NYSC Act came into existence, the commencement date for NYSC is June 1993 when it came into force. I do agree that by virtue of the judgment, the law has now been clarified to the point that those who were not citizens of Nigeria under the 1979 Constitution, who are in the same position with Kemi Adeosun may not necessarily be required, in fact, are not required to participate in the scheme.

READ ALSO:

But again, I will also advise and challenge media organisations, including Premium Times, to go to the Federal High Court, file an application to obtain the certified true copy of the processes filed, the originating summons filed by Kemi Adeosun and of course the counter-affidavit of the Attorney General of the Federation. Because the point my learned friend has made is important and I think Nigeria as a country deserves answers to the questions he has raised. Where is the investigation report?

If I understood what he is saying, he is saying that Kemi Adeosun applied for certificate of exemption, possibly based on a wrong advice, because the court has said she didnt have to apply, but that what was eventually given to her was not a genuine certificate. In other words, somebody in between Kemi Adeosun and the NYSC forged and concocted a forged certificate. Who is that person? Because the brother also disclosed, thankfully, that the document was procured through the Ogun State government. Who is the official in the Ogun State government that forged or that procured this forged document for and on behalf of Kemi Adeosun?

If this is a government that fights corruption, if this is a government that pretends to have integrity, I challenge the Attorney General of the Federation, I challenge the Vice President because his office has also been mentioned, they have a responsibility to disclose to Nigerians who actually obtained that document and handed it over to Kemi Adeosun and tell us why that person is not on trial.

But let me also caution, that under Section 17 of the NYSC Act, exemption certificate is personal. The law does not give allowance for that certificate to be obtained by proxy. I do not agree entirely that Kemi Adeosun had no question whatsoever to answer. But I understand the point that has been made that she may have been misled, I do get that point. But whether she should sue Premium Times, my humble advice, free advice as a lawyer, is that I will advise her not to take that course of action. Because I believe strongly so that Premium Times will be availed by the defence of justification in the sense that what was published was true, the certificate has been shown not to be genuine. The question as to the investigation report. She actually resigned, in her resignation she conceded that she has been told the certificate was not genuine. And I want the brother to tell us, has Kemi Adeosun applied officially for a copy of that investigation report? She has a responsibility to apply for it. Let him also disclose to us, have they applied for that report as at today?

Rufai Oseni: Inibehe, two things. Number one, when we started this conversation you brought the case of forgery but when Dele Ogun spoke hed been able to debunk that Its a little bit hazy for me now because if this passed through the Ogun State government, the House of Assembly in Ogun State, passed through our National Assembly, because she was screened. And passed through the screening of the DSS and none of these checklines discovered the fact that her certificate was forged, then there is something that more than meets the eyes.

Inibehe: I dont think Nigerians should be surprised. The SSS, the police and the National Assembly have over time proven to Nigerians beyond reasonable doubt that they are more of political institutions than legitimate law enforcement agencies and I say that with all sense of responsibility. You couldnt have had this not uncovered during their investigation, when they did fact checking, during their security clearance. What is the point of the security clerance? So it is not surprising. I think this is an embarrassment that they have to admit to, this is a shame that they have to own up to, because somebody has to take responsibility. But the crisis that we have in the country is that the policy of punishment, the policy of responsibility is not there. Nobody is being penalized, those who screened her have not been questioned, those who looked at that document have not been fired. Because we do not have a government today in this country that is genuinely interested in accountability, in transparency, and fighting corruption. That is my reaction to the issue and I hope they will own this embarrassment and own this failure on their part.

Oseni: Mr Ogun, did she (Kemi Adeosun) work anywhere in Nigeria before she picked up that appointment with Ogun State government as commissioner. And what were the terms? Was this NYSC exemption certificate required then? Secondly, thereve been talks in some quarters that this is just political Italian job being done here, just to get her out of office. Whats your reaction? Because with this judgement, she can come back to become anything she wants to become in this country.

Dele Ogun: Let me quickly say, my learned friend keeps committing the fundamental error of saying that the document was forged. It is a plain fact, forgery has not been proved, it has not been established at all. It was never alleged by the government, it was alleged by Premium Times. There is no charge sheet alleging forgery and Premium Times reported that the certificate has been forged. And what I said to you is that various tiers have gone through the checking process, the state House of Assembly, the National Assembly, the Department of State Security. They would not have missed forgery if it was in fact forgery.

The explanation is this, the responsible department that should have confirmed they issued that certificate in response to the application. They admitted that they received an application for a certificate of exemption. What did they do with that application? Where is it? What happened to it? Because if you then have a certificate that emerges that looks authentic, when it comes from the office of the governor of one of our 36 states, there is no reason to doubt it.

So the allegation is completely baseless and my learned friend should desist from confusing the public in assuming that forgery has been admitted or established. What she said in her resignation statement was that she was told that there had been an investigation and that the certificate was not genuine. And what I have tabled for the audience, the public is this, if there was such an investigation that they did make that finding, I presume there was a forensic examination of the said document. The public are entitled to see it, it does not exist. And anybody who is said to have alleged forgery must prove it, you cant put it at allegation alone and trial by media. There was no forgery. If there was forgery, she would not be, as we speak, a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of England and Wales.

READ ALSO:

Coming to your point about whether she had any employment before becoming Commissioner for Finance. Yes, she did. She did work in Nigeria. It was the responsibility of the employer to ask for the certificate of exemption.

One final point, because the responsibility rest on the employer to ask for NYSC certificate, in the circumstance where somebody is exempt, they will similarly ask for a certificate for exemption. So the reason she applied was that although she knew she was exempt from the law, the law did not apply to her. By virtue of that obligation on the employer to ask for the NYSC certificate or certificate of exemption, thats why the application was submitted and the certificate then emerged.

So all the allegation of forgery is all nonsense. It will be bad enough if they said she presented a forged certificate, no, theyve gone so far to say she herself forged it. Lets get that clear, she herself forged it, not that she presented a forged one, because you can present something innocently assuming that its forged, but its not. NYSC simply have not come clean to say they issued that certificate in response to her application.

Abati: Dele Ogun, will you agree that we probably may not have seen the end of this matter, Folakemi Adeosun vs the Attorney General of the Federation. Are we likely to see a possibility where the AGF will go on appeal and perhaps some other resolutions may be provided at the end of that appeal process? However, what has been established is that she has a right to defend her reputation and she has been quoted in the papers as saying she would take consequential steps to further protect her reputation. As her brother, what are those consequential steps likely to be?

Dele Ogun: Well, Premium Times will find out very very soon indeed. As for the government, it is really for them to take their share of the responsibility and tell the public what the public is entitled to hear. But certainly Premium Times that have repeated the allegations of forgery should expect a very interesting communication very soon.
The forgery scandal which swept Kemi Adeosun, the former minister of finance, out of office took a new dimension on Thursday, with Mrs Adeosuns brother blaming Vice President Yemi Osinbajos office for his sisters resignation.

Mrs Adeosuns older brother, Dele Ogun, who is also her lawyer, said on Thursday that the Nigerian government has a case to answer in his sisters resignation.

Mrs Adeosun, a British-Nigerian citizen, had resigned from office in 2018 in the heat of the scandal, following PREMIUM TIMES investigative report which showed she had presented a forged National Youth Service Corp (NYSC) exemption certificate to enable her get political appointment in Nigeria.

The former minister, however, got what appears to be a reprieve on Wednesday when a Federal High Court in Abuja ruled that she did not breach any law by being appointed to the ministerial position in 2015 without participating in the NYSC scheme.

The judge did not review the forgery of the NYSC exemption certificate since the issue was not part of the suit filed by Mrs Adeosun, of which the attorney general of the federation was the sole defendant.

Osinbajos office has question to answer

Admittedly in her resignation letter she said, I have today become privy to the findings of the investigation into the allegation made in an online medium that the certificate of exemption from the National Youth Service Corps that I had presented was not genuine.

The reality is that that is what she was told at a meeting in the Vice Presidents office that there had been an investigation and that the investigation found out that her certificate was not genuine, the former ministers brother, Mr Ogun, said on Thursday during an interview in the Arise TV programme, Morning Show.

A Lagos-based human rights lawyer, Inibehe Effiong, was also a guest on the TV programme.

Mr Ogun said neither Mrs Adeosun nor any other person had seen a report of any investigation on the forgery scandal, from the vice presidents office.

He insisted that such a report did not exist.

So she was told orally that there had been an investigation and that the finding was unfavourable. And it was in response to that statement, which she had no reason to doubt, that she decided that the honourable thing was to resign.

But where is that investigation report? It does not exist, he said.

Mr Ogun said he told the Institute of Chartered Accountants of England and Wales, of which Mrs Adeosun is a member, that there was no investigation report from the Nigerian government on the former minister, when the institute investigated the scandal.

Mrs Adeosuns suit and the actions taken by her after the court judgement, including her brothers remarks, is a pointer that the former minister wants to erase the forgery scandal, clear her name and rebuild her image.

Mr Ogun, apart from putting the blame on the vice presidents office, said the NYSC exemption certificate was procured for her (Adeosun) by the office of the governor of Ogun State who at the time were looking to engage her services as the commissioner for finance for that state.

Mr Ogun threatened to sue PREMIUM TIMES for the papers reports on the former finance minister.

The government, I am afraid, has a case to answer  lets see the investigation report, if it exists, he said of Mr Osinbajos office.

When PREMIUM TIMES contacted Mr Osinbajos spokesperson, Laolu Akande, on Friday, for comment, he requested that the questions be sent to him via WhatsApp.

ADVERTISEMENT

Mr Akande, however, did not respond to the questions sent to him.

How Buharis government investigated Adeosun

President Muhammadu Buhari had directed the Secretary to the Government of Federation (SGF), Boss Mustapha, to investigate Mrs Adeosuns NYSC exemption certificate, following PREMIUM TIMES persistent reporting on the scandal.

Mr Mustapha wrote to the NYSC authorities and got a response that Mrs Adeosun indeed presented a forged certificate.

Besides Mrs Adeosun being queried by Mr Mustapha, the SGF had sent a report of his investigation to Mr Buhari.

The lawyer, Mr Effiong, in his remarks during the Arise TV interview, said Nigerians deserve to have access to a report of the government investigation into Mrs Adeosuns forgery scandal.

I do not see the judgement of the Federal High Court as a vindication because what led to her resignation was the allegation of forgery which she has not been tried for, Mr Effiong said.
ADVERTISEMENT

The police in Kaduna State say the Emir of Kajuru, Alhassan Adamu, and 10 others have been kidnapped by suspected bandits in the early hours of Sunday in Kajuru town, headquarters of Kajuru Local Government area of the state.

The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Muhammad Jalige disclosed this to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Kaduna on Sunday.

Mr Jalige said the second class traditional ruler and the other victims were kidnapped at his palace.

Sources say the victims include the emirs three wives, two of his grandchildren and five of his domestic workers. PREMIUM TIMES was yet to verify this information as of the time the report was filed.

BBC Hausa also reported that the emir had organised a security meeting on Friday before his abduction.

Also, a former senator, Shehu Sani, later confirmed the incident in a social media post.

Mr Sani said: The kidnapping of the Emir of Kajuru and his family members is tragic and unfortunate. If an Emir is not safe no one else is safe.

I call on all security agencies to take an immediate action and ensure his safety and safe return. My thoughts and prayers.

Meanwhile, the police spokesperson, who did not give details of how the incident happened, said policemen had been mobilised to trail the hoodlums with a view to rescuing the victims.

We have deployed our men to rescue them, he said.

Many parts of the country are currently battling spikes in crimes and insecurity despite efforts by the Muhammadu Buhari led government to halt the slide into anarchy.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has warned of a possible third wave of the coronavirus pandemic in the state, and Nigeria by extension.

In a statement issued on Sunday evening and personally signed by him, Mr Sanwo-Olu reeled out statistics of the increasing number of cases in the state and the need to buckle up, especially as the Islamic religious festival of Eid-l-Adha nears.

The governor said the number of confirmed cases, which had earlier reduced to one per cent average as of the end of June, has suddenly increased to 6.6 per cent rate as of Thursday, July 8.

Mr Sanwo-Olu, however, did not say whether the new Delta variant, which has been described as the most transmissible, has been found in Lagos or not.

But Mr Sanwo-Olu noted that as the pandemic epicentre in the country, how Lagos handles the situation would tell on the fate of Nigeria and Nigerians as a whole.

He, therefore, urged full compliance with all the protocols imposed in the country and threatened to prosecute anyone found to have willfully flouted the protocols, and particularly the travellers.

The complete speech is reproduced below;

GOVERNOR BABAJIDE SANWO-OLUS CORONAVIRUS PRESS STATEMENT  JULY 11, 2021

Fellow Lagosians, It has become imperative to once again provide you an update on the Coronavirus pandemic situation in Lagos State, and our ongoing response as a State Government. Starting around the end of March 2021, the second wave of the COVID19 pandemic in Lagos State began to wind down, and we began to enjoy some reprieve from the worst effects of the virus. This allowed us to further open-up the economy to allow the start of the journey towards full normalcy in our lives and the pursuit of livelihoods, after what has been a very difficult year.

Regrettably, in spite of the hard work and dedicated efforts towards sustaining the return to normalcy, over the last three months, we are now finding ourselves at what appears to be the start of a potential 3rd wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, in Lagos State. From the beginning of July, we started to experience a steep increase in the number of daily confirmed cases, with the test positivity rate going from 1.1% at the end of June 2021 to its current rate of 6.6% as at 8th of July 2021. The rapid increase within a week gives great cause for concern.

Also, within the last two weeks, the occupancy rate at our 2 isolation centres increased from an average of 1% to 6%. This is the new and disturbing reality that now confronts us. But we must not be demoralized by this. We must instead resolve that we will not leave any stone unturned in our bid to effectively mitigate the third wave of this pandemic in Lagos State.

As you all know, Lagos has been the epicentre of the pandemic since the start, and the way we manage it here has a significant impact and reverberating effect on the national outlook and outcomes. So, Nigeria is counting on us in Lagos State to be resolute in our stand against the virus. We will continue to test aggressively. We will also focus on sequencing the samples we are collecting to ensure we are detecting and keeping track of the different variants in circulation. It is only by testing and sequencing comprehensively that we can collect the data required for informed decision-making.

Epidemiology Update

As at the 7th of July 2021, Lagos State had recorded a total of 60,202 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Of this number, 55,135 have recovered in-community and 770 are currently being managed actively in-community. Over the course of managing the COVID-19 pandemic, about 4,382 patients have been admitted into our various COVID-19 care centres in Lagos: with 357 registered fatalities. In all, we have tested 563,679 samples in Lagos State since the pandemic started. Today we have 30 accredited testing centers: 26 private and 4 public health laboratories in the State, a significant improvement in capacity over the course of the past year.

Accredited Health Facilities

Let me make it clear that outside of the health facilities accredited for the management and treatment of COVID-19, and the EKOTELEMED program, no other health facilities, whether public or private, are permitted to admit or attend to COVID-19 patients. The Lagos State Health Facility Monitoring and Accreditation Agency (HEFAMAA) is providing monitoring and surveillance and has been mandated to apply heavy fines and other punitive measures on all facilities found to be in violation of this. Lagosians should desist from patronizing non-accredited COVID-19 treatment centers, and proprietors should also ensure that all suspected and confirmed cases are referred appropriately.

Vaccine Distribution and Access

One of the major tenets of our mitigation strategy against the 3rd wave is our vaccination campaign, similar to other parts of the world. It has been observed by various credible studies that those that have received their 4 vaccines have demonstrated significant resistance to the effects of the virus, with fewer associated complications and deaths. As of today, however, the percentage of residents of Lagos who have received two (2) doses of the vaccine stands at a mere 1%.

We recognise that this is not adequate, and given the imminent third wave, and our priority to reduce COVID-19 related deaths, we are exploring all avenues possible to ramp up access to vaccination so as to reach our herd immunity target of at least 60% COVID-19 vaccination coverage of the population of Lagos State. We are confident that we will be getting a second batch of vaccines very soon, to kick-start the second phase of vaccinations.

Travel Protocols for in-Bound Passengers Between 8th May 2021 and 7th July 2021, a total of 50,322 passengers of interest arrived in Lagos via the Murtala Mohammed Airport. Of the 50,322 passengers, 18 percent could not be reached by EKOTELEMED because of the provision of either wrong numbers or wrong Nigerian contact details to be reached on. It is the responsibility of passengers to ensure they provide the right details for us to reach them for proper monitoring. Going forward, passengers that do not provide the right details, including a phone number they can be reached for monitoring and an address for isolation, 5 will face serious sanctions including fines and imprisonment according to our Lagos State Coronavirus Law of 2021.

Sanctions Against Quarantine Defaulters

As dictated by the Presidential Steering Committee on COVID-19 (PSC), passengers from red-listed countries (India, South Africa, Brazil and Turkey) are required to observe mandatory isolation. So far, we have successfully isolated 2,386 passengers in Lagos State. Of this number, 15% have absconded. The following sanctions are being recommended and have already been meted out to defaulters:  For Foreigners: Revocation of their Permanent Residency, and deportation; and  For Nigerians: Prosecution to the full extent of the Lagos State COVID-19 Law.

ADVERTISEMENT

Religious Activities

Greater vigilance is required at this time in our Churches and Mosques and other places of religious worship. Even as we are pleased that religious houses are now open for worship, after the lengthy closures of 2020, we must not allow ourselves to be carried away by the illusion that all is now back to normal. This is especially critical, as Sallah approaches, in a little over a week from now. The festivities will no doubt bring people together in large numbers and create conditions that can sadly cause the spread of the Coronavirus. We must not allow this to happen. For this reason, we are mandating full compliance with all protective protocols. Compulsory use of masks in all public places, Social distancing, Temperature checks, Provisions for hand-washing and sanitizers, and a maximum of 50 percent occupancy in enclosed spaces.

Resisting Pandemic Fatigue

Whilst both the Federal and State Governments have a huge role to play in the management of the COVID-19 pandemic, the responsibility of managing the third wave ultimately belongs to all of us. Without the cooperation of the public at large, we stand the risks of losing both lives and livelihood, on a devastating scale. Therefore, I would like to once again reiterate that this is not the time to get tired or complacent. Instead we must be re-energized to battle this invisible and seemingly relentless enemy. After almost 18 months of daily confronting this virus, it is understandable that many are tired and want their old, pre-pandemic lives to return. Unfortunately, we do not have a choice in this regard, and fatigue is not an option. We cannot afford to be tired, frustrated or distracted. The enemy is formidable  and opportunistic. It will only go as far as we allow it. Having triumphed over the first and second waves of the pandemic, we must now find within ourselves new reserves of energy to quell this emerging third wave before it snowballs out of control. Let me assure us all that victory over COVID-19 is much closer today than at any other point in our recent history. But we must persevere to see this victory. We must maintain our vigilance even as we ramp up the vaccination coverage. At this point, I would like to thank all the members of the Incident Command Structure for their resilience in the management of this neverending pandemic, and also the Federal Government, through the Presidential Steering Committee, for all their support and collaboration. Lagos State will continue to work with all our partners, across government and the private sector, to ensure that we permanently triumph over this virus. We will not rest until this is achieved.

Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu

Incident Commander July 11, 2021
ADVERTISEMENT

One of the 475 students who graduated from the American University of Nigeria (AUN) on Saturday is Mary Katambi.

Ms Katambi bagged a Bachelors degree in Accounting seven years after she narrowly escaped from the grips of murderous Boko Haram terrorists who stormed her school dormitory in Chibok in 2014 and trucked away 276 girls.

She said she escaped by sneaking out of the camp of the terrorists and trudging through the forest back to her village. A few months later, Ms Katambi and 24 other colleagues, who either escaped from the terrorists or were released, arrived at AUN and were admitted for a foundational programme specially created for them by the university.

In 2016, after passing her school certificate and the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), she was admitted for a degree in accounting, with a full scholarship provided by AUN.

On Saturday, Ms Katambi, dressed in a red academic gown and a red cap, beamed with smiles and those familiar with her strides said there were new steps in her steps as she marched to the podium to receive her certificate from AUN President, Margee Ensign.

I am so proud of her, Ms Ensign told PREMIUM TIMES hours after the ceremony. She demonstrated strength, resilience and character. She taught us all how to survive and thrive in the face of adversity. She showed us that even if we go through trauma, theres always a way out. She and her colleagues are our heroes.

AUN Founder, Atiku Abubakar, also praised Ms Katambis staying power. Mary Katambi, Im proud that seven years after your release from Boko Haram captivity, youve beaten the odds to graduate with a degree in accounting from the American University of Nigeria. The best years are still ahead of you, the former Nigerian vice president said in a post on his Facebook page.

The post was accompanied by photographs Mr Atiku took with the new graduate at the commencement ceremony.

Now out of school, what next for the budding accountant? Ms Ensign said she offered Ms Katambi a job at AUN but that she declined, saying after seven years, she would like to venture out of Yola, where her university is based, to experience life elsewhere.

Ms Katambi described her academic journey in AUN as incredible. I cant even describe how I feel now, she told PREMIUM TIMES by telephone on Sunday morning. Its such a big honour. Im really grateful and excited at the opportunity I was given to study at AUN. I also cannot forget my Boko Haram ordeal and how God brought me out.

On her next plans, she said she would immediately proceed for national service after which she would start a business she was already working on. She said she will also do a masters degree in her field along the line.

I dont want to be looking for a job, she said. I want to run a business and create jobs for Nigerian youth.

When asked what kind of business she would be starting, she laughed and then said it was premature to disclose that information.

The extremist Boko Haram sect had on April 14, 2014, abducted Ms Katambi and 275 other girls from Government Secondary School, Chibok. A presidential committee said 57 of the girls immediately escaped from their abductors.

When the President Muhammadu Buhari administration came to power in 2015, it began negotiation with the Boko Haram sect. That yielded the release of 21 of the girls in October 2016 and another 82 in May 2017.

Not much has been heard of the remaining 112 girls, although the Federal Government says it is still working on getting them released.
ADVERTISEMENT

A former Nigerian envoy, Nnamdi Onochie, has advised the Federal Government to stage a truth, peace and reconciliation conference of Nigerias ethnic nationalities in October, to douse tensions nationwide.

In a statement he released in Abuja on Sunday, Mr Onochie, a notable peace campaigner and elder statesman, said the conference should be staged soonest to tackle rising political tensions and curb violence, including recurring abductions of school children.

Expressing his concern in what he tagged: Urgent Open Letter to the Federal, States and Other Levels of Government, the former diplomat expressed worry over the drumbeats of war and disintegration as Nigeria gets set for another general elections in 2023.

He said that endless violence, wickedness and kidnapping of innocent Nigerians, including kids had made it imperative for opinion leaders in the country to discuss the problems openly and frankly to sustain Nigerian unity and peace.

The conference will draw the roadmap for devolution of powers and other issues in the country before the general elections in 2023, he said, noting that dialogue was the magic wand to resolving all conflicts.

Mr Onochie, who is also a chieftain of the PDP called on Nigerians, irrespective of parties, religious and ethnic affiliations to put down their differences and allow peace to reign, to build a strong and united nation.

He re-stated his appeal to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), to address the root causes of the problems currently bedeviling the country, especially the issues of perceived marginalisation and social injustice.

The persistent calls for secession and agitations for self-determination by some ethnic nationalities show that the ship of state may be currently adrift and requires concerted stabilization and fortification.

Government at all levels, especially the Federal Government, needs to dedicate greater financial resources to reduce the cost of living, hunger, hardship and eliminate social wickedness such as killing and butchering of Nigerians for body-part sales by fellow Nigerians.

Our country today is highly divided along ethnic, social and religious lines, this should not be. So the APC should urgently tackle the issues by finding a middle ground for discussion as a way forward.

The former commissioner for special duties in Delta, said it had become clear that Nigeria was on precipice with arms-bearing non-state actors menacingly over-running state institutions and eroding Nigerias sovereignty.

If I were the president of Nigeria, I will find a middle ground to end all the agitations for secession, religious extremism, inhumanity and other crippling issues holding down our country from year to year.

My proposal to the Federal Government is to ensure that staging of the dialogue doesnt go beyond October this year, and participants should include top government functionaries, leaders of political parties, national assembly members, business leaders, traditional rulers and civil society groups, among others.

Presidential bid

Mr Onochie, who has disclosed his intention to vie for the presidential slot in 2023 also advised the Federal Government to take urgent steps to tackle looming hunger and hopelessness in the country and to address rising cost of living.

He also re-stated his warning to government to desist from seeking additional foreign loans for Nigeria, to prevent the country from being given conditions or prescriptions by external institutions that would worsen prevail human conditions in the country.

Mr Onochie, however, pleaded with Nigerians to give their unalloyed support to government in its current efforts to make Nigeria to rise to greatness and be the envy of other nations in the global community.

(NAN)
The immediate past President of the National Industrial Court of Nigeria (NICN), Babatunde Adejumo, has revealed how a former judge of the Court, Kenneth Amadi, turned down a bribe that was offered him to pervert the course of justice.

Mr Amadi, who is among the 18 judges newly elevated to the Court Appeal bench, was hosted at a dinner on Saturday by the management and staff of the NICN in Abuja.

He is the first judge of the industrial court to be elevated to the appellate court in Nigeria, the organisers said.

Speaking at the event, Mr Adejumo, who said he employed Mr Amadi as a judge of the NICN, noted that while in service, the new Appeal Court judge was very close to him among the judges in the industrial court, because he was incorruptible and very hard-working.

He is very articulate. He has distinguished himself since his appointment. I know about two or three occasions when people brought money to him, because they wanted to influence his decision. And, he came to me to tell me about it and I told him that I had heard about it, but was only waiting to see if he would collect the money or not. But he did not collect, Mr Adejumo said.

He urged other judges of the court to work hard and do everything humanly possible to discharge their responsibilities diligently to enable their consideration in future elevation exercise.

More accolades

In the same vein, a Justice of the Supreme Court and Deputy Chairman of the National Judicial Council (NJC), Mary Peter-Odili, and the President of the Court of Appeal (PCA), Monica Dongban-Mensem, urged judges in the country to be committed to their responsibilities owing to the enormous expectations from society.

Mrs Peter-Odili, who led a number of Justices of the Supreme Court to the event, described Mr Amadi as a diligent and committed judge.

Describing him as a brother, Peter-Odili recalled how Mr Amadi, as the chairman of the Mbaise branch of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), honoured her late father by naming the branchs Bar Centre after him (her late father).

Mrs Dongbem-Memsem, who lauded Mr Amadis elevation to the appellate court, said we at the Court of Appeal are delighted to have him among us, because of the wealth of experience he is bringing with him.

She applauded Mr Adejumos successor and incumbent President of the NICN, Benedict Kanyip, for his role in Mr Amadis elevation, noting that he (Kanyip) nominated three judges of his court and, never, at any point, indicated preference for any candidate. All he wanted was to see that NICN too is represented on the Court of Appeals bench.

Mrs Dongbem-Memsem noted that Mr Amadis elevation to the appellate court was based on his tall academic credential of excellence as an academic with a doctorate degree in law and judge of high moral standing as attested to by his former colleagues at the industrial court.

Mr Kanyip noted that with his elevation, Mr Amadi has made history, noting that he broke the jinx by being the first judge of the NICN to be elevated to the Court of Appeal.

Speaking on his role in Mr Amadis elevation, Mr Kanyip said, Although we had three persons recommended by the Federal Judicial Service Commission (FJSC) to the NJCs interview panel, only Justice Amadi made it.

This places a huge burden on you, because if you dont represent us well, you have effectively shut the door for others. So, the burden on you is to represent us very well so that others can come behind you.

The Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, John Tsoho, who described Mr Amadi as a trailblazer and ambassador of the NICN at the Court of Appeal, admonished him to justify the confidence reposed in him and advised that he should not detach himself from his roots, being the NICN.

The Chief Registrar of the NICN, Olurotimi Daudu, equally eulogised Mr Amadi and prayed for Gods continuous guidance and protection as he climbs the judicial ladder, noting that his absence would be felt by staff of the court.

Response

In his response, an elated Mr Amadi, who was accompanied to the occasion by his wife and children, said he was humbled by the array of persons and dignitaries, including Justices of the Supreme Court and Court of Appeal, Senior Advocates of Nigeria, among others, who graced the occasion.

ADVERTISEMENT

Mr Amadi promised to remain committed to the service of fatherland and would not betray the confidence reposed in him by his elevation to the appellate courts bench.

Dignitaries at the event included a retired Justice of the Supreme Court, Kumai Akaahs, and some other serving judges of the court  Olukayode Ariwoola, Inyang Okoro, Ejembi Eko, Abdul Aboki and Mohammed Garba.

Among the Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SAN) at the event were, Harris Ogbole, Alex Izinyon, Damian Dodo, Akinlolu Kehinde, Joe-Kyari Gadzama.
ADVERTISEMENT

A controversial Islamic cleric accused of blaspheming Prophet Muhammad and his companion, Abduljabbar Kabara, on Sunday, apologised over the comments.

PREMIUM TIMES reported how Mr Kabara appeared in a public debate organised by the Kano State government for him to defend his comments but refused to answer questions from his opponents, despite being the one who requested the public debate.

During the debate, the moderator, Salisu Shehu, a professor of Islamic Studies, ruled that Mr Kabara consistently strayed off the topic of discussion and avoided answering questions asked him.

Mr Shehu ruled that the clerics earlier comments on Prophet Muhammads companions were his personal opinion, not part of Islamic teaching as he claimed.

On every topic raised, Mr Kabara dodged questions and refused to open a book in his posession to clarify comments he made, citing short timing and not being fully prepared for the discussion, the judge said.

Two days after the public debate, Mr Kabara on Sunday offered an apology.

If my comments on the contending issue are offensive, I seek God forgiveness and the entire Muslims faithful, he said.

Mr Kabara said his comments were misinterpretated and that he was just trying to defend the sanctity of Prophet Muhammad.
The American University of Nigeria (AUN) on Saturday honoured the President of the African Development Bank, Akinwumi Adesina, with an honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters.

The university bestowed the honour on Mr Adesina at its 12th joint commencement (graduation) ceremony for its classes of 2020 and 2021.

AUN President (vice-chancellor), Margee Ensign, who garlanded Mr Adesina, said the AfDB President was honoured for his exemplary service in the public sector.

Ms Ensign said Mr Adesinas record of service epitomises AUNs motto: Excellence, Integrity, Service  for the collective good of the people of Nigeria, of Africa and of the world.

In many ways, he stands for what AUN stands for as Africas development university, Ms Ensign said. We are honoured to honour a truly Nigerian and African hero.

An elated Mr Adesina described the award as an additional responsibility on him to do more for humanity.

Its a call to do more, and I will, he said. I will be a great ambassador of this university.

The AfDB President later gave a commencement lecture entitled Building a New Nigeria: Imperative for Shared Prosperity at the ceremony.

In the keynote, Mr Adesina said he fully understood the challenges Nigeria is facing as a nation but expressed optimism that the country will arise from its problems, and become a more prosperous and united nation.

I speak to you today as a Nigerian. As I have quite often said, I will live as a Nigerian, die as a Nigerian, and on the resurrection morning I will ask God for permission to rise as a Nigerian, with the green-white-green flag in my hand! Mr Adesina said.

Nigeria is blessed with incredibly rich diversity: of people, of cultures, of religions, of mineral resources, oil, and gas, an amazingly rich biodiversity, that should make us the envy of the world. We are blessed with abundantly diverse agro-ecologies, that should also make us a land of bountiful harvests with capacity to feed Africa.

We are a religious nation, so we should understand that God loves diversity. The diversity of rich and brilliant colours that we see in our forests, oceans, seas, and in flora and fauna, reflect the beauty of the Creator.

Therefore, our diversity is not our problem. Diversity is our strength.

But when mismanaged, diversity becomes divergence. Rather than unite, we become splintered, with each entity believing that, somehow, it is better without the other.

While urging Nigerians to learn from the Singaporean example, Mr Adesina urged Africas most populous nation to manage its diversity well for the collective good of its people.

The AfDB President added, The Singaporean society is based on meritocracy, not aristocracy or ethnocracy or religiocracy.

Any society where meritocracy is subjugated to aristocracy, ethnocracy or religiocracy eventually tends towards mediocrity.

Nigeria must learn from this experience and forge a new way of engaging among its diverse ethnic groups and religions.

ADVERTISEMENT

Nigeria must start managing its diversity for prosperity. We must drive for national cohesion, not ethnic nationalities.

We must address the fundamental reasons for agitations, by listening, understanding, removing prejudices, and allowing for open, national dialogues, without preconditions, but with one goal: build one cohesive, united, fair, just and equitable nation for all, not for a few or for any section of the nation or religion.

A nation, unified by a sense of commonwealth, not a collage of ethnic nationalism. A nation driven by meritocracy, not ethnocracy, religiocracy or aristocracy.

A total of 475 candidates graduated at the ceremony, earning undergraduate and graduate degrees  165 from the class of 2020 and 310 from the class of 2020.

Among the candidates was Mohammad Nasiru Yakubu, who became the first-ever doctorate degree graduate to be produced by the 17-year old university.

At the commencement ceremony were former Vice President Atiku Abubakar (founder of the university), Governors Simon Lalong of Plateau and Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa, former Senator Ben Obi (chairperson of the universitys governing council), the Lamido Adamawa, Muhammadu Musdafa, among other dignitaries.

Earlier on Friday night, the university held a lavish awards ceremony where outstanding graduating students were honoured for academic excellence, community service, leadership and sporting achievements.
ADVERTISEMENT

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), says it has begun distribution of food items to 35,508 displaced persons in Borno.

The spokesman of the Agency, Abdulkadir Ibrahim, stated this in a statement on Sunday in Maiduguri.

Mr Ibrahim said that 35,508 households would benefit from the routine exercise at designated Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) camps, host and resettled communities in the state.

The IDPs in Borno State have been receiving food items provided by NEMA as support to the victims of insurgency.

NEMAs North East Zonal Coordinator, Wagami Lydia Madu, is leading the food distribution team at the designated areas including IDPs camps, host communities and some liberated communities, he said.

Mr Ibrahim listed the liberated communities to include Jakana, Mainok and Benesheik in Kaga Local Government Area of the state.

He said the food distribution exercise was approved by the Director-General of the Agency, Mustapha Ahmed.

According to him, the food intervention is part of the Federal Governments efforts to support the Borno State Government towards mitigating the effects of insurgency on the displaced persons.

He said that each of deserving household would get a ration comprising bags of beans, rice, maize and condiments like seasoning, salt, tomato paste and cooking oil.

(NAN)
The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) has said that 17,053 babies were given birth to by Internally Displaced Persons in 18 locations in Borno State alone.

The UN agency told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the figure represents information of babies who have been registered between 2019 to May 2021.

Frantz Celestine, the IOM chief of mission,said the agency collaborates with the National Population Commission and UNICEF to issue birth certificates to the children.

According to him, the identity of the children was very important and also falls within its Displacement Matrix data which it shares with other stakeholders intervening in the North-east.

We do biometric data collection so that we know exactly the number of people who have been displaced so that the service we provide to them can be effective.

This is important for food distribution, for non-food items distribution, it is also important for medical provision.

Some of the work that we do on our displacement matrix data is to work with the population commission and UNICEF to provide birth certificates to those under five who were born in the camps.

On the number of children that were born in the camps, I know last time I checked, those we had taken the biometrics and issued with birth certificates between 2019 and May 2021 were 17,053, he said.

The IOMs Chief said the data helps it to identify those who have been displaced, adding that if you dont have an identity you do not exist in the eyes of the government and the law.

He said it was important for the IOM that in spite of the conditions that they find themselves, the children were identified.

Mr Celestine, however, said it was unfortunate that many people in Nigeria only identified the IOM with retuning of migrants, pointing out that the work of IOM goes way beyond that.

In Nigeria, IOM is celebrating its 20th anniversary. But there are a lot of people who dont know the extent of IOMs presence in Nigeria, they see IOM as managing migration or just bringing people back from Libya. But there is a lot more to what we do.

We are the biggest shelter providers in the North East, the biggest camp managers  managing 115 camps.

Also, we have 19 mobile teams looking after the mental health of those who have been traumatised by Boko Haram.

We have migration data collection and management, and this is where most people have come across our data and they dont know that it is Nigerian Data.

If you hear that 2.1 million people have been displaced in the North-east, that is our data.

The displacement tracking matrix collects these data, provide it to the humanitarian community so that they can do targeted and specific interventions, he said.

Borno State in Nigerias North-east has been the epicentre of Boko Haram insurgency since 2009, a situation that has led to many indigenes of the state displaced from their ancestral communities.

ADVERTISEMENT

(NAN)
ADVERTISEMENT

The Kaduna State Government has officially announced the death of former Deputy Governor Barnabas Bala (Bantex) and declared Monday as work-free day.

Muyiwa Adekeye, special adviser to Governor Nasir el-Rufai on Media and Communication in a statement on Sunday, in Kaduna, said the work-free day was in honour of Mr Balaa memory and service to the state.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Mr Bala died on Sunday in Abuja.

Mr Adekeye said Mr El-Rufai had sent a personal message of condolence to the family, noting that it was a blessing to know the late former deputy governor and to work with him.

He said the governor acknowledged the deceaseds commitment to the progress of the state and prayed God to grant him peaceful repose and to comfort his family.

The late Mr Bala was deputy governor to Mr El-Rufai between 2015 and 2019.

He was also the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for Kaduna South Senatorial district in the 2019 National Assembly elections but lost to the candidate of the PDP.

(NAN)
we have found ourselves in this toxic environment where dialogue has become old-fashioned and fairness has been redefined to mean I, Me and Myself. Increasingly, the parts that make up this great piece of Gods estate are being torn asunder, bit by bit. Those who parrot the mantra of indivisibility are beginning to realise that although they dont want to leave the country, the country is leaving them.

You do not know me, said Tortoise. I am a changed man. I have learned that a man who makes trouble for others makes trouble for himself.  Chinua Achebe, Things Fall Apart

The civic space is shrinking by the day as my countrymen and women contend for the soul of the nation. Nigeria is pregnant. Veteran political midwives predict a long and painful labour. But they do not foresee a stillbirth as it happened in 1993 under the watchful eyes of one former student of the redoubtable Eme Awa; his name was Humphrey Nwosu, the midwife of Nigerias first universally accepted, free and fair federal election.

The baby was born healthy but was strangled at birth. What manner of medic would monitor and nurture a pregnancy to term only to carry out infanticide in plain sight? Those who were not at the receiving end of the horror rationalised the crime. Better to send fledgling dust back to ancient dust.

We shall be back to the political labour room on the 30th anniversary of that crime, in 2023. And, as you can see, the usual suspects are doing their damndest to cut the umbilical cord of amity and sow the kind of hate that will turn midwives to undertakers.

Its some comfort that we have, so far, survived them all: Gentlemen officers bitten by the messianic bug; rash pseudo-revolutionaries; anointees of the old order; dribblers of the truth, killers of our collective joy; Beelzebubs second-in-command; the tent-bearer of the Year of Return; the pseudo democrat; the sacerdotal ogbanje who re-etched morality into the lexicon; the jolly good fellow; the messiah in desperate need of salvation

We may yet survive for many more years. We will have a place to stand if, as Malcolm X counselled, we replace I with We, so that even our illness becomes wellness.

However, we have found ourselves in this toxic environment where dialogue has become old-fashioned and fairness has been redefined to mean I, Me and Myself. Increasingly, the parts that make up this great piece of Gods estate are being torn asunder, bit by bit. Those who parrot the mantra of indivisibility are beginning to realise that although they dont want to leave the country, the country is leaving them.

The other day, as their contribution to the national debate on the way forward, governors of our Southern states agreed on some resolutions, including a recommendation that the presidency of Nigeria should be rotated between the North and the South. The kind of vicious negative response that greeted their announcement was indicative of our level of fractiousness. Some self-appointed spokesmen for the North (with the notable exception of the Northern Elders Forum) even said it was an insult, while others interpreted the governors resolution as a threat and an attempt to blackmail.

Within the first half of this year, we recorded 32 deaths and 17 successful kidnapping incidents per day. Misfortune has no tribe. The grim reaper has been reaping a bountiful harvest across the board. Within six months in 2021, Borno State lost 1,137 souls; Zamfara, 862; Kaduna, 715; Benue, 449; Niger, 407; Ebonyi, 210; Katsina, 164; Imo, 153; Kebbi, 144; Yobe, 137; Oyo, 114 and Anambra, 109.

If we cannot even discuss how the present union can be strengthened to make it more enduring, do we have any hope in hell that mere daydreams about indissolubility will ensure that the country remains one? Are some sections of the country required to take permission from others before daring to think?

Players in the public space need to watch their utterances, lest they cause what they dread to overtake them. Has anyone bothered to think about the implication of our current dysfunction for future relations between children from various parts of the country?

Professor Jibrin Ibrahim, scholar-activist and newspaper columnist, recently beamed his expert lenses on Nigerias problem.

Part of the problem today, says Ibrahim, is that the discussion in homes, offices, bars, religious gatherings, the mass media, social media, professional associations and all other fora in Nigeria today, is that there is a real and imminent threat to the corporate existence of Nigeria. In addition, there is an on-going rapid slide into anarchy, precipitated by the most serious collapse in security provisioning in our country, which is confronted by an almost complete lack of leadership or governance response to a multipronged crisis

In spite of the many conspiracy theories trending on social media, notes Jibrin, There is no effective counter-narrative from the government to create hope.

We have been groping in several wildernesses, if the facts released by StatiSense, a data analysis firm, are anything to go by. Within the first half of this year, we recorded 32 deaths and 17 successful kidnapping incidents per day. Misfortune has no tribe. The grim reaper has been reaping a bountiful harvest across the board. Within six months in 2021, Borno State lost 1,137 souls; Zamfara, 862; Kaduna, 715; Benue, 449; Niger, 407; Ebonyi, 210; Katsina, 164; Imo, 153; Kebbi, 144; Yobe, 137; Oyo, 114 and Anambra, 109.

A regional overview of officially reported cases of kidnapping in the half year shows that the North, with 2,557 reported cases, is a fertile haven for kidnappers, while Southern Nigeria accounts for 386.

One would have thought that our security challenges were daunting enough to make us sit up. But, no! Its almost as if insecurity has been woven into the national fabric as a natural part of our waking and sleeping moments.

My plea: instead of regressing into prehistory and narrowing the public space, lets start troubling Boko Haram and the other haramists like killer herdsmen, bandits and kidnappers.

Existential issues such as security and justice are the things that set social media agog on a regular basis. Many of our compatriots have been asking: Do we have separate laws for different parts of the country? Are all citizens equal before the law? Do we have a common understanding of basic concepts like right and wrong?

ADVERTISEMENT

Since the re-arrest of Nnamdi Kanu, citizen-journalists have been wondering if the same military/security blitzkrieg will now be unleashed on Boko Haram and their comrades in crime, euphemistically called bandits and armed herdsmen. They wonder, too, what became of the case of Hima Aboubakar, the Niger national declared wanted by the the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for defrauding the Nigerian military to the tune of $394 million, 9.9 million and N369 million. The EFCC had alleged that Aboubakar, the Chief Executive Officer of Societe D`Equipment Internationaux (SEI), received the funds for the purchase of equipment for the Nigerian military and that, Investigations have revealed discrepancies in the supply of the equipment.

Aside from the fraud and the amounts involved, not a few people are wondering how we fritter away our riches and conspire with complete strangers to dupe our country. Niger is not Russia or France or America. What esoteric qualifications did the Nigerien citizen possess to be entrusted with that volume of contract, that a Nigerian contractor doesnt have? Is it conceivable that a foreigner from a lesser country will be entrusted with a military contract in any serious country?

Even as we continue to tackle the issues that divide us, we must continue to stress that human beings are the same all over the world. Socialisation and environmental factors may be different but a human being is a human being. There is no fundamental difference between one human being from Maiduguri or Kano, and another from Ijebu-Ode or Onitsha. The factors that incubate hate between one man and another, therefore, can be traced outside his humanity. Disparate people can live together peacefully as equals if there is the will.

In this increasingly constricting space in which questions are viewed with utmost suspicion and the bug of the single narrative infests the land, I take journalistic notice of the befuddlement of one Citizen Saleh Mohammed who recently highlighted some fat puzzles of social media:

You have four refineries with a refining capacity of 450,000 barrels per day. You abandoned them to rot. Niger Republic is a smaller country with a refining capacity of 20,000 barrels per day. You abandoned your own and went to embrace Niger Republic. You signed an MoU of $2b to transport your own crude from your country via pipelines, to refine in Niger Republic, so you can buy the refined products. You have the resources to run pipelines from Niger Delta to supply crude oil to the Niger Republic, but you lack the resources to maintain the existing refineries.

Are you befuddled too? If you ask me, who will I ask?

My plea: instead of regressing into prehistory and narrowing the public space, lets start troubling Boko Haram and the other haramists like killer herdsmen, bandits and kidnappers.

Wole Olaoye can be reached through wole.olaoye@gmail.com.
The tides are high, I know, and our boat rocks from time to time. Yet, I have hope. Hope for a better Nigeria a renewed nation. Hope for a nation helped and healed by God. A nation, where the sacrifices of Nigerians past and present shall not be in vain I pray and long for a better Nigeria.

Nigeria is blessed with incredibly rich diversity: of people, of cultures, of religions, of mineral resources, oil, and gas, an amazingly rich biodiversity that should make us the envy of the world. We are blessed with abundantly diverse agro-ecologies; that should also make us a land of bountiful harvests with capacity to feed Africa.

We are a religious nation, so we should understand that God loves diversity. The diversity of rich and brilliant colours that we see in our forests, oceans, seas, and in flora and fauna, reflect the beauty of the Creator.

Therefore, our diversity is not our problem. Diversity is our strength.

But when mismanaged, diversity becomes divergence. Rather than unite, we become splintered, with each entity believing that, somehow, it is better without the other.

We must manage diversity for collective good.

Take Singapore as a case in point.

It is a very diverse, multi-ethnic, multi-cultural, multi-religious society, made up of Chinese, Malay, Indian and Eurasians. Singapore is a nation of diverse people and national origins.

Yet, this nation was able to forge a unified identity that has powered its extraordinary economic progress and development.

Think of it: Chinese represent 74 per cent; Malay, 13.4 per cent; Indian, 9 per cent; and others, 3.2 per cent.

Think of their religious diversity: Buddhism (33 per cent), Taoism and folk religion (10 per cent), Christianity (18 per cent), Catholicism (6.7 per cent), Protestants and non-Catholics (12 per cent), Non-religious (18.5 per cent), Muslims (14 per cent), and Hinduism (5 per cent).

There is religious harmony, not religious supremacy, or polarisation.

The people see themselves first as Singaporeans!

At its independence in 1965, Singapores per capita income was just $517, compared to $1,400 for Nigeria at its independence in 1960.

Today, the story is different. The per capita income of Singapore is now $60,000. Today, the per capita income for Nigeria is $2,250.

This highly diverse nation now ranks fourth in the world in terms of GDP per capita, with massive wealth and prosperity for its people.

The evidence is clear.

Singapore managed its diversity to create wealth  shared wealth.

ADVERTISEMENT

By better managing its diversity, Singapore has been able to forge an incredible economic growth, which benefits all in the country.

They have 100 per cent access to electricity and 98 per cent access to water and sanitation. Their schools rank among the best in the world.

Today, Singapore is a AAA-rated economy by the global credit rating agencies.

But Singapore did not have it easy either.

They faced challenges, just like we are facing in Nigeria today. They had very divisive ethnic and race riots in the 1960s that almost pulled the nation apart. But they overcame this by getting some things right.

They focused on the fusion of national purpose and identity.

They put in place cultural policies that ensured no one ethnic group or the other dominates or assimilates others, but rather that promotes multiculturalism.

They put in place a constitution that reinforced national fusion. Article 12 of the constitution forbids discrimination based on race, descent or place of birth. It reads, We the citizens of Singapore, pledge ourselves as one united people, regardless of race, language and religion, to build a democratic society based on justice and equality.

It goes on to say, there shall be no discrimination against citizens of Singapore on the grounds only of religion, race, descent or place of birth in any law or in the appointment to any office or employment under a public authority or in the administration of any law relating to the acquisition, holding or disposition of property or the establishing or carrying on of any trade, business, profession, vocation or employment.

What is the lesson here?

The Singaporean society is based on meritocracy, not aristocracy or ethnocracy or religiocracy.

Any society where meritocracy is subjugated to aristocracy, ethnocracy or religiocracy eventually tends towards mediocrity.

Nigeria must learn from this experience and forge a new way of engaging among its diverse ethnic groups and religions.

Nigeria must start managing its diversity for prosperity.

We must drive for national cohesion, not ethnic nationalities.

We must address the fundamental reasons for agitations, by listening, understanding, removing prejudices, and allowing for open, national dialogues, without preconditions, but with one goal: Build one cohesive, united, fair, just and equitable nation for all, not for a few or for any section of the nation or religion.

A nation, unified by a sense of common wealth, not a collage of ethnic nationalism. A nation driven my meritocracy, not ethnocracy, religiocracy or aristocracy.

One of the things that Singapore did well was to have four national languages: English, Malay, Mandarin and Tamil. Nigeria needs to put in place the compulsory teaching of its major languages in schools, from primary through universities, to ensure multilingualism, cross-cultural understanding, and to build a strong socio-cultural capital that unifies.

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) was a very good idea: It allowed graduates from tertiary institutions to have one year of national service, largely (ideally) outside of their places of origin.

The real test, however, of national service is that it often revealed the lack of diversity. After one year of service, the NYSC graduates are often not able to gain employment in governments where they served, simply because they are not indigenes of those States.

That in itself is an irony!

We should prioritise investments in the youth: In upskilling them for the jobs of the future, not the jobs of the past; by moving away from so called youth empowerment to youth investment; to opening up the social and political space to the youth to air their views and become a positive force for national development; and for ensuring that that we create youth-based wealth.

The young graduates are strangers in their own country. A country they pledged to serve. Opportunity is denied just because they were not born in those states! Even if they were born in those States, they are told to return to the States of their origin.

Yet, their origin is Nigeria, not their States!

In Nigeria, regardless of how long you have resided in any place, you cannot run for political offices in those States or locations, just because you were not born there. State governments, therefore, largely reflect nativism not residency, which further sends a message to non-indigenes that they do not belong.

Over time, this has created greater insularism, splintering, a lack of inclusiveness, the promotion of ethnic and religious chauvinism, instead of promoting national cohesion, trust and inclusiveness.

This needs to change.

Governments must be open to representation based on nationality not on ethnicity, to build a society of mutual trust, where diversity is well managed.

Unless someone can live in any part of the nation, work within the laws and not be discriminated against, based on religion, race or culture, or place of birth, they will always be strangers in the nation.

I love the Nigerian National Anthem. My favourite stanza is the one that says, to build a nation, where peace and justice shall reign.

I get emotional whenever I sing it. I remember when I was a Federal Minister, each time we gathered at the Federal Executive Council and had to sing, or at any other function, strong emotions would well up within me, for a nation I love, serve, and will always serve, selflessly.

I know that we can be better than we are. We have everything and every reason to be.

For Nigeria to be all that it can be, the youth of Nigeria must be all they can be.

The future of Nigeria depends on what it does today with its dynamic youth population. This demographic advantage must be turned into a first rate and well-trained work force, for Nigeria, for the region and for the world.

But 38.5 per cent of Nigerias youth are unemployed. Lacking skills, economic opportunities, they are discouraged, angry and restless, as they look at a future that does not give them hope.

We should prioritise investments in the youth: In upskilling them for the jobs of the future, not the jobs of the past; by moving away from so called youth empowerment to youth investment; to opening up the social and political space to the youth to air their views and become a positive force for national development; and for ensuring that that we create youth-based wealth.

From the East to the West, from the North to the South, there must be a sea change in economic, financial, and business opportunities for young Nigerians.

The old must give way to the new. And there must be a corresponding generational transfer of power and wealth to the youth. The popular folk talk should no longer be the young shall grow, it should, rather, be: the young have arrived.

The young shoots are springing up in Nigeria. Today, Lagos has its own Silicon Valley. Yabacon Valley has emerged as one of the leading tech hubs in Africa, with between 400 and 700 active start-ups worth over $2 billion, second only to Cape Town.

Andela, a global technology start-up based in Yabacon Valley, recently attracted $24 million in funding from Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg. The $200 million investment by Stripe (a Silicon Valley firm) in the local payments company Paystack, and $400 million into three Fintech companies in just one week in 2019 signals the huge potentials of Nigeria to attract global digital commerce and financial services.

The African Development Bank is currently working on a $500 million programme, Digital Nigeria, which is being designed to help further transform Nigerias digital competitiveness and build on the incredible entrepreneurship of Nigerias youth.

The Bank is also exploring the establishment of Youth Entrepreneurship Investment Banks  financial institutions for young people, run by first-rate young bankers and financial experts, to drive youth-wealth creation.

Nigerians deserve wealth, not poverty.

For all the abundant wealth of natural resources, Nigerias poverty situation is unacceptable.

Today, sadly, there are way too many poor people in Nigeria. The government is implementing bold social programmes to reduce the number of poor, through interventionist programmes, but the fact of the matter is that poverty is not just about money.

There is poverty of health, and yet we know that health is wealth.

The COVID-19 pandemic has further revealed the weaknesses of Nigerias health care systems. From diagnostic and testing centres, access to vaccines, and hospital infrastructure, the health care systems were overwhelmed.

I commend the spirited efforts of the Federal and State governments, and the private sector, in mobilising resources to tackle the pandemic.

The African Development Bank provided $288.5 million to support the efforts of the Nigerian government in responding to the pandemic.

But we must go further. Nigeria must manufacture vaccines locally.

There is a lot to change to secure the health of the population.

Less than 5 per cent of the population have access to insurance with the National Health Insurance Service. Over 90 per cent of Nigerians have no health insurance.

You can see the effects on the lives of people.

Nigerians are not living long, compared to other countries. Life expectancy in Nigeria is only 60 years (2020), compared to 70 years in India, 81 years in the U.K., 80 years in the U.S., 82 years in Norway, and 86 years in Singapore.

Nigeria should build a comprehensive health care defence system, to secure its population against the impacts of the current pandemic and future pandemics. There must be equal opportunities for all. Health is wealth. We must ensure that all have access to health care, regardless of the levels of income.

And we must strongly support medical doctors, physicians, nurses and medical technologists, and remunerate them accordingly. They form the core of the health care system. We cannot have a situation where 56 per cent of Nigerias medical doctors are working outside of Nigeria.

We need to stem the tide by prioritising health of the people, and professionals in the health care system, from rural health clinics to the surgeons and physicians in secondary and tertiary health systems.

The tides are high, I know, and our boat rocks from time to time. Yet, I have hope. Hope for a better Nigeria a renewed nation. Hope for a nation helped and healed by God. A nation, where the sacrifices of Nigerians past and present shall not be in vain.

Nigeria should put in place incentives to harness the knowledge, skills, and resources of Nigerians in the diaspora, and invest massively in building Nigerias health care infrastructure and systems.

There must be accountability for better lives for all Nigerians, regardless of their levels of income.

There cannot and should not be a Nigeria for the rich, and another Nigeria for the poor.

We must build one Nigeria, where every citizen has the right to a decent life.

We must build a better nation.

We must start building again, not splintering again.

We must re-build trust, equity, and social justice, to propel strong cohesiveness as a nation.

The tides are high, I know, and our boat rocks from time to time. Yet, I have hope. Hope for a better Nigeria a renewed nation. Hope for a nation helped and healed by God. A nation, where the sacrifices of Nigerians past and present shall not be in vain.

I pray and long for a better Nigeria.

For a nation, built not on the division of its past, or the foundations of ethnicity, but on a new foundation, the foundation of equity, fairness, justice and unity, one Nigerian to the other.

For a new Nigeria, where one from the North shall be at home in the East; where one from the East shall break bread with one in the North; one where the one in the West shall eat from the same plate with one in the North; and wash hands in the same basin as one in the East.

They shall be one.

They shall not raise alarms against their neighbors, for we shall once again be renewed with a spirit of nationhood.

Our nation, buffeted on every side, flowing with the blood of the innocent, shall one day arise. The lion will lie with the lamb.

Our youth will once again rejoice in the hope of their future. A better future built on better days where governments work for them, not against them; when they shall stay in their lands, and none shall make them afraid; when they shall once again be the best they can be in the nation of their birth.

A nation where dreams are realised.

The youth  healthy, with decent incomes, and powered by policies to unleash their potential  shall be the strength of that nation.

They shall unite and work for a better future, their own future, not of those that have gone before them, nor of those who use them, instead of building them.

So today, I ask that you arise and build the nation we desire and deserve. A nation built by all, shared by all, prospering for all.

I see right here today, leaders of such a nation.

You have been well prepared. Do not learn the ways of the past. Renew your minds and work for the better future, your future, for a new Nigeria.

Correct the mistakes of our past.

Breakdown barriers of suspicion! Pull down walls that have divided us and caused us to war against each other. Pull down walls of fear and instead embrace and accept one another.

In the process, we will build together.

We will build a new Nigeria, where one will be respected and accepted, not according to the village of ones birth, the state of ones nativity, or ones religion, but by the dignity within; the simple dignity of being a Nigerian.

The sufferings of the present cannot and should not dampen our hope in the future.

So today, turn to your right and whosoever you see say to them I am Nigerian.

Yes, you are Nigerian!

Now, wherever you go on from here, go out and make Nigeria proud  and work for a better Nigeria!

Wherever you find yourself, in your own little sphere, let the change begin with you!

Build bridges that connect, not walls that separate!

Together, in a better and just society, we will thrive.

And thrive we must, and thrive we will, as one united Nigeria.

So, say it again: I am Nigerian!

Yes, we are. Now, help us God!

Congratulations again! Go out there, change Nigeria, and change the world!

Akinwumi A. Adesina (PhD) is the President of the African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

This is the text of the Convocation Lecture delivered at the American University of Nigeria on July 10.
ADVERTISEMENT

Kidnappers have released Ismail Babangida, a Sharia judge, 54 days after he was kidnapped.

Mr Babangida was kidnapped in a Sharia court in Safana town, where he had gone to deliver judgement.

The police in Katsina had blamed the victim for not seeking police protection before his kidnapping.

Speaking on Mr Babangidas release, the police spokesperson in Katsina, Gambo Isa, said he escaped from his kidnappers.

We received information that the judge had escaped from the bandits den and was in Kauran Zakka. The Divisional Police Officer in Safana and his men quickly went to the scene but it was found out that Mr Babangida had already left in another car, he said.

Mr Isa said the command would reach out to the judge to get some information on his captors.

One of the students of the released judge, however, told PREMIUM TIMES that N1 million was paid for his release.

Asked to provide details of the ransom, the source, who asked not to be named, declined further comments, saying he was not authorised to speak to the press on the issue.

PREMIUM TIMES learnt that the bandits had initially asked for N50 million ransom.

Kidnapping for ransom is rampant in Katsina and many other states across Nigeria.
ADVERTISEMENT

The police in Ogun State on Friday said it rescued an eight-year-old victim from kidnappers.

Abimbola Oyeyemi, the police spokesperson, disclosed this in a statement on Sunday.

The victim, Sadiq Abass, was abducted by five kidnappers who demanded N3.5 million ransom from his father.

According to the police, Riliwan Mohammed, the father of the victim, reported that he left his wife and three children at home at about 12 noon on Friday, only to receive a phone call from a strange number that his son has been abducted.

He reported further that the caller demanded for the sum of 3.5 million as ransom if he wants to see the boy alive, the statement read.

Mr Oyeyemi said upon the report, the Divisional Police Officer, Ogere division, Abiodun Ayinde, mobilised detectives to go after the suspects.

The detectives there and then embarked on technical and intelligence based investigation which led them to the hideout of the suspects where they were arrested and the victim rescued unhurt, he said in the statement.

Mr Oyeyemi, a Deputy Superintendent of Police, added that the five suspects who connived together to abduct the boy are in police custody.

The suspects are Abdul Raman Umar, Falalu Abubakar, Danjuma Bako, Idris Lawal, and Fauziya Falalu.

The statement said the commissioner of police in the state, Edward Awolowo, has ordered the immediate transfer of the suspects to anti kidnapping unit of the state criminal investigation and intelligence department for further investigation.

The police chief also directed an investigation into the past activities of the suspects in order to know how long they have been into kidnapping.

PREMIUM TIMES also reported how Ogun state police rescued a 13-year-old victim from a kidnap syndicate at Ado-Ota area of the state.

The kidnappers demanded a N500,000 ransom from the father of the teenager.
Sola Osolana, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chairmanship candidate for Agege Local Government of Lagos State, says his plans and passion for development of the area are beyond party politics.

Mr Osolana made the assertion in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday.

I am progressive in nature; when I become the council chairman, I will be busy developing Agege without playing party politics which will be government and residents, not party relationship.

Our relationship will be residents and government not party politics or party relationship within our team.

I believe my vision and plans for development will be of the interest of the people and especially, to curb godfatherism syndromes in Agege, he said.

Mr Osolana said that health, education, empowerment and social development would be his priority if elected.

According to him, hundreds of youths will be engaged in various work sectors in Agege including bakery, agriculture and security volunteers to ensure the community is safe for business.

There are lots of wastages in Agege; our youths are not being properly engaged, thereby increasing social vices.

We will employ them in various segments and sectors within which emergency response number with data base capturing of youths in the area will be established.

Together, we have started very well and we shall continue to strive hard to sell our mission of greater change and bring relief to our people in Agege, he said.

According to him, the acronym of his agenda, HEEDS, is simple and direct.

The chairmanship candidate reiterated that H stood for functional Health Care System while the E stood for Education with improved modern facilities.

Another E stands for Empowerment of youths and women development while D stands for Development of Infrastructure facilities and S for Sustainable Development, he added.

Mr Osolana said he would serve with undiluted love for functional Primary Health Care System with free drugs.

According to him, well equipped educational facilities for Agege pupils and genuine empowerment programmes will be provided for youths and women in the community.

NAN reports that Mr Osolana, a former chairmanship aspirant on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, defected to PDP on June 19.

The candidate will contest the July 24 council poll on the platform of the PDP after unidentified hoodlums disrupted the APC primary elections within the seven wards of Agege local government area.

I defected to PDP purposely because of my numerous supporters in Agege.

ADVERTISEMENT

My objective to become the council chairman is to serve my people under any platform that is ready to accommodate me as the last APC primaries was disrupted by thugs.

I am assuring my great supporters to come out enmasse to vote for me on July 24 during the election under the platform of PDP, Mr Osolana said. (NAN)
Plattsburgh, NY (12901)

Today

Rain early...then remaining cloudy with showers in the afternoon. High 73F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 100%. Rainfall around a quarter of an inch..

Tonight

Considerable cloudiness. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 61F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph.
ANTALYA, Turkey, July 11, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- SadBaby has pledged to help SMA (Spinal Muscular Atrophy) patients in improving their life and ensuring that no child is left uncured. The project launched by SadBaby focuses on gathering funds through their supporters and investors and utilizes it for meeting the financial requirements of the SMA patients. Though a costly treatment, SadBaby is doing its bit to lend a helping hand by creating communities and obtaining donations to support families worldwide in the fight against this uncommon disease. Sadbaby Token is developed to encourage holders for making donations and contributing at any level as per their desire.

The main goal of SadBaby is to help all the babies affected with SMA. Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a group of hereditary diseases that progressively destroys motor neuronsnerve cells in the brainstem and spinal cord that control essential skeletal muscle activity. The activities include speaking, walking, breathing, and gulping, directing to muscle weakness and atrophy. It is the most familiar cause of death in babies.

The cost of fighting SMA disease is a lot, and families find it cumbersome to raise funds. Spinraza, a protein booster drug licensed by Biogen Inc., has to be applied regularly throughout the patient's life. The approximate cost of the drug is between $625,000 to $750,000 initially and later $375,000 each year. SadBaby aims to donate financially to SMA patients and help them fight the disease with support and donations from its community and angel investors.

SadBaby raises funds at different levels, from the smallest to the largest, by giving gifts, t-shirts, or the product itself to thank its supporters for their contributions. SadBaby is very transparent about all donations. Donations have been given to many special babies and their receipts are available publicly in the telegram channel. Sadbaby Token believes "Doing good is the best thing in the world."

Sadbaby Token, apart from being a useful means for donation, could be profitable too. Holders are allowed to enjoy the additional income through instant staking in their wallet itself, without the need of locking the token elsewhere. Each transaction of the token is accompanied by taxes and a part of the same is distributed back to the holders, thus rewarding the owners for trusting SadBaby with their valuable asset. The platform is also planning to establish an NFT marketplace by the end of this year to help families sell NFT products and acquire financial support.

Sadbaby Token is a donation token created primarily to ensure that SMA-affected babies live in the world as a place they still love. The initial supply of the Sadbaby Token is 5 quadrillion. Burning is done at specific intervals from the wallets owned by the founding team. The details of the burnings are provided through the official telegram channel. At launch, nearly 34.6% of the tokens were burned. Thus removing them forever from the Total market supply. Each time the Supermoon tokens were burned, the value of the remaining SadBaby was targeted to increase. Liquidity will automatically be locked with unicrypt after the pre-sale. Locked liquidity eliminates any possibility of a rug pull, meaning the funds are safe for trading and holding.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sadbabytoken/

Twitter: https://www.instagram.com/sadbabytoken/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCc-M88F5PZGYhdim30ZIGYA

Telegram: https://t.me/sadbabyglobal

The views and opinions expressed here are the sole responsibility of the experts. This article is provided for informational purposes only and not intended to be used as financial advice.

Media Contact Details:

Company Name: SadBaby

Website: https://sadbaby.org

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE Sadbaby Token

Related Links

https://sadbaby.org


The Eco Forum Global (EFG) Guiyang 2021 will be held in Guiyang, the capital of Guizhou Province, from July 12th to 13th. It is the only international forum in China with the theme of ecological civilization. Since its inception in 2009, the Forum has been successfully held for 10 sessions.

Themed as "Green and Low-carbon Development Fostering A Community Of Life For Man And Nature", politicians and business leaders, experts, and scholars from around the world and China will gather to explore international consultation mechanisms and deepen international exchanges and cooperation on environmental protection.

A platform for open cooperation in China's interior

Earlier this year, many scientists were eagerly awaiting the world's largest single-aperture radio telescope (FAST) to start formal operation in Guizhou, China. Known as "China Eye', FAST will open to the global scientific community and accept observation applications from scientists around the world.

The "China Eye" will provide research and observation possibilities to the global scientific community, aiding the cooperation between scientists from different countries; The "China Eye" signifies China's openness and scientific development, adding a technological edge to the beautiful province of Guizhou.

In a change from its remote and inaccessible past, Guizhou has encouraged massive growth in the green economy and infrastructure development while preserving the region's natural beauty. Guizhou hosts China's first national comprehensive big-data pilot zone. Numerous data-centered ecological and environmental monitoring systems have been implemented one after another, such as environmental quality databases, pollution source databases, and ecological and environmental data centers. Thousands of enterprises have achieved deep integration with big data, and the proportion of the green economy in the region's gross domestic product has increased from 33% in 2016 to 42% in 2021. The province has also invested heavily in dozens of roads, waterway, and railroad projects, with highway coverage approaching 100 percent by 2020. What an astounding achievement.

Ecological Protection and Sustainable Development in Guizhou

The concept of "ecology" has gone hand in hand with Guizhou's rapid development. Guizhou is one of the most biodiversity-rich regions in China with one of the largest areas in the world for karst landscapes, where many wild animals and plants reside. According to statistics, 11,442 species of wildlife have been identified in Guizhou. Guizhou snub-nosed monkeys, listed as EN (endangered) by the IUCN, inhabit the Fanjing Mountains of Guizhou. Due to their scarcity, scientists also call them the "only child of the world." Fortunately, the population of Guizhou snub-nosed monkeys has been steadily growing.

With the largest number of World Natural Heritage Sites in China and a forest coverage rate of 61.51%, Guizhou's environmental quality has achieved a historic improvement, and the quality of the ecological environment continues to improve. In 2016, the province established an "Eco-Day" to call for its citizens to protect the ecological environment and care for the natural resources.

By maintaining a balance between high-speed development and a sustainable environment, in the next few years, Guizhou will not only become a model for ecological civilization in China, but also a constructive example for the world. It is reported that this year's EFG held in Guizhou will insist on dialogue and consultation to further promote international cooperation in ecological civilization construction and ecological civilization ideas, as well as presenting Guizhou's experience to the world.

The year 2021 is defined by the United Nations as "a critical year for restoring our relationship with nature." Starting from this year, there are only 10 years left to achieve the climate targets of the Paris Agreement and the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 2030). This year's EFG comes with great significance in promoting sustainable development around the world.

SOURCE The Eco Forum Global (EFG) Guiyang 2021
LONDON, July 11, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- According to a London-headquartered legal advisory, CS Global Partners, Moroccan nationals account for more than half of second citizenship inquiries in the North African region. The advisory's director, Paul Singh, says the main incentives for this are the growing business and entrepreneurial market in the country, which has increased the need for international travel.

Traditionally, due to the limited number of countries a Moroccan passport allows visa-free or visa-on-arrival arrival entry into, travellers need to apply for visas beforehand and wait several months in some cases. Through citizenship by investment (CBI) programmes, successfully vetted applicants legally receive second citizenship of the country they invest in and can apply for a passport. Most countries with CBI programmes, like St Kitts and Nevis, allow citizens access to three times more destinations, including a wide variety of global business hubs, making travelling for business a hassle-free process.

Moroccan parents, like all parents, are also highly concerned with making sure their children have the best opportunities when it comes to health, education and safety, said Singh. "St Kitts and Nevis' decades-long experience in the CBI market and the country's long list of visa-free destinations gives applicants assurance that they are making a sound choice," he added.

Recently, the Caribbean nation introduced a limited time offer for families of up to four to obtain citizenship for an investment of $150,000 under the Sustainable Growth Fund instead of the usual $195,000  a reduction of $45,000. Moreover, St Kitts and Nevis also allows dependants grandparents, parents and siblings to count in the family application.

Established in 1984, it is the longest-running CBI Programme in operation and is acknowledged within the industry as a 'Platinum Standard' brand. The 2020 CBI Index, an annual independent study published by the Financial Times' PWM magazine, highlighted the Programme's ease of processing, due diligence, and citizenship timeline as some of the reasons for its popularity.

Applicants also have the option to reside in the country with full living and working rights. However, investors must first go through strict due diligence checks to ensure that only those of the highest moral standing are accepted as citizens, thus protecting the Programme's international reputation.

[email protected], www.csglobalpartners.com

SOURCE CS Global Partners

Related Links

http://www.csglobalpartners.com


Moscow, July 11 : Russia recorded 25,082 new coronavirus infections over the past 24 hours, taking the nationwide tally to 5,758,300, the official monitoring and response centre said on Saturday.

The centre reported 752 coronavirus-related fatalities in the past day, raising the national death toll to 142,253, while the number of recoveries grew by 17,750 to 5,182,837, the Xinhua news agency reported.

Moscow, Russia's worst-hit region, registered 5,694 new cases, taking the city's total to 1,423,828.

Nearly 155 million Covid-19 tests have been conducted across the country.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Lagos, July 11 : At least 35 people have been killed by gunmen who attacked five villages in northwest Nigeria's Zamfara state, police said on Saturday.

Mohammed Shehu, the police spokesperson in Zamfara, told Xinhua on phone that the gunmen in large numbers invaded five villages in Maradun local government area on Thursday, shooting sporadically at the unsuspecting residents while destroying houses and properties.

"Thirty five people were killed by the bandits," Shehu said.

According to the police spokesperson, security forces were unable to reach the affected villages on time after receiving the report of gunmen attacks due to the poor road condition, the Xinhua news agency reported.

He said police are currently in pursuit of the gunmen.

There have been a series of gunmen attacks in Nigeria in recent months, leading to deaths and kidnappings.
Kullu, July 11 : More than 20 foreigners have reportedly gone missing in as many years from the picturesque valleys in Himachal Pradeshs Kullu, known for growing world-class cannabis.

Their illegal settlement in inaccessible hamlets and the changing trends in drug trafficking and addiction amongst the youth is a stark reminder of the deepening nexus between local peddlers and the international drug mafia with the tacit support of some powerful people, including politicians.

Chandigarh-based senior journalist Aditya Kant's debut novel "High on Kasol" uncovers the changing trends in drug trafficking and substance abuse in Kullu Valley and has created a buzz a week after its release on online platforms.

The crime thriller, which is a murder mystery also, touches upon the issue of the mysterious disappearance of foreigners from the valley in the past several years.

The whodunit mystery has already figured amongst the hot releases in the Indian writing category at Amazon, soon after it went live for sale last week.

Speaking to IANS, Kant, the debutant author, said: "With the Himalayas and the famous Magic Valley, known for growing world-class cannabis as its backdrop, I have tried to uncover the hidden aspects and the changing trends in drug trafficking and addiction amongst the youth in the valley and how it is affecting their lives.

"The racy plot of the novel also delves into the contentious issue of the disappearance of foreign nationals and their illegal settlement in the valley." He says more than 20 foreign nationals have gone missing from the valley in as many years.

The book also raises the issue of conflicts between locals and outsiders with a large number of foreigners settling in the valley.

Kant says though his story is a work of fiction, it is a stark reminder of the deepening nexus between local peddlers and the international drug mafia, which with the tacit support of some powerful people, including politicians, has made inroads into the lives in the hills and adjoining states like Punjab.

The book's catchy title, "High on Kasol", Kant explains is a play on the traditional agriculture of psychedelic plants in the far-flung areas of small hamlets in the Himalayas.

The story is told in the words of an aspiring writer who goes looking for a 'great plot' and winds up in a web of love, deceit, and unimaginable horror.

Kant, who has about 25 years of journalistic experience and has worked with leading English publications in Delhi, Chandigarh, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, and Shimla, told IANS that it took him about four years to research the subject and complete the book.

Born and brought up in the hills, Kant says his background and familiarity with the valley, coupled with the journalistic experience, helped him a lot in developing and writing the story, in which most of the characters have been inspired by real-life and look realistic.

When asked to elaborate about the plot, Kant briefly mentions that the story unfolds with the mysterious disappearance of a young Israeli woman from Kasol, who ironically had come to the Himalayan town to lift the veil over the missing foreigners in the valley.

The lead character is an aspiring author who is staying in a shady guest house in search of solitude. Soon an unexpected turn of events leaves the struggling writer with faint clues, setting him on a trail of murders and a drug syndicate involving a few locals and foreigners.

Though it's a thriller, the racy plot moves ahead with elements of humour and romance.

The story is written in the backdrop of the quaint customs and beliefs of the locals and their conflict with the foreigners, including Israelis, many of whom have settled in the township, giving Kasol the dubious identity of a 'Mini Israel'.

It also breaks the myth that life is simple in the hills.

The twists and the unpredictability of the plot and characters keep the readers hooked till the mystery is solved.

Elaborating about the writing of the book, Kant says he had written the story with youngsters in mind. "But later it turned out to be a blend of crime, suspense, and romance, and is now drawing an overwhelming response from all the age groups." Elated over the initial response to his debut work of fiction, Kant mentions that "the powerful idea and effective narration of the story make it a fit case for transforming the book into a web series or a movie, as it has all the elements required for the visual media".

The narration takes readers to the unexplored mystic Magic Valley in the Himalayas that has fascinated foreigners, as well as the local tourists, for many years.

The growing narcotics menace in Himachal Pradesh can be gauged from official figures that 2,126 cases were registered across the state under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substance (NDPS) Act and 2,909 people were arrested between January 1, 2020, and April 31, 2021.

During this period 682 kg charas, 15 kg heroin, 50 kg opium, 4,805 kg poppy husk, 376 kg ganja, 128,330 synthetic tablets and 52,194 capsules were seized.

To check the supply of contraband, illicit cultivation of 12,52,455 cannabis plants in 7,917 bighas and 266,353 poppy plants in 52 bighas was detected and they were destroyed by the police during this period.

The police also succeeded in tracing 66 bighas under illicit cultivation with 15 lakh poppy plants in a remote Tikken sub-tehsil in the Chauhar Valley of Mandi district.

The police have attached properties of drug offenders worth Rs 11.37 crore in 19 cases.

Even Governor Bandaru Dattatreya, addressing police officials at a function to mark the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking on June 26 in the state capital, warned of the alarming situation.

"Himachal Pradesh is known as Dev Bhoomi and its culture, lifestyle and ideology is very rich but it is unfortunate the problem of drug abuse has cropped up severely and if we do not check it immediately, the situation may become worse in the days to come," he said.

(Vishal Gulati can be reached at vishal.g@ians.in)
Jaipur, July 11 : At a time when Rajasthans camel population has been seeing a steady and precipitous decline, the Covid-19 pandemic seems to have given a new lease of life to the ship of the desert.

With wedding parties unable to use regular modes of transport because of social distancing norms, camels are back in demand to move grooms and their families to the villages of the brides.

Camels have also emerged as the saviours of schools in remote villages that are not connected by roads or do not have the luxury of internet connectivity. These animals transport teachers to such schools and even reach study material and stationery to students in far-flung areas.

Unfailingly coming to man's rescue, the camels, though, are in dire need of help. Their population has been declining at a steady pace in the last many years. The Rajasthan government's 20th livestock census reveals that the number of camels in the state has dropped from 3,25,713 in 2012 to 2,12,739 in 2019.

Earlier in 2007, Rajasthan's camel population stood at 4,21,836, but it declined by 22.79 per cent to 3,25,713 in 2012. Till 1991, the country had more than a million camels, so its present population is a quarter of this number.

Rajasthan, incidentally, has the largest population of camels in the country. A big question mark, though, hangs over the prospects of their survival.

Hanwant Singh Rathore, Director of the Lokhit Pashu Palak Sansthan, speaking to IANS said: "There are many villages near Bikaner where there used to be 500 camels a few years ago. Today, there isn't even a single camel around." Listing the reasons for the decline in the camel population, Rathore said people no longer have the incentive to keep camels.

"The young are not interested in caring for these animals as they see no profit in it. And with villagers opting for newer modes of transport such as cars and jeeps, camels no longer have any utility." The pandemic therefore has come as a blessing for camels. They are back in business, ferrying baraatis during the wedding season. What became a necessity because of social distancing rules, in fact, is now seen as the new style statement for wedding parties.

These camels are dolled up with nose pins, ghungroos, mirror-fitted garments and other baubles, making people wonder why they should not become a permanent feature of wedding celebrations.

As Anand Singh, a member of a wedding party put it: "What can be a more unique way of arriving at a wedding than on the back of a beautifully decorated camel?" He was travelling with the groom on a camel from Bandeva village in Pokhran to Kusumbla village in Barmer.

Chaturbhuj Singh of Rajputana Cabs, who organises camel safaris at different locations in Rajasthan, put the change in perspective when he said: "The once famous practice of 'Lawazma', whereby camels and elephants were used by the erstwhile royals for their wedding processions, has come back in these pandemic times.

"In the coming days, this theme will be much in demand. As the state opens up completely, our foreign guests would love to tie the knot with a wedding procession on the lines of a 'Lawazma'. European tourists, anyway, are in love with the ship of the desert." The new trend will surely give tourism a much-needed booster dose. And also keep students connected with the world of learning. The pandemic may just make Rajasthan see the animal that has been synonymous with the state in an altogether new light.
Kolkata, July 11 : West Bengal is the only major state in the country where girl students have outnumbered boys. A recent survey released by the Unified District Information System for Education Plus (UDISE+) shows that only three other states of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam and Meghalaya have enrolled more girl students than boys.

State-wise data released by the UDISE+ shows that of the 18,74,87,792 students enrolled from pre-primary to class XII in the academic session of 2019-20, there are 2,32,012 more girl students than boys. When the number of girl students is 94,89,902, the number of boy students is 92,57,890.

"For the last five years it has been the continuous effort of the state government to promote and empower girls. The Kanyashree project has been massively successful. Most states in the country including the Central government have similar projects to educate and empower girls but West Bengal's success lies in the implementing mechanism. When the other states tried to reach the grassroot level through Panchayats, West Bengal is the only state where Kanyashree has been implemented through administrative mechanism," a senior official from the state Women and Child Welfare Department said.

"As a result, the girl students have received their token of benefits through schools, Block Development Offices and SDOs which has compelled the parents to enroll their girl child in schools. This social and administrative compulsion have allowed the girl students a better access to schools and education," the official added.

A closer look into data will show us the number of dropouts in case of boys are higher than the girls.

The state has not only fared better in respect to the national average but the girl students have outshone the boy students.

When in the secondary level the dropout rate is as high as 16.1 per cent in West Bengal, the dropout rate is 13.8. Interestingly enough when 14.1 per cent boys have dropped out, the girl students dropout rate is only 13.6 per cent.

Surprisingly enough in the upper primary section that is between the class V to Class VII, the dropout rate in the state is nil when the national dropout rate is as high as 2.6 per cent.

Equally in the primary section that is between Class I to Class IV, the national dropout rate is 1.5 per cent whereas in West Bengal the dropout rate is meagre 0.6 per cent with the boy students dropping out by 0.9 per cent and the girl students opting out by 0.3 per cent.

The survey also shows that the state has been successful in bringing the minority community under the purview of its education system. In 2019-20, an overall 30.9 per cent minority students enrolled themselves in different state education facilities of which 32.4 per cent are girls and the 29.4 per cent are boys.

This is far better than the national average where only 17.6 per cent have enrolled themselves with 18.1 per cent are girls and 17.1 per cent are boys.

So far as Muslim education is concerned, the state shares a better average than the national average. According to the data, 30.5 per cent students have enrolled themselves between pre-primary to higher secondary where 32 per cent are girls and another 28.9 per cent are boys.

This is far better than the national average where only 13.9 per cent Muslim students have enrolled themselves. with 14.4 per cent being girls and 13.4 per cent are boys.
Mumbai, July 11 : Pole dancing is not just about fitness for actress Kriti Kharbanda. It works as meditation for her, too.

"Today it has become a part of not just my fitness, but also my meditation. Pole dancing is not just a physical act but extremely meditative, because you have to concentrate 100 per cent or else you will fall and injure yourself badly," Kriti told IANS.

Kriti recently stunned netizens with a pole dancing video she shared on Instagram. What motivated her to take it up? The "Housefull 4" actress replied: "When I signed Housefull, I needed to get into shape. The first pole dancing class that I went for, I thought my arm was going to fall off, my legs were bruised. But when I came home, I felt I had achieved something that I never thought would be possible. That feeling drove me back to the pole time and again." While the actress says pole dancing is something which she purely does for herself, she wouldn't mind displaying her skills in a film if required.

"Honestly, pole dancing is the one thing I do for me. I didn't learn or get into pole dancing with the agenda that I should have a skill and I should be able to perform. But having said that, I wouldn't say no to an opportunity if it really appeals to me, I would love to do it on the screen," she informed.

Kriti recently completed 12 years in Bollywood. Quizzed what are the challenges she faced and her overall experience, the actress replied: "I stared off extremely young and naive. While 12 years feels like a long time, for me it has just flown by. I have learnt and gained a lot and am grateful for it. The only challenge that I faced, sometimes when things don't work your way, you tend to question your capability. The last four or five years have been not just productive and extremely fruitful, I am proud of where I stand today and proud of all the struggles and difficulties that I faced." On the work front, Kriti will next be seen in the digital film "14 Phere" slated to release on July 23.

Talking about the film, she said: "14 Phere is a very relevant social family comedy drama. It has got a little bit of everything. From the film's poster, which shows a roka ceremony, it might appear to be a simple love story. But that's clearly not the case, everything is going to be very twisted. It is a very interesting film that you can sit and watch with your family." In the film, Kriti plays a girl called Aditi, who is in love with Sanjay, played by Vikrant Massey.

Opening up on her on-screen chemistry with her co-star, Kriti shared: "Vikrant is a really fun co-star. I think when you work with someone and the chemistry is right and you get along, it translates beautifully on the screen. I watched the film very recently when we were dubbing and I realised that these two characters are going to strike a chord with the audiences. I don't think that's possible till you don't have a really good co-star! I believe he's the perfect Sanjay to my Aditi and I'm happy to have got the opportunity to work with him." "14 Phere" is scheduled to drop on Zee5.
Bangkok, July 11 : As Thailand is battling its worst-ever wave of the Covid-19 pandemic, the country reported the highest single-day coronavirus deaths since the onset of the health crisis early last year.

Thailand on Saturday reported 91 new fatalities which took the overall Covid death toll to 2,625, Xinhua news agency reported.

The Centre for the Covid-19 Situation Administration (CCSA) also reported 9,326 new confirmed cases, the second highest single-day tally, raising the total number of infections to 326,832.

More than one-third of Saturday's new infections, 3,191 cases, were detected in the capital Bangkok, the epicentre of a months-long resurgence, according to the CCSA.

Daily new infections have been above 5,000 for 10 consecutive days, as the highly contagious Delta variant is spreading fast in the country, where people remained largely unvaccinated.

Till date, less than 5 percent of the country's nearly 70 million people have been fully inoculated, according to the CCSA.

In an effort to curtail the spread of the virus, the Thai government on July 9 announced new curbs in hard-hit regions, including Bangkok and five nearby provinces.

The measures, including a night curfew, a ban on gatherings of more than five people and non-essential travels, as well as closure of shopping malls, will take effect from July 12 and last for at least 14 days.

The government has also asked public transport companies to reduce their services in order to discourage inter-provincial travels, especially from regions with high infection figures.

The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand has ordered domestic airlines and airport operators to consider cancelling or rescheduling domestic flights scheduled between 9 p.m. and 4 a.m., and rearranging the working hours for their personnel to avoid travels during the night curfew.

In a statement issued by the Thai AirAsia on Saturday, the airline announced suspending all its domestic flights during the July 12-31 period due to the worsening Covid-19 situation in the country.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Agartala, July 11 : Hit by the economic crisis triggered by the Covid-19 pandemic and enthused by a tribal youth, some tribal farmers in Tripura are scripting a new story by cultivating Apple Ber, a variety of horticultural fruit. It is being done for the first time in the entire northeastern region.

Bikramjit Chakma in northern Tripura's Pencharthal encouraged his relatives to cultivate two varieties of Apple Ber -- Sinduri Apple Ber and Kashmiri Apple Ber on their lands instead of the traditional horticultural crops.

"Many tribals in Tripura for the past many years are cultivating rubber while many others are doing unscientific 'jhum' cultivation (slash and burn method of cultivation). Some tribals are cultivating traditional horticultural crops and some are doing betel nut.

"But rubber and betel nut take several years to give financial benefits. But from Apple Ber, anyone can get financial gains within a year or so," the 32-year-old told IANS.

He said that he convinced some of his relatives that instead of potato, brinjal, 'patal' (pointed gourd), cucumber, tomato and other horticultural crops they should cultivate different varieties of Apple Ber for easy profits.

They could also avoid other problems like storage, transportation and marketing.

"My relatives, influenced by my proposals, agreed and last year started cultivating the two varieties of Apple Ber -- Sinduri Apple Ber and Kashmiri Apple Ber.

"I helped them to collect the saplings of the Sinduri Apple Ber and Kashmiri Apple Ber from outside the state," said Chakma, who got his Bachelor of Arts degree from a Tripura college in 2011 and is now in a government job.

When asked how he came to know about the cultivation of Apple Ber and to make profits by marketing the crop, he said: "During my internet chats in the Covid induced lockdown period, I found out about these varieties of produce in various government and non-government websites.

"I have also found that these crops are not only being cultivated in Kashmir but also in northern Indian states and in neighbouring Bangladesh with very good yields. If these are grown outside Jammu and Kashmir and in a high tropical atmosphere, why not in Tripura? Then I, along with my relatives, started an experiment last year which yielded good results within a year." Tripura Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb was also impressed by what Chakma and his relatves were doing.

"Bikramjit and his relatives earned a profit of Rs 6 lakhs in a year by cultivating the two varieties of Apple Ber in a little over two acres of land," Deb said.

The Chief Minister said that Bikramjit and his relatives' success would encourage others in Tripura and the other northeastern states to become self-reliant and to be an employer.

According to the officials of the Tripura Horticulture Department, Bikramjit and his relatives' efforts have written a new chapter in Apple Ber cultivation, not just in Tripura, but in the entire northeastern region comprising eight states.

The specialties of the Sinduri Apple Ber and Kashmiri Apple Ber, both hybrid varieties, is the size of the fruit which are bigger than other varieties, taste very sweet, are drought resistant, consume less water and require less insecticides. They are sustainable in hot temperature too, an official of the Horticulture Department said.

Agricultural expert Sekhar Paul said that Sinduri Apple Ber and Kashmiri Apple Ber are rich in vitamins, and have medicinal value for pregnant and lactating women.

"These varieties of the Apple Bers have minerals such as calcium, phosphorus and iron. Ber is considered the fruit of the poor and is available in many varieties. These varieties of bers were found in Thailand and Malaysia and other countries," Paul told IANS.

He said farmers could earn good returns by farming these varieties of Ber without much investment and hard work.

(Sujit Chakraborty can be contacted at sujit.c@ians.in)

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Lagos, July 11 : A cholera outbreak in Nigeria has killed 325 people in 15 states and the capital Lagos between January and June of this year, according to health authorities.

In an update on Saturday, the Nigeria Center for Disease Control (NCDC) said a total of 14,343 suspected cases of cholera were reported from 15 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) during the period, with 325 deaths, reports Xinhua news agency.

According to the report, about 27 per cent of suspected cases across the country are those in the five to 14 years bracket.

The health agency added that it has been supporting states to ensure a coordinated, rapid and effective response to the current outbreak, including deployment of rapid response teams to support the response at the state level, provision of medical and laboratory supplies, and scale-up of risk communications amongst other activities.

Cholera is a highly virulent disease characterized in its most severe form by a sudden onset of acute watery diarrhoea that can lead to death by severe dehydration.

The outbreak is frequently reported in Nigeria due to the lack of potable water supply, especially in densely populated areas.
New Delhi, July 11 : Not long after Priyanka Gandhi Vadra took complete charge of Uttar Pradesh as Congress general secretary and got into campaign mode, the country's attention span was consumed by the Covid-19 pandemic. Yet her active interventions in Hathras and Sonbhadra got her noticed. And at the peak of the migrant crisis, her offer of buses to transport the affected people to their homes, earned her kudos.

During the farmers' agitation, too, she was at the forefront, but then the second wave hit the nation.

With Uttar Pradesh going to vote for the next Assembly early next year along with Uttarakhand and Punjab, the Congress leadership is debating whether Priyanka should be assigned a more prominent, perhaps pan-India, role in the party.

Several Congress leaders are vocal on this issue. One such person is Acharya Pramod Krishnam, who has been on record saying that Priyanka be made party president.

Others, who are not happy with the way Rahul Gandhi's office functions, suggest that Sonia Gandhi should continue as party president and Priyanka be made vice-president in-charge of north India.

When the leadership crisis wracked the Congress, there was a collegium to assist Sonia Gandhi. In September last year, a committee was constituted with A.K. Antony, the late Ahmad Patel, Ambika Soni, K.C. Venugopal, Mukul Wasnik and Randeep Singh Surjewala as members.

After the death of Ahmed Patel, however, the committee has been meeting occasionally. The Congress may enhance the role of this committee or appoint four vice-presidents, one for each region in the country, to decentralise power and focus on particular regions.

The Congress constitution has no provision for a vice-president, but in the past Rahul Gandhi, Arjun Singh and Jitendra Prasada had held this position.

Some Congress leaders believe that Priyanka's style of functioning is smoother. She's an attentive listener and has been active in defusing crises in Rajasthan and Punjab.

The Congress is mired in infighting in a number of states, even as Uttrakhand, Punjab, UP, Goa, Manipur and Gujarat are preparing to go to vote, so a bigger role for her in the party could bring more traction.

A section of the Congress leadership points out that Rahul Gandhi can lead the party without holding any post. These leaders say he has been targeting the government on various issues. Even his critics accept his credentials for mounting attacks on the Prime Minister consistently on the pandemic and economic crisis.

The party is facing crises in Rajasthan, Punjab, Uttrakhand, Karnataka, and now the supporters of T.S. Singhdeo in Chhattisgarh are demanding that he be made the chief minister. Singhdeo insists he has not said anything against the party, and that Sonia and Rahul will take a call on the matter.

His supporters, though, insist that the party must fulfil its assurance to the leader who was instrumental in winning seats in the tribal belt of the state, which was with the BJP at that time. Similarly, Sachin Pilot is pushing for change in Rajasthan and the party cannot afford to lose him after Jyotiraditya Scindia walked out and was rewarded with a berth in the Union Cabinet.

miz/skp/srb
Moscow, July 11 : The remarks by a French official of not recognising Russian Covid-19 vaccines were "a hybrid of racism, imperial hegemonism and neo-Nazism," a spokesperson of the Foreign Ministry in Moscow has said French Minister of State for European Affairs Clement Beaune made the remarks last week, which was quite inappropriate and went against laws, ethics and morality, Xinhua news agency quoted spokesperson Maria Zakharova as saying on her Telegram channel on Saturday.

"It is particularly striking that Western countries with cold-bloodedness, cynicism and cruelty are fighting for profits during the period of mankind's struggle against the pandemic," she wrote.

In an interview with France 2, Beaune suggested limiting the list of authorized vaccines by the European Union and to be cautious and "say no" to a number of "other vaccines, in particular, the Russian and Chinese ones".
New Delhi, July 11 : Noting that India has many talented people, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday invited people and those doing exceptional work at the grassroots to nominate for Padma awards 2022.

The Padma awards are one of the highest civilian honours of India announced annually on the eve of Republic Day. The awards are given in three categories: Padma Vibhushan (for exceptional and distinguished service), Padma Bhushan (distinguished service of higher order) and Padma Shri (distinguished service).

The award seeks to recognize achievements in all fields of activities or disciplines where an element of public service is involved.

The Padma Awards are conferred on the recommendations made by the Padma Awards Committee, which is constituted by the Prime Minister every year. The nomination process is open to the public. Even self-nomination can be made.

Taking to Twitter to invite people for making their nomination for the award, the Prime Minister said: "India has many talented people, who are doing exceptional work at the grassroots. Often, we don't see or hear much of them. Do you know such inspiring people? You can nominate them for the #PeoplesPadma. Nominations are open till 15th September. https://padmaawards.gov.in." The Central government in last month opened the online nominations for the Padma Awards 2022. The last date for nominations is September 15, 2021. The awards will be announced on the occasion of Republic Day in 2022.

The Central government instituted two civilian awards-Bharat Ratna and Padma Vibhushan in 1954. The latter had three classes namely Pahela Varg, Dusra Varg and Tisra Varg. These were subsequently renamed as Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri vide Presidential Notification issued on January 8, 1955.
Istanbul, July 11 : Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan met his Palestinian counterpart Mahmoud Abbas in Istanbul to discuss regional and bilateral issues.

During the meeting on Saturday, Erdogan emphasised that as long as Israel's "occupation and annexation policies" continue, it will not be possible to establish lasting peace and stability in the region, Xinhua news agency quoted an official statement as saying.

The Turkish leader reiterated that Ankara did not and will not remain silent about Israel's "atrocities" in Palestine.

Erdogan also noted that Turkey and Palestine have been improving their bilateral relations in many areas, including trade, culture, education, and tourism, according to the statement.

Following their talks, the leaders co-chaired a meeting between the delegations from two sides.
Gandhinagar, July 11 : Following a recommendation from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), the National Forensic Sciences University here has prepared a special forensic training module for the police.

The university will be training police personnel across the nation with offline as well as online modules on the latest crime and forensic methods, and the protocols to be followed.

"On the recommendations of the MHA, the NFSU had been entrusted last year to develop a special forensic training module for the police. While developing the module during the Covid-19 pandemic, we also developed an online version of the module. But the training module was not an entirely new thing for us in Gujarat, as the GSFU (before getting the national status) had prepared this module and had trained Gujarat police officers," S.O. Junare, Director, NFSU, Gandhinagar and Delhi campus, told IANS.

"Within a span of five years, we have already trained around 13,000 police personnel through this module regarding various forensic methods like cybercrime, DNA extraction, DNA profiling, financial cyber frauds, their methodology, forensic investigation and various other aspects. Almost 80 per cent of the trained personnel are from Gujarat Police," added Junare.

"These police officers, even though trained for crime investigation, don't necessarily know the latest forensic methods of detection, investigation, evidence collection, evidence transfer, data transfer etc. They need to be taught as much, as the criminals are constantly updating and upgrading themselves. To match them and even remain a step ahead of them is badly needed," said Junare.

"The Central ministry entrusted this responsibility to us (NFSU) to develop a mass and virtual training module for the police. Right now we have the programme in English and Hindi, but we are developing it in eight other languages," Junare told reporters during a presser on Saturday, which was held to brief about the inauguration programme of a centre of excellence on the NFSU campus.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah will inaugurate the Centre of Excellence for Research and Analysis of Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances on the Gandhinagar campus of the NFSU on July 12.

The minister will also visit the other dedicated laboratories on the NFSU campus.

The state-of-the-art centre of excellence has been established with the mission to extenuate the issues arising from illicit drug trafficking and narco terrorism. The latest technologies would be developed to identify designer drugs, precursor chemicals and other impurities in the illicit drugs seized by the law enforcement agencies.
Rio De Janeiro, July 11 : Argentina striker Lionel Messi video called his family immediately from the Maracana Stadium after Argentina won the Copa America Cup for the first time since 1993. The adorable moment has since gone viral on social media.

Messi called his wife Antonella Roccuzzo after Argentina beat Brazil 1-0 in the Copa America final on Sunday. It is a well-known fact that Messi is extremely close to his wife and three children, who are currently residing in Camp Nou, Barcelona. In the middle of the pitch, Messi was on a live video call with Antonella, flaunting his winners' medal with a lot of happiness and pride.

Sharing the screenshot of the video on Instagram, Antonella wrote "Your happiness is mine! Congrats, my love." Antonella also shared a video on Instagram of their three children -- Thiago, Mateo, and Ciro - singing a celebratory song after Argentina ended their wait of 28 years for a Copa America title. The video with the caption "Vamos Argentina" has clocked more than three million views in just two hours.

The Copa America trophy marks Messi's first-ever title at the international arena, something which eluded him for a long time.

Messi couldn't score a goal in the final. But he still edged Neymar for the Golden Boot award. He scored five goals in the tournament and had an equal number of assists.

Angel Di Maria's goal in the 22nd minute gave Argentina the early lead. Brazil tried very hard to equalise but failed to do so.
New Delhi, July 11 : The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) has alleged that foreign-funded e-commerce majors are creating a 'false narrative' that the draft norms for the sector would impact foreign direct investment into India and the country's image as an investment friendly nation.

In a statement, the traders' body said that the draft e-commerce rules under the Consumer Protection Act have been designed in a way to set the basic fundamentals and parameters of e-commerce business in India which has registered an exponential growth since last year but suffers with various kinds of irregularities, anomalies and unhealthy business practices of some of the major foreign funded e-tailers.

It alleged that the "exploitation" of the e-commerce business has reached to an extent that lakhs of shops have been forced to close by unethical business practices of e-tailers in India.

It is creditable that the union government has risen to the occasion and has come out with certain well specified and justified guidelines under the draft e-commerce rules, said Praveen Khandelwal, the Secretary General of CAIT.

"It is highly regretted that one section is prompted to raise question marks on the draft e-commerce rules by these e-tailers," he added.

The organisation has urged Union Minister for Commerce Piyush Goyal to roll out an e-commerce policy immediately and also a regulator to regulate and monitor e-commerce business in India.

According to Khandelwal some of the major foreign funded e-tailers are unhappy with the draft e-commerce rules because if these rules are implemented, they will have to bring drastic changes in their existing business format which will prove to be counterproductive to their "sinister" game of controlling and dominating the the e-commerce and retail trade of India.

"Therefore, they are trying to create a false narrative that rules are stringent, will increase compliance burden, will discourage FDI in India, and malign the image of India in the global market," he said.

These are all useless arguments to derail the reform measures of the government to purify the e-commerce business of India.

The Centre has extended the deadline for submission of comments and suggestions on the draft e-commerce rules till July 21.

The Department of Consumer Affairs had, last month, released the proposed amendments to the Consumer Protection (E-Commerce) Rules, 2020, and had sought comments and suggestions July 6.

Among several stricter norms, the draft regulation proposes prohibiting flash sales.

Further, as per the new draft regulations, no e-commerce entity shall allow any display or promotion of misleading advertisements, whether in the course of business on its platform or otherwise.

Also, if the norms come into effect, every e-commerce shall establish an adequate grievance redressal mechanism having regard to the number of grievances ordinarily received by such entity from India.

Amazon and Flipkart, among others, will have to appoint a Chief Compliance Officer, a Resident Grievance Officer and a nodal contact person in India.

CAIT, which has been at the forefront of the fight for a "level playing field" for offline traders, had urged the government not to extend the deadline for the submission of comments, amid reports that demands were made from certain quarters to extend the deadline.
Hyderabad, July 11 : Bonalu, the traditional folk festival in Telangana, began on Sunday with gaiety adhering to Covid-19 protocol.

The traditional festivities began at the Jagadambika Temple on Golconda Fort here. The religious procession started from Langar Houz to the temple near Bala Hissar on top of the historic fort. The three-kilometre procession will reach the temple late in the evening.

Incessant rains since morning impacted the celebrations as the authorities had a tough time controlling the crows through narrow pathways around the fort.

Women queued up at temples to offer Bonalu, which consists of cooked rice, jaggery, curd and turmeric water, carried in steel and clay pots on their heads. The devotees believe that the annual festival will ward off evil and usher in peace.

Public events during Bonalu were cancelled by the state government last year in view of the Covid-19 pandemic. However, with the lifting of Covid-19 related restrictions last month, the government allowed people's participation this time.

This year the festivities will be organised with mass gatherings and traditional procession. The organizers have been directed to ensure adherence to Covid-19 protocol, including wearing of masks and social distancing.

Minister for Animal Husbandry Talasani Srinivas Yadav said the temple committees were briefed on the precautions to be taken during the festival.

Ashada Bonalu is a festival held in the month of Ashada, according to the Hindu calendar, celebrating Goddess Mahankali.

Devotees, especially women make offerings in the form of food to goddess Mahankali in specially decorated pots. During the nearly month-long festival, people also hold 'rangam' or forecasting the future, organise processions and cultural events.

After the formation of Telangana State in 2014, the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) had declared Bonalu as the state festival. The festivities reflect Telangana culture with performances by the artistes.

This year, the government has allocated Rs 15 crore for the celebrations. The money was spent to spruce up the temples for the celebrations and for making all necessary arrangements for the devotees.

Every year, Bonalu is celebrated in a grand manner at different places in Hyderabad on three Sundays. The festivities at Mahankali temple in Secunderabad will be organised on July 25 while the traditional Lal Darwaza Bonalu in the old city of Hyderabad will be held on August 1.

The annual celebrations are held at Sri Jagadamba temple at Golcond Fort, Sri Ujjaini Mahankali temple in Secunderabad and at Sri Simhavahini Mahankali temple in Lal Darwaza and at Sri Akkanna Madanna Mahankali temple in Haribowli.

The annual festivities conclude with a procession from Akkanna Madanna temple. The procession led by a caparisoned elephant, carrying the ghatam of the Goddess, passes through the main thoroughfares of the old city, including the historic Charminar.

It is commonly believed that the festival was first celebrated over 150 years ago following a major cholera outbreak. People believed that the epidemic was due to the anger of the Mahankali and began offering Bonalu to placate her.

Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao has greeted Telangana people on the occasion of beginning of Bonalu festival celebrations. The CM said that the Bonalu festival, which starts with presenting a Bonum' to Goddess Jagadambika at Golconda Fort, is a symbol for the 'Ganga Jamuna Tehzeeb' of the 'sabbanda varnas' (Artisan classes, Majority people who hitherto participating in production process).

Rao said with the blessings from the Mother Goddess and the state government's determination, the Telangana State became Annapurna (who offers food) to the entire country. The CM prayed that Telangana people should lead a happy and contented life with prosperity, good health and wished that the Goddess' blessings should be forever on Telangana people.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Chennai, July 11 : Two former AIADMK leaders now aspiring to become the party's general secretary are reaching out to party cadres and middle-level functionaries to drum up support through Zoom meetings and telephone calls.

Former MP and MLA K.C. Palanisamy is talking to a cross-section of party cadres via Zoom. His rival, V.K. Sasikala, long-time aide of the late chief minister and party supremo J. Jayalalithaa, meanwhile, has been dialling up local office-bearers.

Palanisamy is one of the few persons left in the party who have been active since the time of its founder, the late M.G. Ramachandran (MGR). An articulate speaker, he became an MP and MLA at a very young age when MGR was leading the party.

"I have held around 105 Zoom meetings with core members of the AIADMK," Palanisamy said. "At each meeting, which would last for an hour and half, I would get to meet about 150 new participants, with about 80 expressing their willingness to speak initially, but not more than 30 actually speaking." Palanisamy said that till date, about 2,500-3,000 party cadres would have spoken at his Zoom meetings and about 2,000 of them would be new faces. "Care is taken to avoid participants and speakers being repeated," Palanisamy added.

The meetings are relayed live on Facebook, bringing in about 25,000 views per interaction. "The number of views go up sometimes to a lakh on occasions when major issues facing the party are discussed. Of late, the meetings are also being relayed live on Twitter and Clubhouse," Palanisamy said.

Personally targeting to reach about 10 lakh AIADMK cadres and earn their support by 2024, Palanisamy said that if the cadres are with him, then the middle-level leaders would extend their support to him.

At the Zoom meetings, Palanisamy insists that the party leader should be elected by the cadres and also shares his views on various developments while claiming the MGR legacy.

Palanisamy was the party's spokesperson and belonged to the camp of the AIADMK coordinator (and former deputy chief minister) O. Panneerselvam (OPS) was expelled from the party in 2018 after he urged it to back a no-confidence motion against the BJP-led NDA government at the Centre if it did not take a stand favourable to the state on the Cauvery waters issue.

He was also the first person to oppose the election of Sasikala as AIADMK general secretary and also filed a case against the amendments made in the party's bye-laws.

Palanisamy is a known face among party cadres across the state because of his regular appearance in major television channel debates, where he voices his views without any ambiguity.

He continues to maintain that the AIADMK should get out of its alliance with the BJP if it wants to remain a major political force in Tamil Nadu. "It was Sasikala who went soft on the BJP," he points out.

Unlike Palanisamy, Sasikala carries out her politics using her mobile phone. After announcing her decision to keep away from politics ahead of the Assembly elections, she started making calls to middle-level AIADMK leaders.

Sasikala maintained a strong grip over the party when Jayalalithaa was around. After her mentor's death, the reins of the party reins were with Sasikala and she was about to become the chief minister when Panneerselvam raised the banner of revolt.

The Supreme Court, meanwhile, upheld the trial court's order holding Sasikala and her relatives guilty in a corruption case in 2017 and she spent the next four years in jail.

During this time Palanisami mended his ties with Panneerselvam and they both turned against Sasikala.

As she resumes her campaign for the top party position, Sasikala has been calling up about 50 AIADMK office-bearers daily and some of the call recordings are sent to the media. It is said that she also receives about 100 letters a day from AIADMK members.

Sasikala now plans to tour the state and meet AIADMK officials in person once the Covid-19 restrictions are eased.

Palanisamy's Zoom meetings are interactive, but the telecons of Sasikala are mostly with party office-bearers who plead with her to stage a comeback and take control of the AIADMK, and she assuring them that she would soon do that.

Perturbed over her calls to party office-bearers and sharing the call recordings with the media, the AIADMK leadership has dismissed several party members for speaking to Sasikala.

No action, however, has been taken against the party members attending Palanisamy's Zoom meetings.

Be that as it may, the communication wars between the two former stars of the AIADMK are all set to continue.

vj/srb
New Delhi, July 11 : The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Sunday carried out raids at multiple locations across Jammu and Kashmir in connection with a terror funding case.

Officials in the anti-terror agency informed that the raids were conducted in Anantnag, Srinagar, Awantipora, Baramulla and some other places in connection with a case registered 10 days ago relating to the radicalisation in the Indian subcontinent.

Besides, NIA, Intelligence Bureau, RAW (Research and Analysis Wing), and the Jammu and Kashmir police are jointly involved in search operations which began in Jammu and Kashmir's multiple districts since early morning.

As per the official, the case pertains to online radicalisation and that the agency have got inputs about involvement of some foreign based handlers behind radicalisation process.

The raids were based on inputs received from some people detained by the security forces as well as investigating agencies involved in the case.

The raid is taking place a day after 11 Jammu and Kashmir government employees, including two sons of most wanted terrorist Syed Salahuddin, were removed for their alleged involvement in terror-funding activities.

The agency officials, requesting anonymity, said that the NIA has found out some inputs about terror funding trails of both the persons who have been found involved in raising, receiving, collecting and transferring funds through hawala transactions for terror activities of Hizbul Mujahideen.

After the secret terror operation came to light, the services of the 11 Jammu and Kashmir government employees were terminated under Article 311(2)(c) of the Constitution, under which no inquiry is held. The action was taken following a recommendation by a designated committee in the Union Territory for looking into such cases.

As per inputs, four out of the 11 employees were working in the Education Department, two in Jammu and Kashmir Police, one in Sher-I-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, and one each in Agriculture, Skill Development, Power and Health Departments.

Of these 11 employees dismissed, four are from Anantnag, three from Budgam, one each from Baramulla, Srinagar, Pulwama and Kupwara.

The sources said that the designated committee in Jammu and Kashmir for scrutinizing and recommending cases, in its second and fourth meeting, recommended three and eight cases respectively for dismissal from the government service.

The government sources said that three officials recommended for dismissal in the second meeting of the committee include an Orderly of ITI, Kupwara, who was an overground worker of terror outfit Lashkar-e-Toiba. He was providing information to the terrorists about the movement of security forces and abetting and harbouring terrorists to carry out activities in a clandestine manner.
Washington, July 11 : Two Confederate generals' statues were removed public parks in Charlottesville, almost four years after a deadly far-right rally was held in the US city.

Online videos showed a crowd on Saturday gathered to watch machinery lifting the statue of Robert E. Lee from Market Street Park and then the statue of Thomas J. "Stonewall" Jackson from Court Square Park, reports Xinhua news agency.

Charlottesville Mayor Nikuyah Walker spoke at Saturday's gathering, calling the removal "one small step forward" in an effort to dismantle white supremacy.

Both statues will be placed in storage, said a CNN report.

Confederate statues have become a contentious issue across the US in recent years, as left-leaning groups say they are the remnants of a horrid past of slavery while white nationalists rally to protect the statues.

In August 2017, the far-right rally held in Charlottesville attracted national attention when white supremacists, fascists and neo-Nazis violently clashed with counter-protesters, leaving one woman dead and multiple people injured.
Lucknow, July 11 : The UP Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS), in a major operation, has arrested two terrorists, linked to Al Qaeda, from Kakori on the outskirts of Lucknow on Sunday.

The two ultras were reportedly hiding in a house in Kakori area.

The ATS team had received a tip-off about their presence and had been tracking them since the past one week.

A team led by IG ATS, G.K. Goswami, closed in on their location and arrested the two from a house that belongs to one Shahid.

Wasim was a tenant in the house since the past 15 years. The house has a motor garage in it.

According to ATS sources, two pressure cooker bombs, a detonator, and 6 to 7 kilograms of explosives have been recovered from the house.

A bomb disposal squad has been summoned to the site and nearby houses have been evacuated.

The IG did not disclose the names of the arrested persons and said that further details would be revealed after interrogation.

ATS sources said that preliminary investigations have revealed that the two terrorists planned to target a BJP MP and some senior BJP leaders in Lucknow.

A strong contingent of security forces along with top officials from various agencies have reached the spot.
Islamabad, July 11 : All regional stakeholders expected a "responsible withdrawal" of the US forces from Afghanistan, a top Pakistani military official said.

"The responsible withdrawal was supposed to be after a peaceful transition, but the withdrawal happened in a bit hasty manner," Xinhua news agency quoted Director General of the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Major General Babar Iftikhar as saying on Saturday to a local news channel.

The US army is in the process of leaving Afghanistan and the withdrawal is expected to be completed by August 31, following which all regional stakeholders have to sit together and find a solution to the Afghan issue in consultation with the Afghan leadership, he added.

Answering a query about the future presence of the US in the region, the official said regional powers are "very well capable of solving Afghan issue if we sit down together", and there is no need for Washington in this matter.

Talking about his country's role to solve the Afghan issue, Iftikhar said that Pakistan tried to help solve the Afghan issue sincerely and it did everything within its capacity to facilitate the peace process.

"Afghan peace process has many aspects where it should be understood that Pakistan was only a facilitator and not a guarantor in the process... We needed to understand that it would be Afghans' own decision and would not be dictated by any foreign party," he added.

The official said Pakistan has no favourites among Afghan stakeholders, and the decisions are to be taken by the Afghans.

"Afghans have the capacity and capability to decide their future course themselves." Talking about the security measures taken by the Pakistani military to control the infiltration of militants from Afghanistan into Pakistan, the official said that border security and management has been beefed up and the 2,611-km frontier has been 90 per cent fenced whereas the remaining areas are either at high altitude or in glaciated places.

"The spillover effect may come to Pakistan... We were very well aware of that and took many measures to cope with the situation," the ISPR chief said.
Sofia, July 11 : Bulgarians all over the world went to the polls on Sunday to vote in the country's early parliamentary elections.

More than 6.7 million voters are eligible to elect 240 lawmakers from 15 political parties and eight coalitions, according to official data.

As many as 13,005 polling stations opened across the country at 7 a.m. and are due to close at 8 p.m., the Central Election Commission of Bulgaria said.

Meanwhile, 782 more ballot boxes are available in 68 countries for Bulgarians living abroad to cast their ballots from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Sunday, Xinhua news agency reported.

Polling stations in New Zealand opened first, followed by those in Australia.

Election day abroad will end the last in San Francisco, the Foreign Ministry said.

According to the country's legislation, parties and coalitions need to gain at least 4 per cent of the votes to enter the parliament.

The votes received by those failed to enter the parliament will be redistributed proportionally to the qualified parties and coalitions.

Exit polls will be announced immediately after stations closed in Bulgaria, and official results are expected on Thursday.

The previous parliamentary elections in Bulgaria were held on April 4 this year.

The then ruling party GERB together with its ally Union of Democratic Forces got only 75 seats and failed to form a government, while both of "There Is Such A People," the second largest party inParliament with 51 seats, and Bulgarian Socialist Party, the third largest party with 43 seats, refused the proposal by Bulgarian President Rumen Radev to form a government.

Therefore, in accordance to the country's constitution, Radev has signed a decree on the holding of new parliamentary elections, dissolved the National Assembly, and appointed a caretaker government.
New Delhi, July 11 : It is not yet a happy ending for the Kalrock-Jalan consortium and the insolvency resolution process of Jet Airways, as employees of the grounded airline are unhappy with the relief they are being offered which is heavily slashed down from the actual claims.

The admitted claims of employees stood at Rs 1,265 crore, while the consortium has proposed Rs 52 crore to settle their claims.

According to employees, the airline owes at least Rs 3 lakh to each employee which may well go up to Rs 85 lakh, while now each employee is being offered a total of around Rs 23,000, which one employee, who did not want to be named, described as "peanuts".

The plan proposes to pay each workman of the corporate debtor Rs 11,000 cash, Rs 5,100 cash as medical expense reimbursement for the parents of the workmen, Rs 5,100 cash as school fee reimbursement for children of the staff, Rs 1,100 would be paid for stationary for children of the staff and one-time mobile phone recharge of Rs 500.

This cash payment will be made out of the contingency fund (Rs 8 crores). Additional amounts, if required, will be utilised out of the proceeds of sale of assets received by the corporate debtor.

Now, there is uncertainty among the employees whether to vote in favour the plan or vote against it and lose whatever relief that is being offered.

As per the resolution plan, the employees and workmen would get the relief on if 95 per cent of them vote in favour of the plan.

According to people in the know, it would be tough to garner the 95 per cent votes.

Employees are now in a dilemma whether to legally contest the resolution plan or go with the "little" relief that is being provided According to the resolution plan that the proposal for employees and workmen (equity stake in the Corporate Debtor; equity stake in AGSL, cash payment for employees and workmen, IT Assets and Free Tickets) is valid only if at least 95 per cent of the employees and workmen of the Corporate Debtor (as on ICD) support this Resolution Plan by not contesting or challenging its approval by the adjudicating authority (the authority) or its implementation in the manner approved by the authority.

"If the above proposal is not accepted by the employees and workmen within 30 days from the Approval Date, then no other creditor will have the right to seek such benefits or any part thereof and such proposal shall stand withdrawn. After expiry of the said period of 30 days from the Approval Date, the equity stake of 0.50 per cent, and cash payments of up to Rs 8 crores currently earmarked for employees and workmen will be given to the AFCs," the NCLT's order copy noted.

With the approval of the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) to the resolution plan of Kalrock-Jalan consortium, the Corporate Insolvency Resolution Process (CIRP) of Jet Airways has already concluded.

The seven-member monitoring committee has been constituted to look into the day-to-day operations and the implementation of the resolution plan.

The now-grounded Jet Airways is expected likely to take the skies again within six months from now.

On June 22, the Mumbai bench of the NCLT approved the resolution plan of the Kalrock-Jalan Consortium and gave a 90-day time period to the DGCA and the Civil Aviation Ministry to allot the slots.
Thiruvananthapuram, July 11 : A 40-year-old woman and her husband have lodged a complaint with the police at Kannur district in Kerala that she was tortured and raped by an unidentified gang at Palani in Tamil Nadu. The alleged incident happened on June 20, according to the Kerala police.

The woman and her husband are from Tamil Nadu but were staying in Kannur district for job purposes.

According to the woman's husband, the couple were on a pilgrimage to the famous hill shrine of Palani in Tamil Nadu and when her husband had gone to buy food, the woman was forcibly taken to a nearby lodge, detained, and raped by an unidentified gang including the manager of the lodge.

The husband said that when he reached the lodge, he was assaulted by the gang including the manager. The couple also complained that she was brutally tortured and even attacked with beer bottles in her private parts.

Thalassery Dy SP, Moosa Vallikadan, who is the investigating officer in the case told IANS, "I have gone through the medical report at the Government Medical College, Kannur, but on the basis of that, there are no injuries as claimed by the woman. As the alleged incident had taken place on June 20, according to the complainants, the wounds could have healed also." The police officer also said, " We are investigating the case. They told us that they had complained to the Palani police and this family is from Tamil Nadu and staying in Kannur district for work purposes." Police officials also said that the woman is recuperating at the Government medical college hospital and would soon speak to her and track down the assaulters.
New Delhi, July 11 : With the great game unfolding rapidly after the sudden US drawback from Afghanistan, regional players are trying to take control of the deteriorating situation on the ground. And as usual Pakistan is ratcheting up the negative volume by targeting India.

Referring to the oversized Indian footprint in Afghanistan, the Pakistan military has said New Delhi's investment was aimed at establishing influence in an effort to damage Islamabad's interests.

"The prevailing situation has caused huge frustration on the Indian side," The Express Tribune quoted Maj Gen Babar Iftikhar, Director-General of the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), as saying in a television interview on Saturday.

The ISPR is the media wing of Pakistan's military.

"Now, Delhi has moved its spoilers in different directions to blame Pakistan for the unrest in Afghanistan, but the Indian propaganda would not get any traction because the world has realised that Pakistan has made earnest efforts to resolve the Afghan issue according to the aspirations of the local populace.

"Pakistan is only a facilitator of the Afghan peace process - not a guarantor.

"Pakistan has no favourites among the Afghan stakeholders. The Afghans have to choose their leadership. In case of any deadlock, we can assist. Pakistan has made all-out efforts but it cannot go beyond its limits.

"Afghans have the capacity and capability to decide their future course," he added.

As far as Pakistan is concerned, it has made sincere efforts for an Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace process, he said as per The Express Tribune report.

"In the past 20 years, the US military has trained the Afghan National Army which has the strength and capability and its own air force," Maj Gen Iftikhar said.

"Trillions of dollars have been spent on them. And as a professional soldier, I believe they should be able to fight this (Taliban) onslaught as a professional force." Like in the past, Pakistan could face the spillover effect of a civil war in Afghanistan, he said.

"We were very well aware of that and we have taken several measures to deal with the situation." He added that the so-called Khorasan franchise of Islamic State, the TTP and its affiliates were using their bases in Afghanistan to orchestrate attacks on Pakistan's armed forces, the report said.

About the possible influx of Afghan refugees, he said that the Interior Ministry has already put together a contingency plan for this purpose.
Kabul, July 11 : A Taliban attack on Taluqan city, capital of Afghanistan's northern Takhar province, has been repulsed, an official said Sunday.

The militants fled after suffering casualties and leaving over two dozen bodies, provincial government spokesman Hamid Mubariz said.

The armed insurgents launched multi-pronged offensives on Taluqan city early Sunday morning, but the security forces retaliated with heavy gunfire, forcing the insurgents to flee.

Meanwhile, army officer in the province Abdul Razaq told Xinhua that "at least 18 Taliban rebels have been killed and the rebels failed to gain ground in Taluqan city".

Ten more militants and three soldiers have been injured in the fighting.

Taliban militants have already captured at least six districts in the troubled Takhar province and have been fighting to overrun the provincial capital Taluqan city.

The government forces have also repulsed Taliban attacks on the neighbouring Kunduz provincial capital the Kunduz city, and Badakhshan's provincial capital Faizabad over the past couple of days.
Chennai, July 11 : Expelled AIADMK leader and former minister Thoppu N.D. Venkitachalam joined the DMK along with several supporters in presence of chief minister M.K. Stalin at the DMK headquarters, "Anna Aruvaliyam" on Sunday.

The former minister was a two-term MLA from Perundurai in 2011 and 2016 and was Minister for Environment and Revenue in the Jayalalithaa government from 2011-2016.

The AIADMK had denied an assembly ticket to Venkitachalam in 2021 elections and he entered the electoral fray as an Independent. However, he lost the polls and the AIADMK expelled him from the party.

Venkitachalam is a senior leader in Erode district of Tamil Nadu and has a good grassroots following. While joining the party he said, "If the Chief Minister, directs me, in a month's time I will enroll around 25,000 people in the DMK from other parties." The former minister also said that he would strive to strengthen the DMK in the Erode district of Tamil Nadu. Venkitachalam is a powerful leader in the Kongunadu area and with the new agitation against the formation of a separate Kongunadau area by the Central government gaining momentum, the presence of the former minister who has grassroots support will strengthen the DMK in the AIADMK strong holds.

Tamil Nadu water resources minister and senior leader, S. Duraimurugan, former union ministers and DMK senior leaders, T.R. Balu, A. Raja, and S. Muthusamy were present at the party headquarters when Thoppu ND Venkitachalam joined the DMK.
Srinagar, July 11 : The National Investigation Agency (NIA) team on Sunday carried out raids at many places in Kashmir and arrested several persons, including the chairman of an Islamic seminary in connection with a terror funding case.

The NIA team along with Jammu and Kashmir Police and CRPF raided several places in Anantnag and Srinagar districts in connection with the case registered 10 days ago relating to the radicalisation in the Indian subcontinent.

Sources said the team raided an Islamic seminary named 'Sirajul Uloom' at Dalal Mohalla in old city Nawabazar area in Srinagar and seized some office records and a laptop besides arresting the chairman of the seminary, Adnaan Ahmad Nadvi. The institution is affiliated to an Islamic seminary in Uttar Pradesh.

The raid at Srinagar was followed by similar raids at villages Pushroo, Sunsooma and Achabal in Anantnag district.

The teams arrested several persons there, including one Javaid Ahmad Mir, an MBA and a shopkeeper; Umar Bhat, running a readymade garment shop; Owais Ahmad Bhat, laboratory technician; Tanveer Ahmad Bhat, shopkeeper; and Zeeshan Ameen Malik, chemist at Janglat Mandi in Anantnag town.

Besides, NIA, Intelligence Bureau, RAW (Research and Analysis Wing), and the Jammu and Kashmir Police were jointly involved in the search operations.

As per an official, the case pertains to online radicalisation and that the agency had got inputs about involvement of some foreign based handlers behind the radicalisation process.

The raids were based on inputs received from some people detained by the security forces as well as investigating agencies involved in the case.

The raid took place a day after 11 Jammu and Kashmir government employees, including two sons of most wanted terrorist Syed Salahuddin, were removed for their alleged involvement in terror-funding activities.
Phoenix, July 11 : Two firefighters were killed in the US state of Arizona while battling a wildfire which was ignited by lightning last week and has so far burned down 300 acres of land.

The firefighters were killed on Saturday in a plane crash while conducting aerial reconnaissance over the fire near the Prescott National Forest, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) said in a statement.

"The accident occurred around noon today and involved an air attack aircraft performing aerial reconnaissance and command and control over the fire. Two crew members were on board and we are sad to report there were no survivors," Xinhua news agency quoted interstate incident information system Inciweb as saying on Saturday.

The tragedy came as wildfires raged through the western regions of the US due to drought and high temperature.

In California, the Beckwourth Complex Fire, which occurred about 70 km north of Lake Tahoe, a famous vacation spot in the US, showed no signs of slowing down after doubling in size between Friday and Saturday and jumping the state border into Nevada.

The fire, which broke out on July 3, forced more evacuations from many small towns in California's Lassen County, Plumas County and Nevada's Washoe County.

The blaze also closed Highway 395 north of the junction with Highway 70 and cut off power to some residents for a period of time as the fire threatened Plumas Sierra Rural Electric transmission lines.

Hot and dry weather condition would continue through Tuesday, said the officials, predicting the fire "will continue to grow over the next five to six days," Temperatures in parts of California reached near-record highs with Death Valley hitting 54.4 degrees Celsius on Friday, just four degrees shy of a world record set in 1913.
New Delhi, July 11 : Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has once again targeted the government over its vaccine policy. He questioned the non-availability of vaccines and linked the issue with the latest cabinet expansion, saying that while the number of ministers has increased, but vaccines have not increased.

Rahul Gandhi tweeted, "The number of ministers has increased, but not of vaccines" and questioned, "Where Are Vaccines".

He also tagged a gfx along with his tweet which said India needs to go at vaccination rate of about 80 lakh per day to target 60 per cent of population with both doses by December 2021.

Earlier Rahul Gandhi had appealed to people of India to not let the guard down. He said, "Please keep the guard up- follow all precautionary protocols. Covid not over yet." Prime Minister Narendra Modi on June 7 expanded his cabinet and council of ministers, now having 77 ministers, the highest in this government's tenure.

While the government on Sunday said, India's cumulative vaccination coverage exceeded 37.60 crore, a total of 37,60,32,586 vaccine doses have been administered through 48,33,797 sessions, as per the provisional report till 7 a.m. on Sunday. India administered 37,23,367 vaccine doses in the last 24 hours.
New Delhi, July 11 : Days after taking over as India's new Civil Aviation Minister, Jyotiraditya Scindia on Sunday said that budget airline SpiceJet will start eight new flights from Madhya Pradesh starting July 16.

In a tweet, the minister said that the new routes would be Gwalior-Mumbai-Gwalior, Gwalior-Pune-Gwalior, Jabalpur-Surat-Jabalpur, and Ahmedabad-Gwalior-Ahmedabad.

"Good news for Madhya Pradesh! Starting 8 new flights from July 16 onwards via @flyspicejet," he said.

Scindia further said that the Ministry of Civil Aviation and the aviation industry are committed to take the regional connectivity service 'UDAN' to greater heights.

Maintaining and extending the success of the regional connectivity programme would be a major challenge for the newly-appointed minister.

Scindia took charge of the ministry headquartered at the Rajiv Gandhi Bhawan here on Friday.

He succeeds Hardeep Singh Puri who has now got the Ministry of Petroleum while retaining the Urban Affairs Ministry.

Besides, former Army chief-turned-politician General V.K. Singh (retd), the Minister of State in the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, is also the new Minister of State for Civil Aviation.

The sector is one of the hardest impacted by the Covid pandemic.

At present, airlines and airports are running into massive financial and job losses.

However, the sector, despite the economic fallout, has successfully been able to transform its image from elitist to essential.

The two ministers will now face the daunting task of Air India's divestment as well as reinvigorating the sector through infrastructure development.
Dhaka, July 11 : Terming the deadly Shezan Juice factory fire, which left at least 52 workers dead, as a "tragic incident", the Bangladesh Supreme Court on Sunday expressed its deep condolences and asked the Attorney General to take the necessary steps for relief of the injured.

"The incident is really tragic. We are observing it... Let the bodies are identified first. Then, bring the compensation petition to the court. The doors of the court are always open," the apex court's High Court bench, headed by Justice M. Enayetur Rahim, said.

The officials of the Dhaka Metropolitan Police's CID are working to find out the identity of the workers through the DNA test. CID officials told IANS that the process will take at least three weeks to four weeks.

The Supreme Court ordered the authorities concerned to publish a list of the victims who were injured in last Thursday's deadly fire at the Narayanganj food processing factory and ensure their proper treatment.

It also asked the Attorney General to talk to the Health and Labour Secretaries to take necessary steps to this effect.

Addressing the lawyers, who presented the incident to the court, the bench said: "Like countrymen, we are also concerned over the fire incident that killed 52 workers. A case has already been filed in this regard and the accused people have been arrested. Some money has also been given by the government to victims. So for now, the HC is not giving any compensation order."
New Delhi, July 11 : In a shocking incident, a woman strangulated her 11-month old ailing infant to death after her husband refused to take him to hospital, and then accused him of the crime, police said.

The police said that the case was a challenging one as both -- the mother and father -- accused each other of killing the infant.

The murder was reported on Thursday from south Delhi's Fatehpur Beri area and the accused woman was arrested on Sunday after confessing during the investigation.

The police said Jyoti, 26, used a 'dupatta' (stole) to strangulate the infant to frame her husband Satveer as she did not have cordial relations with him, as he "didn't like her" and they used to argue a lot.

Jyoti disclosed that she had a quarrel with her husband on Thursday at around 3.30 p.m. She also stated that her 11 month-old son was suffering from fever and Satveer refused to take him to a doctor, police said.

Two separate PCR calls were received within an hour from the family of both Jyoti and Satveer.

Jyoti's family claimed that the baby was murdered by his own father at Dera village.

Subsequent PCR calls were also received wherein it was mentioned that the caller's 'Bhabhi' (sister-in-law) murdered her son at Dera village.

A case was registered at the Fatehpur Beri police station and further investigation was taken up.

A police team found that the child was taken to the Apex Hospital, Chattarpur by his father and other relatives.

Keeping in view of the gravity of offence, a team comprising Sub-Inspectors Satyender Gulia, Rajesh Kumar, and Rishikesh along with Assistant Sub-Inspector Ashwani, Head Constable Naresh Kumar and Constables Lal Singh, Balvir, Jaiveer, and Praveen was constituted under the supervision of Inspector Kuldeep Singh.

"Detailed investigation was taken up using CCTV footage from the village, call records, and statements of witnesses. This revealed that the mother had committed the crime," said the police.

Jyoti, a resident of Ritoz village in Gurugram, was subsequently arrested. She was married to Satveer in 2011, when she was 16 years old.
Hyderabad, July 11 : A female resident doctor of the Ram Manohar Lohia Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow was Sunday airlifted to the KIMS Hospital Secunderabad here for lung transplant.

Dr Sharda Suman, a postgraduate resident at RMLIMS's Gynaecology Department, had contracted Covid-19 on April 14. She was 32 weeks pregnant then. When her health condition deteriorated, she was put on a ventilator and emergency C-section surgery was done on May 1 to save the child.

After the delivery, she was put on ECMO supportm but her condition didn't improve. RMLIMS Director Dr Sonia Nityanand constituted a 3-member committee which recommended that she should undergo a lung transplant. As her family was not in a financial position to afford the process, Dr Nityanand personally met Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and explained the situation. He immediately sanctioned Rs 1.50 crore required for the procedure.

After consulting the hospitals in Hyderabad and Chennai, they finally decided to undergo the transplant procedure at KIMS Hospitals, where already several transplants were done with utmost success.

Sharda Suman was shifted to Hyderabad through an air ambulance. A green corridor was formed with the help of Hyderabad police to bring the patient to the hospital from airport without any delay.
Agra/New Delhi, July 11 : Diplomats from Afghanistan visited the Taj Mahal on Sunday morning and enjoyed their stay at the iconic monument amid the weekly lockdown imposed in the city on Saturday and Sunday to curb Covid-19 infections.

The Afghan delegation arrived in Agra on Saturday, visited Fatehpur Sikri the same day and the Taj Mahal on Sunday which remained open for specific time despite the weekend lockdown. However, tourists were not allowed entry during this time.

As many as 25 members of the Afghan delegation enjoyed their visit to the iconic Mughal-era mounument for nearly an hour, after which they went to the Agra Fort.

Apart from Assistant Superintending Archaeologist, Archaelogical Survey of India, R.K. Singh, ASI officials Rajkumar Kapoor and Prince Bajpai were present to receive the Afghan delegation. For nearly an hour, the Afghan diplomats witnessed the beauty of the Taj Mahal and also took photographs at the video platform, central tank and the main tomb.

After concluding their Agra visit, all diplomats returned to Delhi via the Yamuna Expressway.
Hyderabad, July 11 : Reiterating the demand for construction of new building of the Osmania General Hospital, Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi on Sunday said that saving lives is more important than saving heritage.

"If you want to save heritage, save it, but if you want to save lives, and save money, we need a new building for Osmania Hospital," he said after inaugurating the 23-bed Covid ward at the Indo-US Hospital at Malakpet here.

During a visit to the Osmania Hospital last month, the MP demanded that the state government build a new hospital at a cost of Rs 1,000 crore.

"If you want to keep the building, keep it; If you want to demolish it, do so," he had said.

Heritage activists, who have been urging the government to protect the heritage structure, had taken exception to the MP's remarks.

Owaisi, however, defended his stand, saying the condition of the Osmania Hospital is deteriorating with every passing day. He said the Osmania Hospital needs a built-up area of 20 lakh square feet.

The All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) chief said that people criticising his party for supporting the Osmania Hospital's new building are neither aware of the situation at the hospital nor have ever visited it for treatment.

The MP said when the Chief Minister can demolish the Warangal Jail and build a hospital there, why can't he build a new building for the Osmania Hospital Medical College, which is the oldest medical college in the country and has given countless doctors in different disciplines.

"The annual number of surgeries has come down from 90,000 to 45,000 at the Osmania Hospital. We will not let the government escape the Osmania Hospital issue, by citing heritage concerns," he said.

Designed by Vincent Esch, the Osmania Hospital building on the banks of Musi River was completed in 1925.

Owaisi pointed out that the shortage of beds and ventilators led to loss of many lives during the second wave. "Covid treatment is expensive. And hospitals like these (Indo-US Hospital, Osmania Hospital) can help patients save their hard earned money during times of crises," he said.

He assured cooperation to the Sahayata Trust-run Indo-US Hospital to further improve healthcare infrastructure and Covid treatment facilities with the help of his MP fund.

Earlier, Owaisi went around the Covid-19 ward with Malakpet MLA Ahmed Balala. The facility is equipped with critical care specialists, 24x7 piped Oxygen, ventilators, bi-pap machines and additional oxygen cylinders in case of emergencies.

High quality oxygen concentrators with dual output, dialysis machines and even an in-house oxygen plant that is due for import on July 15 will provide best medical support to Covid patients.

Once operational, the oxygen plant funded by IMRC, US and implemented by the Sahayata Trust, which manages the hospital, will be able to provide 24x7 liquid medical oxygen for Covid-19 patients at the hospital. "In case of emergencies, free refills of oxygen cylinders will be provided by the Trust," said Sahayata Trust CEO Syed Aneesuddin.

He said another oxygen plant would come up at Toli Chowki in the city. Two new branches of the Indo-US Hospital are proposed in the city at Toli Chowki and Shah Ali Banda.

Aneesuddin thanked IMRC Chairman Manzoor Ghori for funding the Sahayata Trust projects. He said Indo-US Hospital has been offering treatment at subsidised prices for a long time.

Director of the Indo-US Hospital, Dr Mohammed Abdul Moiz said they trained specialists to follow Covid 19 guidelines issued by the Central government and the WHO.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
New Delhi, July 11 : Harsh Goenka, Chairman RPG Enterprises, has expressed surprise at the high valuations being denoted to Zomato despite continuing losses while large hotel and restaurant chains are languishing.

"Can anyone explain to me - Top 20 hotels including global Indian hotel brands - Total Market cap - 44,000 crs. Top 6 QSR chains serving millions of consumers - Total Market cap- 60,000 Crs. ZOMATO - Continuing huge losses. Hold my vadapav! Market cap - 60,000 Crs ???," Goenka said in a tweet.

The market cap of Indian Hotels is Rs 17,446 crore, EIH Limited is Rs 7,063 crore, Mahindra Holidays is Rs 3,763 crore, Chalet Hotels is Rs 3,893 crore and all other listed hotel companies put together it is less than Rs 44,000 crore.

Similarly, in the case of quick service restaurants, Jubilant Foodworks is Rs 41,496 crore, Westlife is Rs 7,990 crore, Burger King is Rs 6,056 crore and combining other QSR chains the aggregate number is Rs 60,000 crore.

Zomato had a net loss of Rs 682 crore for nine months of FY 21.

Market investor, Giriraj Daga said in a tweet, "Bull case working of Zomato - More than 60 per cent of Indian households need to order once a week to justify the current valuation." "This means 16 crore households (out of total 25 crore) will need to order once a week to reach this number," Daga said.
New Delhi, July 11 : The Delhi government has so far received 390 applications for availing assistance under the Chief Minister Covid-19 Family Financial Assistance scheme, which aims to provide ex-gratia to affected families in the national capital, a minister said on Sunday.

Social Welfare Minister Rajendra Pal Gautam said: "Till July 9, a total of 390 applications were received, of which 220 beneficiaries have applied for pension of Rs 2,500 per month, while 170 people have applied for the Rs 50,000 ex-gratia amount." He said that since the scheme has been launched recently, it may take time for the beneficiaries to collect all the documents. But in the coming days, the process of application will be fast-tracked, he added.

The representatives of the department will go door to door in Delhi to help the beneficiaries fill the application, Gautam said.

"We will not wait for beneficiaries to fill the application form. Our representatives will also help in filling the application form by going door to door. We want to help the families as soon as possible. Our representatives will not find faults in their documentation, rather they will help beneficiaries in the documentation process," he reiterated.

The scheme to provide financial help to Covid-affected families was announced by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on June 18, and notified by Lt. Governor Anil Baijal on July 6.

Under the scheme, an ex-gratia amount of Rs 50,000 will be given to the families who lost a member to coronavirus. Rs 2,500 per month will be given upon the death of the breadwinner of the family. The state government will also provide Rs 2,500 per month to the children, who lost both their parents, till the age of 25.

In addition to the financial assistance, one member of the affected families will also be enrolled as a Civil Defence Volunteer.

Applications for the scheme can be made on Delhi government's portal: http://edistrict.delhigovt.nic.in.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
San Francisco, July 11 : US-based telecommunication company Mint Mobile has revealed the company became a victim of a data breach that allowed several phone numbers to be ported out to another carrier, along with possible access to subscriber data.

An email sent on Saturday to affected customers by Mint Mobile disclosed there was a breach of the carrier's systems.

The breach, which occurred between June 8 and June 10, reveals a "very small number of Mint Mobile subscribers' phone numbers were affected by the incident", reports AppleInsider.

According to Mint Mobile, which sells mobile phone services and operates as an MVNO on T-Mobile's cellular network, phone numbers associated with the accounts were "temporarily ported to another carrier without permission", a media report said.

The company also admits the attacker may have gained access to some account information, including names, numbers, email addresses, passwords and account numbers.

The attack on the carrier is the latest to demonstrate the need for high security for customer-facing support systems.

In late June, Microsoft confirmed that the hacking group thought to be behind the SolarWinds breaches used a compromised customer service agent's computer to steal information, and data later used to attack Microsoft's customers.
New Delhi, July 11 : Amid the debate on leadership change in Chhattisgarh, Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel on Sunday said that if the high command says that someone else should be made Chief Minister, it will be done.

Interacting with reporters after meeting party Genereal Secretary Priyanka Gandhi, he said that "the Congress high command asked me to take oath, so I took oath... when they will say that someone should become Chief Minister, it will be as per wish of the high command." He asserted that the Congress has three-fourth majority in the state and such arrangements are in coalition governments. State in charge P.L. Punia too said there is no such formula.

State Health Minister T.S. Singh Deo, whose supporters are pushing for change, has maintained that the issue of Chief Ministership is to be decided by the Congress leadership and party President Sonia Gandhi as it is their prerogative.

Talking to IANS, Singh Deo, who is in Delhi for family functions and routine checkups, said: "I have not raised any issue regarding the Chief Ministership as it is the Congress leadership that will decide on the issue." He said there is no need to take up the matter with the party as they are well aware of everything, after the Congress formed the government in Chhatisgarh in 2018, it was assured that Baghel will hold the Chief Minister's post for half the term and Singh Deo will be the Chief Minister for the remaining time.

The deadline has expired but there is no decision from the Congress high command, and the supporters of Singh Deo are pressing their demands through different channels and social media.
New Delhi, July 11 : Riding high on the party's thumping victory in Uttar Pradesh 'zila panchayat' and block head polls, the BJP now believes that the wind is blowing in its favour across the state and it will reflect in next year's Assembly polls.

The saffron camp claims that people across the state are supporting the party. Of the total 825 posts of block heads, the saffron party has won 635. Earlier, the BJP managed to sweep zila panchayat head posts.

Co-incharge of Uttar Pradesh BJP, Sanjiv Chaurasia told IANS that results are clear indication about the ground reality and massive support for the BJP.

"There is huge support for the BJP government's welfare policy and good governance model across the state which our political rivals failed to understand. Results of zila panchayat and block 'pramukh' (head) result have sent two clear messages, firstly the BJP has huge support at ground and secondly this support is spread across the state. Despite Rakesh Tikait leading a farmer's protest, the BJP swept western Uttar Pradesh in both zila panchayat and block head elections," Chaurasia said.

The saffron party feels that continuous victory at the different levels of local governance is a clear message that people are happy and supporting the BJP and the Yogi Adityanath government has the support of voters.

Chaurasia, a member of Bihar Assembly, said, "Results are people's verdict on four years of BJP government in the state and established that everyone irrespective of caste, region and religion are happy with working of Yogi Adityanath government under guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. People will also bless the BJP in the next Assembly polls as it is the only party which has performed and given a good transparent, corruption-free government." Many believe that maintaining the ongoing momentum in its favour till next year's Assembly polls will ensure the BJP's return to power for a second consecutive term.

"We are getting support from every section of society and all the regions of the state. We just need to keep working at an organisational level to connect with people and explain the achievements of the Yogi government. We also need to tell people about the welfare measures of the Modi government over seven years," a party functionary said.
Mumbai, July 11 : Bollywood actor Kartik Aaryan took to social media on Sunday to mourn the demise of his maternal grandfather.

The actor shared a throwback photograph from his childhood days on Instagram where he can be seen sitting on his maternal grandfather's lap, whom he addressed as "Naanu".

"Hope I get your swag some day. RIP Naanu," the actor captioned the photo with a heavy heart.

Commenting on the actor's post, actors Nimrat Kaur, Huma Qureshi and Bhumi Pednekar along with Kartik's fans and followers expressed their condolences.

Earlier in the day, actress Ananya Panday penned an emotional note after her grandmother passed away the day before.

Sharing throwback photographs of her grandmother, Ananya wrote in an Instagram post: "Rest in power, my angel, when she was born the doctors said she wouldn't live beyond a few years because of a defected heart valve, but my Dadi lived and how. She worked every day up until the age of 85, going to work at 7 am in her block heels and red streaked hair. She inspired me every single day to do what I love and I'm so grateful to have grown up basking in her energy and light. She had the softest hands to hold, gave the best leg massages, she was a self proclaimed (and very politically incorrect) palm reader and never ever failed to make me laugh. The life of our family. You're too loved to ever be forgotten Dadi - I love you so much."
Mysuru, July 11 : Mysuru, the cultural capital of Karnataka, has been shocked as it emerged on Friday that a destitute, mentally challenged Bengali woman has suffered rape at the government hospital here. In a new development, the activist, involved in bringing out the issue, on Sunday alleged that the entire administration tried to cover up the shameful act.

The incident has been confirmed after the hospital authorities lodged a complaint with Devaraja police station in the city on July 9.

The victim has been shifted to the Cheluvamba hospital for women and children after medical examination. The incident is said to have taken place on July 3 or 4 midnight and the incident had come to light after an old lady spoke up about the incident.

Snehamayi Krishna, a local journalist-turned-social activist, alleged that the hospital authorities, knowing well about the incident of rape, tried to bury the issue. Meanwhile, the unidentified accused taking advantage of the authorities' apathy towards the issue had broken the window grille and violated the gullible woman again.

"According to information gathered by us, the accused had been raping the gullible woman since over a month. When the matter came to be known to the authorities, they simply locked the door of the ward and only opened it to give food. The rapist this time broke the window grille to commit an offence. We have collected evidence regarding the incident. The statements in this connection are also recorded," he claimed.

Krishna said that he is preparing to lodge a complaint with the Medical Education Ministry to order investigation on the issue as they fear that the rape case will be hushed-up.

Meanwhile, local MLA Nagendra visited the hospital on Saturday and directed the Mysore Medical College and Research Institute Dean and Director Dr C.P. Nanjaraj and Superintendent of the K.R. Hospital, Dr. Nanjundaswamy to beef up the security to ensure safety of women inpatients. Mysuru cops said that they are checking CCTV footage, inquiring with other inmates and private security staff of the hospital.

The victim, a 30-year-old Bengali woman is said to be under treatment at the hospital, in a ward reserved for the destitute, since three to four years. "What is appalling is the police station and outposts are located very close to the hospital. We suspect the role of an insider," Krishna alleged.

The investigation is on into the matter.
Google opening its first retail store in US this year Image Source: IANS News

San Francisco, July 11 : Google Calendar meeting invites will soon let you specify if you are attending the event physically or virtually.

The "Yes" button at the bottom of an invite -- on the web -- will feature a new dropdown with accompanying icons for each option -- Yes; Yes, in a meeting room; Yes, joining virtually.

Then, both the organiser and guests will be able to see how attendees are planning to attend the meeting in the event detail, 9To5Google reported.

This will help meeting attendees know what to expect when joining a meeting and prepare accordingly, it added.

This dropdown is launching first in Google Calendar and later coming to Gmail invites.

These attendance details will not be visible to users of Microsoft Outlook or other platforms, the report said.

The capability will start rolling out soon and will be fully available in the coming weeks for all Workspace customers.

Google first previewed this feature last month alongside the news that Workspace is now available acefor everyone" and getting a paid "Individual" tier.
Kolkata, July 11 : Though West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has been vocal against the disinvestment policy of the central government and has often alleged that the Modi government is selling off major public sector units including in banking, insurance and steel but the state government has decided to go the same way by selling off or leasing out a portion of unused land of Durgapur Projects Limited (DPL), a loss-making power utility that was under a restructuring plan, to clear the firm's debts.

A few days before in a high-level meeting at 'Nabanna' attended by state power minister Aroop Biswas, state law minister Malay Ghatak and chief secretary H.K. Diwedi it was decided that the state government would either sell off or lease out a portion of DPL to meet the debts of the company.

"Though it is not yet clear which portion of the land would be sold or leased off, the process could start with 154 acres spread in three parcels in Durgapur. Two officers of the power department went to Durgapur on Wednesday and visited all three land parcels which could be put up for monetisation in the first phase," said a senior official of the state finance department.

According to sources, DPL has its power plant and coke oven plant on around 650 acres. Moreover, it has administrative buildings, township and various offices on around 900 acres. About 50 per cent of its 3,559 acres are lying unused these days.

According to a restructuring plan taken up by the power department in 2019, the DPL was divided into three parts. The transmission was taken over by the West Bengal State Electricity Transmission Company, the distribution was handed over to the West Bengal State Electricity Distribution Company and the West Bengal Power Development Corporation was given the charge of the electricity generation.

"But these were yet to be notified duly and no other restructuring process like staff being laid off was initiated. The DPL has been facing a loss of Rs 200 crore every fiscal for the past one decade. A bold step is needed to clear the burden of at least Rs 2,000 crore at the DPL," said a source.

Leader of the Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari had been vocal on this issue. Responding to media queries at the Assembly premises he said that the state government is doing the same thing for which they had been critical of the Central government. "They are trying to sell DPL's land to a private promoter. They are disinvesting state government's stake in Haldia Petrochemicals Limited. Earlier, the state government sold off Metro Dairy to a private entity. And this same state government and the ruling party are accusing the Centre of its disinvestment policies. This is a complete dichotomy," Adhikari said.

The Left Front government had also planned to utilise the unused plots of the DPL by setting up townships in a joint venture. But the plan could not materialise because of stiff resistance from the CITU.

This time also, the CITU said it would resist if the state wanted to sell off the plots or gave them on long-term lease. "We will put up stiff resistance if the government takes any step like promoting on the DPL land," a senior district committee member of CITU said.
Agartala, July 11 : Tripura Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb on Sunday sent the state's exotic and juicy pineapples to Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who had sent juicy "Haribhanga" mango of her country to her Indian counterpart Narendra Modi and Chief Ministers of West Bengal and four northeastern states.

Tripura government officials handed over 100 boxes containing 400 pieces (around 800 kg) of the Kew variety of pineapple to the officials of Indian High Commission at the Agartala-Akhaura checkpost.

"The Indian High Commission officials would hand over the pineapple to Hasina in Dhaka," Tripura Horticulture Department Director Fanibhusan Jamatia told IANS.

After receiving the delicious gift ("Haribhanga" mango), Deb in a tweet, said that he is extremely happy after getting the mangoes and thanked Hasina.

The Tripura Chief Minister also talked with Hasina over phone and inquired about the Covid situation in Bangladesh.

"Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the India-Bangladesh friendship would remain intact," the Tripura CM told the Bangladesh PM, according to an official of the Chief Minister's Office.

Tripura annually produces 1.28 lakh tonnes of two major varieties -- Kew and Queen -- of pineapples in 8,800 hectares of hilly orchards across the northeastern state and earlier exported pineapples and lemons to Dubai, Bangladesh and other countries and many Indian states.

President Ram Nath Kovind, at a function in Agartala in 2018, announced the "Queen" variety of pineapple would be Tripura's state fruit.
Kathmandu, July 11 : In a major achievement, public sector hydropower major SJVN Ltd on Sunday signed a pact with the Investment Board of Nepal for the development of 679 MW Lower Arun Hydroelectric Project - its second in the Himalayan nation.

The project has been allocated through international competitive bidding, said SJVN Chairman and Managing Director Nand Lal Sharma.

A memorandum of understanding was signed in the presence of Nepal's Deputy Prime Minister Bishnu Prasad Paudel and Indian Ambassador Vinay Mohan Kwatra.

The Lower Arun Hydroelectric Project is located in Sankhuwasabha and Bhojpur districts. It will not have any reservoir or dam and will be a tailrace development of 900 MW Arun-III project.

The project will have four francis type turbines. On completion, they will generate 2,970 million units of electricity per annum. The project is scheduled to be completed in four years after commencement of construction activities.

The project has been allocated to the SJVN for 25 years on a build-own-operate-transfer (BOOT) basis.

Sharma expressed gratitude to the Nepalese government for keeping faith in the abilities and capabilities of the SJVN by selecting it as developer for the new project.

SJVN Ltd, a joint venture of the Central and the Himachal Pradesh governments, started its journey in Nepal in 2008 by signing a pact for the implementation of 900 MW Arun-III project.

Its construction started with the laying of foundation stone jointly by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Nepalese counterpart, K.P. Sharma Oli, in 2018.

Sharma said the 900 MW Arun III project has achieved significant progress in the last three years despite the Covid-19 pandemic. To mitigate delays, SJVN Ltd has already implemented acceleration plan and is committed to commission this project ahead of schedule.

He emphasised such progress could not have been achieved without the continuous support of IBN and the government of Nepal. The requisite approvals were granted in a shortest possible time despite the challenges faced due the pandemic.

Sharma noted that the hydropower has to be developed with the integrated river basin development approach for economic viability and to give boost to infrastructural development.

This approach will result in optimisation of resources and faster project completion at lower cost. He requested the government of Nepal for providing further opportunity to SJVN Ltd in partnering with the government for harnessing hydropower in Nepal.

The SJVN's present installed capacity is 2,016.51 MW and it aims to be 5,000 MW company by 2023, 12,000 MW by 2030 and 25,000 MW company by 2040.

It has presence in various sectors of energy generation which includes hydro, wind, solar, and thermal. The company also has presence in the field of energy transmission.
San Francisco, July 11 : Heralding a new space tourism era, Virgin Galactics billionaire CEO Richard Branson on Sunday flew to the edge of space with three employees, including one of Indian-origin, leaving Jeff Bezos to follow his route on July 20.

Branson flew aboard his Virgin Galactic's VSS Unity spaceplane, along with three company employees to the edge of space a little after 10:30 a.m. ET (8.00 pm India time).

The 70-year-old arrived on a bike at the Spaceport America, the world's first purpose-built commercial spaceport located in Southern New Mexico. Virgin Galactic's twin-fuselage WhiteKnight carrier aircraft carries the rocket-powered spaceship VSS Unity.

Besides Branson, the flight includes Beth Moses, Chief Astronaut Instructor and Colin Bennett, lead Operations Engineer and Indian-origin Sirisha Bandla, vice president of government affairs at Virgin Galactic.

Moses serves as cabin lead and test director in space, overseeing the safe and efficient execution of the test flight objectives, while Bennett will evaluate cabin equipment, procedures, and experience during both the boost phase and in the weightless environment.

Bandla will be evaluating the human-tended research experience, using an experiment from the University of Florida that requires several handheld fixation tubes that will be activated at various points in the flight profile, and Branson will evaluate the private astronaut experience and will undergo the same training, preparation and flight as Virgin Galactic's future astronauts.

The pilots are Dave Mackay and Michael Masucci flying VSS Unity, and CJ Sturckow and Kelly Latimer flying VMS Eve.

About 40 minutes after takeoff, Unity dropped from the middle of the mothership and ignited its rocket engine moments later to send Branson and the crew to the edge of space, about 89 kms high, for a few minutes of weightlessness.

The flight was earlier scheduled for 6.30 pm (India time), but was delayed due to bad overnight weather in the launch area, the company shared in a tweet.

"Overnight weather delayed the start of flight preparations, but we are on track to fly today with a newly scheduled time," the company shared in a tweet.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
New York, July 11 : Sirisha Bandla soared spacewards on Sunday on board VSS Unity 22 in quest to touch the heavens and become the fourth astronaut of Indian descent.

The Virgin Galactic's spacecraft took off from Spaceport America in New Mexico lofted by a twin-bodied carrier aircraft, VMS Eve, that would release it at 15.5 km to fly onward into space.

Astronaut 004 Bandla, accompanied by Virgin Galactic founder Richard Branson and two other crewmates and two pilots, is reaching for the 100-km altitude that marks the entry into space.

Before the flight, Branson signed himself dramatically as Astronaut 001 and gave the Astronaut 004 rank to Bandla.

During the 90-minute space flight, Bandla is scheduled to conduct experiments designed by the government's pioneer space agency, NASA involving plants in microgravity.

Bandla, the Virgin Galactic Vice President for Government Relations, is an astronautical engineer by training.

She will be the third Indian American in space after Kalpana Chawla and Sunita Pandya Williams and the fourth person of Indian descent -- the first being Rakesh Sharma, who flew on a Soviet spacecraft.

Another Indian Amrican, Raj Chari, is in the US astronaut programme and is scheduled to command a flight later this year.

Branson's flight is a breakthrough in commercialisation of space travel by private entrepreneurs.

(Arul Louis can be reached at arul.l@ians.in and followed @arulouis)
New Delhi, July 11 : Hero Electric Vehicles Pvt Ltd has raised Rs 220 crore in Series B funding round led by Gulf Islamic Investments (GII).

The funding round also witnessed the participation of OAKS.

A company statement said that it will direct this investment towards the objective of further supporting the electric vehicle industry and ecosystem.

Avendus Capital was the exclusive financial advisor to Hero Electric on the transaction.

Hero Electric will allocate this investment towards expanding production capacity, consolidating market position to strengthen market leadership, investing in futuristic technology, and grow footprint across India-like markets.

To achieve the vision of exponential growth and double sales every year, the company plans to make significant additions to its manufacturing capacity by setting up multiple plants over the next couple of years.

It will also focus on India-centric, flexible, and cost-effective innovations that will drive the growth of electric mobility which is in line with making India the EV hub of the world, it said.

"The electric vehicles market has undergone tremendous change over the last few years since we raised our first round of funding. The policies are extremely conducive for the growth of the segment and despite the pandemic, the company is poised to grow at over 2X from the last fiscal," Hero Electric Managing Director Naveen Munjal said.

He added that the company aims to sell over 10 lakh units per year in the next couple of years.

"This round of investments which is a first of a larger scheme will help expand our manufacturing capacities, increase R&D spends that will enable us to continue to launch innovative products to disrupt the category. Hero is committed to its mission of No Emission and build a sustainable future that is electric." GII founding Partner and Co-CEO Pankaj Gupta said: "We are delighted to be a part of the growth journey of India's market-leading electric vehicles pioneer - Hero Electric - through our latest round of investments under India Growth Portfolio II." As a sustainability conscious and visionary investor, GII has observed the growing role of electric vehicles in mitigating environmental pollution and the opportunities it presents in India, one of the world's most populous countries and an important investment destination in the firm's global strategy, he added.

-- Syndicated from IANS
Gurugram, July 11 : A fire broke out at the Bandhwari landfill site about 20 kms from the city on Sunday afternoon. No casualties were reported in the incident, a fire official said.

The cause of the fire is unknown. Fire tenders were rushed to the site.

According to the fire officials, the incident took place around 12.05 pm in the Bandhwari landfill. The fire is suspected to have been started due to a build-up of methane, a flammable gas, at the landfill due to the decomposition of solid municipal waste. The fire also spread due to polythene and other plastic waste.

"A fire broke out the top of the landfill due to which it took time to douse the flames. Ten fire tenders, five from Gurugram and five from Faridabad, were pressed into action. Also, around 40 fire personnel were present at the spot to control the blaze. It took firefighters more than eight hours to control the flames," Rajesh Kumar, Assistant Fire officer told IANS.

A major fire in 2013 had caused the Bandhwari waste management plant to become defunct. Since then, municipal bodies in Gurugram and Faridabad have continued to dump over 1,000 tonnes of untreated garbage at the site every day.
New Delhi, July 11 : The Haryana Youth Congress elections have become a prestige issue with senior politicians backing candidates of their choice.

Haryana Youth Congress elections have become a show of strength for the factions - namely Hooda, Selja and other leaders backing their candidates.

There are a total of 12 candidates in the state president elections, out of which only 2 are women and membership and voting will continue online for one month.

According to sources, four candidates are contesting in which Deepender Hooda-Kiran Choudhary-Captain Ajay Singh Yadav are supporting 2 candidates namely former NSUI state president Divyanshu Budhiraja and a woman named Parag Sharma.

State President Kumari Selja has put the entire system behind former Youth Congress National Secretary Krishna Satrod who also has the support of the Randeep Singh Surjewala group. Former Youth Congress state general secretary Shantanu Chauhan is contesting elections independently without the support of any state leader.

The remaining eight candidates are associated with either of the factions and their fight is limited only to cutting votes and becoming state secretary by polling in minimum votes required.

Previous Haryana Youth Congress elections have always witnessed Hooda-backed candidate being elected as the State President.

What remains to be seen is whether Haryana Youth Congress also succumbs to the ongoing rivalry by electing a Hooda or Selja group-backed candidate or will it see the victory of Rahul Gandhi's dream to bring in fresh talent.

Rahul Gandhi had initiated the Youth Congress elections to give a platform to the youth without political background, money and muscle power to join politics. But despite his efforts, no senior leadership in any state pursued his idea.

After witnessing factionalism and political oneupmanship in the recent Youth Congress elections in Delhi and Mumbai, difficulties for the Congress high command don't seem to be ending in the near future. A similar story has begun in Haryana, which has further intensified the political rivalries and rifts in the party appear to be deepening.
Bengaluru: Union Finance and Corporate Affairs Minister Nirmala Sitharaman addressing a press conference at BMRDA Office, in Bengaluru on Friday, July 02, 2021 (Photo: IANS) Image Source: IANS News

New Delhi, July 11 : Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday hosted women ministers of the Narendra Modi Government for high tea at her residence here.

Smriti Irani, Meenakshi Lekhi, Anupriya Patel, Sadhvi Niranjan Jyoti, Renuka Singh, Annapurna Devi, Bharati Pawar, Shobha Karandlaje, Darshana Jardosh, and Pratima Bhoumik were present at the informal meeting.

Post the reshuffle in the Council of Ministers, there are now 11 women ministers in the Union Government.

"Smt @nsitharaman interacts with the women members of the Union Council of Ministers during a high tea session hosted at her residence today," said a tweet by the office of Sitharaman.

Irani is the Cabinet Minister for Women & Child Development, while Jyoti, the Minister of State for Reural Development, also got Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs. Renuka Singh is the Minister of State for Tribal Affairs.

Lekhi on Thursday took charge as new Minister of State for External Affairs and, Culture.

Patel has been appointed the Minister of State for Commerce and Industry and Bhoumik is the new Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment.

Karandlaje is the new Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Jardosh the new Minister of State for Railways, and Textiles, Pawar the new Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, and Annapurna Devi the new Minister of State for Education.
Agartala, July 11 : The Central government on Sunday said that there is no case of the highly infectious Delta plus variant of coronavirus in Tripura even as the doctors in the state, quoting reports of a West Bengal-based national institute, on Friday claimed that 138 cases of the variant were found in the northeastern state.

The Union Health and Family Welfare Ministry, in a statement, said that 152 samples were sent earlier from Tripura to the National Institute of Biomedical Genomics (NIBMG) at Kalyani in West Bengal for Whole Genome Sequence (WGS) process.

"The results of the WGS revealed that three samples had tested positive for B.1.1.7, 11 samples had tested positive for B.1.617.1 (Kappa) and 138 samples had tested positive for B.1.617.2 (Delta). There was no case of Delta Plus reported among the aforementioned lot of sequenced samples," the statement said.

Two directors of the Tripura Health and Family Welfare Department and two senior doctors of the Agartala Government Medical College on Friday night told the media in a hurriedly-called briefing that after the samples of Tripura were tested in the NIBMG, 138 cases of Delta plus, 10 cases of Delta and three cases of the 'UK variant' were found in them.

A top official of Tripura Health and Family Welfare Department told IANS on Sunday night that they have sought clarifications from the Union Health and Family Welfare Ministry about the coding of the Delta plus, Delta (plain) and other variants of coronavirus.

Tripura, till Sunday night, registered a cumulative tally of 70,479 Covid cases and while 65,871 recovered from the disease, 712 succumbed.

The northeastern state's positivity and fatality rates are 5.16 per cent and 1.01 per cent, respectively.

The Centre had recently deputed multi-disciplinary teams to three northeastern states - Tripura, Arunachal Pradesh and Manipur -- in view of the increasing number of Covid-19 cases being reported from these states.

The central teams, consisting of a clinician and a public health expert, visited the states last week and monitored the overall implementation of Covid management measures, including testing, surveillance and containment operations, Covid appropriate behaviour and its enforcement, availability of hospital beds, logistics, vaccination etc.

Officials said that the central teams would submit their reports to the Union Health and Family Welfare Ministry which would forward the report to the states concerned.

Tripura Covid-19 Surveillance Officer Deep Kumar Debbarma said that the two-member central team led by All India Institute of Hygiene and Public Health Director R.N. Sinha, arrived in the state on July 5 and visited various districts before leaving on Saturday.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
New Delhi, July 11 : As the resolution plan of Kalrock-Jalan consortium provides for significant haircut in repaying dues to Jet Airways' staff, a staff association has written to the seven-member monitoring committee seeking a virtual meeting to get clarity over the relief to be provided to the employees under the plan.

Talking to IANS, Jet Aircraft Maintenance Engineers Welfare Association (JAMEWA) President Ashish Mohanty has said that the association first sent a mail seeking a virtual meeting last Monday to the committee, but no response has come so far.

"We have written a mail to the committee for a virtual meeting as employees are not legally sound about this offer. We have also asked our lawyer to go through (the details)," Mohanty said.

"Gratuity and retirement benefit must be there, but nowhere has it been mentioned in this plan." Mohanty said that if the employees get a meeting with the monitoring committee, the plan, the retirement benefit plans and what lies in the future for the employees can get clarified.

The employees of the grounded airline are unhappy with the relief they are being offered which is heavily slashed down from the actual claims.

The admitted claims of employees stood at around Rs 1,200 crore, while the consortium has proposed Rs 52 crore to settle their claims.

According to employees, the airline owes at least Rs 3 lakh to each employee which may well go up to Rs 85 lakh, while now each employee is being offered a total of around Rs 23,000.

The plan proposes to pay each workman of the corporate debtor Rs 11,000 cash, Rs 5,100 cash as medical expenses reimbursement for the parents of the workmen, Rs 5,100 cash as school fee reimbursement for children of the staff, Rs 1,100 would be paid for stationery for children of the staff and a one-time mobile phone recharge of Rs 500.

This cash payment will be made out of the contingency fund (Rs 8 crore). Additional amounts, if required, will be utilised out of the proceeds of sale of assets received by the corporate debtor.

Now, there is uncertainty among the employees whether to vote in favour of the plan or vote against it and lose whatever relief that is being offered.

As per the resolution plan, the employees and workmen would get the relief on if 95 per cent of them vote in favour of the plan.

According to people in the know, it would be tough to garner the 95 per cent votes.

Mohanty said: "There is also doubt who would be eligible for the voting. Are those who have left the organisation also eligible to vote or only the existing employees are allowed to vote?" Further, employees are now in a dilemma whether to legally contest the resolution plan or go with the "little" relief that is being provided.

According to the resolution plan that the proposal for employees and workmen (equity stake in the Corporate Debtor; equity stake in AGSL, cash payment for employees and workmen, IT Assets and Free Tickets) is valid only if at least 95 per cent of the employees and workmen of the Corporate Debtor (as on ICD) support this Resolution Plan by not contesting or challenging its approval by the adjudicating authority (the authority) or its implementation in the manner approved by the authority.

"If the above proposal is not accepted by the employees and workmen within 30 days from the Approval Date, then no other creditor will have the right to seek such benefits or any part thereof and such proposal shall stand withdrawn. After expiry of the said period of 30 days from the Approval Date, the equity stake of 0.50 per cent, and cash payments of up to Rs 8 crore currently earmarked for employees and workmen will be given to the AFCs," the NCLT's order copy noted.

With the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) approval to the resolution plan of Kalrock-Jalan consortium, the Corporate Insolvency Resolution Process (CIRP) of Jet Airways has already concluded.

The seven-member monitoring committee has been constituted to look into the day-to-day operations and the implementation of the resolution plan.

The now-grounded Jet Airways is expected likely to take the skies again within six months from now.

On June 22, the Mumbai bench of the NCLT approved the resolution plan of the Kalrock-Jalan Consortium and gave a 90-day time period to the DGCA and the Civil Aviation Ministry to allot the slots.
Dhaka, July 11 : Poet and journalist Arun Dasgupta passed away at his village Dhalghat Patiya in Bangladesh's Chittaagong at about 12 noon on Saturday. He was 86.

He had been suffering from a cold and cough for a couple of days. He was cremated at his native village on Saturday evening.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, and Cultural Affairs Minister K.M. Khalid, among others, mourned the death of Dasgupta.

"He does not need any state honour... I say he shines the whole globe. Countless Memories over three decades-long profession haunt us," a social media post said.

A teacher-turned-poet-turned-journalist, thinker, and civil society figure, the patriotic, and erudite Dasgupta came back to his homeland in the pursuit of roots after his study in Kolkata and often spoke in the pure Bengal accent which drew attention to the local people of Bangladesh.

A confirmed bachelor, Dasgupta inspired many to pursue literature.

Born on January 1, 1936, at Dhalghat -- the land of Master Surya Sen, he started his journalism career in 1973 with 'Daily Azadi' and was the literary editor at 'Dainik Azadi'.

Dasgupta penned many literary works include "Khandobdahon", "Rabindranather Chhoy Ritur Gaan o Ananya", "Nabinchandra Sen", and "Kabitachinta o Anyanya Prabandha".

The 'Da moni' of media and culture community people, his residence on Nandankanon of Chittagong was a hub of critics of literature, politics, and philosophy, and saw grooming up of budding storytellers, rhyme composers, lyricists, and poets.

His regular discussion with friends, colleagues and the followers were about Rabindranath Tagore, Kazi Nazrul Islam, Indian educator and social reformer Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar, who is considered as "father of Bengali prose", Indian reformer Raja Ram Mohan Roy, Sir Ashutosh Mookerjee, C.R. Das, as well as Shakespeare, Tolstoy's 'Anna Karenina", Maxim Gorky, and Bhupen Hazarika.

"Arun Dasgupta won't stop his shinning. Time marches on but memories stay and torturing silently the rest of our days," senior journalist Samir Barua said in a social media post.

Social media pages of the people of Chittagong also saw tributes and condolences from all over the world.
Colombo, July 12 : Sri Lanka's Health Ministry on Sunday received 2 million doses of Sinopharm vaccines from China, leading to a total of 7.1 million Sinopharm doses arriving in the country since March.

The vaccines arrived onboard two Sri Lankan Airlines flights which arrived at the Bandaranaike International Airport early Sunday morning, the Xinhua news agency reported.

According to health officials, from these stocks, 100,000 doses each will be dispatched into Galle, Matara, Hambantota, Anuradhapura, Nuwara Eliya, Ratnapura, Badulla, and Matale Districts, while 200,000 doses each will be dispatched to Colombo and Kurunegala Districts.

Meanwhile, 300,000 and 500,000 doses will be dispatched to Kalutara and Gampaha Districts respectively.

According to official statistics from the Health Ministry, nearly 3 million people have received the Sinopharm vaccines in Sri Lanka to date, making it the leading vaccine to be administered among the general public.

Out of the nearly 3 million people jabbed, over 1 million have received their second injections as well, Health Ministry statistics showed.

Army Commander General Shavendra Silva said that following the arrival of 2 million doses of the Sinopharm vaccines on Sunday, a further stock of 2 million doses was expected in the coming weeks.

Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa last week put forward a comprehensive mechanism to vaccinate a majority of the Sri Lankan population against the Covid-19 virus before September.

The President said the number of vaccines that will be received in the month of July will be made available to the public, giving priority to the districts identified as high-risk areas for the spread of Covid-19.

Sri Lanka is presently facing a third wave of the Covid-19 virus with authorities warning of a spread of the Delta variant.

The country has to date recorded 273,031 patients since the first local patient was detected in March last year, while 3,467 deaths have been reported.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
We are extremely grateful to these outstanding individuals who rise up and make a positive contribution to society. Their actions are a testament to who these individuals are and to the training they receive as ComEd employees.

MEA Energy Association (MEA) is honored to bestow Life Sustaining and Meritorious Service Awards to ten employees of ComEd, the largest electric utility in Illinois and longtime member of MEA.

MEA presented the 2021 Life Sustaining Awards to:



Theodore Toney, overhead electrician; Ricky Harris, crew leader; and Gerald Taylor, overhead electrician, for assisting with the rescue of an individual suffering from an overdose.

Benjamin Cannon, overhead electrical specialist, for assisting a distressed and bleeding elderly man.

Six other ComEd employees were recognized with Meritorious Service Awards for actions ranging from assisting at roadside accidents and providing first aid. They are:

Ryan Pondinas, overhead electrician: blocks a serious road accident from oncoming traffic.

Victor Beltran, crew leader: keeps an individual from coming in contact with energized lines after an accident.

Jeff Marmo, senior maintenance inspector: notified a family and 911 about a garage fire.

Jonathan Slavik, construction supervisor: finds a missing elderly man and waits with him until help arrives.

Jeffrey Martinez, senior engineering tech: secures an accident scene and provides first aid to wounded driver.

Demetrius Mack, overhead electrical specialist: provides first aid at an accident scene.

MEA is honored to present the Life Sustaining and Meritorious Service Awards, said John Gann, MEA Senior Vice President. We are extremely grateful to these outstanding individuals who rise up and make a positive contribution to society. Their actions are a testament to who these individuals are and to the training they receive as ComEd employees.

MEA Life Sustaining Awards are presented to individuals from member companies who have saved the life of another. The Meritorious Service Award is granted to recognize those who have performed actions in the service of another that are considered above and beyond. Applications for the MEA Life Sustaining and Meritorious Service Award are reviewed and approved by the Executive Committee of MEAs Board of Directors. Read about all MEA awards at https://www.meaenergy.org/membership/awards/.

For questions contact John Gann, johng (at) MEAenergy (dot) org, or (651) 289-9600 x105.

About MEA:

MEA serves the people that deliver electricity and natural gas to homes and businesses. We were founded as a trade association over 110 years ago by distribution utilities whose vision was to improve safety and efficiency. Today, we fulfill the same purpose through education, leadership development, and industry connections. Energy delivery companies, contractors, and suppliers around the country benefit from our 55 summits, roundtables, and webinars, 400+ online technical courses, safety assessments, evaluator training, operator qualification compliance tools, and leadership courses for field personnel.


Law Office of Blumenthal Nordrehaug Bhowmik De Blouw For more information about the class action lawsuit against Tudor Ranch, Inc., call (800) 568-8020 to speak to an experienced California employment attorney today.

The Riverside employment law attorneys, at Blumenthal Nordrehaug Bhowmik De Blouw LLP, filed a class action lawsuit against Tudor Ranch, Inc., alleging the company violated the California Labor Code. The lawsuit against Tudor Ranch, Inc. is currently pending in the Riverside County Superior Court, Case No. CVRI2102436. To read a copy of the Complaint, please click here.

According to the lawsuit filed, Tudor Ranch, Inc. allegedly (a) failed to pay minimum wages, (b) failed to pay overtime wages, (c) failed to provide legally required meal and rest periods, (d) failed to provide accurate itemized wage statements, (e) failed to reimburse employees for required expenses, and (f) failed to provide wages when due, all in violation of the applicable Labor Code sections listed in Labor Code Sections  201, 202, 203, 226, 226.7, 510, 512, 1194, 1197, 1197.1, 2802, and the applicable Wage Order(s), and thereby gives rise to civil penalties as a result of such alleged conduct.

The complaint further alleges Tudor Ranch, Inc. committed acts of unfair competition in violation of the California Unfair Competition Law, Cal. Bus. & Prof. Code  17200, et seq. (the UCL), by engaging in a company-wide policy and procedure which allegedly failed to accurately calculate and record the correct overtime rate for the overtime worked by PLAINTIFF and other CALIFORNIA CLASS Members. As a result of DEFENDANTs alleged intentional disregard of the obligation to meet this burden, DEFENDANT allegedly failed to properly calculate and/or pay all required compensation for work performed by the members of the CALIFORNIA CLASS and allegedly violated the California Labor Code.

For more information about the class action lawsuit against Tudor Ranch, Inc., call (800) 568-8020 to speak to an experienced California employment attorney today.

Blumenthal Nordrehaug Bhowmik De Blouw LLP is a labor law firm with law offices located in San Diego County, Riverside County, Los Angeles County, Sacramento County, Santa Clara County, Orange County and San Francisco County. The firm has a statewide practice of representing employees on a contingency basis for violations involving unpaid wages, overtime pay, discrimination, harassment, wrongful termination and other types of illegal workplace conduct.

***THIS IS AN ATTORNEY ADVERTISEMENT***
Barack Obama's summer playlist features songs by Drake, Bruno Mars, Bob Dylan, and SZA.

The former United States President, 59, has unveiled the new additions to his annual list, which includes Silk Sonic's 'Leave the Door Open', Drake's 'Wants and Needs', Dylan's 'I'll Be Your Baby Tonight' and SZA's 'Good Days'.

Alongside the list, Obama wrote on Twitter: "With so many folks getting together with family and friends, theres a lot to celebrate this summer. Heres a playlist of songs Ive been listening to latelyit's a mix of old and new, household names and emerging artists, and a whole lot in between."

In March, Obama revealed the likes of Bruce Springsteen, Beyonce and The Beatles feature on his shower playlist.

Speaking on an episode of the 'Renegades: Born in the USA' Spotify Original Podcast, Obama told his co-host Springsteen at the time: "I sing in the shower, I sing out of the shower.

"I am unembarrassed about singing ... My daughters and my wife sometimes roll their eyes."

To let everyone else share in the joy, the politician shared his 44-song shower playlist on Spotify.

Nine songs by The Boss made the cut, including 'Born in the U.S.A.' - both the studio version and as well a live take recorded at the Walter Kerr Theatre in New York - 'My Father's House', 'Born To Run' and 'My Hometown'.

The Fab Four also featured with 'Come Together' alongside Elvis Presley ('All Shook Up'), Joni Mitchell ('Help Me'), Sam Cooke ('A Change Is Gonna Come') and Public Enemy ('Harder Than You Think').

Obama is also a fan of Beyonce, with 'Freedom' appearing and her collaborator Kendrick Lamar on 'King Kunta'.
Email your news to money@readingeagle.com and attach a recent (high-resolution) photo. Or use the Newsmakers form under the Money tab at readingeagle.com. Include a contact name and phone number with your submission.
@LisaScheid on Twitter

I explore how our lives are shaped by our relationship to the land, water and air. Have a question you want me to answer? Email me.
Fun fact: It took special counsel Robert Mueller less than two years to release his report into Russian interference in the 2016 election, dubbed Crossfire Hurricane. It's been more than two years since then Attorney General William Barr named John Durham to head a probe into the origins of the Russian investigation.

One investigation resulted in a raft of indictments and convictions. The other, not so much, probably because Durham is more scrupulous than the Mueller team.

"We're still interested in the results of John Durham's investigation," Steve Groves, a former aide to President Donald Trump now with the Heritage Foundation, told me. "And now that his investigation has lasted longer than the Mueller investigation, hopefully we'll learn about his findings soon."

For his troubles, Mueller can boast a long list of scalps. That might lead the public to believe his team uncovered massive wrongdoing in the Trump campaign. That's not the case.

The March 2019 Mueller report found that Russia did try to tilt the presidential race in Trump's favor, but the probe "did not establish that members of the Trump Campaign conspired or coordinated with the Russian government in its election interference activities." That's right: no collusion.

Mueller's biggest fish, Trump's 2016 campaign chairman Paul Manafort, was convicted for bank and tax fraud that predated the campaign. His sentence: 7 1/2 years.

Former National Security Adviser Michael Flynn pled guilty to lying to the FBI about a post-election conversation with Russian diplomat Sergey Lavrov.

A jury found Trump whisperer Roger Stone guilty of seven felonies, including lying to Congress and obstructing Mueller's probe. His sentence: 40 months. Trump pardoned Stone and Flynn before they were incarcerated.

After cutting plea deals, George Papadopoulos, a one-time foreign policy adviser to the campaign, served 12 days in federal prison, and Dutch attorney Alex van der Zwaan served 30 days in jail -- both for lying to the FBI during the investigation. Such convictions often are referred to as "process crimes" because they involve not original offenses but interactions with the criminal justice system itself.

In contrast, there has been one conviction stemming from the Durham probe for a false statement, and the offender, an FBI lawyer, will not go to jail.

In August, FBI attorney Kevin Clinesmith pled guilty to a felony count of making a false statement while working to secure FISA (Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act) surveillance on Trump campaign foreign policy adviser Carter Page.

In the early days of the Russian probe, an FBI official had asked if Page had served as a source for the government, as Page maintained; Clinesmith falsely altered a document by adding "not a source" in a fourth FISA application.

Clinesmith has maintained he thought his alteration was accurate, as if it were an honest mistake.

Be it noted, after the election, Clinesmith texted, "I am so stressed about what I could have done differently" -- as well as, "The crazies won finally" and, "Viva la resistance!"

Clinesmith's punishment for making a false statement? Prosecutors recommended three to six months, according to Politico. Federal Judge James Boasberg instead sentenced Clinesmith to 12 months' probation and 400 hours of community service.

Carter Page generously testified that he did not want Clinesmith to serve time.

"I don't want him to go to prison" either, former Department of Justice spokesman Mark Corallo told me. But given that Page's Fourth Amendment rights were violated, "shouldn't his law license be taken away?"

Now we learn, Clinesmith cut a deal with the D.C. Bar that, if approved, would allow him to practice law in August.

Corallo is appalled. Clinesmith "shouldn't be allowed to practice law. He violated somebody's constitutional rights," said Corallo. FBI staff shouldn't use their authority for partisan payback.

"When cops break the rules, we're supposed to hammer them," said Corallo. Not in this justice system and with these career bureaucrats.

Random Trump liars go to jail while the FBI liar doesn't.

The New York Supreme Court suspends the former Trump attorney Rudy Giuliani's law license while a federal judge agrees to allow Clinesmith to return to the law. Yes, I know, Giuliani is an embarrassment, but unlike Clinesmith, he hasn't been convicted of a felony.

COPYRIGHT 2021 CREATORS.COM
About the author: Barbara Stamiris, of Traverse City, is a long-time environmental activist. She testified before Congress in 1983 about safety issues at the nuclear plant in Midland, Michigan. She was named Volunteer Environmentalist of the Year in 2019 by the Northern Michigan Environmental Action Council.
On July 12, Avid Bookshop will host a virtual discussion with the authors of the New York Times bestseller Stamped: Racism, Antiracism and You and Stamped (for Kids): Racism, Antiracism and You.
Greenville, NC (27833)

Today

Some sunshine with a thunderstorm or two possible this afternoon. High 89F. Winds WSW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 30%..

Tonight

Scattered thunderstorms early, then mainly cloudy overnight with thunderstorms likely. Low 71F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%.
Vermont Suitcase Company will be performing the play at outdoor venues across the state. The local theater group is sponsored by Winston Prouty Center for Children and Family, The Porch, and Foard Panel. The group thanks the Winston Prouty center for the generous use of their community room 
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau visits a memorial at the Eternal Flame on Parliament Hill in Ottawa on June 1 thats in recognition of discovery of childrens remains at the site of a former residential school in Kamloops, British Columbia.
MADISON  It was standing room only at the police commission meeting as residents voiced their concerns about the ongoing issue of car thefts throughout town.

Speaking at the July 8 meeting were about a dozen residents from the Barberry Farms, Seaview and Waterbury beach associations, in addition to homeowners in other neighborhoods around town.

Attendees all agreed that the car thefts are scary, and there needs to be a collective effort between police and residents to bring an end to the activity.

Nancy Karas, a resident of Willard Avenue, spoke about her family and other neighbors concerns about rampant criminal activity in town.

She said solutions have been discussed between neighbors and the police, which include increasing patrols, hiring private security, as well as installing surveillance cameras, and those that track license plates.

But, in our view, Karas said, the alternative that is likely to have the most immediately deterrent effect, and which would also appear to be the most actionable in the short term, is by increasing the Madison police department patrols and presence in vulnerable neighborhoods in critical hours.

Chairman Edward Dowling acknowledged that the problem is of upmost concern to the commission, as well as the police department.

Commissioner Christina Cewe spoke of her personal experience. Ive actually been dealing with this. I live on Tuxis, and I have been broken into, she said.

So, just to reiterate ... we are definitely talking about this, and know its an issue. Its happened to me three times in the last three years, so Im all about getting this solved, she said.

Cewe also addressed the problem of fobs being activated from within a home. Even if you locked your door, if its inside your house and its too close to your driveway, they can open it.

There are special boxes that can purchased to store fobs in order to eliminate the problem, she added.

Chief John Jack Drumm talked about his staff of 25 officers, saying they need more. Every officer in the department helps with patrol, including your chief.

I need personnel to do [the job], he added. We generally run with three or four officers on a midnight shift. We have to run three shifts. We have to have, on average, during the day and evening shifts, four to five.

Were trying to put some funding in place for some overtime positions for officers between the hours of 11 to four in the morning, Drumm said.

He encouraged residents to attend boards of selectman and finance meetings to push for more staffing for the force. He also encouraged residents to write their state representatives to get laws changed for juvenile offenders.

Drumms department is seeing most car thefts take place between Tuesday into Wednesday, between the hours of 11 and 4 a.m., he said, adding there were 57 car theft incidents this year, compared with 68 in 2020.

These include stolen vehicles, in addition to those that were broken into, and items taken from them. Theyre very bold, Drumm said. This is a phenomenon that we havent seen in the suburbs. It was, at one point, confined to mostly the urban environment.

The gangs, they move, Drumm said. They have their own network that they put stuff on, like social media. They think its a game. They try to get the police to chase them. Its a property crime; we cant chase them by statute.

Drumm explained that while his department may apprehend the perpetrators, capture the individuals responsible for the criminal activity on home surveillance cameras, or process fingerprints in the retrieved cars, state law makes it difficult to prosecute.

The kids know. Weve captured some of these kids two or three times, he said. They know that really theres not much thats going to happen to them. Its like catch and release.

One suspect was apprehended without incident, Durmm said. What do we find the next time in auto theft  the same kid with the ankle bracelet on for probation.

Under current law, police can hold the juvenile for up to six hours and must request a detention order from a judge to hold the individual for longer. If the arrest occurs late at night, police call the judge on duty, who might not have full access to the juveniles criminal record from home.

Capt. Doug Harkins encouraged the public to do their part in stopping this activity. He used the theft of four cars July 6 as an example of how people can assist in this effort. Out of every one of our steals, the common denominator is that the cars unlocked, the key fob is left inside of the car, he said.

Lt. Neal Mulhern echoed this. In the last four years of the auto thefts Ive investigated, Ive never once had a car that wasnt unlocked, with the key fob in it, he said.

They are looking for the easy pickings, Harkins added. So, if you lock your car, you could slash the amount of thefts from auto and auto thefts, like, overnight. Thats where you can help the police and solve the problem.

Julia Bergman contributed to this story in an earlier report for the New Haven Register.

Contact Sarah Page Kyrcz at suzipage1@aol.com
A lot can be said about traditions since there are good kinds and bad kinds. We wont talk about the bad ones here since those should be forgotten.

At the beginning of this month, the devotions of First Friday and First Saturday were reinstituted in the Catholic parishes pastored by the Rev. Brian Miller  St. Charles Borromeo in Ashland from July through December, and then at St. Joseph the Worker in Frackville from January through June.

As Father Miller explained it, the First Saturday devotions to the Immaculate Heart of Mary are on the Saturday after First Friday. One follows the other. As an example, if the month begins on Saturday, the First Saturday is not observed on that day, but will be after First Friday, which in the case of this month, that would be the 7th. First Friday on the 7th, First Saturday on the 8th.

Growing up when I did, I was part of the pre-Vatican II years into the 1960s, and became part of the Vatican II era when the Masses changed from the Tridentine Latin to Novus Ordo in English and the whole change of what was old and what was modern.

Unfortunately, the changes led to the loss of devotional practices in many areas. In our region, we were fortunate that many survived, although some in a diminished capacity. Some places around the country had the old and traditional ones deliberately forgotten because, well, they werent in keeping with progress.

But things change, and bringing back those parts of the Catholic spiritual life are making a comeback, and all I can say is that it is none too soon.

So here is a refresher course on both devotions.

To complete the First Friday devotion:

 Receive Holy Communion on each First Friday.

 The nine Fridays must be consecutive.

 They must be made in honor and in reparation to His Sacred Heart.

The 12 Promises of the Sacred Heart to St. Margaret Mary:

1. I will give them all the graces necessary for their state of life.

2. I will give peace in their families.

3. I will console them in all their troubles.

4. I will be their refuge in life and especially in death.

5. I will abundantly bless all their undertakings.

6. Sinners shall find in my Heart the source and infinite ocean of mercy.

7. Tepid souls shall become fervent.

8. Fervent souls shall rise speedily to great perfection.

9. I will bless those places wherein the image of my Sacred Heart shall be exposed and venerated.

10. I will give to priests the power to touch the most hardened hearts.

11. Persons who propagate this devotion shall have their names eternally written in my Heart.

12. In the excess of the mercy of my heart, I promise you that my all powerful love will grant to all those who will receive Communion on the First Fridays, for nine consecutive months, the grace of final repentance: they will not die in my displeasure, nor without receiving the sacraments; and my Heart will be their secure refuge in this last moment.

According to the America Needs Fatima website, The Five First Saturdays devotion is one of the principal points of the Fatima message. It centers on the urgent need for mankind to offer reparation and expiate for the many injuries that the Immaculate Heart of Mary suffers from the hands of both impious and indifferent men.

On the First Saturday during five consecutive months, the devotion consists of:

1. Going to Confession

2. Receiving the Sacrament of Holy Communion

3. Saying five decades of the Rosary

4. Meditating for 15 minutes on the mysteries of the Rosary.

All this offered in reparation for the sins of blasphemy and ingratitude committed against the Immaculate Heart of Mary.

During the third apparition on July 13, 1917, Our Lady revealed that she would come to ask for the consecration of Russia to her Immaculate Heart and for the Communion of Reparation of the Five First Saturdays. Consequently, she asked for the devotion in 1925 and the consecration in 1929.

While staying at the House of the Dorothean Sister in Pontevedra, Portugal, Sister Lucia, one of the Fatima visionaries, received a vision on Dec. 10, 1925, where the Blessed Mother appeared alongside a boy who stood over a luminous cloud. Our Lady rested one hand on the boys shoulder while she held on the other hand a heart pierced with thorns around it.

Sister Lucia heard the boy say, Have pity on the Heart of your Most Holy Mother which is covered with thorns with which ingrate men pierce it at every moment with no one to make an act of reparation to pull them out.

Our Lady expressed her request in the following words,

See, my daughter, My Heart surrounded with thorns with which ingrates pierce me at every moment with blasphemies and ingratitude. You, at least, make sure to console me and announce that all those who for five months, on the first Saturdays, go to confession, receive Communion, say five decades of the Rosary and keep me company for 15 minutes meditating on the mysteries of the Rosary, with the purpose of making reparation to Me, I promise to assist them at the hour of death with all the graces necessary for the salvation of their souls.

A few days afterward, Sister Lucia detailed this vision in a letter addressed to Monsignor Manuel Pereira Lopes, her confessor when she resided in the Asylum of Vilar in the city of Oporto, Portugal.

Sister Lucias confessor questioned her about the reason for the five Saturdays asking why not seven or nine. She answered him in a letter dated June 12, 1930. In it she related about a vision she had of Our Lord while staying in the convent chapel part of the night of the 29th to the 30th of the month of May 1930. The reasons Our Lord gave were as follows:

The five first Saturdays correspond to the five kinds of offenses and blasphemies committed against the Immaculate Heart of Mary.

They are:

 Blasphemies against the Immaculate Conception.

 Blasphemies against her virginity.

 Blasphemies against her divine maternity, at the same time the refusal to accept her as the Mother of all men.

 Instilling indifference, scorn and even hatred towards this Immaculate Mother in the hearts of children.

 Direct insults against Her sacred images.

Let us keep the above reasons firmly in our minds. Devotions have intentions attached to them and knowing them adds merit and weight to the practice.

Father Miller said the devotions to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary will be as follows through December:

 Thursday before First Friday: Confessions will be heard at St. Charles from 6:15 to 7 p.m. and at St. Joseph (in St. Anne Church) from 7:15 to 8 p.m.

 First Friday Mass with Sacred Heart devotions: 8:30 a.m. in the lower chapel of St. Charles.

 Saturday after the First Friday: Rosary at 8 a.m., followed by Mass at 8:30 a.m. in the lower chapel.

(Staff writer Usalis can

be reached at jusalis@

republicanherald.com)
Ashland

Zions Reformed United Church of Christ, 2400 Centre St., will have Christmas in July from 10 a.m. to noon July 18. Children may attend dressed to get wet, according to an event release. For more information, call 570-875-2700.

Mahanoy City

Elks Lodge 695, 135 E. Centre St., will have a meat bingo on Saturday. Doors will open at 7 p.m. For more information, call 570-573-2649.

Minersville

Family Community Outreach of Minersville will distribute non-perishable food items from 10 a.m. to noon July 21 at the parish office building. People must use the back door from the parking lot on Lewis Street.

Saint Clair

St. Michael The Archangel Orthodox Church will sponsor a summer fish dinner, curbside pickup only, from noon to 2 p.m. July 23 at the social hall, 110 N. Morris St. To order for pickup, or for menu items and prices, call Georgine Krisa at 570-622-2673 or visit www.stmichaelorthodox.org. Orders are due by noon July 22. Customers should call the hall at 570-429-2138 when they arrive and their orders will be delivered to their vehicles.

Saint Clair

The Saint Clair Senior Citizens group will meet at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday at Hosss Steak & Seahouse, Cressona. Members are encouraged to attend.

Tamaqua

The American Cancer Society is seeking solo performers, duos and small groups to participate in the Aug. 14-15 ACS telethon. The 2021 event will return to an all-live setup airing from noon to midnight both days at Penns Peak, Jim Thorpe. Performers interested should call George Taylor at 570-668-4451 or via email at gtay200@verizon.net.
SCHUYLKILL HAVEN  Prospective students and families were welcomed to Penn State Schuylkill on Saturday for the first large-scale event on campus since the COVID-19 pandemic began.

The Spend a Summer Day open house was held Saturday morning, inviting families to attend an in-person admissions presentation, campus tour, department fair and ice cream social.

Chancellor Patrick M. Jones, Ph.D., said it was wonderful to have people back on campus after over a year of virtual programs.

When youre on campus, you really get the feel for the place, Jones said. You get a sense of context that you cant get online.

Around 75 people registered for the event, with many traveling from Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey and other parts of Pennsylvania.

Jones said Penn State Schuylkill and Schuylkill County have a lot to offer students coming from other areas, especially through the co-op program that allows students to work with local employers.

When students come here, they get the local experience, and hopefully they stay in Schuylkill County, Jones said. The opportunities are limitless.

Jones said along with providing firsthand experience to students, the programs also aim to revitalize the economy.

Our degree programs are all about the local economy, and we are creating a pipeline for the kids future, Jones said.

Courtney Weikel, a senior at Penn State Schuylkill, said she was excited to share those opportunities with prospective students Saturday.

I absolutely love this campus, Weikel said. Its a small campus, but there are so many opportunities here.

During the opening presentation, Rachael Wolfe, admissions counselor, said Penn State Schuylkill also offers opportunities in sports, undergraduate research, study abroad and on- and off-campus activities.

Wolfe emphasized that attending Penn State Schuylkill means becoming part of the family.

Youre not just a number on our campus, Wolfe said.

Lexie Bernhard, a high school senior from Jim Thorpe, attended the open house with her parents, Tim and Antonia. Lexie said she has done some virtual tours during her college search, but she and her family were glad to have the opportunity to be at Penn State Schuylkill in person.

It makes a big difference, Antonia Bernhard said. You get to speak with other people. When you talk to someone who really enjoys where they are, you think youll enjoy it, too.
POTTSVILLE  Monsignor Edward J. OConnor, pastor emeritus of the Church of St. Patrick, died Saturday morning.

OConnor, 65, died in the vestibule of the church on Mahantongo Street as a service was about to begin, according to Paul Wirth, communications director for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Allentown.

Wirth said OConnor was dressed in full vestments and was going to be the celebrant for the service, which was a funeral scheduled for 11 a.m.

Wirth said Saturday no other details of OConnors death were known at the time, but an obituary will be coming.

OConnor was ordained in 1981 and served as pastor at the Church of St. Patrick in Pottsville for 19 years. His retirement was announced in May.

He celebrated the 40th anniversary of his ordination and his retirement with the parish community at a party at Nativity BVM High School on June 13.

Wirth said the diocese was sad to hear of his death.

Bishop Alfred Schlert offers his heartfelt prayers for Monsignors family and for the parish community, Wirth said.
HARRISBURG  Partisan divides are stymying legislation to boost funding for the Pennsylvania bureau tasked with exposing puppy mills and handling dangerous dogs, potentially endangering the states ability to enforce tougher animal cruelty laws.

The Legislature departed for the summer without voting on bills that would have raised dog licensing fees from $6.50 to $10 per year, an increase advocates say is critical to address insufficient staffing and a dire funding shortfall within the states Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement.

Without a new and permanent stream of revenue, they say, the bureau will soon be unable to carry out its basic functions.

In a recent interview, state Rep. Dan Moul, R-Adams, who chairs the House committee where one of the bills has languished, said fee increases are politically unpopular. He and other House Republicans fear a public backlash if they were to approve a fee hike  Moul noted that he still receives angry calls from constituents about an unrelated gas tax hike he voted for nearly a decade ago.

Believe it or not, people will spend thousands of dollars to go buy a dog, but you increase their dog license fees by five bucks, they have a fit, Moul said.

Instead, Moul said he worked with Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding on an alternate plan that involved tucking the proposed increase in a budget-related bill, as lawmakers might be more likely to approve a major budget package even if it includes a provision they dont like.

But Moul said Redding was unable to close the deal with the GOP-controlled Senate. The Department of Agriculture did not respond to a question about the arrangement.

State officials have for years warned the bureau, an often overlooked arm of state government, is running out of money. The bureau is almost entirely funded by licensing fees paid by dog owners, though the price last increased in 1996.

To keep the office afloat, the Department of Agriculture this year is redirecting $1.5 million to the bureau from its own budget. But its a temporary fix  and one still underwritten by taxpayers, said Sen. Judy Schwank, D-Berks.

Taxpayers are paying for this, said Schwank, one of the sponsors of legislation to raise licensing fees. Those are tax dollars that fund the overall operations of the Department of Agriculture.

Even with the $1.5 million from the Department of Agriculture, the bureau is unable to fill job vacancies. Fourteen counties in Pennsylvania are without a dog warden tasked with inspecting kennels, taking in stray dogs and enforcing all dog-related laws.

We feel challenged as a department to reconcile the public expectations of the law with the resources in getting that job done because of the absence of fees, Redding, secretary of the Department of Agriculture, said in an earlier interview.

The Humane Society of America publishes a yearly Horrible Hundred report featuring a list of dog breeding facilities with poor conditions  commonly known as puppy mills  across the country. According to Kathleen Summers, director of outreach and research at the Humane Society, Pennsylvania usually factors very significantly on that list, often with repeat offenders. This year, eight facilities in Pennsylvania are on the list  the fourth highest of all states.

The fact that the Bureau of Dog Law is going to be less able to to stay on top of those [kennels] is a big concern for us, Summers said.

Pennsylvania is known among animal rights advocates for having a high volume of puppy mills, earning itself the title of Puppy Mill Capital of the East. In an effort to shed that reputation, lawmakers in 2008 passed a package of bills that set the strictest standards in the country for licensed dog kennels, leading to a crackdown on unsafe and unsanitary facilities. Those guidelines increased minimum cage sizes, banned wire flooring and required veterinary care and exercise for dogs.

The states ability to keep enforcing those rules is now in jeopardy.

My Republican counterparts always say they dont want to raise taxes, said Rep. Eddie Day Pashinski, D-121, Wilkes-Barre, who authored one of the bills to increase the fee. I say for Gods sake, this is an economic solution. This is an appropriate solution which will cost less in the long run.

Lancaster County is a particular area of concern, according to Summers and Redding. It is one of 14 counties that lacks its own warden but has twice as many licensed kennels than any other county, including three on the Horrible Hundred list.

Since several counties lack dog wardens, local law enforcement is often tasked with picking up dog law-related calls.

[Local law enforcement officials] dont like it ... but at the end of the day if someones got a dangerous dog, or if their dog is loose or lost or whatever, they get the calls, Redding said.

With a standalone fee increase bill too unpopular to advance out of the House Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee, the earliest the bureau is likely to see a new revenue stream is next summer during the budget process.

But Schwank, Redding, and others hope that when lawmakers reconvene this fall, theyll take up the issue again with enough members on board to pass the bill. The future of dog well-being in Pennsylvania depends on it, advocates say.

Democrats and Republicans, and everybody in between, theyre all dog lovers, Summers said. [Lawmakers] are not listening to their constituents if theyre not passing budgets that protect dogs because nobody wants Pennsylvania to be seen as a puppy mill state and everybody wants dogs to be protected.

Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters.
Until the state Legislature finally passed a strong law in 2008 to regulate dog-breeding and kennels, Pennsylvania was known as the puppy mill capital of the East Coast.

Unscrupulous breeders kept dogs in squalid and inhumane conditions, imperiling the health of the animals and often ripping off people who did not know that they were buying sick pets.

The law helped. But laws are only as good as their enforcement.

Now, the state risks reverting to the bad old days because the Legislature has failed to increase funding for the Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement.

The bureau asked the Legislature to increase dog license fees, for the first time since 1996, from $6.50 to $10 per year. But lawmakers balked before heading home for the summer.

Republican Rep. Dan Moul of Adams County, chairman of the House Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee, explained the obvious to Spotlight PA, that fee increases are politically unpopular.

Believe it or not, he said, people will spend thousands of dollars to go buy a dog, but you increase their dog license fees by five bucks, they have a fit.

Thats an argument to approve a fee increase, especially since the higher fee could help prevent people from spending thousands of dollars for a sick or dangerous dog.

Failing to fund the bureau passes on costs to local taxpayers, since local police will be stuck with more dog-related complaints if state-funded dog wardens cant handle them.

Already, 14 of 67 counties do not have wardens  including Lancaster, which has more than twice as many breeding kennels as any other county.

This should be an easy one for lawmakers.

Pass the $3.50 annual fee increase to protect not only dogs and consumers, but the states reputation.
Josh Duhamel will star in the upcoming film Bandit alongside Mel Gibson. The film is one of the much-awaited films of the year as it portrays the story of 'The Flying Bandit', who successfully got away with 63 bank and jewellery heists. While Duhamel's fans were waiting for his look from the film, they got the first glimpse of Duhamel from the upcoming crime drama thriller.

Josh Duhamel's first look from Bandit

As per a report by Variety, the crime drama Bandit is currently being sold by Highland Film Group at Cannes. The first look of Duhamel was revealed by the news outlet, which was later also seen on the Instagram profile of the photographer Jesse Korman. In the photo, Josh Duhamel, as the Flying Bandit, was seen calling from a telephone booth. He wore a checked suit with a white shirt and printed tie in the photo. Take a look at Josh Duhamel's first glimpse from the upcoming film Bandit.

Bandit cast

Bandit stars Josh Duhamel in the leading role of Gilbert Galvan Jr, who lived with the name Rober Whiteman. He was also titled at the Flying Bandit in 1987, as he successfully got away with 63 heists. In May 2021, Mel Gibson and Elisha Cuthbert joined the cast of this upcoming crime drama thriller. The film is being helmed by Allan Ungar, who has also directed Gridlocked. Kraig Wenman penned the script of this film while Jordan Beckerman, Jordan Yale Levine, and Eric Gozlan are producing it. As per a report by Variety, Beckerman and Yale Levine expressed their excitement and said they are thrilled to work with the cast. On the other hand, Gozlan asserted how telling this story is a thrill and how Allan Ungar is doing a great job with his direction.

Bandit plot

Bandit revolves around the 1980s crime spree by Robert Whiteman aka Flying Bandit. Robert Whiteman, whose real name was Gilbert Galvan Jr, conducted 63 heists in a crime spree and looted several banks and jewellery. When caught by the American police, he managed to escape the jail and hitchhike to Canada. After getting married, he continued his crimes under a job of a travelling security consultant. Things take a huge turn in his life when he decides to meet a gangster named Tommy for an investment.

IMAGE: JESSE KORMAN'S INSTAGRAM

Get the latest entertainment news from India & around the world. Now follow your favourite television celebs and telly updates. Republic World is your one-stop destination for trending Bollywood news. Tune in today to stay updated with all the latest news and headlines from the world of entertainment.
In January, the Indian Army had struck a deal of 140 crores with Ideaforge Technology for procurement of Switch tactical drones especially for surveillance along LAC in Eastern Ladakh.

The first batch of these drones have successfully completed trials in harsh weather conditions and high altitudes and will be delivered by end of August for deployment. The trials were done in Eastern Ladakh including many other locations along the Northern and western borders.

Indian Army heading swiftly in its pursuit to get self-reliant & technologically sound

The SWITCH is a Fixed Wing VTOL (Vertical Take-off and Landing) UAV that can be deployed at high altitudes and harsh environments for day and night surveillance in ISR missions. It has a daylight payload of 1280720 pixels, 25x Optical Zoom and has a thermal payload of 640480 pixels. The drone can be operated with support from the Ground Control Station consisting of a high-range communication box, a hand-held controller for full camera control, and a laptop/tablet for live video streaming and pre-flight checks.

The Indian Army will make these procurements from the Indian company Ideaforge Technology. The number of drones to be supplied as part of this deal is 120 and all these will be inducted by the end of this year.

Before being selected, IdeaForge's SWITCH UAV competed in Indian Army trials in Ladakh against offerings from Tata Group, Dynamatic Technologies Ltd, VTOL Aviation and Israel's Elbit Systems. The Indian armed forces have inducted drones manufactured by IdeaForge in the past. However, this is the biggest single order the company has received from the Indian Armed Forces.

The 6.5-kilogram SWITCH drone is capable of vertical take-off, has an endurance of around 2 hours and an operational range of 15 kilometres. The UAV can be launched from an altitude of up to 4,000 meters above mean sea level and has a maximum operating altitude of around 1,000 meters above ground level.

Indian Army is enhancing its vigilance and communication with a strong drone force. Many of these drones were demonstrated at the annual Army Day parade in the Capital. They are capable of taking down a range of targets, ranging from tanks, terror camps, helipads and fuel dumps.

The demonstration, which consisted of 75 drones working autonomously to identify and take down targets with Kamikaze missions, is an early peek into future technology being developed by the Army in partnership with the private industry.
COVID-19 and its complications have time and again restricted both travelers and ex-pats to fulfill their travel plans. Dubai was no exception as they decided to restrain travelers from India citing reasons to curb the spread of the Delta Variant of the virus. Routes from India to Dubai are expected to re-open from Thursday, July 15, after going through multiple delays. On the first day of the confirmed travel resumption, the Indian carrier operated by Star Alliance, Vistara will operate a flight from New Delhi to Dubai. Emirates airline and budget carrier Fly Dubai are seen as re-starting flights from India from Friday, July 16. Etihad Airways will resume flights from Thursday, July 22.

India-Dubai International Flights, Emirates had previously denoted the resumption of flights from India, South Africa, and Nigeria to Dubai from June 23. This was following an announcement by the Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster Management in Dubai, instructing passengers from India with a valid residence visa who received two doses of a UAE-approved vaccine to travel to Dubai.

Airlines Bookings; Check fares here

Airlines Bookings are open now and the tickets of Economy & First class of Emirates have already been sold out. However, the ticket price for the Business class of Emirates Airlines is Rs. 1,05,852 for July 15. The cost for the Business class of Vistara Airlines is Rs. 45,141 for a 9 pm flight and Rs. 79,648 for the 7.30 pm flight. The prices for Economy class in Vistara and Emirates Airlines are Rs. 23, 077 & Rs. 58,507 respectively. On July 15, the Lufthansa Airlines will cost around Rs. 3.9 lakh, as per the prices of makemytrip.com.

The website shows more flight options for July 16 i.e., IndiGo- Rs.15,607; Rs. 23, 587; Rs. 19,399, Emirates- Rs.39, 238, Vistara- Rs. 10,902, Rs. 16,992, Rs.19, 269, Qatar Airlines- Rs. 65, 369 and Lufthansa Airlines- Rs. 3, 89, 690. Vistara Airlines will cost Rs. 21,776 and Rs. 20,507 for Mumbai. IndiGo Airlines has also resumed its airline bookings from July 15, at Rs. 21, 767(connecting flight) and Rs. 23, 402(direct flight).

(IMAGE: UNSPLASH)
The safety and security of Indian personnel is paramount, said the Ministry of External Affairs on Sunday, as it evacuated the staff posted in its consulate in Kandahar amid a deteriorating security situation in Afghanistan.

"India is closely monitoring the evolving security situation in Afghanistan. The safety and security of our personnel is paramount," MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said in a statement.

He further clarified that the Consulate General of India in Kandahar has not been closed, but Indian diplomats have been flown back for time being due to the intense fighting near the city. He also emphasized that it is a purely temporary measure until the situation stabilizes and that the Consulate continues to operate through local staff members. At least 50 India-based personnel have been evacuated by a special flight from Kandahar, sources said on Sunday.

Our response to media queries on the Indian Consulate in Kandahar:

https://t.co/aQ0YPgl6Vf pic.twitter.com/DAPT3kYdM4  Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) July 11, 2021

Referring to the functioning of visa and consular services in capital city Kabul, he said, "Arrangements are being made to ensure continued delivery of visa and consular services through our Embassy in Kabul. As an important partner of Afghanistan, India remains committed to a peaceful, sovereign, and democratic Afghanistan," he added.

Describing the security situation in Afghanistan as fluid and deteriorating, the Afghan envoy to India Farid Mamundzay has said the Taliban need to cease violence and there should be an end to the bloodshed.

"More than 200,000 Afghan civilians are displaced already. There is an active fight going on between Afghan forces and Taliban fighters in 200 districts out of a total of 375. There is also trouble in 18 border districts that share a border with several countries Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and Iran," the envoy said.

Taliban takes control of Afghanistani territories

On July 9, Taliban announced that it now controls 85 percent of Afghanistan's territory. The revelation was made by Shahabuddin Delawar, a key negotiator for the fundamentalist group, who boasted that the controlled area now encompasses 250 out of 398 districts.

With US and NATO troops almost out of the Central Asian country, the Taliban is inching closer to re-establish the Islamic Emirate in Afghanistan. According to a report by BBC, the militants have successfully captured over two-thirds of the country including five districts in Herat.

On Saturday, Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani accused the Taliban of the ongoing violence in the country in which at least 200 to 600 people are killed every day, as per reports. Ghani asked the nation to stay united in support for independence, the republic, and coexistence. He also stated that the Taliban should not accept the Durand Line as the official border line between Pakistan and Afghanistan, as wanted by Pakistan. The Durand Line is the 2,670 km (1,660 mi) international land border between Afghanistan and Pakistan in South Asia.
PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti on Sunday lashed out at the Centre accusing it of 'disempowering people of J&K' over the suspension of 11 government employees who were dismissed for allegedly working with terror groups. Taking to Twitter, Mehbooba Mufti 'accused the Centre of 'trampling the Constitution in the garb of pseudo nationalism' and claimed that all policy decisions in J&K were being taken to 'punish Kashmiris.'

11 Govt employees, Hizbul chief's sons suspended from service

The Centre on Sunday dismissed 11 government employees including the sons of designated global terrorist Hizbul Mujahideen chief Syed Salahuddin in a bid to clean the administration of J&K. Reacting to the development, former J&K Deputy CM Kavinder Gupta called the move a 'welcome step' to end militancy in the UT.

Speaking to Republic TV he said, "This should have been done ages ago. But it is a welcome step. These are the people who spew hatred from Pakistan, and their sons work here, take our money and inform militants on who to kill. This is a welcome step to end militancy and stop the murder of politicians who support nationalism."

The decision to dismiss the 11 employees was taken at two meetings of the designated committee in Jammu and Kashmir. The dismissals have been initiated since April 2021 under Article 311 of the Indian Constitution under which employees who hold their office under the President and can be dismissed without an inquiry. As per PTI, the 11 employees, who have been dismissed, are from the Jammu Kashmir Police, the education, agriculture, skill development, power and health departments, and the Sher-I-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS). This includes the sons of US-designated terrorist Salahuddin -- Syed Ahmad Shakeel and Shahid Yousuf, who have been accused of terror funding.

(With Agency Inputs)
PlayStation Plus is an online subscription started by Sony for its players. The subscription allows players to access the online gaming world and also offers them a huge variety of games to play at no additional cost. The main concept of the PlayStation Plus subscription is to provide the players with new games consistently. Thus each month, around 3 new games get released for the PS Plus subscribers. But this time, the collection has been increased drastically. Read more to know about the PS Plus free games.

PlayStation Plus subscribers to get these 24 free games for July

The makers have now released a total of 24 new games for all the players with a PlayStation Plus subscription. These games have been released to improve Sonys game playlist and the players are certainly loving it. This collection mostly includes the new PS5 games and these games cannot be accessed by PS4 users. Seeing such a thing is common now as Sony wanted its players to upgrade to their next-generation console, PS5. Only 4 games have been released for the previous generation console users. Apart from this, here is also a list of all the PS Plus free games for players for July 2021.

God of War

Persona 5

Monster Hunter World

Uncharted 4: A Thief's End

Final Fantasy 15

Resident Evil 7

Days Gone

Batman: Arkham Knight

A Plague Tale Innocence

Fallout 4

The Last Guardian

Detroit Become Human

Until Dawn

Virtua Fighter 5: Ultimate Showdown Edition

Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy

Bloodborne

Call of Duty: Black Ops 4

Infamous Second Son

The Last of Us Remastered

Ratchet & Clank

WWE 2K Battlegrounds

Mortal Kombat X

Battlefield 1

Call of Duty: Black Ops III

Currently, Sony has been working towards fulfilling the demand for their next-generation consoles. There has been a shortage of PS5 and this is mostly because of the COVID-19 outbreak. Because of the shortage of these consoles, Xbox Series X and S sales had gone up initially but soon those consoles also went out of stock. It is now said that Sony will release another set of PS5 pre-registration on July 12. Keep an eye out for any updates on the PS5 restock by following Sonys social media handles.
Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) has been awarded a contract by NASA worth $935 million to execute the preliminary design and development of the Habitation and Logistics Outpost (HALO). The US space research agency has teamed with commercial and international partners to build a Gateway to support science investigations and enable surface landings at the Moon, which will help prepare astronauts for future missions to Mars.

According to a press release issued by NASA, "Northrop Grumman will be responsible for attaching and testing the integrated HALO with the Power and Propulsion Element (PPE), being built by Maxar Technologies. Northrop Grumman will also lead the integrated PPE and HALO spacecraft turnover and launch preparation with SpaceX, and support activation and checkout of HALO during the flight to lunar orbit. NASA is targeting November 2024 to launch the integrated spacecraft on a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket".

NASA is building the infrastructure to expand human exploration further out into the solar system than ever before, including Gateway, the lunar space station that will help us make inspirational scientific discoveries at and around the Moon. Just as importantly, these investments will help NASA carry out the United States horizon goal: to further develop and test the technology and science needed for a human trip to Mars, said NASA Administrator Bill Nelson. The HALO is a critical component of Gateway, and this exciting announcement today brings us one step closer to landing American boots on both the Moon and Mars the statement added.

All you need to know about the HALO module

Habitation and Logistics Outpost is where astronauts will live and conduct research while visiting the Gateway. The pressurized living quarters will provide command and control systems for the lunar outpost, and docking ports for visiting spacecraft, such as NASAs Orion spacecraft, lunar landers, and logistics resupply craft.

The HALO module will serve as the backbone for command and control and power distribution across Gateway and will perform other core functions, including hosting science investigations via internal and external payload accommodations and communicating with lunar surface expeditions. HALO also will enable the aggregation of additional habitable elements to expand Gateway capabilities. Immediately after launch, the Heliophysics Environmental and Radiation Measurement Experiment Suite, built by NASAs Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, will begin researching outside of the integrated spacecraft.

Meanwhile, China is also planning to establish a base in the south pole of the moon and is deploying robotic expeditions to asteroids and Jupiter around 2030.

As the US space agency tries to shape standards for building long-term settlements on the lunar surface, 8 countries have signed an international pact for moon exploration as a part of NASA's Artemis.
Founder of the Virgin Group and Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos suborbital challenger Richard Branson is set to become the worlds first rocket company boss to launch into space on a Virgin Galactic rocket ship this Sunday, July 11. The British billionaire ceded the stage making prospects of commercial spaceline travel a reality superseding his rival Blue Orbits Bezos by nine days as the Amazon boss had initially announced a take off on July 20, coinciding with the anniversary of the Apollo moon landing with his brother, Mark and an unidentified winner of the auctioned seat who paid $28 million.

As Branson is set for a historic record-breaker today to realize his dream of a lifetime onboard a dual-fuselage VSS Unity rocket plane nicknamed Eve [Bransons late mothers name], it is to note that the former may well be celebrated in India as he has invested in numerous projects and business ventures, citing his Indian ancestry at a meeting on December 12, 2019, during his visit to Mumbai. A couple of years ago, at what he described as a courtesy meeting Virgin Galactics founder Branson said that a part of his ancestral origins lies in Cuddalore, Tamil Nadu, dating back to 1793. Revealing his deep connection with India the commercial space lines CEO said that he had included a picture of his great, great, great grandmother named Aria, who was Indian, on their Virgin Atlantic planes from London to Mumbai.

[Richard Branson's post on LinkedIn]

[Richard Branson LinkedIn]

I knew that I had past generations living in India, but havent realized how strong our connections were, Virgin Galactics founder Sir Richard Branson told the conference back then. We also unveiled our newest flying icon, named Aria, after my great great great grandfathers wife who was Indian, he added. Further, Branson continued, So, it turned out that from 1793, we had four generations living here in Cuddalore and one of my great, great, great grandmothers was an Indian named Aria who was married to one of my great, great, great grandfathers," the then 69-year-old self-described adventurer and the London-based founder of the Virgin Group said.

7.4 billion train project in Mumbai

At the Mumbai conference, where he unveiled details of the 7.4 billion train project known as Hyperloop, Branson joked: Every time I meet an Indian, I say we might be relatives. Branson also emphasized investing in India as he revealed about a big project that would cut short the travel at around 700 mph between Mumbai and Pune to just 29 minutes.

The British entrepreneur added that the Hyperloop facility in Nevada, United States was going to collaborate for the Mumbai-Pune project soon. At the time, there were also rumours that Branson was purchasing the Air India, which he clarified, that he wasnt at the moment. Bransons Elon Musk style high-speed supersonic vacuum tunnel travel like ones installed between Los Angeles and San Francisco would be the first of a kind to be implemented in India, he had told reporters.

Bransons carrier also re-launched a daily service connecting Mumbai with London in October 2019 as he stressed that he was seriously considering a Virgin Atlantic Manchester-India flight as his company was looking to expand the capacity at the Heathrow airport. Billionaire entrepreneur's Virgin Galactic space rocket crew to be launched on July 11 also has an Indian origin astronaut Sirisha Bandla who will be handling researcher experience on the Unity22 mission. Bandla, astronaut number 4 on the crew, was born in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh and was raised in Houston, US. She is the Vice President, Government Affairs and Research Operations at Branson's Virgin Galactic.
Former Ivory Coast presidents Laurent Gbagbo and Henri Konan Bedie met on Saturday to publicly oppose sitting-President Allasane Ouattara's third term, which the Ivorian opposition has deemed unconstitutional.

President Ouattara was re-elected for a third term at the end of last year following a tense election that was marred by clashes and an opposition boycott.

Saturday's meeting, held in Daoukro, a town situated in the east of Ivory Coast, marked the first time in a decade the two former leaders had met, and signaled a potential new chapter for Gbagbo, who returned to Ivory Coast last month two years after he was acquitted of crimes against humanity at the International Criminal Court at The Hague.

Taking on a reconciliatory tone, Gbagbo and Bedia both smiled and waved at the crowd, as supporters and party members danced and waved banners and other merchandise celebrating the leaders' meeting.

During a thirty-minute speech Gbagbo told the crowd that he would not remain silent on the issue of Ouattara's re-election for a third term.

"While Ivory Coast continues to burn, and (if) I say nothing, that will mean complicity on my part. So I have to say something. I have to say that I am in agreement with this battle against the third mandate", he said.

Gbagbo was extradited to the ICC The Hague in 2011, and spent eight years awaiting trial on war crimes charges related to the post-electoral violence that engulfed Ivory Coast after its 2010 presidential election.

A judge acquitted him in 2019, saying prosecutors had failed to prove their case.

The verdict was appealed but upheld in late March, clearing the way for Gbagbo to leave Belgium, where he had spent the past two years.

(Disclaimer: This story is auto-generated from a syndicated feed; only the image & headline may have been reworked by www.republicworld.com)
Impressed by the work of Uttar Pradesh's Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Member of the Australian Parliament Craig Kelly on Friday expressed desire to 'loan' the BJP leader to 'sort out the mess' created in the COVID pandemic. The Uttar Pradesh government has time and again been appreciated for its work during the second wave, which hit India in mid-April, with three lakh cases being reported on a daily basis. However, UP - which has 17% of the country's population - recorded a meagre 1% of the cases recorded.

The Indian state of Uttar Pradesh 



Any chance they could loan us their Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to release the Ivermectin sort out the mess our hopelessly incompetent State Premiers have created

 https://t.co/H6xUwUe8GU  Craig Kelly MP (@CraigKellyMP) July 10, 2021

Earlier in the year, The World Health Organization (WHO) has praised the work of the Uttar Pradesh government by surveillance, tracing, and testing of COVID-19 patients.

'Can we loan CM Yogi Adityanath?': Australian MP

During the second wave of COVID, the CM Yogi-led Uttar Pradesh government had claimed that it was the first state to introduce a large-scale prophylactic and therapeutic use of Ivermectin. The state Health Department had introduced Ivermectin as a preventive measure for people who came in contact with COVID patients, health workers, and the treatment of the patients themselves.

The tweet of the Australian MP comes in context with this. In the tweet, which also had embedded a post that referred to Uttar Pradesh as the 'Champion in using Ivermectin', Craig Kelly sought Yogi Adityanath's help in releasing the medication.

Australia has had little over 31,000 total coronavirus cases of which about 589 are estimated to be active cases. 910 people have lost their lives to the pandemic.

UPs daily tally of COVID-19 cases have been on the downswing. The state recorded a total of 100 cases and four fatalities on Saturday. Recoveries continued to outnumber new cases, with 183 people making a full recovery in the last 24 hours. The recovery rate in the state now stands at 98.6%. Keeping in mind this, the government on Sunday relaxed night curfew timings.
Former Bulgarian Prime Minister Boyko Borissov cast his vote in a snap poll on Sunday after a previous election in April produced a fragmented parliament that failed to form a viable coalition government.

Latest opinion polls suggest that the rerun could produce similar results but also a further drop in support for Borissovs GERB party, after the current caretaker government made public allegations of widespread corruption during his rule.

NATO and EU member Bulgaria has been repeatedly criticized for not tackling corruption and for deficiencies in the rule of law and media freedom.

The anti-corruption campaign of Borissovs opponents was additionally boosted by the sanctions the U.S. Treasury imposed last month against several Bulgarian public officials and business leaders for corruption.

President Rumen Radev, a vocal critic of Borissov, urged Bulgarians to vote massively in the election to bring irreversible changes for the better.

Despite the serious setbacks that Borissov's GERB party suffered, the reputation of the 62-year-old political maverick remains high among his loyal supporters who are relying on their government-sponsored jobs to deal with economic hardships.

IMAGE: AP

(Disclaimer: This story is auto-generated from a syndicated feed; only the image & headline may have been reworked by www.republicworld.com)
Bulgarian opposition leader Hristo Ivanov said on Sunday that the country needs "to move on from this situation of corruption", while casting his ballot in a snap poll.

Bulgarians are voting on Sunday after a previous election in April produced a fragmented parliament that failed to form a viable coalition government.

The country has "to catch up, to develop, to modernise," said Ivanov, the leader of the Democratic Bulgaria party, after voting at a polling station in Sofia.

He added that Bulgaria needs a government "that really has the guts" to carry out reforms needed to "to dismantle... corruption".

NATO and European Union member Bulgaria has been repeatedly criticized for not tackling corruption and for deficiencies in the rule of law and media freedom.

The 12,000 polling stations opened at 7 a.m. (0400 GMT) and will close at 8 p.m. (1700 GMT) for the 6.7 million eligible voters to elect 240 lawmakers.

Latest opinion polls suggest that the rerun could produce similar results but also a further drop in support for former Prime Minister Boyko Borissov's GERB party, after the current caretaker government made public allegations of widespread corruption during his rule.

The anti-corruption campaign of Borissov's opponents was additionally boosted by the sanctions the U.S. Treasury imposed last month against several Bulgarian public officials and business leaders for corruption.

Polls suggest a tight race between Borissov's party, which came first in April with over 26% of the vote, and its main rival, the anti-elite There is Such a People, led by popular TV entertainer Slavi Trifonov.

(Disclaimer: This story is auto-generated from a syndicated feed; only the image & headline may have been reworked by www.republicworld.com)
Israel's prime minister said Sunday that Israel has struck a deal with Pfizer to receive a fresh batch of coronavirus vaccines in August to help with its drive to vaccinate teenagers.

Prime Minister Naftali Bennett said at the start of the weekly Cabinet meeting that the agreement to advance delivery of new vaccines to August 1 "ensures from this moment a continuous supply of vaccines in the state of Israel."

Bennett said that the country had vaccinated over 200,000 people in recent weeks, many of them teenagers, in a bid to halt a fresh outbreak of the delta variant.

Israel has vaccinated over 61% of its 9.3 million citizens with at least one dose, and almost 56% with two doses, the vast majority with the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine.

The Health Ministry has recorded a steady climb in new infections in recent weeks, most of them among unvaccinated young children.

Most new infections have been mild cases of coronavirus.

Bennett also referred to Lebanon's economic crisis during the cabinet meeting, saying Israel was "closely" following the situation there.

"Lebanon is on the verge of collapse, like all the countries that Iran dominates. Now the Lebanese people are paying the price."

The World Bank has called Lebanon's crisis one of the worst the world has seen in the past 150 years.

The crisis has been made worse by a stifling political deadlock among rival groups who are failing to agree on a new government line-up.

IMAGE: AP

(Disclaimer: This story is auto-generated from a syndicated feed; only the image & headline may have been reworked by www.republicworld.com)
An Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson warned the US on Monday it was "disrupting" security in the Middle East after the US military targeted operational and weapons storage facilities in Syria and Iraq.

On Sunday, airstrikes were carried out on three operational and weapons storage facilities which the US Defense Department claimed were being used by "Iran-backed militia groups."

Responding to the strikes a day later, the Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Saeed Khatibzadeh said that he believed the US risked becoming a "victim" of instability in the region if it continued with similar attacks.

The Pentagon described the airstrikes as "defensive" and said they were launched in response to attacks by militias including Kata'ib Hezbollah and Kata'ib Sayyid al-Shuhada.

Two Iraqi militia officials told The Associated Press in Baghdad that four militiamen were killed in the airstrikes near the border with Syria.

(Disclaimer: This story is auto-generated from a syndicated feed; only the image & headline may have been reworked by www.republicworld.com)
Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Saturday welcomed Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in Istanbul. Turkey's authorities released a statement Friday saying that the latest developments in the Israel-Palestine conflict and all aspects of Turkey-Palestinian relations would be on the agenda for the bilateral talks between the two leaders.

Abbas' visit to Turkey comes at a time of increased tensions at home, where thousands of Palestinians have joined demonstrations in recent weeks against the Palestinian Authority, which governs parts of the Israeli-occupied West Bank. The PA has grown increasingly unpopular and autocratic in recent years, even as Western countries continue to see it as a key partner in the moribund peace process.

(Disclaimer: This story is auto-generated from a syndicated feed; only the image & headline may have been reworked by www.republicworld.com)
A 90-year-old Belgian woman who died due to COVID-19 was infected with both Alpha and Beta variants of SARS-CoV-2 at the same time, researchers have said. The unvaccinated woman was admitted to the OLV hospital in the city of Aalst after a spate of falls in March and tested positive for coronavirus on the same day. While her oxygen level was initially stable, it deteriorated as her infection surged and she finally died after five days.

Now a team of molecular biologists led by Anne Vankeerberghen from OLV hospital has found that the woman was diagnosed to be carrying two-Alpha and Beta-strains of coronavirus simultaneously. Both these variants were circulating in Belgium at the time, so it is likely that the lady was co-infected with different viruses from two different people, Vankeerberghen said. Furthermore, she explained that no previous cases of co-infection have been detected and that the phenomenon was probably underestimated.

Previously in January, Brazil reported a case of a man who had contracted two mutations together, but the case did not make it to any scientific journal. Meanwhile, Vankeerberghen said that the cause of the infection hasnt been discovered and it was still difficult to tell whether co-infection played a role in the fast deterioration of the health of the patient. The research was presented at the Europe Congress on Microbiology and Infectious Diseases.

Hybrid strain

While cases of double infection are rising, Vietnam detected a new Coronavirus strain, found to be a hybrid of the strains first found in India and the United Kingdom. Vietnamese lab tests have suggested that the hybrid variant it spreads more easily than any other COVID variant. This comes at a time when the mutant strain first found in India is said to have been the cause behind the lethal second wave of the virus infections, however, there has been no scientific report to substantiate the same. Viruses often develop minute genetic changes as they multiply thus, plenty of coronavirus variants have emerged since the outbreak of the COVID pandemic last year. The World Health Organisation enlisted four global "variants of concerns"- first found in the UK, India plus ones detected in South Africa and Brazil.

Image: AP/Pixabay
As the Taliban has gained control of a majority of Afghanistan territory, Iran Foreign Ministry on July 11 expressed confidence that the eastern border with Afghanistan is safe and peaceful and there is nothing to worry about when it comes to the deteriorating situation in Afghanistan.

Irans foreign ministrys statement comes after Pakistan said that both Tehran and Islamabad will equally plunge into the crisis of Afghan refugees. It is worth mentioning that violence continues to intensify in Afghanistan amid US drawdown and a major refugee crisis is emerging with neighbouring countries staring at an exodus of refugees fleeing the war-like situation.

Border with Afghanistan is safe and peaceful and there is nothing to worry about the security, The Khaama Press reported citing the Commander of Army of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

Taliban gains majority of Afghan territory

According to reports, the Taliban has regained control over Parwan's Sorkh Parsa and Sheikh Ali districts, Shorabak district in Kandahar and Alishing district in Laghman in the past 24 hours. The Afghan government officials have dismissed claims by Taliban officials that the insurgent group had captured 85 per cent of territory in Afghanistan, amid US troop withdrawal from the country. However, BBC reported that the militants have successfully captured over two-thirds of the country including an arc of territory from the Iranian border in the west to the frontier with China on the other side of the country.

Afghanistan security forces revealed that Taliban fighters have seized control of Islam Qala, a key district in western Afghanistan that encompasses an important border crossing with Iran. Zabihullah Mujahid, a spokesman for the Taliban, said the crossing was "under our full control". Meanwhile, the country's President Ashraf Ghani has reassured citizens that an operation to regain territories was underway.

Meanwhile, Shahabuddin Delawar, a key negotiator for the fundamentalist group, emphasised that the US withdrawal was a result of the Taliban bringing Afghanistan's population over to its side under the "principle of Islam". "The United States was forced to leave our territory," he said, denying the Afghan peace pact in 2020. He said that there was no agreement with the United States for the Taliban not to attack administrative centres, though he said that it will not take them "by force".

(With inputs from ANI)




As Seoul marked the 71st anniversary of the Korean War (June 1950 to July 1953), it honoured Indias first paratrooper Lt Col AG Rangaraj as the Korean War Hero For the Month on July 10. Photographs of the then commander of the 60th Parachute Field Ambulance of the Indian Army were displayed at various locations including the Korean War Memorial to commemorate his significant contribution as he had treated more than two lakh war casualties during the Korean conflict. Seoul revisited Indias much-overlooked but significant role in accelerating the United Nations (UN) led resolution to bring the conflict to end.

The country highlighted the less talked about efforts of Indias Permanent Representative to the United Nations and its constraining role at the UN just 3 years into the independence in brokering peace process the Korean Armistice Agreement which was signed on July 27, 1953, even when the United States had a dominant voice. The war started on June 25, 1950, involving South Korea and the Western alliance, led by the US under a UN resolution known as the UN Command as well as a Socialist alliance of North Korea and China known as the Korean Peoples Army and the Chinese Peoples Volunteers supported by the Soviet Union.

The Indian Armys medical unit played a unique role in providing assistance to the South Korean soldiers as they attended to the war victims in the conflict-stricken fields as a humanitarian gesture. At the time, Indias 60 Para Field Ambulance or the 60 Para was commanded by Lieutenant Colonel AG Rangaraj which included four combat surgeons, two anesthesiologists, one dentist and an estimated total of 346 men that helped South Koreans with medical aid.

Remembering Indias help and support as a friend, when we were in difficult times, is very important for us. We feel obligated to teach this to both countries young generations. History should be maintained, taught and properly promoted continuously for the next generation. We hope that more people get interested and study more about this point  the historical relation between Korea and India, said Hwang Il-Yong, Director of Korean Culture Centre India in a release on July 10.

Korean War Special Exhibition

<60 Para Field Ambulance>

We are pleased to announce our second online exhibition, which is opening on Friday, 25th June at 5:00 PM (17:00 IST).

For more information, visit our website:https://t.co/wK32jEpsEh#kcci #onlineexhibition #koreanwar pic.twitter.com/ItUSNlG3f8  Korean Cultural Centre India|  (@KCC_INDIA) June 23, 2021

Indian army treated 195,000 casualties

On Saturday, Seoul commemorated the members of the Indian medical troop by displaying 32 photographs at an online exhibition titled Korean War Special Exhibition: 60 Para Field Ambulance. One of the pictures portrays Edwina Mountbatten, Countess Mountbatten of Burma, visiting the 60 Para Field Ambulance, while another showed troops at the Gloster Valley and one other depicted Indian medical team crossing water hurdles as they were left with no transport initially. Pictures highlighted the efforts of soldiers treating civilians at Munsan Falls and the war casualties at the Daegu Hospital. In total, the Indian army treated 195,000 casualties and performed nearly 2,300 field surgeries while Indian representatives debated policies in bringing the conflict to a speedy conclusion.

India delivered overcoming the complexities, as the NNRC headed by India headed by Lt Gen. S Thimayya with the help of Custodian Forces of India (CFI) also gathered 170,000 non-repatriated prisoners of wars held by the UN forces. China demanded forceful repatriation of the prisoners while India stood for human rights under the Neutral Nations Repatriation Commission (the NNRC). The mission led by India in compassion had just 100 war captured who refused to be repatriated to either South or North Korea. Those were allowed to come to India once the NNRC and CFI concluded operations.
The Singapore Ministry of Health on Sunday confirmed the detection of eight new cases of COVID-19 infection.There is one new case of locally transmitted COVID-19 infection, who is currently unlinked, said MOH in a news release. The remaining seven cases are all imported, and have already been put on isolation.

One of the imported cases was detected upon arrival, while six developed the illness during isolation.

In its Saturday update, MOH said there were no new cases of locally transmitted infection  the first time in 76 days that no new local cases were reported in the country. All six of the new cases detected on Saturday were imported, three of whom were detected upon their arrival in the country while the remainder developed symptoms during their SHN or isolation period.

One in 10 COVID recovered patients suffer from persistent symptoms: Study

The country's National Centre for Infectious Diseases found that 1 out of 10 recovered COVID-19 patients in Singapore has persistent coronavirus symptoms even after six months of recovery. The condition is called "Long COVID" in which a person experiences prolonged health complications and the burden of this long-lasting illness has been on the lungs, heart, brain, and gut.

The Straits Times reported on Saturday, citing the study by the country's top infectious disease body which is focusing on COVID-19 treatment. "In this condition, a person continues to experience COVID-like symptoms including, lingering cough, shortness of breath, persistent fatigue, dizziness, and insomnia". However, the long-term consequences are noted in those who suffered from severe symptoms, persistent and long illness requiring hospitalization, and underwent critical care. Meanwhile, these symptoms have escalated concern among the citizens, as these persistent illnesses are affecting the society and economy of the country.

What is Long COVID?

The study led by NCID involved three other public hospitals. Patients typically joined the study during their first week of illness and are monitored for six months. A total of 288 patients were recruited, and 183 of them returned for outpatient follow-ups.

Singapore started this study in January 2020, when the country recorded its first-ever case of COVID-19. The study aims to examine the long-term impact of COVID-19, up to 2 years post-infection.

Dr Barnaby Young, a consultant in NCID who was involved in the study, said, "We understand from cases, who passed on from acute COVID-19, that although the lungs are the major organ affected, the virus caused wider damage. This included damage to the heart as well as the inner lining of small blood vessels. In some cases the Sars-CoV-2 virus damages blood vessels, and in particular small vessels that are present in every part of the body, leading to blockage of the blood supply and bleeding. Whereas other complications such as blood clots may also be considered to be part of long COVID, Dr Young added.

CREDIT: (With some PTI inputs)
As the Taliban gains control of 85% of Afghanistan territory, the militant group has assured that the safety of Chinese investors and workers in the country and called them a 'welcome friend.' In an interview with South China Morning Post, Taliban spokesperson Suhail Shaheen that the Taliban would guarantee the safety of Chinese workers in Afghanistan and invited the Communist country to invest in reconstruction work as soon as possible. Moreover, Shaheen also guaranteed China that it would not host Uyghur militants from the Xinjiang province.

We have been to China many times and we have good relations with them. If (the Chinese) have investments, of course, we will ensure their safety," South China Morning Post quoted the Taliban spokesperson as saying.

China looking to make advances in Afghanistan?

It is important to mention that like its other Asian neighbors- such as Pakistan and Sri Lanka, China is also looking to invest big in mineral-rich Afghanistan which hosts billions of dollars worth unexploited reserves. Notably, the China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) already has a 25-year contract which it signed in 2011 to drill three oil fields in the region. Apart from business, the region also holds significant geopolitical importance and offers a direct portal to the Arabian Sea and possible access to Iran and the Middle East. It also offers a route to the Indian Ocean and Africa. According to FoxNews, with the withdrawal of US troops, the communist country is looking for an opportunity to enter the war-torn region.

Situation intensifies in Afghanistan

With US troops almost completely out of Afghanistan, the Mujahideens (terrorists) in the Taliban have gained about a third of the war-torn country. Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani on Saturday hit out at the militants and accused the Taliban of the ongoing violence in the country in which is claiming the lives of at least 200 to 600 people daily. Taliban should be asked whom they are fighting for? Who will benefit if Afghanistan is ruined and if Afghans are killed? Ghani said according to Tolo News.

There is widespread fear the Taliban will unleash a full-fledged civil war after seizing control of several districts in North Afghanistan. Afghan forces are reported to be retaliating and launching a counter-offensive against the Taliban.
The deadly heatwave that brought triple-digit temperatures to western Canada and the US and that killed hundreds of people was virtually impossible without climate change, scientists said. According to BBC, a new analysis by an international team of 27 scientists said that the deadly heatwave was a one-in-a-1,000-year event. The temperature records were so extreme - 116 degrees Fahrenheit in Portland, Oregon, and 121 degrees Fahrenheit in Canadas British Columbia - that researchers said it was difficult to quantify just how rare the heatwave was.

Scientists warned that Earthlings can expect extreme events such as this to become more common as the world heats up due to climate change. The team, working under the umbrella of Oxford University-based World Weather Attribution, estimated that human-caused climate change increased the likelihood of such a heatwave by at least 150 times. Scientists worry that global heating, largely as a result of burning fossil fuels, is now driving up temperatures faster than models predict.

It is worth noting that Canadas previous national record for high temperature was 45C. However, the recent heat in the village of Lytton in British Columbia saw a figure of 49.6C recorded at the height of the event. All across the region, in the US states of Oregon and Washington and in the west of Canada, multiple cities reportedly hit new records far above 40C. These temperatures had deadly consequences for hundreds of people, with spikes in sudden deaths and big increases in hospital visits for heat-related illnesses.

Two possibilities for extreme temperatures

Now, scientists have said that the chances of heatwaves occurring without human-induced warming were virtually impossible. The researchers have urged adaptation measures that account for the rising risk of heatwaves, including action plans that incorporate early warning systems for high temperatures, as well as more ambitious targets to drastically reduce planet-warming greenhouse gas emissions. They also found that in a world with two degrees Celsius of warming, which could happen this century, such a heat event would occur about every five to 10 years.

According to reports, scientists used computer simulations that compared a hypothetical world without greenhouse gas emissions to the existing world in order to assess the impact of climate change on weather events. They said that there are two possibilities for the extreme jump in peak temperatures seen in the region. The first is that it is just an extremely rare event, made worse by climate change, "the statistical equivalent of really bad luck". The other possibility is that the climate may have crossed a "threshold," that would make the kind of heatwaves witnessed recently much more likely.

(Image: AP/Unsplash)
The World Health Organization on July 9 said that there was a likely causal association between COVID-19 vaccines using mRNA technology and very rare heart inflammations. According to a press release, WHOs Global Advisory Committee on Vaccine Safety (GACVS) said that cases of myocarditis, which is inflammation of the heart muscle, and pericarditis - inflammation of the lining around the heart - had been reported in multiple countries, especially the US. However, the UN health body also added that the benefits still outweigh the risks.

The reported cases have typically occurred within days of vaccination, more commonly among younger males and more often following the second dose of COVID-19 mRNA vaccines, GACVS said in a statement.

It further added that after reviewing the available data the current evidence suggests a likely causal association between myocarditis and the mRNA vaccines.

However, the UN agency said that the benefits of mRNA COVID-19 vaccines outweigh the risks in reducing hospitalisations and deaths due to the virus. WHO noted that the inflammations are very rare. The committee said that most cases of myocarditis and pericarditis following vaccinations were mild and required only conservative treatment. But it also said that it is observing the possible long-term effects.

More rigorous studies using alternative data sources and more robust study designs including comparison of vaccinated and unvaccinated populations as well as investigations monitoring for longer term follow up are underway; the GACVS subcommittee will continue to review this signal as more data become available, the press note read.

Link between mRNA vaccines and myocarditis

Meanwhile, the WHOs concern comes after the US medical authorities warned last month that there was a likely link between mRNA vaccines - Pfizer and Moderna - and myocarditis cases among younger recipients. The officials had also, however, said that the benefits continued to outweigh the risks. It also comes after the European Medical Agencys pharmacovigilance committee, which tracks medicines side effects, had also seen a plausible causal relationship in a review of the data this week.

It is worth mentioning that myocarditis is a rare disease that experts believe is usually triggered by a virus. The sufferers of the disease usually experience chest pain. It is treated with anti-inflammatory drugs and if needed additional oxygen. Israel was the first country to report myocarditis among vaccine recipients in its fast-paced rollout of the mRNA shots.

(Image: AP/Unsplash)




President of Venezuela Nicolas Maduro and Vice President Delcy Rodriguez on Saturday commented on the assassination of Haiti's President Jovenel Moise, blaming Colombia's army for the attack.

Maduro criticized the Colombian government, saying "the greatest threat to Latin America and the Caribbean today is the mafia in power in Colombia."

He further said the captured suspects in Haiti were active members of the Colombian army.

Colombian authorities have acknowledged some of those captured were retired members of the army.

Earlier on Saturday, Vice President Delcy Rodrigez said one of the perpetrators, Manuel Antonio Grosso Guarin, is a relative of an advisor of the Colombian President Ivan Duque.

Haitian authorities have arrested 17 people, and 8 more are being sought.

Fifteen of them are said to be Colombian and two more are Haitian Americans.

Colombia and Venezuela share about 1,370 miles (2,200 kilometers) of border but severed diplomatic relations in February 2019 following the decision of President Nicolas Maduro to expel Colombian diplomats.

Colombia President Ivan Duque does not recognize Maduro as Venezuela's legitimate president and instead supports opposition leader Juan Guaido.

Haitian president Jovenel Moise was assassinated at his home before dawn Wednesday in an attack that also seriously wounded his wife, who was flown to Miami for treatment.

The brazen killing of Moise stunned a nation already reeling from poverty, widespread violence and political instability.

IMAGE: AP

(Disclaimer: This story is auto-generated from a syndicated feed; only the image & headline may have been reworked by www.republicworld.com)
Global philanthropists, including Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation on July 10 pledged 93.5m to help cover the shortfall in the UK governments cuts to foreign aid in a major change during the pandemic after the merger of UKs Department for International Development (DFID) and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO). According to the Independent Commission for Aid Impact (Icai), the aid cuts were imposed without adequate transparency and were administered at a fast speed. As speculations arise that UKs Foreign Office overtook the large aid budget in an attempt to impose its own rules on DFID, and weaken Icai, philanthropist organizations stepped forward to fill the holes, a Guardian report confirmed.

Sources told the paper that the UK governments slashing of the foreign funding cut by about a third has stalled critical projects or risked financial bilateral relations among the aid receivers and Britain. As several of the health projects had shuttered amid the coronavirus pandemic, the consortium expressed regret about drugs going to waste. And hence, philanthropist organizations including the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the Childrens Investment Fund Foundation, the ELMA Foundation, and the Open Society Foundations assumed self-funding for some of these integral projects threatened due to the recent cuts.

Our new review, assessing UK aids approach to youth employment in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), makes five recommendations to help shape a new UK government strategy: https://t.co/f35G2nHV83 #UKaid pic.twitter.com/kcuzMGnNUO  ICAI (@icai_uk) July 8, 2021

The life-saving treatments are cost-effective investments, and if these go unfunded this year, British taxpayer generosity will be wasted as clinics are closed and essential drugs expire and are thrown away, Kate Hampton, the chief executive of the Childrens Investment Fund Foundation was quoted as saying to Britains leading daily The Sunday Telegraph. Meanwhile, archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby stated that the reduced aid might cause unimaginable suffering and entirely preventable deaths, as he vouched for the government to restore the promised amount for the aid, adding that the emergency funding was desperately needed across nations reeling under the poverty in such dire times of the pandemic.

UK's foreign aid reduced to 0.5 %, less than France

The UK, as compared to European nations such as Germany that allocates 0.73 percent of its national income to foreign aid, had been spending much lesser on foreign aid prior to the latest cuts. It has now slashed the spending to 0.5 percent, lower than Frances at 0.53 percent despite the aid agencies and NGOs warnings that the slash in funding will leave 70,000 without healthcare. 100,000 in Coxs Bazar, Bangladesh, will have no water. Several aid agencies made a last-minute appeal to the Foreign Office to halt the aid cuts, as UN Population Fund (UNFPA) stated that the 85 percent reduction amounting to 130m could have prevented 1/4th of millions of child and maternal deaths, 14.6m unintended pregnancies and 4.3m unsafe abortions, Guardian reported.

Earlier last year, Foreign Office minister Baroness Sugg resigned in protest to foreign aid cut in which was at the time announced by Chancellor Rishi Sunak. Sugg branded the downsizing of the funding as fundamentally wrong. In her resignation letter to Prime Minister Boris Johnson, Baroness Sugg wrote: It is with sadness that I write to resign from the Government. It is fundamentally wrong to abandon our commitment to spend 0.7% of gross national income on development. This promise should be kept in the tough times as well as the good.
TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. (AP)  A thrill ride at a popular festival in northern Michigan was dismantled and an investigation started after the machine appeared to tip and pitch with riders aboard.

Bystanders recorded the incident with cellphones Thursday night during the National Cherry Festival in Traverse City. No serious injuries were reported.

The Magic Carpet Ride came off the blocking, said Joe Evans of Traverse City-based Arnold Amusements. It was being sent back to the Ohio company that manufactured it.

Obviously there was a malfunction, Evans said. We dont know as of yet what it was.

Joy Ogemaw told WPBN-TV that she looked up at the ride after hearing a loud bang.

It was like scraping, and then it started going faster, she said. And then it started like rocking a little bit back and forth."

The rides operator switched off the power and jumped to safety, the Traverse City Record-Eagle reported.

Bystanders grabbed a guardrail attached to the rides main base to hold it down.

Rides at the midway are inspected daily by Arnold Amusements employees, annually by the state and three times a year by a third party, the company said.

A spokeswoman with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs told the Traverse City Record-Eagle that records showed the carnival ride that malfunctioned was last inspected in 2019 and the result was satisfactory.

"Rides with a satisfactory permit from the previous season are temporarily permitted to operate under their prior permit until their inspection in the current season, Suzanne Thelen said in an email. There was no carnival season during the pandemic, and the ride was operating at the Cherry Festival on a temporary permit based upon the satisfactory previous inspection.

The National Cherry Festival started July 3 and was scheduled to end Saturday.

(Disclaimer: This story is auto-generated from a syndicated feed; only the image & headline may have been reworked by www.republicworld.com)
US President Joe Biden has chosen Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti as his nominee for ambassador to India, announced the White House on Friday, July 9. Garcetti, who became the mayor in 2013, has led the city through many ups and downs, including development, a worsening homelessness crisis, and the COVID-19 pandemic.

The White House praises Garcetti

The White House statement praised Garcettis role as mayor "The busiest container port in the Western Hemisphere, the largest municipal utility in the country, and one of the busiest airports in the world, as well as his role in Los Angeless winning bid for the 2028 Olympic Games. Garcetti is the son of former Dist Atty Gil Garcetti. The Los Angeles mayor also shares a great bond with Joe Biden. He has also worked as an intelligent officer in the US Navy Reserves for 12 years.

Today, the President announced that I am his nominee to serve as U.S. Ambassador to India. I am honored to accept his nomination to serve in this role.  MayorOfLA (@MayorOfLA) July 9, 2021

Garcetti took to the microblogging platform and shared about the different roles he has been playing in the life he said I have committed my life to service  as an activist, as a teacher, as a naval officer, as a public servant, and if confirmed next, as an ambassador, he said. Part of that commitment means that when your nation calls, you answer that call."

I have committed my life to service  as an activist, as a teacher, as a naval officer, as a public servant, and if confirmed, next as an ambassador. Part of that commitment means that when your nation calls, you answer that call.  MayorOfLA (@MayorOfLA) July 9, 2021

"Garcetti, in a series of tweets, said that he will show the same energy, commitment, and love for this city in his new job.

And should I be confirmed, Ill bring this same energy, commitment, and love for this city to my new role and will forge partnerships and connections that will help strengthen Los Angeles place on the world stage.  MayorOfLA (@MayorOfLA) July 9, 2021

The former mayor has traveled several times to India, most recently as a council member. In college, he spent a year studying Hindi and Urdu  two of the dozens of languages spoken in the country  and during at least one visit stayed at the ambassadors residence.

Notably, his nomination for India Ambassador sets the stage for the city council to take up the question of who might take up his role and complete the remainder of his term. Meanwhile, a large number of people in Los Angelos are unhappy to hear of Garcettis early departure. Apart from choosing Gracitte for ambassador to India, Joe Biden has selected Denise Campbell Bauer to be ambassador to France and the Principality of Monaco. The US president has picked Peter D Haas for ambassador to Bangladesh, while Bernadette Meehan is his choice for envoy to Chile.
Thousands of Bosnians gathered to commemorate the Srebrenica genocide and bury 19 newly identified victims.

On July 11, 1995, more than 8,000 Bosnian Muslim men and boys were rounded up and killed by Bosnian Serb forces near the eastern town of Srebrenica -- the worst mass killing in Europe since World War II.

The episode came toward the end of the 1992-95 Bosnian War pitting Bosnian Serbs against Bosnian Muslims and Bosnian Croats that claimed some 100,000 lives.

SPECIAL REPORT: Here Are The Faces Of Thousands Who Died In Srebrenica

Both the wartime Bosnian Serb army commander Ratko Mladic and former political leader Radovan Karadzic were subsequently sentenced to life in prison by the UN war crimes court in the Netherlands for genocide in Srebrenica.

The remains of the 19 recently identified victims were reburied at the Potocari Memorial Center, the final resting place for more than 6,640 people killed in the massacre. About 1,000 are still missing.

The UN war crimes tribunal and the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague have classified the Srebrenica massacre as genocide.

But many Serbs deny the extent of the killings, adding to the suffering of the survivors. Bosnian Serb leader Milorad Dodik has previously called the genocide a fabricated myth.
SOFIA -- Bulgarias snap parliamentary elections on July 11 failed to produce a clear winner, with There Is Such A People, an anti-elites party, narrowly leading former Prime Minister Boyko Borisov's GERB party, exit polls show.

A survey by Gallup International showed the There Is Such A People party, led by popular television entertainer Slavi Trifonov, with 23.2 percent, ahead of GERB, which was on 23 percent.

Alpha Research also put the There Is Such A People party with 24 percent and GERB at 23.5 percent.

The snap parliamentary elections were held just three months after a previous, inconclusive vote.

New allegations of misuse of government funds by administrations led by Borisov's GERB sapped support for the party in the run-up to the vote. In all, 23 parties and coalitions were vying for the 240 seats in parliament.

Bulgaria is the European Unions poorest nation and perceived as one of its most corrupt. The campaign did little to allay that perception.



This election is being waged over very fundamental democratic questions: How do we improve government performance and who will be the best managers of the government, Bobby Philips, a political science professor at American University in Bulgaria, told RFE/RL, adding that divisive ethnic or external enemy rhetoric was largely absent in the election campaign.



Asked ahead of the election what he hoped from the vote, President Rumen Radev said he wanted a government that was more attentive to Bulgarians' needs, "a state that belongs to, and works in, the public interest, not for hidden circles."

"I strongly hope that the parties will approach their work much more constructively and much more responsibly, in order to meet the expectations of the citizens," he said after casting his ballot.

Borisov, who has led the government three times, has found success in previous campaigns through a combination of populist rhetoric and pro-Western slogans.



But massive street protests last year sparked by accusations that Borisov and his government were protecting oligarchs, refusing to reform the judiciary, and suppressing freedom of speech finally took their toll on the 62-year-old's popularity.

An April 4 vote ended in a stalemate with no party able to cobble together a majority coalition.



Radev in May installed an interim government that opened investigations into alleged corruption, including accusations that dozens of opposition politicians were illegally wiretapped before April elections. Caretaker officials also alleged that billions of dollars of public funds were funneled to certain private companies through a process that lacked transparency.



Bulgaria, which is also a member of NATO, has been chided by its Western partners over corruption and backsliding on the rule of law and a free press.



In Transparency International's 2020 Corruption Perceptions Index, Bulgaria ranked 69th, tied with Romania and Hungary as the worst in the EU.



Last month, the U.S. Treasury Department announced sanctions against former member of parliament Delyan Peevski, prominent businessman Vassil Bozhkov, and ex-national security official Ilko Zhelyazkov for their "extensive roles" in corruption in Bulgaria. It also placed sanctions on 64 entities said to be linked to them.

The U.S. Treasury Department said the move was its single biggest action targeting corruption to date anywhere in the world under the Global Magnitsky Act, which bans entry to the United States of any sanctioned person. It also blocks any U.S.-based property, including overseas U.S. dollar accounts, held by those sanctioned, and prevents U.S. entities from doing business with them.



In the wake of the corruption allegations, Trifonov's party had taken a narrow lead in opinion polls conducted ahead of the election.



Analysts said There Is Such A People could try to form a coalition government with the liberal Democratic Bulgaria alliance and the reform-oriented Stand Up! Get Out! -- a party recently created by former ombudsman Maya Manolova.



However, the three parties would still likely fail to get the majority needed to form a government and could be forced to seek support from some members of either the Socialist Party or the Movement For Rights And Freedom.



Slightly more than 3 million citizens -- or about half the eligible population -- were expected to vote, according to polling agencies.



The Central Electoral Commission will start to post official results on its website later in the night.

With reporting by Reuters, AFP, and RFE/RL correspondent Todd Prince
A Georgian TV cameraman who was among dozens of journalists attacked by a right-wing mob during a melee aimed at LGBT campaigners has died.

Co-workers of Lekso Lashkarava said on July 11 that he had died, apparently of injuries suffered during the violence six days earlier, but provided no further details.

Lashkarava's employer, Pirveli TV, said that his body was found at his Tbilisi home by his mother on July 11.

The Interior Ministry said in a statement that an investigation had been opened into his death.

Lashkarava, 37, was one of nearly 60 journalists and other media workers who were attacked on July 5 when hundreds of people took to the streets of Tbilisi to block a planned LGBT parade.

Two RFE/RL reporters were among those injured.

The chaos, which included mobs scaling the building where the organizers of the Tbilisi Pride parade have their headquarters, drew criticism from press advocates and foreign governments.

Many have pointed blame at Prime Minister Irakli Gharibashvili, who, on the morning of the scheduled parade, said it was inappropriate to hold the event, arguing that it would create confrontation and was "unacceptable for a large segment of the Georgian society.

The Georgian Orthodox Church had also called on supporters to gather against the pride march.

Videos of the mobs showed some priests joining the protests. After the march was canceled, priests chanted and people danced to Georgian folk songs in front of the parliament.

A day after the event, thousands rallied in Tbilisi to denounce the violence. That event was largely peaceful, but right-wing activists, who were held back by police, later held their own event in front of parliament, where they tore down a European Union flag and burned it.

Diplomatic missions from 18 countries and the European Union condemned the violence and called on the Georgian government to protect peoples constitutional right to peacefully gather.

With reporting by AFP
Moldova is set to receive half a million doses of the Johnson & Johnson (J&J) coronavirus vaccine from the United States.

The first 150,000 doses of the one-shot J&J vaccine are set to arrive in Moldova -- a country of 3.5 million and Europes poorest -- on July 12, the U.S. Embassy in Moldova said in a statement.

Moldovan President Maia Sandu thanked the United States for the vaccines and said that they will help save lives, preserve the health of our citizens, and reduce the force of the pandemic.

Only 305,000 people in Moldova, about 11 percent of the population, have so far been fully inoculated against COVID-19.

Moldova has reported more than 257,000 infections and 6,207 deaths.

Based on reporting by AP and Reuters
Moldovan President Maia Sandus pro-European party was leading on July 11 as counting got under way in snap parliamentary elections that are likely to weaken Russia's influence and push Europe's poorest country toward further integration with the continent.

Sandus Party Of Action and Solidarity (PAS) was leading with more than 44 percent of the vote, according to the Central Election Commission (CEC), with over 40 percent of the ballots counted.

Sandus main rivals, the Russia-friendly Electoral Bloc of Communists and Socialists, had nearly 33 percent of the votes.

The CEC said voter turnout was around 50 percent, slightly higher than in parliamentary elections in 2019.

Some 3.2 million people, including a sizable diaspora abroad, were eligible to vote.

More than 20 parties and coalition blocs were in the running. However, only the PAS and the Electoral Bloc of Communists and Socialists were seen as locks to enter the 101-seat parliament.

Each was predicted to get up to 37 percent of the vote, according to polls conducted before the election, although most surveys had Sandu's bloc coming out on top, potentially with an outright majority of 51 seats or more.

Wedged between Ukraine and EU member Romania, Moldova has long been divided over closer ties with Brussels or maintaining Soviet-era relations with Moscow.

A victory by Sandu's coalition would give her a friendly legislature to work with as she tries to put the country on the track toward European integration.

"You decide who will be part of the next parliament and government," the 49-year-old former World Bank official wrote on social media as the campaign period came to a close. "It is up to you how quickly we can save the country from corruption and poverty."



A win by the Russia-friendly Electoral Bloc and other Moscow-friendly parties would maintain close ties to Moscow fostered by former President Igor Dodon, whose fellow Socialists in parliament have stymied Sandu's reform program.



"Only our team is able to end the chaos in the country, ensure social protection of people, restore the economy, and strengthen statehood," Dodon said this week.

The snap elections were the result of a lengthy political battle following Sandu's runoff victory over Dodon in November.



That vote was also seen as a referendum on Moldova's future, but the Socialist-controlled legislature continued to exert its influence, including boosting the body's power by voting to transfer control of intelligence agencies from the president to parliament.



The move was met in December with mass protests calling for early elections, followed later that month by the resignation of the country's pro-Russia prime minister and his cabinet just before Sandu's inauguration.



After Sandu's attempts to replace the prime minister were exhausted, parliament was dissolved in April and the snap elections were set in motion.



The run-up to the vote had been plagued by conflict over the number of polling stations both abroad and in the Russia-backed breakaway Transdniester region.



After a lengthy back-and-forth, the number of polling stations in Transdniester, where voters traditionally support closer ties to Moscow, was set at 41.



Moldovans living outside the country, who were expected to be mainly in Sandu's camp, were able to vote at 150 polling stations abroad, including 12 in neighboring EU-member Romania.



The vote was held with restrictions in place to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, with voters required to wear masks and maintain social distancing.

Aside from the two main blocs, the Eurosceptic SOR and the pro-European Dignity And Truth Platform party were seen as contenders to pass the threshold needed to enter parliament.

The new parliament will be seated on August 27, the 30th anniversary of Moldova's declaration of independence from the Soviet Union.

With reporting by RFE/RL correspondent Mike Scollon in Prague, Reuters, and AFP
Turkmen state media say that President Gurbanguly Berdymukhammedov has promoted his son Serdar to a top government post with oversight of major economic and financial decisions.

It is the latest in a series of promotions for the 39-year-old Serdar, who Berdymukhammedov appears to be grooming to succeed him in the future.

Turkmen state media reported on July 9 that Serdar was appointed deputy prime minister for economic and banking issues and for international financial organizations. Berdymukhamedov also removed Serdar from his previous position as chairman of the Supreme Control Chamber and as a member of the State Security Council.

No explanation for the shuffle or the promotion was given.

After his appointment in February to the Supreme Control Chamber and the State Security Council, Serdars public profile increased significantly.

He was seen leading government delegations on foreign trips, and his visits to the Central Asians various regions began to resemble those of his father.

In April, Serdar oversaw festivities surrounding a major national holiday celebrating the Turkmen horse and dog breeds. The Akhal-Teke horse and Alabai sheep dog play a prominent role in state propaganda, with monuments in the capital, Ashgabat, devoted to them and vast sums spent on promoting their breeding.

In the past, Berdymukhammedov led events surrounding the holiday, participating in races, showing off his horseback-riding skills, and handing out awards to breeders.

The July 9 announcement also included the demotion, firing, or reprimand of other top government officials, including two top officials at the countrys Central Bank.

The shuffle in personnel comes amid worsening economic conditions in the country, which has been plagued by high unemployment, problems with subsidized food, and an outmigration of laborers seeking work in other countries.

The national currency, the manat, slid to record lows in April.

The tightly controlled economy has been struggling for years, with government revenues depleted partly due to unsuccessful energy deals and low global prices for natural gas.

The country has some of the worlds largest proven reserves of gas.
Turkmenistan has begun moving heavy weaponry, helicopters, and other aircraft closer to its border with Afghanistan, and reservists are being put on alert in the capital, a further sign of the worry spreading across Central Asia as Taliban fighters continue major offensives.

A senior official at a Turkmen security agency told RFE/RL that more troops from an army garrison near the city of Mary are being sent to bolster border guard units. Mary is about 400 kilometers north of Serhetabad, a major border crossing with Afghanistan.

The official, who was not authorized to speak to the media, said additional forces sent to the border include officers as well as fighter jets and helicopters.

It is unclear exactly how many units are being sent to the border or the numbers of aircraft being dispatched there.

Another online news site, Turkmen.News, also reported heavy weaponry being moved to the Serhetabad region last week.

In the capital, Ashgabat, meanwhile, some reservists are being summoned to military recruiting posts and being told to stay on alert for possible quick deployment, the official said. The orders are so far not nationwide and are limited to just Ashgabat, he said.

The Turkmen government, which is tightly controlled and highly secretive, has made no announcement about increased security. Law enforcement officials, meanwhile, have increased warnings to average Turkmen against using virtual private networks, or VPNs, which are illegal but widely used to circumvent government restrictions on the Internet.

In Mary, whose population is believed to be around 100,000 people, local officials have begun organizing patriotic lectures for public service employees.

Municipal service workers in the citys Margush district were required to attend an hour-long meeting on July 8 after the end of the workday. One participant told RFE/RL that people were not happy about being forced to attend.

The people were so tired. Everyone wanted to go home faster. It would be better if they held their lectures during working hours, not after work, or even better if they raised their salaries. We cannot feed our children with empty talk, one worker told RFE/RL. He asked not to be identified for fear of losing his job.

Another worker also complained of being forced to attend the meeting after working since 7 a.m. that morning.

All day long, under the scorching sun, we clean the streets, plant flowers, level the ground, mow the grass. We are thrown into the hardest work. Finishing work at 7 p.m., we barely get home. And listening to these conversations and lectures is an unnecessary concern for us. After work, we barely make it home and fall asleep, not having time to eat a piece of bread with our children, said the worker, who also asked to remain anonymous.

The worker said the lecture included rhetoric about how prosperous the country was and how people should be loyal to the government.

Turkmenistan shares an 800-kilometer border with Afghanistan, where the security situation has deteriorated sharply as Taliban fighters advance on provincial centers and even some border crossings.

Hundreds of Afghans, including soldiers and local police, have reportedly fled into other neighboring Central Asia countries, like Tajikistan.

Tajik officials last week announced they were sending an additional 20,000 troops to its border in response to the Taliban offensive. On July 5, the border guard service reported that more than 1,000 Afghan troops had crossed into Tajikistan over the previous 24 hours.

U.S. President Joe Biden has pledged that the withdrawal of U.S. forces would be completed by August 31. Since then, the Taliban has unleashed a quick offensive and now controls about one-third of the countrys 421 districts and district centers.

Earlier this month, U.S. forces vacated their largest base in Afghanistan at Bagram, north of Kabul.

The rapid withdrawal of U.S. forces, and the Taliban's battlefield successes, are stoking concerns that the Western-backed government in Kabul may collapse.
MANSFIELD  Mary Lou Henne is ready for the next chapter in her life.

The local artist and owner of Hennes Drafting and Art Supply announced earlier this spring that she is going to retire. The business will close its doors on July 30 after serving the area for 38 years.

Henne, 81, said she has mixed emotions about the retirement.

It's kind of sad to see the end of an era coming, but in a way, it's time for me to do something different with my life, she said.

Besides, the retail part of the business has been impacted by its competitors online, the owner said. Some people would check the store but eventually buy online.

Hennes daughter Robin Riley, who helped run the store for the past 20 years, said her mother deserves some down time after working her whole life.

Growing up in Akron, Henne said she moved to Mansfield with her late husband, Bob, in the 1970s, not knowing what job she would do. She became a secretary of Don Graber, a local architect who also owned Mansfield Drafting at the time.

After working at the architects office for a decade, Henne and her husband bought the drafting business from Graber in 1983. A few years later, a young man walked in the store and changed the business ultimately.

After a customer left, he says, Have you ever thought about getting art supplies?" Henne recalled. I said yes, but I dont know how to start it.

That man turned out to work for an art supply distributor, Henne said. With his help, she and her husband added art supplies to the business in 1988 and turned it into Hennes Drafting and Art Supply.

Riley said the store has become the only fine art supplier that serves many artists in Richland County over the years. People can find watercolor paints, pastels, brushes for both acrylic and oil painting, palette knives and many other supplies.

It not only sells the products but also serves as a resource center. Riley said many people would come in, asking questions about different items and how to use them.

With customers suggestions, the mother and daughter began expanding the art side of the business. They first set up a gallery featuring local artists pieces in the stores basement. Then they evolved it into art classes and painting parties.

Henne, who never went to an art school, said she had taught at those painting parties for 10 years before the COVID-19 pandemic arrived last year.

Ive always loved art. My mother kind of dabbled in it. And both my sisters dabbled in it. But nothing professionally or anything like that. We just like to do it, she said.

When starting art classes years ago, she invited local artists to be the instructors. She said she took an oil painting class with her customers and got into it. And when she paints with her sisters, they paint acrylics.

It's just a freedom of expression and creating something that's pleasing to the eye, Henne said. Its satisfying to me to create something pretty.

Riley said her mother not only paints well but she is also good at explaining when teaching. For instance, she told students why they need to put light at a certain spot or why they should make it darker.

At the same time, Henne gives students the freedom to finish a piece the way they want, helping them achieve the end goal, Riley said.

Henne said she loves to help people see things, which she said is important before working on a canvas. For example, many people assume leaves all come out of the trunk and paint them that way without really seeing what the tree actually look like.

If they did, Henne said, they would notice that the leaves come out of many little branches. She enjoys hearing students exclaim when they figure out what she means.

Hennes Drafting and Art Supply is holding a closing sale at 110 West Third St. in Mansfield. Riley said all merchandise is 50 to 70 percent off and some used equipment and store fixtures are for sale, too.

It is easy to guess how Henne will spend the time after retiring. The owner said she wants to do some artwork for herself and just enjoying the process. She is also looking forward to painting with people who share the same passion for art.

More information about Hennes Drafting and Art Supply is available at its Facebook page or website.
EDITOR'S NOTE: This story was written in response to a reader-submitted question through Open Source, a platform where readers can ask Richland Sources newsroom to investigate a question.

MANSFIELD  It's clear the Air Force wants to end the seven-decade flying mission of the 179th Airlift Wing, based upon the 2022 budget request it proposed to Congress at the end of June.

But despite the potential loss of the eight, aging C-130H transport aircraft, officials remain bullish on the future of a military unit at Mansfield Lahm Regional Airport, likely in the form of a new Information Warfare (Cyber) Wing.

U.S. Rep. Troy Balderson, whose 12th District includes most of Richland County, said Thursday he was "very optimistic" the Air Force will select Mansfield as the home for the new unit.

In November, the U.S. Department of Defense notified Gov. Mike DeWine the Air Force had selected Mansfield as one of two national finalists to host the IWW, along with the 133rd Airlift Wing based at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport in Minnesota.

The 133rd, a unit initially formed in 1921, also flies the C-130H aircraft, a transport flying mission it began in 1971.

The 179th Airlift Wing has has roots dating back 72 years in Mansfield, organized in 1948 as the 164th Fighter Squadron.

The future of several Air Guard units still using the older "H" model aircraft has been in question since the Air Force announced it wanted to reduce its C-130 fleet from more than 300 down to about 255. The active-duty Air Force uses only newer "J" model aircraft.

Congress has the final say in the Air Force plans, though momentum toward the reduction seems to be gaining steam.

In January, retired Brig. Gen. Rich Green, the former commander of the 179th who later served in the Ohio Adjutant General's office in Columbus and then as the legislative director for the National Guard Association of the United States in Washington, D.C., sounded the alarm about the local flying mission.

Earlier this week, Green didn't sound optimistic.

"The writing is kind of on the wall," he said. "We are fighting an uphill battle."

Part of the Air Force plan is to supply some National Guard units with the newer C-130J model aircraft, but the 179th is not on that list.

Even without new C-130J models, Green said the 179th's current C-130H models are still in great shape, maintained by crews with more experience than found in the active duty Air Force.

The Air Force has relied upon some version of the aircraft since 1956.

Originally designed as a troop, medevac, and cargo transport aircraft, the C-130 airframe has found uses in a variety of other roles, including as a gunship (AC-130), for airborne assault, search and rescue, scientific research support, weather reconnaissance, aerial refueling, maritime patrol, and aerial firefighting.

"These C-130Hs at Mansfield are good to go for a long time," Green said, adding the local aircraft have already undergone many updates and modifications. "They can be used for a long time to come."

According to a publication produced in May by the National Guard Association of the United States, governors in 12 of the 17 states with Air Guard C-130 wings signed onto a letter "imploring Congress to protect the states from potential cuts to their airlift fleets."

DeWine was not among the governors joining in the letter.

Balderson, who said in January he was pressing to keep the flying mission, said his primary focus now is on landing the IWW.

"We have kind of switched gears a little bit," Balderson said during an impromptu sidewalk press conference with Mansfield Mayor Tim Theaker, Richland County Commissioner Tony Vero and Richland Area Chamber & Economic Development President & CEO Jodie Perry.

Balderson said he and local officials have been communicating with the Air Force and Maj. Gen. John C. Harris Jr., Ohio adjutant general and commander of the Ohio National Guard.

Though no final decision has been made for the flying mission, the conversation has shifted in recent weeks to converting Mansfield into the new cyber unit.

"What better time to talk about cyber security than now, as (the United States) has been hit with (cyber attacks) four times in the last two months?" Balderson asked.

"The generals are on board with this and I think that is hugely important. The community is on board with this.

'We see a path (forward) there. There was some competition (with Minneapolis), but that competition has somewhat declined. I won't say it's all gone, but I am very optimistic," Balderson said.

According to the Air Force, an IWW's mission is to "deliver information warfare capabilities in or through the information environment to deliberately affect adversary human and system behavior and preserve friendly freedom of action during cooperation, competition and conflict."

The Air Force has said it would make a decision on the IWW location by September, though Balderson said that's up in the air.

"It's Congress and it's the government and that can change, too, as we all know. That's the goal right now," he said.

If Mansfield is selected, it would begin divesting its C-130s and begin the mission transition by September 2022 and become fully operational in 2027.

Balderson said he has begun speaking with educators around the area about the needs of future Guard members who may staff an IWW. "I think that is really important," he said.

However, in an emailed statement, U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown, a Mansfield native, said Thursday he continues to speak with Air Force leaders about the C-130s important role in airlift capability to meet national security missions.

"I will continue to work with my colleagues to push for robust funding to recapitalize these aircraft," Brown said.

"Our delegation is working to support a mission at Mansfield and we expect a decision on whether the base will get the Information Warfare Wing (IWW) later this year. The 179th has a storied history at Mansfield, and well do everything we can to continue the bases tradition of serving Ohio and the country," Brown wrote.

Brown said he met in June with Frank Kendall, President Bidens nominee for Secretary of Air Force, and discussed the important role of C-130s play The senator said he invited Kendall to Ohio to visit with local airmen. It's not known when, or if, such a visit would occur.

Ohio's rich military flying tradition is actually working against the 179th in this instance.

Green has said National Guard policy is to maintain at least one flying unit in each state.The fact Ohio has four can make the state a target for the Air Force, he said.

The Buckeye State is also home to the 121st Air Refueling Wing's KC-135 Stratotanker at Rickenbacker Air National Guard Base in Columbus, 180th F-16 Fighter Wing near Toledo, and the 178th Wing in Springfield, which transitioned from fighter aircraft to MQ-1B Predator Unmanned Drones.

"Unfortunately, the ability of the State of Ohio to support several flying wings is both a blessing and a curse," Green said.

Senior national leaders of the Air Guard, according to the NGAUS publication, have criticized Air Force plans to reduce the C-130 fleet.

"One of the questions we always ask, no matter what the asset, 'Is there another asset in the state that can fulfill the mission?" asked Maj. Gen. Francis Evon, adjutant general of Connecticut. "For the C-130, the answer really is no."
Rocky Mount, NC (27804)

Today

Partial cloudiness early, with scattered showers and thunderstorms during the afternoon. High 88F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%..

Tonight

Scattered thunderstorms this evening followed by occasional showers overnight. Low 71F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 50%.
Danvers, MA (01923)

Today

Thunderstorms this morning, then variable clouds during the afternoon with still a chance of showers. High 71F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 70%..

Tonight

Overcast with rain showers at times. Low 63F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%.
Hes not a kid anymore, hes a full-grown man. Hes not 5-foot-4 anymore, hes 6-foot-4. Hes a pleasant guy with a quick smile and a friendly greeting, but hes also a killer.

He seems at peace with himself. Time, it appears, is not only a balm for victims but also for those who victimize them.

Charles Andrew Andy Williams. He was the childlike gunman, age 15 by one month, who killed two students and wounded 13 others on March 5, 2001, at Santana High School in Santee.

He became a cause celebre of sorts as a symbol for bullied schoolchildren. However, prosecutors were neither impressed nor persuaded. Neither was the judge. When he pleaded guilty to first-degree murder, the court sentenced him to 50 years to life, which means he will be eligible for parole when others of his age are collecting Social Security.

Now, 12 years later, hes willing to talk about that day and what led up to it: what he thought, what he did and why, every step of the way. Because his case did not go to trial, this is the confession we never heard in detail. And because it happened in San Diego Countys front yard, its our right to hear it.

Williams lives today in Ironwood State Prison.

Andy Williams: A murderers reflection from behind bars 12 years after killing two classmates.

His neighbor is a cellmate. This is not a happy way to spend ones youth, or middle age, or old age. It might even be where Williams dies.

Sitting patiently for hours in a prison interview room, he is in his prison blues wearing horn-rimmed glasses and a ready smile. He talks fast and softly, as though wanting to keep as many words in the air as possible before they fall on a listeners ears.

He does not deny his guilt, and agrees he should be punished. He does not plead for sympathy. He says he wants mainly to be understood. He doesnt say so, but I suspect he would also like for the public to see him as a nice guy. He must know that will be a tough sell.

This is Andy Williams story of what turned a wayward boy into a kid killer.

View the photo gallery: March 5, 2001 - Santana High School Shooting remembered

Williams was a child of a divorce, which broke apart his family when he was 3. His mother and half-brother eventually moved away, while he stayed with his father in Brunswick, Md. Brunswick was basically a village, nonthreatening for a young boy denied the comfort of a mothers presence.

He saw his mother infrequently, usually at Christmas, when he would travel to her distant home. He functioned suitably in school, finding approval because of his good behavior and open, joking personality. He developed some disturbing traits as he neared the end of grammar school, but kept them hidden. If he felt depressed or abandoned by being separated from his mother, he also kept that hidden. His father, no one disputes, was supportive and loving.

View the Video Fred Dickey on Santana HS Shooter Part 1

View the Video UTTV talkes to the Santana Shooter

Asked about his early childhood, Williams says: To me, it was normal. It was cool for me. I had loving parents.

In December 1999, at age 13, he moved with his father to Twentynine Palms, a small city in the desert near Palm Springs dominated by a Marine base. It was a conservative environment housing many military retirees, including his grandfather, and was not a place where a kid could escape notice for getting into trouble.

Williams also benefited from the structure and values of his grandparents. In that community, he enjoyed the greatest success of his young life. He participated in eighth-grade activities, made friends, did his schoolwork, professed his Christian faith and was baptized.

But a few months in that nurturing place was all he would be given. His father, a laboratory-animal technician, accepted a job with the San Diego Naval Medical Center. Before relocating, Williams was allowed to spend the summer of 2000 in Maryland with friends. There, the discipline of Twentynine Palms disappeared, foreshadowing what lay ahead in Santee.

He deplaned at Lindbergh Field and traveled to his new apartment-home in Santee in fall 2000 to enroll at Santana High School for his freshman year. What the 14-year-old had kept concealed was that he had gotten into dope in Maryland that summer, and not for the first time. He had experimented with narcotics in Maryland before his drug-free hiatus in Twentynine Palms.

My friends and I started taking pills and going to harder stuff like cocaine. The first time I experienced those, I was 12 years old.

Williams recounts his first experience in Santee. When I flew back from Maryland to Santee, I had some dope on me. I saw a church across the street that I was going to go to, and I thought, I got to get rid of this dope.

However, the very first night I was home, I was smoking a cigarette on the lawn of our apartment complex and this dude came up and he was, like, Hey, man, Im out of drugs, and I got this freakin pipe on me, and I got no dope. I was, like, Thats crazy. I got some dope, but no pipe. Lets smoke dope. And through him, I got to meet the guys who became my friends. The very first night I was there.

Williams quickly fell in with a group of boys who, in an earlier time, would have been called dead-end kids, who would be called losers by other teens and problems by their teachers.

I asked why he didnt seek out the type of friends he had made in Twentynine Palms and adhere to the Christian standards he had embraced there. He simply says, I dont know. I honestly dont know.

He had reached a crossroads in his young life, and he says he did wrestle with his devils  at least a little. When I first went back to Maryland that summer, all my friends were using drugs and I was, like, Dude, I dont want to be around it. I remember praying a lot about it, saying, Lord, Im going to hang out with these dudes now, but when I get to Santee Im going to go to church again.  I never did.

The three guys Williams became closest to were A.J. Gilbert, Shaun Turk and Josh Stevens, all about his age. They spent a lot of time at a nearby skatepark and at each others homes when adults were absent.

Santana High School shooting suspect Charles Andrew Williams at his arraignment in the El Cajon, Calif. courthouse on Monday, March 26, 2001. 15 year-old Williams' attorneys are trying to prevent his being tried as an adult. (UT photo/John McCutchen)  John R. McCutchen

Williams exploited a situation that makes working single parents tear out their hair: For many hours of each day, he was unsupervised and unrestrained from running free.

Williams says the boys drank alcohol and smoked pot at every opportunity. A friends mom had Lyme disease and she, like, she had all kinds of pain pills, and so we were just stealing them and eating opiates all the time.

Did he have an addictive personality? Yeah, yeah I do. But looking back, I think I felt I needed drugs to function. In Maryland, it was just fun, but in Santee, it was like I had to.

At the time, he was a small boy for his age, with a placating manner. He was prey for the bullies he ran with.

He says they punched and kicked him, stole his possessions, even sprayed his pant legs with lighter fluid and set him afire. Beating up on him was fun and easy.

Did he ever fight back? At first, but then I thought if someone comes up and socks me, Im going to be hurt less if I just let it happen.

So he became a clown, hoping that amusing his companions would buy him a reprieve from the bullying. It didnt work. The mystery is why he kept coming back for more.

I dont know. I thought these guys are cool, and I wanted to be cool. Ive always wished I was a little bit braver.

At Santana High, his schoolwork didnt just suffer, it collapsed. Constant truancies and ignored homework marked him as a deadbeat to other students and an exasperation to teachers.

Did his dad know he was hanging around with the wrong kids?

Initially, no, but the more we were skipping school and the more peoples parents would come and complain to him about stuff we were doing, he got the sense that I was probably in a bad crowd.

Did he ever tell his father he needed to leave Santee?

I never had the courage to tell him I was struggling. I didnt want to let him down. I had no idea what to do.

He says he was also bullied at the school. But he was reminded that after the shooting, no teacher, administrator or student on the campus said they ever saw him being bullied.

He counters that bullying goes on all the time beneath the noses of teachers and principals. At school, they would take my money. Id have my backpack ripped off and thrown in the trash can. In high school, if they see a kid not fighting back, they think hes an easy target. I was little and easy, I guess.

Was there anything in Santee or at Santana High that could have made life different?

Absolutely. There were some real cool Christians, like, I always wanted to be a part of. But I didnt want my friends seeing me like that.

Next into his life came Christopher Reynolds, an adult sexual predator who was the live-in boyfriend of Stevens mother.

Williams says Reynolds was the one who bought alcohol and provided drugs for the boys. And, yes, there were strings attached.

He was abusing all of us.

What was he doing?

Hed grab on us and try to kiss us and stuff. If he wanted to grab someones butt, it was, like, whatever, dude.

Is that what he did?

And he did some other stuff.

What?

He would ... he would ... he would grab us and try to do stuff to us.

What did he do?

He would try to masturbate us.

Did he do it to you?

He did it to me one time.

You dont want to talk about that, do you?

(Nervous laughter.) Naaah.

How did that contribute to March 5, 2001?

When something like that happens to you, if youre not willing to stop that, then youll just roll over for anything. That was really hard for me to deal with. If I was  if I was  if I was OK with that, then what am I?

You never told your dad?

No, but he told me later he knew that no 28-year-old is going to hang out with a bunch of kids, but I had told him nothing ever happened.

(Reynolds, now 40, is in Oklahoma serving two consecutive prison sentences totaling 40 years, based on multiple counts of lewd misconduct. He was invited by mail to respond but did not.)

Not long before the shooting, Williams says he and Stevens concocted a scheme to run away to Mexico. They, of course, bragged of their scheme to all their buddies. Later, as the date neared, Williams says Stevens backed out. To save face, he spread the word that Williams was the one who had chickened out. As word spread, Williams became a laughingstock among his friends.

FRIDAY, MARCH 2, 2001

The pressure from his misbehavior started to ratchet up. Williams father, probably in a state of great frustration, drove him to school to confront the guidance counselor.

He chewed out the counselor  that when I skipped school, it was the schools responsibility to inform him of it.

The reality was, the school would leave a message on the home recorder noting his absence, and Williams would run home and erase the notice before his father could hear it.

Later that day, Williams, still upset over the counselor encounter, showed up for a class unprepared as usual. He remembered the teacher unloading on him in front of the other students for a lack of effort. It surely wasnt the first time hed been criticized in class, but for some reason, it scraped a nerve. Williams says it also deepened his depression and strengthened a growing urge to commit suicide.

I got out of class and I went and told my friends, This chick yelled at me for a half-hour. I sure wish someone would shoot her. He says it was a threat that he immediately dismissed with ha-ha-ha. He now describes the incident as a verbal, pointless teenage threat on crappy teachers.

However, when he got together with his buddies later, they teased him that he wouldnt carry through with his threat to shoot the teacher because he had backed out on the Mexico run-away with Josh. It was teasing, but it stung. Again, he was the wimp.

SATURDAY, MARCH 3

Saturday was what most kids would consider a dream day. Although Williams was grounded for misbehavior, his father took him hang-gliding as a belated 15th birthday present. When he got home, his dad lifted his punishment to allow him to get together with his buddies.

That night, Williams and a group of friends partied at Stevens house. As the evening drew late, Williams says, he and the others became drunk. He says Josh was angry at something Reynolds had done to him and resurrected the shooting talk.

He went and got a sheet of paper and diagrammed the school. He said what hallway he was going to. He told A.J. (Gilbert) where he was going to go. He told me where I was going to go.

Williams would be stationed in the boys restroom.

Williams says Stevens wanted him to use the .22 revolver in his dads gun case, while Stevens and Gilbert would take two small-gauge shotguns from the case and saw off the barrels for ease of concealment.

Did anybody else know about the plan?

Saturday night, we were telling everybody. Josh was telling everybody because he thought it was cool. I was telling everybody, hoping in the back of my mind that an adult would find out about it (and stop it). But every single person who was told about it seemed like they were encouraging it. Probably about 50 people total, including a couple of adults, knew about it. I think a lot of them didnt take it seriously.

What happened to the diagram?

Josh threw it in the trash.

So, that indicated he was backing out of the scheme?

Yeah.

SUNDAY, MARCH 4

On Sunday afternoon, Williams father took him to Lakeside to look at a condo they were planning to buy and make their new home.

When we first talked about (the move), I said, Awesome. I was getting away from these people. To me, it was like a positive thing. But later in my mind, I thought I was better off dying.

Sunday evening, Williams joined his buddies at a girls house. By that time, he says, Stevens had changed the story and said Williams was the one who bragged about shooting up the school.

With the fresh memory of the Mexico-trip ridicule still burning in his ears, Williams did not back out. He says the Columbine shooting of two years earlier never entered his mind as a template.

Apparently, his resolve wavered, and when he returned home Sunday night, he says he got a phone call from Reynolds, who said Stevens had told him of the school-shooting scheme.

Williams remembers Reynolds telling him, If you dont go through with it, Ill kill you. Williams says he took that threat seriously because of Reynolds intimidating, mesmerizing presence.

Parent of a Santana High School student, Linda Eyler of El Cajon, comforts Nicolle Aldrich, 17, center, and her mother, Terry Adams, right, as Nicolle finds out that four of her friends were injured in the shooting. (Published 03/06/2001)

MONDAY, MARCH 5

Williams didnt sleep well Sunday night. He says he kept thinking about suicide. His last thought of the night was, This is it.

When he awoke Monday morning, it wasnt just another school day.

I got up and accepted that today Im going to die. Im glad its over. I showered. I looked in the mirror. I got the key and opened the gun cabinet. I got out the pistol. I got the .22 bullets and put them on the bed. He found about 40 bullets and took them all.

My whole plan was, Im going to do this and then Im going to die. And so, I was just thinking about suicide the last couple of weeks, and I guess that was the day.

Early Monday morning, Williams says Gilbert knocked on the door to return a bicycle. I told him he could have it because I didnt have any use for it anymore. A.J. said, Im not gonna go through this with you. He went into my room and he seen the pistol and the bullets on the bed, and he said, So youre still going to do it? And I said, This is it for me. And he said, All right.

I put the pistol and all the bullets in my backpack and went out to the bus stop.

We met up with the kids we usually met up with. A.J. was saying, All right, dude, nice knowing you. And we kind of said our goodbyes again. He asked where I was going. I said the boys bathroom, and he was, like, Man, you know most murders happen on a Monday. I told him nobody was going to die.

Williams says he believed .22 bullets were not powerful enough to kill people. He says he had seen them bounce off coffee cans during target practice.

Shortly after 9 a.m., Williams remembers taking his backpack into a bathroom stall and closing the door. He nervously loaded the pistol and opened the door and saw standing beyond the stalls, at the urinals, freshman Bryan Zuckor, 14, and the taller Trevor Edwards, 17, a junior, who was directly in front. He decided he didnt want to shoot anyone he knew, so he closed the door. I felt like, Dude, you either got to go through it or not, but you got to make a decision. And I was, All right, Im going to do it.

The memorial that sprang up in front of Santana High School after the shooting.  U-T file photo

What was in your mind, standing in the bathroom stall?

Like, Im not somebody thats going to hurt people, and I was aware that what I was going to do was going to hurt somebody. But at the same time, I couldnt go back out to my friends  I cant go back out and put myself in a position that theyre going to ridicule me. It was just the easiest way out.

He opened the stall door again and both boys were still there. So I shut the door again, and I thought, Dude, what are you doing? And I thought, I dont have it in me to hurt nobody. And then, for whatever reason, I was like, Im going to open this door again, and if theyre not there Ill pull the trigger. But if it is them, then Im just going to walk out. But when I opened up, I didnt see a tall dude in front of me so I pulled the trigger.

I didnt know it was Bryan. I expected to see a tall person in front of me and a shorter dude to my right, but when I opened up the shorter guy was in front of me and the taller guy to the right.

You put the gun real close to the back of Bryans head before you killed him.

I was about 2 feet away.

What went through your mind at that moment?

Nothing.

Williams continues. I swung around and I shot Trevor. I think it hit him in the neck. He fell, and after about 10 to 15 seconds he asked me why I did it. I told him to shut up.

Did you say that angrily?

No, I was just  that was the only thing I could think of. That was a typical 15-year-old response to everything.

He then wounded student teacher Tim Estes while the few others in the bathroom scattered. As school security officer Peter Ruiz came in to investigate, he was shot three times.

And then what?

I reloaded and I guess I went out a little way and shot at people in the crowd. Then I reloaded again.

In all, Williams believes he reloaded four times and expended almost all of his 40 rounds. He wounded 13 people, staff and students, and killed another student, senior Randy Gordon, 17, whom he did not know.

When the police came, Williams hastily threw down the revolver and surrendered, as they demanded.

SWAT officers check classrooms after a student opened fire at Santana High School, school, killing two people and wounding 13 others.  U-T file photo

He was taken to the sheriffs office and interrogated. He gave as his reason that he was mad at how things were going in his life. He told deputies, I was just, like, screwing up in school and  I didnt want to move again, and my dad kept yelling at me. Hes been bitching at me for a while. And everybody else is being stupid.

He also told deputies that he had not been bullied or even teased, and that neither parent had ever abused him.

Today, Williams says he was ashamed to admit he had been bullied. Asked if he intended to kill people, he told interrogators right after the shooting: I didnt want anybody to die. But if they died, then, oh well.

Not long after the shooting, a forensic psychiatrist diagnosed him with a major depressive disorder.

Andy spent a year and a half in Juvenile Hall, where he was praised as a model inmate and did well in his schoolwork. He was in a controlled, protected environment  perhaps reminiscent of Twentynine Palms.

In August 2002, he instructed his public defender to enter a guilty plea to two counts of first-degree murder. He said he wanted to spare the wounded survivors and the families of the two murdered students the pain of sitting through a trial.

He will be eligible for parole in his mid-60s.

Williams seems to have adjusted well to prison. The guards told me he is not considered a problem, and they are noticeably at ease with him. Hes close to becoming a journeyman brick mason and is two classes short of an associate degree. He hopes to finish a bachelors degree by correspondence.

He is kept in protective custody because he refused to stab another inmate at another prison, he says, a demand made on him by a prison gang. Because of that, for his own safety, he will never be allowed to leave protective custody, which suits him just fine.

He has a girlfriend who has been committed to him for several years. He has even thought of marriage, though lifers are not allowed conjugal visits. His father visits him monthly, and his mother flies in from Georgia at least twice a year.

He is quick to admit that he deserves to be punished  and severely. He thinks the 50-year minimum sentence was too much, considering his youth, but that 20 years would have been too lenient. He believes 30 years would have at least given him the hope of someday having a positive life in society.

Has he ever thought of writing to his victims?

Id like to, not necessarily to explain myself but to pray that everything is going well with them, and to (let them) know how sorry I am.

I feel I owe it to (the victims) not to mess up in here. Ive already made a very bad decision that affected them, and I cant continue to make bad decisions.

Do you know who all 13 of your wounded victims are?

I dont have them memorized, not anymore.

I ask if hes happy, and he says, Reasonably. I have no complaints. But of life in prison, he says: Its, like, it sucks. I hate it. But whatever you make of it, thats basically what it is. It can be miserable if you let it. Its degrees of badness.

Does what you did ever hit you really hard, to this day?

All the time. Like, what the hell did I do?

Do you think of yourself as a murderer?

I think its hard to separate who I am from what Ive done. Obviously, I committed that crime, so youd have to classify me like that, but I dont necessarily think I intended to kill somebody. ... I do know that the people I shot did not deserve to be killed or wounded, and I will never stop regretting that.

Do you dread March 5 coming around?

Not anymore.

Did you for a while?

Absolutely. I wouldnt eat. Id seclude myself from everybody. But after a while, that became just like a shell, you know what I mean? I dont necessarily treat it like its every other day, but 

We can analyze Williams account of March 5, 2001, and say that much of it makes no sense. He says it doesnt to him, either. There are incongruities in his story, so what is the value of reading his words?

Thats an individual judgment. When talking about such crimes, the experts say much but often know little. Angry people can say, Give em the needle.

Sympathetic people can say that we should try to understand the abuse a killer had suffered. To a point, yes, but not to the extent that it makes us diminish the damage done to innocent people.

Another thing we can all do is listen  and despair of our ignorance.

The grown-up Andy Williams is a pleasant guy with no evident antagonisms. But hes in prison. Most cons are the same way while theyre in prison. Anyway, that doesnt tell us why he went off the tracks as a child.

One of his evident problems was that he wasnt aggressive and wouldnt fight. But why should someone have to fight not to be bullied, if indeed, bullied he was?

Williams chose his friends in Santee and became one with them. They were troubled kids.

A.J. Gilbert, 23, died in 2008 while on parole. Shaun Turk, 27, is serving time for murder, in the same prison as Williams. Josh Stevens, 27, is in prison in Florida on a probation violation.

In a reply letter to my prison query, Stevens denies bullying Williams  it was just teasing, he says  and claims the hatching of the plot to shoot up the school was nothing more than idle talk by kids. He insists that no one who heard of it took Williams seriously.

This is an old, familiar theme, but Andy was a latchkey kid  coming home from school to an empty house. He was free to roam, free to get into whatever mischief appealed at the moment.

His father was not a disciplinarian, but isnt permissiveness our parenting philosophy du jour?

Williams turned his youth into a crime story, and helping other children avoid doing the same is our job. All of ours. And we can do that without excusing Williams.

One Internet site lists 115 school shootings in the United States since 1980, and the pace has accelerated over the years. Many of the other school shooters are dead. Williams is alive and available to listen to.

Its only my guess, but I suspect he thought a guy with a gun comes across as really tough. No one punches the dude with a gun, and no one dares ridicule him. This was a way to show everyone the real Andy Williams. He could make his own movie.

Speculation aside, to understand the mind of any person is to walk down a hallway with many closed doors, not knowing behind which is concealed the truth we seek.

We are left to repeat a question: Williams asks, What the hell did I do? Thats right, Andy. What the hell did you do?

Bill Flynn, of Santee, prays in front of the Santana High School sign/makeshift memorial in the front Santana High School on Magnolia in Santee Ca. Flynn had two kids that graduated Santee High, one in 1999, the other in 1997.  U-T file photo

View the photo gallery: March 5, 2001 - Santana High School Shooting remembered
Seth Berry is state representative for Maine House District 55. He is serving his fourth term on the Committee on Energy, Utilities and Technology, has chaired the committee for three terms, and has also served as House majority leader and as assistant majority leader.
Christine Rush is the new director of public relations for Saratoga County.
Close

Scientists have recently discovered a rare type of star dust whose structure specifies that it formed during a rare form of nucleosynthesis, a process through which new atomic nuclei are developed, and could shed new light on water's history on Earth.

A team led by cosmochemists from Caltech and Victoria University of Wellington in New Zealand, a Caltech report said, examined ancient materials aggregates within the Allende meteorite which, in 1969, fell to this planet, and discovered that a lot of them had extraordinarily high amount of strontium-84, comparatively rare light isotope of the element strontium that is so-named for the "84 neutrons in its nucleus".

Francois LH Tissot, a geochemistry assistant professor at Caltech said strontium-84 is part of an isotope family produced by a nucleosynthetic process, called the p-process, which stays a mystery.

Their findings, he added, points to the survival of trains potentially containing pure strontium-84. This, he continued, is exciting, as such grains' physical identification would offer an extraordinary chance of learning more about the p-process.

ALSO READ: New State of Matter: Unique Neutral Electron Might Have Been Discovered

Strontium Found To Be Helpful

Tissot and collaborator Bruce LA Charlier of Victoria Univerisity of Wellington are co-lead authors on research, "Survival of presolar p-nuclide carriers in the nebula revealed by stepwise leaching of Allende refractory inclusions", published in Science Advances.

This is quite interesting, explained Charlier adding, they want to know what this material's nature is and how it is fitting into a mix of ingredients that went to form the planet's recipe.

Strontium, a chemically reactive metal, WebMD explained, comprises four stable isotopes: strontium-84, including its heavier cousins with 86, 87, or 88 neurons in their nuclei.

Scientists have discovered that strontium is helpful when trying to date objects from the early solar system as strontium-87, one of its heavy isotopes, is generated by the radioactive isotope rubidium-87's decay.

Rubidium-87

The rubidium-87 has a very long half-life, 49 billion years, which is more than thrice the age of the universe.

Half-life is representing the amount of time needed for the isotope's radioactivity to drop to one-half its original value, enabling the isotopes to serve as chronometers for dating samples on varying time scales.

The most popular radioactive isotope used for dating is carbon-14, the radioactive isotope of carbon; with its half-life of approximately 5,700 years, carbon-14 can be used to identify the ages of organic materials on timescales up to roughly 60,000 years.

On the contrary, Rubidium-87 can be used to date the universe's oldest objects, and, closer to home, the solar system's objects.

Rubidium-Strontium Pair

As indicated in the study, what is specifically interesting about using the rubidium-strontium pair for dating is that the former is a volatile element.

Meaning, it tends to evaporate to form a gas phase at even comparatively low temperatures. Strontium, on the other hand, is not volatile.

As such, rubidium exists at a higher proportion in an object in the solar system that is richer in other volatiles like water for one, as they formed at lower temperatures.

Counterintuitively, Earth has an RB/SR ratio, that is 10 times lower compared to that of water-rich meteorites, inferring that this planet either accreted from water-poor materials or it accreted from water-rich ones although lost most of its water over time, as well as its rubidium. Understanding which of these circumstances occurred is essential for deciphering the origin of water on Earth.

Theoretically, the Rb-Sr chronometer, as explained in the SOA/NASA Astrophysics Data System, needs to be able to tease apart with the said two scenarios as the amount of strontium-87 that the radioactive decay produced in a given amount of time will not be the same if this planet began with a lot of rubidium against less of the material.

Related information about rubidium is shown on Nanotechnology World Association's YouTube video below:

RELATED ARTICLE: Researchers Fabricate Material That Has Both Quantum Hall Effect and Superconductivity





Check out more news and information on Chemistry on Science Times.
Education Images/UIG via Getty Images

MOUNT VERNON, Wash. (AP)  The body of a missing 37-year-old Nevada woman was recovered from a logjam on the Cascade River on Friday, according to the Skagit County Sheriffs Office.

The woman and a 62-year-old Oak Harbor man went missing Thursday while floating down the Cascade River. A search began Thursday night after the pair did not arrive as planned at the Marble Creek campground, the Skagit Valley Herald reported.
BERLIN (AP)  The Iranian government has expressed anger over the appearance of senior European and U.S. politicians at a rally in support of an opposition group that has long sought to overthrow Iran's theocratic rulers  and which was once considered a terror organization by the West.

Iran's official IRNA news agency reported that the country's foreign ministry on Sunday summoned Slovenia's envoy in Tehran over a video message by the EU nations prime minister at the event hosted by the National Council of Resistance of Iran.

The NRCI is the political wing of the Mujahedeen-e-Khalq, which is considered a terror organization by Iran and was once designated as such by the United States until it was delisted in 2012. The EU removed the group from its terrorism list in 2009.

Hundreds of people rallied Saturday in front of Berlins iconic Brandenburg Gate, while speakers including former U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, Democratic strategist Donna Brazile and numerous serving U.S. senators from across the aisle lauded the NRCI and its aims.

Pompeo, who defended the Trump administration's hard-line stance against Iran over its nuclear program, claimed in his video address that the Iranian government was at its most precarious state since the 1979 Islamic Revolution and called for sustained pressure on Tehran.

The former top U.S. diplomat also compared Iran's newly elected president, Ebrahim Raisi, to a mass murderer for his role in the execution of thousands of Iranian political prisoners in 1988.

"The United States should take the lead to hold him accountable for the crimes against humanity that he committed," said Pompeo, adding that the U.S. government should tell allies in Europe and Asia if they deal with Raisi, "the United States will hold them accountable as well.

Pompeo praised the NRCI, whose funding is unclear and which has in the past paid foreign politicians to appear at its rallies, urging the group to keep up the fight."

May your mission be blessed and protected, may the Iranian people be blessed, said the Republican, who has refused to rule out running in the 2024 U.S. presidential election.

Pompeo's support for the group was echoed by Brazile, who praised the remarkable courage and leadership of the NRCIs president, Maryam Rajavi.

Also speaking during the event were Democratic Sens. Bob Menendez and Cory Booker, and Republican Sens. Roy Blunt and Ted Cruz, the former U.K. House of Commons Speaker John Bercow, former Italian Foreign Minister Franco Frattini, former Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper and others.

Iran slammed Western politicians taking part in the event, with Foreign Ministry spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh accusing them of (selling) themselves cheap for a Europe-hosted circus arranged by a once Saddam-backed terrorist cult with Iranian blood on its hands.

The ministry also condemned the speech by Slovenian Prime Minister Janez Jansa, calling it unacceptable, against diplomatic norms and spirit of bilateral relations, the IRNA news agency reported.

Jansa, whose country holds the rotating European Council presidency, had said he backed calls for an independent investigation into Raisi's role in the 1988 executions.

The Iranian regime must be held accountable for human rights violations and the international community must be more firm on this, he said.
Eloise (Byrd) Campbell age 89, of London, Kentucky, passed away on Saturday, July 3, 2021 at her residence. She was the mother of Sandra Kay Burkhart and husband Donnie of London, Kentucky, Steven Mark Campbell and wife Geri of Hebron, Kentucky, Timothy D. Campbell and wife Martha of Lexingt
The night San Francisco Supervisor Harvey Milk and Mayor George Moscone were assassinated, many expected a riot; instead, hundreds gathered at the intersection of Castro and Market streets for a solemn candlelight vigil and walked to City Hall. There, according to Brian Springfield, director of Friends of Harvey Milk Plaza, Harry Britt, the man who would succeed Milk, promised that one day, there would be something special with Milks name on it.

In 1985, Britt made good on that promise when the city formally named the space above the Castro underground transit station Harvey Milk Plaza. But, aside from the name above the entrance and a small photo display, nothing about that brick-and-concrete corner evokes the gay rights icon.

When the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency announced in 2016 that it would add a second elevator to the station, necessitating significant construction, Castro neighborhood advocates saw an opportunity to reimagine the space completely. So far, their efforts have faced a series of setbacks, but late last month, Friends of Harvey Milk Plaza released a new set of renderings for a redesigned public space that they hope could be shovel-ready by next year.

The community wants gathering space, the community wants something special that is aligned with Harveys worldwide significance as a civil rights hero, and the community wants a space that will inspire continued activism around issues of social justice, Springfield said. These are the ideas that have been in the communitys collective imagination for well over two decades now.

The design drawn up by SWA, a global landscape architecture firm with a studio in San Francisco, works with the bones of the station but attempts to expand the plaza by eliminating the recessed Metro entrance as it exists now.

On the east end of the plaza, the firm proposes a circular pedestal with a subtle design nod to Milks bullhorn where people might gather or speak. The architects plan to wrap the new elevator, which they have dubbed the Beacon, in electronic panels, reminiscent of protest signs, that could be updated to reflect the social causes of the day. And on the west end, they propose a circular grove of trees with Hope at the center. Theyve also added a light well that cuts through to the underground station.

Were never going to be able to change everything, said Daniel Cunningham, the projects lead. So we really wanted to create a design complementary to whats existing in terms of the geometries.

Part of the design process, he said, also involved taking into account past failed proposals. A first run at redesigning the space resulted in three finalists in 2018, but the winning design drew backlash from the community, which felt it went too far by erasing the existing plaza entirely and relocating the stations entrance closer to Collingwood Street.

The redesign effort has the support of several elected officials, including state Sen. Scott Wiener, who has helped secure $2.5 million in state funds for the project. Thats just a start, though. The full project will cost many times that. Springfield said the project does not yet have a formal estimate, but the elevator alone is projected to cost $14.5 million.

Still, not everyone is eager to see the plaza transformed. The original architect, Howard Grant, has persistently criticized the project. Grant, who said he came out decades ago in large part thanks to Milks advocacy, said he understands the desire to pay tribute to the man. But, he said, that could be done by simply adding to the current design. Building on history is what makes our cities interesting, he said. (A historical resource evaluation by the city found the plaza to be of historical significance, though not for its design.)

Grant also questioned whether it makes sense to drop millions into a project that isnt strictly necessary. With all of the things that could be done to improve the Castro, that seems like one of the last things I would do.

The ultimate design is still a way off  the architects are collecting community feedback on their first draft  and the project is not yet assured. Next steps include more fundraising, discussion with the SFMTA about how the project might proceed alongside elevator construction and yet another historical evaluation of any finalized design.

Still, Springfield is optimistic that when construction begins next year on the elevator, itll be just one piece of a remade Harvey Milk Plaza. For better or for worse, the SFMTA project moving ahead of ours is creating urgency.

Ryan Kost is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: rkost@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @Ryan Kost
On Nov. 8, Andre and Latanya Robinson lost their son, Andre Jr., 19, to gun violence in Oakland.

The fourth of five kids and the oldest son, Robinson Jr., before he was shot in East Oakland, was family-oriented and fun-loving, his parents said. He was protective of his older sisters and his mom, and was a great role model for his 13-year-old brother. They never imagined theyd have to live without him.

Its so hard, his mother said, tears running down her cheeks. Sometimes I cant even get up.

He was my best friend, his father added.

The Robinsons, wanting an end to the kind of violence that took their son, went to a Stand Up for a Safe Oakland rally sponsored by the Oakland Police Department at Lake Merritt Amphitheater on Saturday  held as shooting deaths in Oakland soar to 71 this year.

The fix for keeping the city safe, however, isnt easy, nor is everyone in agreement on how to do it. At the same time the Police Department held a rally condemning violence, a group held another rally on the other side of the lake condemning police and advocating for community-based solutions to the problem.

Speakers at the police rally, including Oakland Police Chief LeRonne Armstrong and Guillermo Cespedes, chief of Oaklands Department of Violence Prevention, emphasized that the rally was about bringing the community together to respond to the violence plaguing the city. Armstrong planned the rally after seven shootings and two deaths in the city over the July Fourth holiday.

If we do not act in unison, we all fail, Cespedes said.

Nina Riggio/The Chronicle

But some saw the police rally as a political move directed at drumming up public support for the department after a City Council vote to redirect about $18 million in the mayors proposed two-year city budget from police to violence prevention groups  a move that was sharply criticized by Armstrong, who said that without more resources, his department faces a challenge keeping the city safe.

Carroll Fife, a council member representing West Oakland, was at the other rally, organized by the Anti Police-Terror Project, an anti-violence group that advocates for defunding police agencies. That rally was a celebration of the City Councils vote to invest more in violence prevention instead of police.

Of the police chiefs calls to work together to solve the problem of violence, nothing could be further from the truth, Fife said. She said that if the Police Department was serious about working with the community to stop violence, it wouldnt have criticized the move to fund violence prevention.

Its quite unbalanced to say, We want to work with you, but were going to take all of the money. We dont want you to be funded to do the work that you know is invaluable to stopping violence from happening in the first place, she said.

But Armstrong insisted that his rally was about putting the political aside and finding common ground.

We dont need groups to speak for the community, we need the community to speak for the community, he said. I think you saw that here today.

Theres been 71 homicides this year. They dont talk about that, he said, gesturing toward the Anti Police-Terror Project rally.

Oakland had 102 killings in 2020 and 75 in 2019. Before last year, the last time Oakland surpassed 100 killings was 2012.

Even with the City Council vote to redirect millions of dollars, the council still increased total police spending by about $38.5 million. The redirected funds from the mayors proposed budget invest in the citys Department of Violence Intervention, which partners with community organizations to interrupt and deter violence on the streets.

Cat Brooks with the Anti Police-Terror Project said that officers dont prevent crime, they respond to crime.

If we continue to fail to address the root causes of stress and trauma in our communities, the (crime) numbers are going to continue to go up, she said. I guarantee you were not going to incarcerate our way out of this problem. We never have. I dont know why we think were going to do it now.

At the police rally, a small group of counterprotesters  not affiliated with the Anti Police-Terror Project  got into shouting matches with some of the attendees. They also read the names of people killed by Oakland police into a megaphone while people from the Police Department were speaking, but were quiet when Cespedes spoke.

The sidewalk in front of the amphitheater was chalked with slogans such as, No good cops in a racist system and All cops are Chauvin, referring to the officer convicted of murdering George Floyd in Minneapolis.

The Anti Police-Terror Project rally led to a barbecue in Lowell Park, where people said they were simply there to celebrate.

Its not enough, but its more than we ever got, Brooks said of the $18 million.

Danielle Echeverria is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: danielle.echeverria@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @DanielleEchev
Veronica Vieyra is no stranger to the bottom falling out.

After moving from Mexico when she was 9, Vieyra shared a cramped one-bedroom apartment in San Jose with her three younger brothers and a mother who worked several jobs in pursuit of the American dream. Then, in 2013, when Vieyra was 17, the unthinkable happened. Her mother was killed in a violent crime and the four children became wards of Santa Clara Countys foster care system.

It was a horrible time, and I dont even know if we properly grieved our mom, Vieyra recalled. It feels like weve been in survival mode for a while.

Last year, Vieyra turned 24. That meant the oldest of the siblings had aged out of a foster system that provided her food, housing and some measure of stability in the wake of inexplicable loss. It was April 2020, and a global pandemic was exposing large gaps in the social safety net.

But then Santa Clara County did something unique. It created a universal basic income pilot program for aging-out foster youth such as Vieyra. Since September, she and more than 70 other former foster youth ages 21 to 24 have received $1,000 a month along with financial mentoring.

The yearlong pilot program was supposed to sunset in August, but the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors voted last month to extend it until February 2022 to collect more data. Former supervisor and current state Sen. Dave Cortese, D-San Jose, proposed the local pilot program and is trying to take the concept statewide with SB739, which would send $1,000 monthly payments to 2,500 former foster youth for up to three years.

While Vieyra, now 25, said the program may have literally saved her from hurtling into a precarious housing situation, its unclear whether the once-controversial idea of guaranteed income  even for a population as disenfranchised as foster youth  can go mainstream.

These are our children

In 2012, California extended the age when foster youth are no longer eligible for government services from 18 to 21. Santa Clara County extended it even further, to 24. But the transition from ward of the system to being completely on ones own hasnt gotten any easier, advocates and lawmakers say.

Foster youth are an extraordinarily vulnerable population, Cortese told The Chronicle. We have a demographic thats launched into independence whether they are ready for it or not the minute they hit a certain age. These are our children, and often they dont have anywhere else to go for support on the first day of emancipation.

One reason is that foster youth are much more likely to change schools than their peers, which has a cumulative impact on their academic trajectory, said Amy Lemley, the executive director of John Burton Advocates for Youth in San Francisco, a nonprofit advocating for foster and homeless youth.

If you layer other issues, like coming from a low-income background, coupled with the lack of extended family support available to foster youth, you really have young people living in a very financially dangerous situation, Lemley said.

Thats more obvious in Santa Clara County, which has one of the highest costs of living in the nation, Cortese said.

Pushed last year by Cortese when he was on the Board of Supervisors, Santa Clara Countys pilot program has now set aside $1.4 million for former foster youth. While the county doesnt yet have formal figures to share about the programs first 10 months, the person responsible for managing it said it has provided much needed support at a critical time.

As a result of the assistance, many were able to avoid homelessness, or choose to get into school during shelter in place, program manager Melanie Jimenez Perez added via email.

As for SB739, which carries an annual price tag of $30 million that Cortese and his sponsors propose comes from the states general fund, it passed the Senate and is awaiting a hearing date before the Assembly Appropriations Committee. That needs to happen by Aug. 27 for the bill to have a chance of reaching the governors desk.

On the local level, unconditional financial assistance is finding more elected officials willing to try it since former Stockton Mayor Michael Tubbs tested the concept in his city in 2019. Though researchers found that Stocktons program significantly improved participants prospects of finding full-time employment and attaining financial stability, Tubbs lost his re-election bid the next year.

During the pandemic, San Francisco began basic-income programs for artists and pregnant Black and Pacific Islander women; Marin County announced one for women in March; and Oakland began accepting applications in June for a pilot program that seeks to serve 600 low-income families.

The fact that guaranteed income doesnt proscribe how recipients spend the money has become both a target for the ideas opponents and a critical selling point for its supporters.

More than financial support, because (universal basic income) is unconditional and disbursed with no strings attached, it empowers young people to decide for themselves how to spend the money to meet their specific needs, Gisele Huff, president of the Gerald Huff Fund for Humanity, which partnered with Cortese on the Santa Clara County pilot program, said in a statement.

For Vieyra, the additional income meant the chance to achieve her mothers dream.

A mothers wish

After their mother died, Vieyra and her brothers had to deal with the additional fear of being separated. But all four found a temporary home in Redwood City, and eventually a more permanent foster home in San Jose, where Vieyra continued to pursue her education, just as her mom envisioned.

After three years at De Anza College, Vieyra transferred to San Jose State University. She worked as a nanny, took on internships, and received scholarships and financial aid during college. Living on her own since 2020, Vieyra used the money from the universal income pilot program toward rent and other basic necessities.

In May, she graduated with a bachelors degree in public health. Shes now looking to begin her career in the health care industry, and hoping to work with domestic violence survivors or young people navigating systems like foster care.

One of her brothers attends Cal State Chico, where his housing is taken care of, while two of her brothers are still with the foster family that took them in in 2013. Except for the youngest, who was born in the United States, three of the siblings are in the process of obtaining their citizenship. Sometimes they venture to Casa de Fruta, a fruit orchard in Hollister (San Benito County) that their mother used to take them to. It has a huge fruit stand, childrens rides and a duck pond that visitors drop their wishes into.

When Vieyra graduated from college, fulfilling her mothers greatest wish, she said she wanted to express so much. But the only thought that came to her as she crossed the stage to receive her degree was, This is for you, Mom.

Shwanika Narayan is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: shwanika.narayan@sfchronicle.com Twitter and Instagram: @shwanika
In California, its not unusual for wildlife officials to truck salmon between their native river habitat and the Pacific Ocean. Thats especially true during droughts, when the Sacramento River runs too low and too warm for the young fish to survive.

But a long-stalled plan to save Sacramento winter-run chinook salmon, a critically endangered species, proposes trucking them twice in their lifetimes. Spawning adults would get a lift from the too-hot Sacramento River over Shasta Dam and be driven up Interstate 5 to a cold mountain habitat in the McCloud River. Later, their offspring would catch a ride back to the Sacramento and head to the ocean to start the cycle again.

A scientist from the National Marine Fisheries Service said the rescue project, which almost got off the ground in 2019 before being called off by the U.S. Forest Service under the Trump administration, is vital to the species survival in light of the extreme droughts the state is expected to face regularly with climate change.

Were going to be running into years like this again and again, said Jonathan Ambrose, biologist at NMFS, a division of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Were talking about an animal with only a 3-year life history. So we dont have a lot of flexibility to work with.

Adult Sacramento winter-run chinook salmon get their name because they leave the Pacific Ocean in winter to head up the Sacramento River to spawn in spring and summer near the Keswick Dam, just south of Shasta Dam. Other populations that come through at different times of the year include the fall-run chinook, which is part of the commercial salmon fishery.

During drought, when less water flows into the river during spawning season  in part because its been diverted to farms  the temperature of the Sacramento River can soar, killing salmon and their eggs.

That is already happening. Since early May, wildlife officials have reported finding a high number of female salmon that died before spawning, at least four times the usual rate, said Kevin Niemela, supervisory fish biologist for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Current conditions led the California Department of Fish and Wildlife to predict a massive die-off of the population.

This persistent heat dome over the West Coast will likely result in earlier loss of ability to provide cool water and subsequently it is possible that nearly all in-river juveniles will not survive this season, a Fish and Wildlife report from July 6 stated.

During the last drought, 95% of winter-run salmon eggs died for two years in a row when water temperatures soared. If it happened three years in a row, the species that has run through Californias rivers for millennia could almost disappear.

We have a patient that is hemorrhaging, and were going to lose them quickly, Ambrose said. And we have to do whatever we can to keep them viable and keep them on the landscape so we can look at some of these longer-term solutions.

The Obama administration approved the McCloud River project in 2009 as part of a recovery plan for the endangered species. But in 2019, when California Department of Water Resources staff were about to deploy some of the equipment in Lake Shasta at the foot of the McCloud River, the U.S. Forest Service ordered the project stopped because the federal Bureau of Reclamation, which manages the dam, no longer supported it.

Worth about $1.5 million, that equipment is sitting under a tarp in a storage yard in Red Bluff. Ambrose said there should be no problem to get a permit for the project now, but it requires $15 million in funding for a 10-year pilot program.

Heres how it would work: Wildlife officials would use an existing trap and fish elevator at the base of Keswick Dam to collect adult winter-run chinook as they arrive in spring and summer. The fish would be lifted over the dam and then put into trucks equipped with holding tanks. They would be trucked to the McCloud River, one of the tributaries flowing into Lake Shasta where the fish historically spawned before the construction of the dam.

Under pre-dam conditions, they would migrate up into the mountains, Ambrose said.

Unlike the Sacramento River, which is subject to the Central Valleys scorching summer temperatures and located just a few hundred feet above sea level, the McCloud is located at 1,000 to 2,000 feet of elevation and fed by cool springs. During the last drought, the Sacramento River went to well above 56 degrees, the temperature that kills salmon eggs, from August to November, while the McCloud dropped down to the 40s, according to NOAA.

Next, the adults would spawn and then die, and the juveniles would grow for a while before getting the urge to migrate downstream toward the ocean. But theyd hit a roadblock in the form of Lake Shasta, which is full of non-native predatory fish, including many species of bass.

We dont want the fish swimming through Shasta reservoir, Ambrose said, because were pretty sure most of them will be eaten.

Wildlife officials would set up traps at the entrance of the lake to collect the juveniles, haul them by truck back around the dam and release them in the Sacramento so they could continue their migration to the sea.

The McCloud can hold up to 6,000 spawning adults, Ambrose said. The project would start with a much smaller number and if its successful, slowly ramp up.

Save California Salmon, which works with tribes like the Winnemem Wintu, whose ancestral territory is between Mount Shasta and McCloud River, has supported testing the McCloud salmon reintroduction plan, as have other conservation groups.

This is a great idea. It should be done. It needs to be done because winter-run are always going to be at risk if all of their eggs are in that one basket below Keswick Dam, said Jon Rosenfield, senior scientist for San Francisco Baykeeper.

But Rosenfield said federal and state agencies still need to fulfill their legal obligation to protect winter-run salmon by managing water temperatures in the Sacramento River. His organization has joined other conservation groups in protesting the Bureau of Reclamations temperature management plan for the Sacramento River, which would result in up to 88% of winter-run salmon eggs dying. The State Water Resources Control Board accepted that plan last month.

State and federal agencies, including the Bureau of Reclamation, have put $100 million toward a reintroduction program for winter-run salmon in Battle Creek, a Sacramento River tributary where the fish hadnt been in decades. In 2018 and 2019, state and federal wildlife officials released around 200,000 salmon into the creek. Last fall, they recorded 700 salmon returning to the creek on their own, which showed the program was starting to work. There are plans to remove hydroelectric dams in the creek to expand the restored area and allow room for more fish.

To save the winter-run salmon, NOAA has called for establishing three distinct populations: Sacramento, Battle Creek and McCloud. For now, funding still needs to come through for the latter, likely from a combination of state and federal resources.

It would be the first step in a long-term solution, because these droughts will intensify in frequency and duration, Ambrose said. So we need to start moving these types of programs forward.

Tara Duggan is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: tduggan@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @taraduggan
PESHAWBESTOWN, Mich. (AP)  For traditional Anishinaabe dancer, Julia Martell, the feeling of stepping inside the pow wow circle is indescribable.

Theres overwhelming pride in doing something that was kept from the community for so long, said Martell, adding that its not just a feeling, but an element of connection with community and culture through dance and song.

Martell, a 26-year-old tribal citizen of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians, said she grew up on the Pow-wow trail, first attending when she was only 8 days old. She said she has been dancing since I could literally walk.

She was blessed with dancing fancy-shawl, then cycled between that and traditional dancing before she was given a dream to dance jingle dress.

Its so prevalent in my life, she said adding that dancing for her community is an integral part of who she is.

Its a part of her life that has been interrupted because of restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic. Martell and other Anishinaabek in Michigan have not been able to gather for pow wows as normal, according to the Traverse City Record-Eagle.

Martell said its hard not to acknowledge the difficulty of not being able to participate in a staple of her upbringing for more than a year.

I really miss those connections, that joy and togetherness that pow wows bring for me, she said.

The modern celebration of pow wows began in the early 20th century, when it still was illegal for Indigenous people to practice their culture, spirituality, including song and dance. It wasnt until The American Indian Religious Freedom Act of 1978 that protects the rights of Indigenous people to exercise traditional religions that pow wow began to gain traction in the communities. Since then, tribal nations across the nation and Michigan have pow wow season that ranges mostly in the warmer months.

In a recent public announcement, the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians canceled its annual pow wow, which would have taken place in the third weekend in August.

The COVID-19 virus first attacked our Indigenous elders, it has now turned its focus toward our children ages zero-11. There are no vaccines available to protect this stage of life from the COVID-19 virus. Our children remain vulnerable and it is our responsibility to protect our next generation. Our childrens health and safety is our priority, we make this decision respectfully for them. Miigwech, the statement said.

Other tribal nations like the Little River Band of Odawa Indians also decided to cancel their annual pow wows this year, while some tribes like Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians delayed until later in the year. Keweenaw Bay Indian Community is planning its 43rd Annual Maawanjiding Pow Wow from July 23-25 despite the pandemic.

The pow wow committee for GTB could not be reached for comment.

Martell said she is disappointed about the cancellation, because of other tribes ability to take precautions for the pandemic, but she added that she understands the need to protect our young ones.

Martell she plans to attend other tribal pow wows, like KBICs pow wow in Baraga, to dance and connect with her communities again.

Its really good medicine and I miss those immense emotions you have being among it, she said.

___

Sierra Clarks reporting is made possible by a partnership between the Traverse City Record-Eagle and Report for America.
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP)  Dave Johnson was with his son having lunch, a delayed Fathers Day get-together at Los Rancheros outdoor tent on the far southwest side last June 26, when it suddenly seemed like every siren in the city started going off.

Johnson called his wife, who informed him that there had been a shooting at the Bunn-O-Matic facility on Stevenson Drive.

Johnson said his mind started racing. The pastor at South Fork Church of Christ in Rochester, Johnson said he knew people from the congregation who worked there and wondered about their safety.

Still unaware of the scope of things, Johnson, also a chaplain for the Springfield Police Department, texted Chief Kenny Winslow and Assistant Chief Ken Scarlette. Was there any way he could help out?

Immediately, I cant remember which one got back to me, they said they could use me at the reunification center at Magros Meats & Produce, just to be there as a support for families, Johnson recalled.

It was there in a back room that the families of Christopher Aumiller, 25, and William Bill Gibbons, 61, both of Springfield, were informed about their deaths by Sangamon County coroner Jim Allmon. A third victim, Marsha Strumpher, 54, of Springfield died at HSHS St. Johns Hospital on the following day, June 27.

A year after the incident, Johnson admitted his heart still breaks a little bit for the victims families who havent been able to get more particular answers about that day.

The Bunn shooting made national headlines and came four months after a brewery employee killed five co-workers at Milwaukees Molson Coors campus, then killed himself.

Experts say workplace shootings remain statistically rare, though rampages in Indianapolis on April 15 and in San Jose on May 26 claimed eight people and nine people respectively. In most conventional databases, the Bunn shooting wouldnt be captured because mass shootings are defined by four or more people being shot or killed, excluding the perpetrator.

The acknowledged gunman, Michael L. Collins, 48, of Springfield, also a Bunn employee, was found dead inside his vehicle in rural Morgan County, about eight miles from Jacksonville, on the afternoon of the shooting.

Johnson, who has been a minister for 35 years, said for him to be invited into that room, that sanctuary, with families of the victims was something unforgettable.

In the midst of that level of pain, I didnt know of any human way to address it, Johnson said. There was a holy moment to it.

Johnson isnt the only one who wishes the families had more answers.

Winslow maintained, in a recent interview in his office, that the victims were targeted. Evidence shows that Collins walked by other people to pick out his victims, Winslow said.

A cell phone Collins was using was turned off and never recovered, Winslow said. Collins left no notes behind and no past incidents led police to think there was some ongoing dispute between Collins and the other workers.

Collins last brush with the law was in the early 1990s.

We wanted to be able to answer that for the family, that why, Winslow said. It was frustrating for the detectives. It was frustrating for the department. Im sure it was frustrating for the families.

Wed still love to be able to provide that answer for families.

City of Springfield officials are working with the families of Aumiller, Gibbons and Strumpher on tree plantings as memorials on property around Lake Springfield within the next couple of weeks, said spokeswoman Julia Frevert.

Scott Lee, senior vice president of human resources at Bunn, said any remembrance of the three workers would be done internally and privately out of respect for what everybody wanted. That included, Lee said, the workers families.

Bunn will be making Memorial Behavioral Health professionals available to workers on Friday, but thats been a constant since (the incident), Lee said.

It certainly is in the front of our minds every day and it always will be, frankly, Lee added.

Winslow said the police departments command staff was at a meeting on focused deterrence at the emergency operations center in the Municipal Building East when the first call came in about an active shooter a little after 11 a.m.

You start running through your mind, Winslow said, all the preps and all the plans that youve got in place and what needs to be done. You could hear the men and women already responding.

You could hear theres one down in the parking lot on the radio and you know its the real deal. You keep hoping when it comes out, its wrong, its false.

Responding officers were able to get a name and description of the shooter in fairly short order, Winslow said. Police were getting reports of multiple shots fired in the building as well as outside the building and at that point, Winslow said police didnt know if there was one shooter or multiple shooters, or the number of victims.

An Illinois State Police report detailed, based on videos and CAD (computer-aided design) data, that police were on scene 33 seconds after Collins left the parking lot, said Deputy Chief Joshua Stuenkel.

Collins GMC truck was last seen on video eastbound on Stevenson Drive at Palmer Street.

Where his exact actions took him, we never pinpointed 100%, Winslow said.

Any plan, the chief added, probably would not have taken Collins by either of his residences, which were quickly staked out by undercover detectives.

Familiarity may have taken Collins to Morgan County, where he had a cousin, Winslow said, but even an online police case from 1992, a misdemeanor, lists his address as Springfield.

Winslow said both guns found on Collins  one registered to him and one registered to his wife  were linked to the crime scene. Winslow speculated that Collins had two guns so he didnt have to reload.

Stuenkel said there was no way to tell if Collins had either or both firearms with him earlier or if he grabbed them from his truck during a smoke break closer to the outset of the shootings.

Jaclyn Schildkraut, an associate professor of criminal justice at State University of New York at Oswego and a national expert on mass shootings, said the two most common places for mass shootings are workplaces and schools.

The location in some way is usually symbolic to the shooter, Schildkraut said, for a grievance real or perceived  they were fired from their job or they were bullied or ostracized by their co-workers.

Still, workplace shootings are rare, Schildkraut said. A database compiled by The Associated Press, USA Today and Northeastern University found that between 2006 and February 2020, there had been 13 mass workplace shootings carried out by a current or former employee

While the COVID-19 pandemic may have curtailed the rate of public mass shootings, it didnt drop to zero, Schildkraut said.

There is always a planning element to the shooting, Schildkraut added, but the reality is, and I dont use this context specifically, the best laid plans dont ever go the way you plan them. They could have a plan, then the gun could jam or no one is there or people respond and get behind locked doors.

So it doesnt really matter how long you plan or how well you plan. Its not going to go according to that plan. The reality is a mass shooter has five minutes or less before the police show up and bring it to an end.

Although the case is officially closed, Winslow said, time plays a role in investigations such as this.

Weve kind of hit this dead end and thats kind of where were at right now, Winslow said. Sometimes things change over time and something will come forward.

For the first 45 minutes or so he was at the reunification point at Magros, Pastor Dave Johnson watched a lot of nervous family members being able to see their loved ones and seeing the relief in their faces.

When Coroner Allmon arrived, Magros supplied the team a room, Johnson said. It was there that Allmon confided with the Aumiller and Gibbons families about the victims identities.

A mental health professional from Memorial Behavioral Health and several police officers were also present.

Thats something, Johnson said, Ill never forget, watching the families reaction, the shock and awe of that. Ive dealt with crises and those types of things, but never a shooting.

In both situations, Johnson was able to address the families.

I remember talking about how none of this makes sense, that they werent alone in this, said Johnson, one of three SPD chaplains. Youre just trying to give some pastoral support, that was the main thing. Do they even remember anything I said? Im sure they didnt.

It wasnt real yet. The coroner just tells you your loved one (was taken from you). How do you process that? How do you even begin to process that? What I saw was that once that news was finally delivered (by Allmon), there was the initial reaction then there was the now what?

Thats where I try to step in from the spiritual perspective, just to say youre not alone in this. Theres a God who loves you. Theres a God who cares. I cant understand why he would allow this to happen. Nobody can, but all I know is that he hasnt left us. Thats when we went into prayer and tried to provide some comfort.

Getting the word of the shooting, in the middle of dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic, said Springfield Mayor Jim Langfelder was almost like a numbing effect.

You hope, Langfelder said, you never go through it, but it did show, with the pandemic, how fragile life is and how much we need to embrace one another, especially family and friends.

Langfelder said a huge part of that consolation was having Arthur Hy Bunn, the president and CEO of the corporation, on the scene that day.

The employees look up to him, the community looks up to him and I think it was important that he did say a few words, Langfelder said. Hy Bunn, under the circumstances, rose to the occasion.

A year later, the victims families are at the forefront of Langfelders mind.

They live that each and every day, he said. Their loved one isnt coming through the door anymore. Thats how we reflect back on it. Nobody should have to go through that.

Winslow said his thoughts turned to several things, including how the Springfield community came together and the outpouring of support at memorial services, like ones at Centennial Park and Bunn.

We appreciated then and we still appreciate, Bunns Lee added, all the support we had from the community that day and forward.

A list Winslow used to keep count of all the Sangamon County agencies, and others, like the FBI and Illinois State Police, was a reminder of who responded that day.

As Saturday approaches, there is a more singular thought for Winslow.

If anything comes out of all of this, its just I want the families to know we havent forgotten about them, that someday hopefully we can answer that why, and that we pray for them, especially as we get to these anniversaries, Winslow said. We think of them and their tragic losses and keep them in their thoughts and prayers.

___

Source: The (Springfield) State Journal-Register, https://bit.ly/3x7qjsk
I read Rainy season was driest ever, in Bay Area and across state (July 8) and have been reading for weeks about the exceptional category drought. Today, I finished my morning walk around my Richmond District home having yet again seen the sprinklers spraying, the sidewalks and gutters flowing with water, and the lawns nice and green. When is the city going to wake up and mandate some sensible water use restrictions?

Terry Sayre, San Francisco

Unfathomable greed

Oftentimes, the obvious explanation for the number of unhoused people in our cities is the extreme lack of affordable housing. While this reality may be true, behind this scarcity of affordable housing are the people who use all kinds of inflammatory excuses and rationales to protest any affordable housing in their neighborhoods.

As a lifelong advocate for affordable housing in Washington, D.C., Seattle and now in the Bay Area, I consistently have experienced the objections and obstructions of the people who are identified as NIMBYs, many of whom identify themselves as progressively minded individuals. However, when property values supposedly are being threatened, the most progressive people can become socially conservative to the point of opposing what might be considered for the greater good of the entire community.

What still baffles me is the fact that these longtime homeowners have seen their property values increase tenfold over the course of many years and are still concerned that they wont be able to sell their property in the future for well over their asking price. Such greed is unfathomable and untenable if we ever want to solve this crisis of homelessness.

Ron Moe-Lobeda, Richmond

Trees hold the key

Regarding Regenerative farms fight climate change (Front Page, June 30): It is fantastic to see efforts being made to remove carbon from the atmosphere and combat climate change. However, even as politicians pass legislation to encourage climate-friendly farming, they continue to neglect the fact that clear-cutting is costing us one of our greatest weapons against climate change: trees. Trees normally help prevent the accumulation of an excessive amount of carbon in the atmosphere by absorbing the carbon. However, clear-cutting is destroying them by the masses and thereby preventing them from storing carbon. Not only does clear-cutting prevent trees from storing carbon, but it also releases massive amounts of carbon that had been stored in the earth. In order to effectively combat climate change, we need to end clear-cutting.

Esther Page, Laguna Niguel (Orange County)

Sacrifice for drought

As I travel the Bay Area, it is sad to see so many green lawns. I suppose it comes from the same place as resistance to masks and vaccines: expect that government will solve all problems while railing against government at every opportunity.

No need to step up and contribute, be a caring citizen or look to the greater good.

I cannot imagine our current population sacrificing for the greater good during the Great Depression or World War II. Perhaps it is part of the human condition, and there were just as many selfish in those times?

Tricia Breen, Novato

Another Trump scam

Former President Donald Trumps new lawsuit against social media companies is the newest scam for him to fleece his supporters. Just like the fundraising he created for the election fraud lawsuits, where he raised millions of dollars that he could use in any way he wanted, Trump has created a means for his loyalists to pour money into his personal coffers.

If Trump is so outraged that he cant continue his lies on Twitter and Facebook, why cant he foot the bill for the lawsuits himself instead of asking his supporters to pay for it? Unfortunately, Trump supporters continue to blindly fork over money for his lost causes (and his bank account). I wonder if he will avoid paying the taxes on that income, too.
Oakland A's president Dave Kaval was back in Nevada and tweeting all about it late last week, his latest passive-aggressive attempt at freaking out A's fans and convincing the Oakland City Council to capitulate to owner John Fisher's demands for a Howard Terminal development in West Oakland.

This time around, Kaval postured as though Henderson, Nev.  approximately 16 miles from Las Vegas and where temperatures are hovering around 110 degrees  is a viable ballpark possibility because it is "close to good transit and transportation options, like big freeways." If only there were a ballpark in Oakland close to good transit options.

Kaval also showed some love for Las Vegas proper as a potential ballpark locale, then singled out what is perhaps Elon Musk's most ill-advised pet project (the Boring Loop) as a main draw in the area.

As you can see above, Kaval toured the recently opened Boring Loop, and narrowly avoided falling victim to Nathan Fielder's classic "Out on the town having the time of my life with a bunch of friends. They're all just out of frame, laughing too" meme by adding a second photo with actual humans. Afterward, here's what he told the Las Vegas Review-Journal about the Boring Loop.

Its a huge piece of information for us in terms of site selection because locations that are served by the [Vegas] Loop, obviously have the ability to have distributed parking, Kaval said. Especially for locals, its easier to get to and from. Understanding the timing and even the scope of their endeavor is pretty important to picking the best site for the stadium.

The Boring Loop, which officially opened in June, is supposed to run "more than 60 fully autonomous high-speed [Teslas] to transport 4,400 passengers an hour between exhibition halls" at the Las Vegas Convention Center, according to Tech Crunch. However, because Teslas sometimes catch fire and then burn for hours at a time, and because Teslas are not actually fully autonomous, Clark County regulators have instead only approved a 40 mph speed limit for 11 vehicles, which are required to go down to 10 miles per hour at each of the three underground stops.

Even if the loop somehow, someday works exactly as Musk dreamed it up  high-speed, autonomous and all the rest  we'd still be talking about a single-car tunnel as opposed to, say, a train that can hold hundreds of people at once or a bus that can hold dozens of people.

I do not consider that the "future of transportation," as Kaval tweeted, and maybe deep down he doesn't either. As long as Fisher hasn't gotten what he wants in West Oakland, though, expect plenty more tweets from the A's president hyping up Nevada's minimal offerings.
If a trip to Yellowstone National Park feels overly ambitious during a hot and crowded summer such as this, California offers a viable alternative: Lassen Volcanic National Park.

What Lassen lacks in geysers and bison, it makes up for in volcanoes and proximity. Located in far northern California  approximately 230 miles northeast of the Bay Area  the park also features an active hydrothermal basin with pale blue pools and billowing clouds of steam, boiling mud pots and a sulfuric valley with magnificent views of translucent Helen Lake and Lassen Peak towering above.

Be warned, though. This particular spot  and its short, popular hike  has a gruesome history.

At the start of the Bumpass Hell Trail, a round-trip 3-mile journey into the largest hydrothermal basin in Lassen, a dual-purpose placard explains how the trail got its unusual name.

It also serves as a cautionary tale.

Back in 1864, before the U.S. national park system existed, a prospector and mountaineer named Kendall Vanhook Bumpass was looking for stray cattle when he stumbled on the regions astounding natural features. Although Bumpass didnt know it, the frothy and unstable area resulted from the eruption of an ancient volcano, called Mount Tehama, some 400,000 to 600,000 years before. Surrounded by four kinds of volcanoes and numerous remnants of other massive eruptions  as well as lakes and abundant wildlife  the locale had promise as a tourist draw.

Courtesy of NPS

In fact, it was destined to become one of Californias most interesting  but relatively little-visited!  national parks, Lassen, which today stretches over more than 100,000 acres.

Bumpass, however, never capitalized on his discovery. Quite the opposite, really.

The editor of a local newspaper, the Red Bluff Independent, visited the area with Bumpass in 1865. Rather than celebrating the place, the newspaper ended up reporting on an unfortunate accident.

We took up the line of march with Mr. K V. Bumpass as a guide, an old and experienced mountaineer, whose services we had secured to conduct us to these infernal regions, the editor wrote. On turning the ridge, all the wonders of Hell were suddenly before us.

Although Bumpass cautioned the group to be careful with footing, as the thin ground was hazardous, it was the guide himself who misstepped.

The descent to hell was easy, Bumpass reportedly said after he penetrated the crust. As he broke through, his leg plunged into 240-degree boiling mud, the newspaper article recounted. The mud clung to him and burned him so severely that the leg had to be amputated. Although theres no record of how it was done, at the time, amputations in California typically involved a bite block, a saw, some whiskey and possibly morphine.

Ashley Harrell

If our guide had been a profane man I think he would have cursed a little, the newspaper editor wrote. As it was, I think his silence was owning to his inability to do the subject justice.

These days, a visit to Bumpass Hell is considerably less treacherous; still, in recent decades, more than 20 people have insisted on leaving the boardwalk and been severely burned. The bigger risks lately are long waits for a parking spot, sunburns and dehydration, along with a potentially slick surface depending on the weather. (Bumpass Hell typically opens to visitors in early July, and is open now, but snow can remain on the trail well into the summer.)

Consider starting out on the trail in the early morning, when the weather is milder and other visitors have yet to arrive. Youll begin from the Bumpass Hell parking lot, where the trail is cut into the rocky slope of Bumpass Mountain. After about a mile, a scenic overlook offers a glimpse of Mount Tehama  or what remains of it anyway  and from there youll drop a couple hundred feet into the hydrothermal basin.

On the narrow boardwalk, youll saunter past mineral-rich steaming pools of unusual pastel hues reminiscent of those in Yellowstone, though these are not quite as colorful. Other curiosities of the landscape include rising steam, the aroma of expired eggs and the pleasing pop of boiling mud, which are all symptoms of what lies beneath: a magma-heated reservoir deep within the Earth. Basically, youre standing atop an escape valve for all that heat.

Ashley Harrell

If youve got extra time and a sturdy pair of legs, the Bumpass trail connects with several others that lead to wildflower meadows, conifer forests, secluded lakes and scenic waterfalls. You might even see a bear that looks like it has frosted tips  in Lassen, some of the black bears have adapted to the direct sunlight at high altitude by going blond.

If you can round up some fellow hikers and bring two vehicles, its rewarding to extend your hike to Cold Boiling Lake, then Crumbaugh Lakes, and to finish the jaunt at the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center. Note that youll need to leave one vehicle in the visitor center lot and drive the other to the trailhead.

Just remember to stay on that boardwalk, lest you, too, descend into hell.
Get information and maps for the Beckwourth Complex Fire from the Plumas National Forest.

Find road closure updates at Caltrans District 2's Twitter feed.

Find the latest evacuation information here.

Live camera feeds can be seen here.

LATEST July 12, 10:15 a.m. Firefighters increased containment of the Beckwourth Complex Fire in Plumas County overnight, according to an update from the U.S. Forest Service.

The west side of the blaze is mostly secure, while the north side remains the most active section, with crews building lines to protect homes.

On the east side of the fire along Highway 395, there is still potential for spot fires, the Forest Service said. "Drivers should use caution in the area and be prepared for possible highway closures," according to a statement.

The Lassen County Planning Department said in a statement it is now able to provide property owners with information regarding property loss. You can access information by calling (530) 251-8269.

July 12, 6:55 a.m. The Beckwourth Complex Fire was 89,748 acres and 23% contained as of Monday morning, according to the incident report from the U.S. Forest Service. Covering an area that's nearly three times the size of San Francisco, it's the largest wildfire of the year so far in California.

The fast-burning blaze is burning in Plumas National Forest near Beckwourth, Calif., about 50 miles northwest of Lake Tahoe.

The fire made an aggressive run on Saturday and jumped Highway 395 near the community of Doyle in Lassen County. While the highway was temporarily closed, it reopened Sunday but officials urged drivers to proceed with caution. (Visit the Caltrans website for the latest information on the road.)

Do not stop and take pictures, said the fires Operations Section Chief Jake Cagle. You are going to impede our operations if you stop and look at whats going on.

Cagle said structures had burned in Doyle, but he didnt have an exact number. Bob Prary, who manages the Buck-Inn Bar in the town of about 600 people, said he saw at least six houses destroyed after Saturdays flareup. The fire was smoldering Sunday in and around Doyle, but he feared some remote ranch properties were still in danger.

It seems like the worst is over in town, but back on the mountainside the fires still going strong, Prary said.

Dramatic video footage shared on Twitter by the Truckee Meadows Fire and Rescue showed the extreme conditions with winds whipping flames and tearing across a dry landscape.

July 11, 5:57 p.m.: As of Sunday evening, U.S. 395 is now open from Hallelujah Junction to County Road A-25 in Lassen County, Caltrans said. There are no updates on the acreage or containment of the Beckwourth Complex Fire at this time.

---

California's largest wildfire, raging in sweltering temperatures in Plumas County, jumped a highway and continues to burn Sunday afternoon.

The Beckwourth Complex Fire  a combination of two lightning-caused fires burning about 50 miles north of Truckee  showed no sign of slowing its rush northeast from the Sierra Nevada forest region after doubling in size between Friday and Saturday. The blaze, which is only 8% contained as of early Sunday, increased dramatically to 83,926 acres as firefighters battled in 100-degree temperatures. Late Saturday, flames jumped U.S. Route 395 and forced closures.

Noah Berger/AP

U.S. 395 is closed from Hallelujah Junction to County Road A-26 in Lassen County, Caltrans said. State Route 284 is also closed at the junction with State Route 70 in Plumas County until further notice.

The fire is threatening properties along the state border in Nevada's Washoe County and due to winds expected to pick up today, evacuation orders are in effect for the Rancho Haven, Fish Springs and Flanigan Flats regions. Take immediate steps to protect large animals and livestock, the Truckee Meadows Fire Protection District tweeted.

Dry timber, primarily eastside pine trees and chaparral, are fueling the "extremely active" fire, the Plumas National Forest said in its most recent incident report. Fire crews lost a little containment from Saturday night to Sunday morning; the blaze was 9% contained yesterday and is down to 8% today.

Noah Berger/AP

The Truckee Meadows Fire Protection District is asking people and their small animals to evacuate to Hug High School in Reno. People with large animals can take them to the Reno-Sparks Livestock Events Center. Evacuees should drive south on Red Rock Road.

Video shot by Northern California fire photographer Craig Philpott showed homes and buildings being consumed in the town of Doyle, Calif. The Doyle Fire Department confirmed on Facebook 20 homes have been lost as of late Sunday morning.

"We are sad to report that at this time we have approximately 20 homes lost to the fire in Doyle," the department wrote. "We will update as needed. Affected residents can contact the Red Cross at 844-236-0153."

High heat and blazing wildfires prompted Gov. Gavin Newsom to issue an emergency proclamation on Friday suspending rules to allow for more power capacity, and the ISO requested emergency assistance from other states. On Saturday, Newsom issued another proclamation allowing the emergency use of auxiliary ship engines to relieve pressure on the electric grid.

Noah Berger/AP

The California Independent System Operator warned of potential power shortage Saturday, not only because of mounting heat, but because a wildfire in southern Oregon was threatening transmission lines that carry imported power to California. Pushed by strong winds, that doubled in size to 120 square miles Saturday as it raced through heavy timber in the Fremont-Winema National Forest near the Klamath County town of Sprague River.

Noah Berger/AP

Noah Berger/AP

Noah Berger/AP

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
This article, Google angers employees with 'hypocritical' remote work policies, originally appeared on CNET.com.

As Google employees around the world make plans for post-pandemic work at the tech giant, Laura de Vesine won't be among them. For months, de Vesine, a senior site reliability engineer, went back and forth with the company over a potential relocation. Fed up with Google's inflexible policies, she handed in her notice. Her last day is Friday.

For de Vesine, Google's attempt to corral its employees after a year of remote work has been marked by indecision and backpedaling. Last fall, her team was told it would need to relocate to North Carolina from the company's office in Sunnyvale, California, about 40 miles south of San Francisco. The prospect of ditching Bay Area housing prices and long commutes was a powerful draw. The move, however, came with a 15% salary cut, she said. Then in late March, the team was told it would be a 25% cut. About a month later, the team relocation plans were scrapped altogether.

"This feeling that I can't realistically leave the Bay Area and work for Google is enough for me to have decided to leave," de Vesine said. "It's the fact that Google doesn't prioritize the needs of human beings. The fact that we have lives outside of work, that people actually have families."

Though remote work is sweeping corporate America, Google has been reluctant to let employees do it permanently, an approach Twitter and Reddit have taken. Google isn't the only tech company wrestling with its workforce's increasing desire for flexibility. Apple is facing its own backlash from employees, while Facebook just extended remote work options to all of its employees. But the way the search giant has handled the rollout of its plans has drawn particular scrutiny.

In May, CEO Sundar Pichai unveiled plans for a "hybrid" work environment that would require most employees to work from their offices at least three days a week beginning in September. Under the new structure, 20% of the company would work remotely. Another 20% could work from new locations. People who relocated would get salary adjustments based on the local market. The bulk of Google would pick up where it left off, working from the office. Google makes up almost all of Alphabet, a holding company that has more than 135,000 full-time employees.

As the company sorts out who will work where and how much they'll be paid, Google employees say tension has broken out over office transfers, compensation adjustments and remote work. The competition for transfers and the prospect of pay cuts has provoked growing anger, they say. The dustup over the future of the company's workplace policies has the potential to affect every person at the tech giant.

"This feeling that I can't realistically leave the Bay Area and work for Google is enough for me to have decided to leave." Laura de Vesine, resigning Google employee

The rancor intensified last week, when Urs Holzle, one of the company's longest-tenured and most senior executives, announced plans to work remotely from New Zealand, according to an email he sent to employees that was viewed by CNET. Holzle's plans angered rank-and-file workers, who consider it special treatment for company leadership, while lower-level employees have had to wade through a drawn-out and uncertain application process.

A Google spokesman declined to make Holzle available for an interview. The spokesman said Holzle's relocation request was submitted and approved last year, before Google's return-to-office policies were set, but the move was delayed because of travel restrictions.

The agitation over remote work policies has provided a new source of friction for a company whose employees are already well-experienced in rebelling against leadership. Workers have protested Google's handling of sexual misconduct, its work in China and the ousting of researchers who criticized the company's artificial intelligence systems.

What happens at Google doesn't necessarily stay at Google. For more than two decades, the search giant has set the tone for office culture in Silicon Valley, pioneering lavish employee perks like free food and gym service. The impact of Google's remote work policies could ripple far and wide, as other companies look to the tech titan as a guide.

"Google plays a very key role in the industry," said Andreea Vanacker, CEO of Sparkx5, a company that works with corporate clients to improve employee culture. "Certain organizations may be inspired by actions that Google is taking and say, 'Oh, very interesting. We should be doing the same thing.'"

A New Zealand 'experiment'

Holzle, Google's senior vice president of technical infrastructure, is a revered figure at the company. He was one of Google's first 10 employees and is credited with building the tech giant's IT foundation of servers and networks. But for some Googlers, his relocation email, which was sent on June 29 and hasn't been previously reported, illustrated the inequities of the company's system for deciding remote work.

"After three decades in the US, my wife and I both felt it was time to consider a new location," Holzle wrote. "We've decided to spend a year in New Zealand and see how we like it. To be clear: I am not retiring, just changing my location!"

Richard Nieva/CNET

In the email, he calls the move an "experiment" and says it won't be a problem for him to continue working in the Pacific time zone because he is an "early riser." He ends the note with "Kia pai to ra," or "Have a nice day" in Maori.

Hi everyone, After three decades in the US, my wife and I both felt it was time to consider a new location. We've decided to spend a year in New Zealand and see how we like it. To be clear: I am not retiring, just changing my location! We're considering this an experiment; if things go well, we may decide to stay longer but with moves like theses, it's good to keep an open mind! :-) Despite its geographical remoteness, New Zealand is only offset 3-5 hours from California depending on the time of year, so I'll continue to work in my existing roll. I'm an early riser, so this won't be a big adjustment and I'll continue to work on California time. As things open up (travel to NZ is still complicated by their quarantine), I expect to be in the Bay Area on a regular basis so you will continue to see me around in 3D. Since many of you see me on GVC and might be wondering about my new home office background, I wanted to be transparent about my move ahead of time. I'm looking forward to this adventure and to sharing the results of our relocation "experiment" with you. Kia pai to ra [have a nice day], -Urs

Two Google employees said Holzle's situation encapsulated the company's "hypocritical" policies. Both complained that the relocation represented a double standard in which different rules apply to executives in senior ranks. While his approval came last year, Google employees now undergoing the remote work application process have been told decisions won't come until August, at the earliest. Approval for Holzle's move came before the procedure was instituted.

News of Holzle's relocation especially stung because he has been particularly vocal against remote work, employees said. De Vesine, the resigning Googler, said Holzle had a policy of not letting people work remotely unless they were assigned to an office and that he wouldn't consider remote work for people who hadn't reached a certain level of seniority.

A Google spokesman declined to comment on those claims but said every employee is eligible to request remote work, regardless of their group or department. After publication of this story, the spokesman added that some employees from all levels of Holzle's organization will be approved for remote work or office transfers.

It's unclear if Holzle's salary will be adjusted to the local market, as required for other employees relocating to a new place. The Google spokesman declined to comment on his compensation. If the rule applies to Holzle, he would likely be taking a pay cut. Mountain View, California, where Holzle is based, is 18% more expensive than Auckland, New Zealand's biggest city, according to Expatistan. (It's unclear what city Holzle is moving to.)

'I have to quit'

Google's stance on salaries has drawn blowback within the tech giant. While some tech companies, like Reddit, have said they'll pay employees San Francisco or New York City salaries wherever they work, Google has taken a hard line on making pay adjustments. Last month, Google released an internal tool that gives employees estimates of how their salaries would be affected if they relocated.

One Google employee based in San Francisco said they would like to move out of state to be with their partner. The employee would be relocating to an "expensive tourist destination" where the partner grew up. Google doesn't have an office in the city, so the employee applied for remote work. But it would come with a 25% pay cut, according to the salary tool.

"I will not choose Google over my partner." Google employee

The employee, holding back tears in an interview, said the situation has made them consider leaving the company.

"I will not choose Google over my partner," the employee said. "If I can't either work with my manager or figure something out, I have to quit. Google is not that great."

The remote work policies have taken a toll on the people around Google workers, too. The partner of one Google employee who spoke to CNET said the employee moved to the East Coast during the pandemic so they could live together. Now, the couple may end their relationship because the Google employee is expected back in the Bay Area in September.

Some employees have speculated about Google's motivations for emphasizing in-person work. Google has major real estate investments in its corporate hubs, including some still in development. A workforce sprawled around the globe makes those investments less useful. In May, San Jose, California, approved plans for an 80-acre Google campus that will include office space, housing and retail. For a company whose identity is in part associated with extravagant corporate facilities and whimsical culture, the stringent policies regarding office transfers and salary adjustments may be a way to nudge employees into staying put, said Jake Rosenfeld, a professor at Washington University in St. Louis who researches compensation.

"It could be an attempt to disincentivize people from moving," Rosenfeld said. "One way to encourage employees without being seen as heavy-handed or reneging on earlier promises is to say, 'Look, there's going to be a different salary structure if you choose to leave our hubs.'"

Employees say one of the most difficult parts of Google's return-to-office system is the inability to plan for a future with their loved ones. Google has been "vague and unhelpful" about the process for most of the year, one employee said. The confusion has meant workers have to leave crucial decisions, like schooling for children and apartment leases, up in the air.

"A really big pain point for me has been the uncertainty," de Vesine said. "It has been the unwillingness of Google leadership to commit to a policy and to commit to a policy that seems realistic."
Disneyland fans have been vocal about annual passes being the single most desired thing thats missing from the 2021 Disneyland experience, but Fast Passes are a close second. Still, no one knows when they will return to Disneyland. A perk that had been available pre-pandemic that didnt return when Disneyland reopened in April, Fast Passes allowed park guests to bypass long standby queues for some rides by giving them a return window and access to a shorter line.

But if the news coming out of Disneyland Paris this week is any indication, the return of Fast Passes at Disneyland could also mean another substantial implementation of added costs to the park experience.

On July 6, Disneyland Paris announced a fee-based Fast Pass system called Premier Access. Under this new system, guests will be able to purchase entry to Fast Pass queues individually, per ride. Depending on which ride youre purchasing Premier Access for, that access could cost between 8 euros and 15 euros per ride depending on how busy the park is that day.

As part of our ongoing commitment to provide guests with a range of options to optimize trip planning, guests can choose to purchase Disney Premier Access on the Disneyland Paris app when it launches this summer, said a press release from Disneyland Paris. This optional digital service allows guests to enjoy the ability to skip the regular queue line for some of our most beloved attractions.

Its a revolutionary  and unusually expensive  new upgrade-based Fast Pass system. If it works, it could mean things are about to get even more costly at Disneyland in Anaheim, too.

Since Disneyland reopened, the Disney Company has not been shy about its aggressive financial strategy, which has involved charging top-tier prices for limited experiences and implementing unprecedented ways to charge guests money, like a never-before-seen $60 upgrade to the new Spider-Man ride in the recently opened Avengers Campus attraction in Disney California Adventure. It is certainly not outside the realm of possibility that Disneyland in Anaheim would follow its Paris counterparts lead and implement a per-ride system.

Before Disneyland closed in March 2020, the park had been offering a MaxPass ticket upgrade. For $20 per ticket per day, people could pre-book their Fast Passes via the Disneyland app, rather than walking to each ride, inserting their park tickets into the Fast Pass machine and getting whatever return time was available at that moment. Even with the upgrade, though, there were limitations on availability and how many passes you could use per day.

It's possible that Premier Access will solve that problem. Paid upgrades at Disneyland Paris are available on Autopia, Big Thunder Mountain, Buzz Lightyear Laser Blast, Peter Pan's Flight, Star Tours: The Adventures Continue, Star Wars Hyperspace Mountain, Ratatouille: L'Aventure Totalement Toquee de Remy and the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror. Guests can only hold one Premier Access pass at a time, but the new system could alleviate the issue of having to choose only a few rides for accelerated access. Theoretically, if youre willing to pay individually to skip each line, you should be able to do that as many times per day as you want.

With prices between $9 and $18 per Premier Access pass, you could easily spend hundreds of dollars extra per person per day in the park if you were inclined to upgrade your wait experience. For visitors who are only at Disneyland Paris for one day  admission can reach $140.41 for a single-day Park Hopper ticket  the added cost may be worth it to ride as many rides as possible.

Disney has faced a difficult year financially due to the pandemic, Carly Terzigni wrote for the Disney fan blog AllEars.net, but tacking on fees for a popular service that used to be included in your admission could be a new pain point for many guests.

With the exception of the MaxPass, Fast Passes have been free since they debuted in 1999. Disneyland Paris is still offering free Standby Passes, which will seemingly function like the old Fast Passes  theyre free to use and can be activated during certain periods of the day, subject to availability and dependent on day-to-day needs in the parks, according to that same news release from Disneyland Paris. The difference is that the Standby Pass will only be available to use when wait times exceed certain levels for certain rides. There is no way to book them in advance if the pass is not currently being used for that experience.

We are always looking for ways to improve the guest experience, said Juliette Bron, vice president of digital and data at Disneyland Paris, in that release. The return of Standby Pass, the introduction of Disney Premier Access and each new digital enhancement across our parks and hotels is part of our commitment to provide innovative products and services that take into consideration ongoing feedback and not only meet but exceed the expectations of our guests. Guests expect seamless experiences more and more, and with technologys evolution, we have an opportunity  and a responsibility  to match their expectations.

One expectation that has been true of a Disney visit this year: Costs are going up, and even with Disneylands recently announced California resident discount ticket, a park day is becoming harder and harder to afford.
ISTANBUL (AP)  A minibus carrying migrants overturned and caught fire in eastern Turkey, killing 12 people and injuring 20 others, the state-run Anadolu news agency reported Sunday.

The vehicle tumbled into a ditch while traveling overnight near Yumakli in Van province, which borders Iran.

Television broadcasts showed groaning survivors being treated by the roadside as emergency workers sifted through the burnt-out wreckage.

Migrants, mostly from Iran, Afghanistan and Pakistan, regularly cross the Iranian border into Turkey on foot before being ferried west to cities such as Istanbul and Ankara.

The planned U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan has given added impetus to young men trying the mountainous route, according to Metin Corabatir, president of the Ankara-based Center for Asylum and Migration Studies.

In June 2020, more than 60 migrants drowned in Lake Van when their boat sank.

___

Follow APs global migration coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/migration
At first, novelist Cai Emmons thought something might be wrong with her bite.

In December 2019, while reading from her latest work at a gathering in Sausalito, Calif., Emmons was keenly aware that her voice and speech pattern seemed different than usual. "There was a slight lack of flow and my rhythm was off," she recalled. No one else seemed to notice anything amiss.

But to Emmons, who lives in Eugene, Ore., the problem was glaring. A self-described "big talker" who had taught creative writing at the University of Oregon, Emmons often gave readings, was deeply involved in the local theater community and had been a college actress. She was determined to find out what was wrong with her voice and do her best to fix it.

And so began a roller-coaster process, complicated by the pandemic, that consumed the next 14 months of her life, concluding with a finding that was both familiar and unimaginable.

"I don't think anyone wants to make the diagnosis," Emmons said recently, adding that she regrets not knowing the truth sooner.

"Had I known earlier, I wouldn't have had to go through all that testing and all those doctor visits," she said. Equally important, a speedier diagnosis would have enabled her to "bank" her voice to create a synthetic one for future use.

- - -

In the weeks after the reading, Emmons, then 69, said she became "obsessed with her teeth." They appeared to have shifted - typical in adulthood - and Emmons worried she had developed a bit of a lisp. She also noticed that the episodic hoarseness she had experienced for a few years seemed to be worsening. She visited her dentist, who found nothing wrong with her bite.

On the advice of a friend, Emmons decided to order invisible aligners, an alternative to traditional metal braces.

"It was pretty expensive but I really wanted to fix this problem," she said.

She soon discovered that they made her speech sound garbled. After wearing them for several weeks, Emmons stuck them in a drawer.

In May 2020, she had a telehealth appointment with her primary care doctor. He referred her to an ear, nose and throat specialist whom she couldn't see until July.

In the interim, a friend suggested she call one of his relatives in Ohio who is a physician. The doctor listened to Emmons's description of her symptoms and told her he suspected she had myasthenia gravis, a rare neuromuscular condition that causes muscle weakness. Speech problems can be a symptom of the disease.

"I kind of bought into his diagnosis," she said.

The Ohio doctor recommended that she start taking pyridostigmine, a drug used to reduce myasthenia-related muscle weakness.

But it wasn't clear she actually had the disease: A blood test commonly used to diagnose it was normal.

In July an otolaryngologist examined Emmons's vocal cords. After he found nothing unusual, he sent her to a Eugene-area neurologist.

A month later, Emmons saw the neurologist, who prescribed a trial of pyridostigmine and ordered additional tests. Among them was electromyography, which involves the insertion of small needles into muscles, including those in Emmons's tongue, to measure electrical activity and the response to nerve stimulation. The doctor wrote that she wanted to distinguish between myasthenia and "another process causing . . . symptoms, like for example motor neuron disorders." The best-known of these is amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a rare, progressive neurological disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord that control movement.

"She definitely said I did not have ALS," Emmons recalled.

She felt a surge of relief tempered with skepticism. Her former mother-in-law had died of ALS in 1988, and Emmons knew there is no definitive test for the fatal disease.

"When my mother-in-law died, I thought, 'Well, I don't have to worry about ALS because, like lightning, it won't strike twice,' " Emmons remembered.

- - -

After essentially ruling out ALS and myasthenia gravis the neurologist, who noted that Emmons was having trouble swallowing, ordered a CT scan of her neck, as well as an MRI of her brain and cervical spine to check for a stroke, tumor or a lesion suggestive of multiple sclerosis. When all were normal, she sent Emmons to a specialized otolaryngologist in Portland, 90 miles north of Eugene.

By then, Emmons said, her focus had shifted to a new possibility: laryngeal or spasmodic dysphonia, a voice disorder caused by involuntary spasms in the larynx that produce a strained or strangled-sounding voice. Emmons's college roommate, a gynecologist, told her she "sounded just like several of her patients and kept sending me links to it," the novelist recalled.

But after listening to broadcaster Diane Rehm, who has talked about her nearly career- ending battle with the disorder, Emmons said she became convinced this wasn't her problem. She was having increasing difficulty forming words, which is not characteristic of spasmodic dysphonia.

Her deteriorating voice made Emmons feel uncharacteristically self-conscious. She shied away from readings, public speaking or interviews, fearing that her labored, stilted-sounding speech might make listeners question her intelligence.

In January 2021, Emmons, accompanied by her partner of 20 years, playwright Paul Calandrino, saw a laryngeal specialist at Oregon Health & Science University, the state's only academic medical center.

He immediately ruled out spasmodic dysphonia and asked Emmons whether she had experienced inappropriate laughing or crying jags.

"I hadn't ID'd this as something strange until he asked me," Emmons recalled. "I asked him, 'Why do you ask?' and he replied that he thought I might have a pseudobulbar palsy."

Pseudobulbar disorders affect the ability to control facial muscles and have a variety of causes, including stroke. The ENT did not elaborate and told Emmons he was sending her to a colleague who is a neurologist.

"I think he knew what was wrong, but didn't feel that he was in a position to diagnose it," she said. "And he knew I didn't know. He was very attentive and made sure I had good follow-up appointments."

About 10 days before the meeting with the Portland neurologist, Emmons kept an appointment she had made earlier with a second neurologist in Eugene. The doctor ordered testing so extensive it required 15 vials of blood. Several days later, Emmons learned that nothing had been found; the doctor could not explain her worsening symptoms.

That changed when Emmons saw Nizar Chahin and the young doctor working with him.

The junior doctor examined Emmons first. Chahin then joined them, repeating parts of the physical exam. He asked Emmons if he could inspect the tops of her legs, then stared intently at her thighs for what seemed like five minutes. What, she asked, was he looking for?

Fasciculations, he responded, referring to the myriad brief involuntary muscle twitches he had observed. Then Chahin gently asked Emmons whether she had heard of bulbar-onset ALS. She burst into tears. "It broke my heart," Chahin recalled.

Most cases of ALS are classified as "limb onset" because they initially affect the extremities, often the legs. But about 30% are "bulbar-onset" because they first manifest in the head, specifically in muscles that control speech and swallowing. Fasciculations, or persistent muscle twitches when accompanied by muscle weakness, are a common sign of all forms of ALS, but occur later in bulbar-onset disease. (They should not be confused with benign fasciculations like an eye twitch, a nearly universal, harmless phenomenon.)

Bulbar onset is regarded as a more aggressive form of ALS, which strikes about 5,000 Americans annually. In most cases, the disease seems to occur randomly; a genetic form is believed to account for about 15% of cases.

Although bulbar-onset ALS is more difficult to diagnose than limb-onset disease, Chahin said he is puzzled that neurologists missed it. Difficulty forming words and swallowing are classic symptoms.

Emmons was also experiencing widespread fasciculations along with muscle atrophy, foot drop and abnormal reflexes, in addition to inappropriate involuntary displays of emotion known as "pseudobulbar affect." All can be signs of ALS.

A second EMG performed at OHSU a few weeks later was abnormal and confirmed the diagnosis. Chahin, who directs the university's ALS clinic and has seen more than 700 people with the disease, speculated that the first EMG and swallowing study may have been misread.

"These studies are very subjective," he said.

Emmons said that even though Chahin and his fellow delivered shockingly bad news to her and Calandrino, both doctors were "really wonderful . . . they made us feel very cared for."

The couple travel to Portland every three months to attend OHSU's multidisciplinary ALS clinic. Chahin said that one of his patients with bulbar-onset ALS has lived for six years. Emmons's breathing, he said, is "very, very good - so that's a good sign." Emmons has begun taking medications to treat the disease.

Ten days after the diagnosis, on Valentine's Day 2021, the couple married.

They are trying to derive pleasure and comfort from time spent with friends and family and their shared experiences. Both laugh at the memory of their shellshocked drive home after receiving the diagnosis.

They stopped at a high-end mall along the route and tried to distract themselves by buying a candle and a sweater. As the clerk was wrapping the items, she innocently inquired, "So how's your day going?"

Emmons recently bought an assistive communication device that can translate eye movements into speech. Her voice has continued to falter and she says "it takes me forever to eat now" because of deterioration in the muscles that control swallowing.

Her next novel is scheduled for publication in September. Several friends have agreed to appear in her stead at readings. And her sister's voice will be her synthetic voice when speech becomes too difficult.

One of the hardest things, Emmons maintained, is "dealing with other peoples' assumptions" - namely that her impaired voice equals an impaired brain.

During a recent coronavirus test before a medical procedure Emmons said the nurse "spoke at top volume like I was in kindergarten."

She said she hopes her experience will alert others to the lesser-known form of ALS, enabling them to seek effective treatment earlier that might slow progression of the disease.

"There were many steps along the way where something was proclaimed to be normal, but turned out not to be, " she said.
ATHENS, Ga. (AP)  Kawanis Sutton admits pressure comes with signing to a major label.

The Athens rapper, who uses the stage name Yung Petro, has gone from unsigned hype to joining Huncho Records headed by Quavo, a member of Migos, one of the most well-known rap groups. And all of this came just months after he decided to seriously pursue rap, he said.

He remembers a childhood in a city that, Sutton says, is much different from the perception of those who only associate Athens with the University of Georgia.

My mom had me when she was 15, Sutton, 26, said. My mom was a child herself having a child.

He lived in Nellie B Apartments for a couple of years before moving with his grandparents due to his mother being in an abusive relationship. He eventually moved back with his mom and settled on Black Road in Athens.

Growing up on Black Road you saw everything  murders, drug dealers, dope boys, nice cars, Sutton said. You saw it all... really I was a product of my environment.

His experience would color his musical interests growing up, which included Migos, Lil Wayne and Chief Keef.

They connected to me because it was how I was living and what I was going through, Sutton said.

Seven months ago he decided to pursue rap after his cousin, Robert Jewell, pushed him to take it seriously. A song called Bloodline garnered Sutton early attention and soon he caught the eyes of rap stars like Yo Gotti and Gucci Mane. In February, Sutton chose to become the newest member of Huncho Records.

Its really almost like a movie, Jewell said. Where were from, people dont get signed or end up like this.

He said its a blessing for Sutton to sign to Quavo, who is also their cousin. Jewell said this also presented an opportunity for Sutton to shine a light on the real Athens.

Everybody hears about Athens and they hear about the Georgia Bulldogs, he said. I mean theyre straight too, but its a lot more going on than just that.

Sutton faced his first major setback when he was charged with possession with intent to distribute cocaine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

Sutton declined to comment further on the charges, but he maintains his innocence.

Still facing his own setback, Sutton is hoping to show the youth how music can be a way out of their environment. Hes looking to work with Save Our Youth Athens, a budding nonprofit, to potentially throw concerts for the kids or help install a music program.

Him really being from here he can really talk to the kids, Darius Brightwell, co-founder of Save Our Youth, said. They can watch him firsthand. Its not like they have to watch TV or guess.

Sutton said he cares about the youth in Athens because its where hes from, and he wants to see a difference made.

You have to give back to the community, he said. The community is who made you, the community is who supports you, the community is who is going to buy your music when it drops.

Sutton said he also wants to bring a back-to-school drive to Howard B Stroud Elementary School in August to give out school supplies. He said hes hoping to bring label head Quavo to the school.

He said being able to be around Migos has given him an opportunity to watch firsthand how to grow in the rap music spotlight.

Every day Im around them I learn something new, Sutton said. Theres so much knowledge all I have to do is sit back and soak up game.

He said hes been dropping singles but hes looking to put a project out towards the end of the year, or beginning of next year.

I dont feel no pressure because I just get in the booth and rap my reality, my friends realities, and what Ive been through and seen, Sutton said. Coming from where I come from ... the people feel it and relate to it.
SACRAMENTO, Calif.  One hour after a 6.0-magnitude earthquake struck Northern California on Thursday, the California Hospital Association tweeted that its time to to update seismic standards  to focus on all the services people need after a disaster of any kind.

But the associations tweet omitted that its proposal circulating in the state Capitol would actually weaken existing standards, giving hospitals another seven years  until 2037  to ensure that their buildings remain operable after the Big One and limiting the required upgrades to buildings that support emergency services.

Nor did the tweet mention that Gov. Gavin Newsoms office, in private negotiations at the state Capitol, has supported the associations request for more time to do less work, according to multiple sources involved in the discussions in Sacramento who were not authorized to speak about them. Newsoms office declined to comment.

Debates about hospital building standards arent new in California. This time around, they have resulted in an impasse between some of the most powerful forces in state politics: labor unions and hospitals.

The effort to delay legally required seismic upgrades at California hospitals is one of a few remaining issues before Newsom and the Legislature can reach a long-deferred final agreement on the state budget for the fiscal year that began July 1.

Hospitals represented by the association argue that existing seismic standards are too costly, are in some ways unnecessary and that their industry needs more time to recover from massive financial losses during the pandemic.

In a letter to legislative leaders late last month, the association claimed that even with federal aid, California hospitals lost $8 billion in 2020 caring for COVID-19 patients and expect to lose another $2.2 billion this year.

Existing law requires that by 2030, every hospital building is capable of operating following an earthquake.

Without action on their proposal, the association says, the current standard would further drain billions of dollars from hospitals and  if not modified  is likely to result in hospital closures across the state.

The association said its proposal could drastically reduce the estimated $100 billion it would cost to complete the seismic upgrades in California.

This is an important measure for hospitals, said David Simon, a spokesman for the California Hospital Association. We have learned a lot from the pandemic, and flexibility is important, and focusing finite resources on emergencies is important.

Simon said Newsom is siding not with the hospital association but with sound policy.

I think the governor is leaning on the lessons of the pandemic to craft good policy moving forward, Simon said. This isnt a safety question. Its about what services are needed and important during a disaster. What the governor is doing is recognizing sharp modern policy is needed, versus having every building operational after a disaster.

Democratic legislative leaders have made it clear that any deal to change seismic standards would need the support of labor unions. A large labor contingent that includes the California Labor Federation, California Nurses Association, SEIU California, the State Building and Construction Trades Council and others remains opposed to the hospitals proposal.

Steve Smith, a spokesman for the California Labor Federation, said delaying implementation of the law only increases the likelihood that a major earthquake will occur before upgrades are completed.

We know a big earthquake is coming, Smith said. We know its probable, it will happen sooner than later. Its unconscionable that hospitals arent trying to meet a deadline set decades ago.

Smith said labor groups opposed to the changes are engaging the Legislature and governors office on why this is a horrible idea. He said any time a governor weighs in, it brings new urgency to a proposal.

Obviously, we have concerns about the proposal, Smith said. The California Hospital Association has been pushing this a long while, and we are making an especially hard push right now.

Sources involved in the negotiations said the hospital association and the governors office have attempted to pair the delay in seismic upgrades with a push by labor to create the Office of Health Care Affordability, which was included in Newsoms original budget proposal and would set targets for health care costs.

Union advocates say rising health care costs continue to be a problem for workers. The Office of Health Care Affordability would be housed within the Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development and staffed by state union workers.

But union groups have refused to support the hospital associations call to change building standards, even if it means the Office of Health Care Affordability is put on hold.

On Thursday, the California Building Trades Council reiterated its opposition to delaying necessary seismic retrofits.

This is not the time for another disaster, the group wrote over a picture on Twitter showing the collapse of the Olive View Medical Center in the 1971 Sylmar earthquake, which prompted a state law on seismic standards for new hospital buildings.

The hospital association spokesman called the tweet frustrating and said it was unfair.

More than 95% of hospital buildings in the state have met seismic standards under a 1994 law aimed at ensuring that none of them collapse during a major earthquake. That law was passed after the Northridge earthquake that year, which caused serious damage to hospitals. The remaining hospitals that have not met that standard will be updated by 2025, the association said.

A separate standard under the same law  requiring that by 2030, hospital buildings are capable of providing services and remaining operational following an earthquake  is what the association is seeking to delay and scale back. The association said nearly two-thirds of California hospitals have not met the goal.

Were focused on what services need to be operational in a disaster, Simon said. Does it truly need to be everything? Should plastic surgery suites be required to be operational?

Under the hospital associations proposal, only emergency departments and related services needed during a disaster would be required to undergo the added seismic standards, with an additional seven years to comply.

Previous efforts to change the laws requirements, including a bill last year, have failed in the Legislature.

Whats different this time, and whats unfortunate, is the hospital association is taking a failed legislative attempt and using the budget process for their end goal, said Stephanie Roberson, a lobbyist with the California Nurses Association. The process is being abused here. The Legislature has spoken. There should be a hard stop.

With the recall election of Newsom on the horizon, the governors support of the associations request to delay the work could backfire for him in the short term, said Larry Gerston, professor emeritus of political science at San Jose State University.

Gerston, who is writing a book about the recall, said its proponents have been combing Newsoms background and his everyday activities to use anything that may support the case theyre making to the public that the governor cant be trusted.

Once this becomes public, I think these guys are going to jump on it, not as the issue, but another example, Gerston said. They keep poking, and Newsom helps them poke. Theres just been a slew of unforced errors, and they seize on every one of them.
LAKE MEAD, Nev. (AP)  Two men have been injured after a vessel explosion at Las Vegas Boat Harbor on Lake Mead, according to authorities.

Nevada Department of Wildlife officials said a 30-foot vessel that had just finished refueling pushed away from the boat launch and exploded about 2:30 p.m. Saturday.
DOVER, Del. (AP)  The Delaware Legislative Black Caucus says that several of its legislative aims were met during the General Assembly's latest session.

The Delaware State News reported Sunday that the caucus's Justice for All Agenda focused on addressing systemic racial injustice and police brutality.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP)  Two gray houses stand on a small plot of land in northeast Charlotte.

Inside, women swipe paintbrushes across canvases, mince vegetables with steady hands and, on occasion, glue their eyes to TV screens. Outside, they turn their faces upward to the sun, stroll through the green grass and water growing cucumbers in the garden.

Theres not a fence in sight.

To these women, its a home. But its also a prison.

The Center for Women serves up to 30 incarcerated women at a time from all over North Carolina, helping them adjust to the community before the completion of their sentences. Its the only residential work-release program of its kind in the state.

Compared to most of the womens prison experiences, its a paradise.

But paradise doesnt usually have a warden.

THE MISSION

Charlottes Center for Community Transitions (CCT), a nonprofit organization that provides reentry services to people and families who have experienced incarceration, works through a three-prong approach.

In their employment program, they prepare incarcerated people to return to the workforce and work with people whose past arrests are barriers to getting jobs.

Another CCT program works with families and children of incarcerated people and focuses on their social and emotional wellness.

About 80% of the women at the center are mothers, and most of their children are under the age of 18. Research shows that parental incarceration can have residual effects on children that show up as behavioral issues and other health issues. Thats why leaders of the CCT say that a holistic approach is so important.

And their residential program takes women out of prison cells and into the Center for Women, where they live full-time without full freedom but with more rehabilitative support and resources than a traditional jail provides.

Curating it all is a former corporate human resources professional whose door is always open to the women of the center.

Were really proud of our program in the way that we are able to address both the parent and the child simultaneously to disrupt the cycle of incarceration, lower recidivism rates for adults that may find themselves in situations where re-arrest is probable and improve public safety in our communities because were contributing to the economic development of our neighborhoods where people can thrive, said Patrice Funderburg, executive director.

Women hear about the program through mostly word-of-mouth and can then apply for acceptance. There are certain stipulations  they cant have infractions from prison correctional officers for a certain period of time, and must come from lower-security facilities.

Since the 1980s, the number of women locked up has skyrocketed, many of them Black and Latino. While theres not one reason or one pathway, Funderburg said some research attributes it to the increase in the number of men incarcerated and women becoming the primary caregivers in the home  loaded with more responsibility and at a higher risk of poverty, putting them at a higher risk of incarceration. Some research says the trend started with the war on drugs in the 1970s.

Many of the women swept up into the criminal legal system struggle with substance abuse, mental illness and histories of physical and sexual abuse. They havent gotten the help they need, in or out of prison.

Kenny Robinson, who was formerly incarcerated, leads Freedom Fighting Missionaries, an organization that helps people recently released from jail or prison reenter the community. He says his female clients often face more barriers.

Its a very different dynamic for them. The same challenges exist for men, but its even greater simply because that person is a woman, he said, citing motherhood and domestic violence as added elements. The challenges are much greater.

When they are released from prison, formerly incarcerated women are more likely than men to experience homelessness. Its just one example of the ways their incarceration continues to affect them and their families for the rest of their lives.

Funderburg says thats where the Center for Women comes in.

THE PARADOX

When Philando Castile was fatally shot by a police officer near Minneapolis in 2016, Funderburg decided she had to make a difference.

It was very much a divine intervention moment for me that just kind of threw me into work that I was called to do, Funderburg said. It was during that time that I also began to really get interested in movement building and activism and advocacy and who even does criminal justice work in the Charlotte community, which is how I found out about CCT back in 2016.

She joined the CCT board in 2017 and took the helm in 2020.

Its the hardest work that Ive ever done, she said. I dont have a law degree or any of those kinds of things, but it means more than words can articulate for me to come to ... the Center for Women, and work alongside women as theyre preparing to transition.

And Funderburg said shes at a unique intersection, where she feels comfortable disrupting what people think about second chances. Despite having a sibling who was incarcerated, shes hesitant to center her experience  she said its most powerful hearing from the women she serves.

When I get to do that, together with folks that have the lived experience of incarceration, thats a different kind of power that Charlotte isnt used to, she said.

The CCT was founded in 1974, and the Center for Women opened in 1987 as a contract work release program for state female offenders. Women must have at least a year left in their sentence and no more than three.

Funderburg is a prison warden, but shes anything but a conventional one. When women at the center are having a bad day, she gives them hugs, sits down and talks to them.

And shes clear about what she needs to keep doing the work she loves: more community support.

Of Mecklenburg Countys $2 billion budget this year, the CCT only received $75,000 in additional funding, bringing their total allotment to $175,000.

And though shes looking for more support through community partnerships, she doesnt have plans on expanding the Center for Women.

I have to pause because my activist hat comes on ... why would I want to create another prison? I live inside of a paradox, Funderburg said. But, according to her, the dilemma is natural: Im a Gemini.

Robinson, who identifies as an abolitionist, said he understands her situation. The prison abolition movement calls for the elimination of the prison system, replacing it with rehabilitation.

We do know that in order to have ultimate progress, it starts somewhere. She knows that no matter how many abolitionists there are, theres still a person that has to be taken care of at the end of the day, he said.

Id rather that person be in the hands of a Patrice Funderburg.

The work is far from done, Funderburg says.

For every woman who is released from here, theres another one coming. So my work isnt done until all of the women in the state prison system are not incarcerated, she said. What does that look like? I dont know. But Im here for all the disruption, all the pioneering, all the trailblazing ways that we can have conversation and think about re-imagining that.

THE SOLUTION

Funderburg sees the CCT as a model for what the criminal legal system could look like.

At the center, women are allowed small freedoms that compound to a feeling of dignity thats been missing for decades. For some, its the first time theyve felt it.

They cook the meals they want, they wear what they want, and they can shower whenever they want for however long they want.

Its a stark difference from many of the prisons the women come from, where theres documented mistreatment and safety concerns. Sometimes, they are denied the medical care they need and sexually and physically abused by officers.

The current carceral state in the prison system anywhere in the country really is cages that are modeled after a militarized style of congregate living, Funderburg said. The focus here at the Center for Women is to provide not just a therapeutic environment, but a residential environment to begin to create an opportunity for women to remember and restore what it feels like to be at home.

It really isnt a prison because were restoring lives.

And, most importantly for some, they feel human again.

Delilah Montalvo, director of the Center for Women, doesnt know why many of the women are incarcerated  she doesnt check their records when they arrive at the center.

It doesnt matter to me, she said. The realization often brings tears to the womens eyes.

Montalvo is a former correctional officer. She knows firsthand, she said, how punitive prison systems are.

Theyre pretty much thrown out of prison after doing so many years without any experiences to the world or any help with mental illnesses. It feels very much like caged animals, when youre there, she said. The difference in here is we see them as people.

Shes been at the center for 11 years, and said the feeling of seeing each woman leave as a different person is still as rewarding as it was the very first day.

They enter here, their anxieties are high, and the prison is still kind of all over them, she said. During this transition, were stripping away that prison mentality and using different language and all of that so by the end, theyre just like butterflies.

Robinson said that difference is because the CCT is rehabilitative, not punitive  and that the approach has been proven to work in other countries.

Our criminal system is punitive in its forms and has no intention of rehabilitation  it only has the intention of punishing... because the ultimate result would be that people would move forward, he said. Most of the people that are in prison are Black or Hispanic. If you created programs that help them, they would move forward ... and thats the ultimate fear.

Since Funderburg began leading the center, theyve had zero women return to prison after their releases.

Although its a statistic shes proud of, Funderburg said the next step is no longer marking progress with recidivism rates and involving more of the Charlotte community in the CCTs work.

As Charlotte continues to grow, shed like to partner with more of the businesses headquartered here.

Corporations and their leaders influence state legislation, Funderburg said.

That influences legislation at the federal level, and Charlotte is the kind of community with the power and resources to be able to do that. Why not through the CCT?
MUSKEGON, Mich. (AP)  A crew of fishermen reeled in a 39-pound record-setting salmon during a tournament in Muskegon over the weekend.

You feel like its a stroke of luck, you feel like maybe you did something right. Im still kind of in awe about it, Nate Wellman, the boats captain, told MLive.com. The crew included his son Jackson Cole.
ST. JOSEPH, Mich. (AP)  More than a century later, two cities in southwestern Michigan will hold a Labor Day ceremony to remember the firefighters who were killed in the Yore Opera House fire.

The event will begin at a monument at Crystal Springs Cemetery in Benton Harbor and then move to Lake Bluff Park in St. Joseph. A program will also be held at Morton House Museum.
JERUSALEM (AP)  Israel's Security Cabinet on Sunday froze nearly $200 million in tax transfers to the Palestinians that it said represented the amount of money the Palestinians transferred to the families of alleged attackers last year.

Under interim peace agreements, Israel collects hundreds of millions of dollars in taxes for the internationally recognized Palestinian Authority. The tax transfers are a key source of funding for the cash-strapped Palestinians.

Israel has long objected to the Palestinian martyrs fund, which provides stipends to thousands of families that have had relatives killed, wounded or imprisoned in the conflict with Israel.

The Palestinians say the payments are a type of welfare system meant to assist families affected by the conflict. But Israel says such payments serve as rewards and incentives for violence.

In its decision, the Security Cabinet approved a recommendation by Defense Minister Benny Gantz to freeze some 597 million shekels  or roughly $180 million  for what it called indirect support of terrorism in 2020. It said the funds will be frozen on a monthly basis out of payments that Israel transfers to the Palestinians.

For the Palestinians, the families of attackers are widely seen as victims of a half century of Israeli occupation. The Palestinians say that many Palestinians are unfairly held by Israel and that the number of prisoners involved in deadly attacks is a small percentage of those aided by the fund.

Qadri Abu Bakr, head of the Palestinian commission for detainees' affairs, accused Israel of stealing Palestinians funds, calling the decision a crime and piracy.

The official Palestinian news agency Wafa said that President Mahmoud Abbas spoke by telephone Sunday with Israel's new president, Isaac Herzog.

It said Abbas called for a comprehensive calm in Gaza, the West Bank and Jerusalem, and called for steps that would create conditions for a achieving a just and comprehensive peace.

The statement made no mention of the frozen tax transfers.
BURLINGTON, Iowa (AP)  Changes made to the Victims of Crime Act under the Trump administration have spurred the closure of Iowa Domestic Violence Intervention Program outreach offices in Burlington, Keokuk and Mount Pleasant, with additional cuts to funding anticipated.

But the advocates who work in these offices, who often travel 700 miles per week to meet with survivors of domestic violence, have become well-versed in working remotely over the past year due to COVID-19. So closing the offices, which will bring DVIP in line with this fiscal years $84,624 cut in federal funding, will allow the continuation of the many services the Iowa City-based nonprofit provides.

One-hundred percent of our services that have been in place will continue to be in place, and that is because we made the hard decisions of having to close our storefronts, DVIP Community Engagement Director Alta Medea-Peters said Thursday from a conference room inside the former Apple Trees Museum at 1429 West Ave., where the Burlington office has been located for the past eight years.

Effective Aug. 1, the physical office will cease to exist.

Over the last 15-18 months of the pandemic, we really have seen how our advocates have adapted and really excelled at mobile advocacy, Medea-Peters said. Weve done mobile advocacy all along, which is going to where victims are and feel the safest to give them services that they need. But we certainly have learned we dont need a storefront to do our work.

Allison Peterson, a client advocacy services and rural manager for DVIP, said she initially was concerned the offices closure during the pandemic would create a barrier for people needing help. And it did, to an extent, as walk-ins no longer were possible.

The barriers still there, but its not as bad as we expected, Peterson said. We meet people where they feel most safe and have phone numbers posted everywhere.

Journey House, a transitional shelter in Burlington, and Keokuks emergency shelter, Serenity House, will keep their doors open. Rural and mobile advocacy programs will continue. But a permanent solution to their funding is needed, and fast.

The 10% cut in federal Crime Victim Fund money is just the beginning, as DVIP faces down an additional $230,000, or 25%, loss next year.

It will be catastrophic for programs, Medea-Peters said.

The Victims of Crime Act was created by Congress in 1984 to provide federal support to state and local programs that help victims of crime, including domestic violence and abuse. It uses fines and penalties paid by those convicted of crimes, forfeited bail bonds, and special assessments collected by U.S. Attorneys Offices, federal U.S. courts and the Federal Bureau of Prisons.

In 2017, former President Donald Trumps administration diverted money generated by deferred and non-prosecution agreements to the General Fund of the Treasury. That money used to feed the Crime Victims Fund.

The 35% being cut by the federal government due to the changes in deposits of the Crime Victim Fund, which started in 2017, put us in this position, Medea-Peters said.

It was not the first time a presidents administration has taken money from the CVF. In 2015, $1.5 billion was rescinded from the fund to provide an offset for a budget agreement with the Obama administration. But the changes made in 2017 have been especially daunting.

If we dont deposit money, then eventually there are zero dollars, and when there are zero dollars to award grants, theres no money for programs and services, Medea-Peters said.

Deposits to the fund have decreased since 2017 and are further hindered by increased reliance on deferred and no-prosecution agreements by federal prosecutors.

According to data provided by the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Legislative Affairs, deposits to the CVF went from $6.58 billion in 2017 to $445 million in 2018 before climbing slightly in 2019 to $495 million. The data was cited in a June 3, 2020, letter to Katherine Sullivan, principal deputy assistant attorney general of the U.S. Department of Justice, by U.S. Sens. Charles Grassley, Martha McSally, Mark Crapo and Thom Tillis.

The funds carryover balance also decreased, from $13 billion in 2018 to $9.1 billion in 2019.

These problematic trends for the financial health of the fund caused the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies to formally express concerns regarding decreased CVF deposits, the letter states.

The VOCA Fix to Sustain the Crime Victims Fund Act of 2021, a bipartisan bill sponsored by U.S. Rep. Jerrold Nadler, a New York Democrat, and supported by Iowa U.S. Sens. Grassley and Joni Ernst, seeks to pump money back into the CVF.

The issue with the Crime Victims Fund is money has been (diverted) from that fund to offset other spending elsewhere, said Taylor Foy, a spokesperson for Grassleys Washington, D.C., office. Because of that, its reduced the amount of funds available for these types of programs, and thats what the VOCA Fix would address.

To do this, the legislation would:

Direct revenues collected from deferred prosecution and non-prosecution agreements, which now go to the general fund of the Treasury, to be deposited into the CVF;

Increase the percentage of state compensation payments to crime victims in the prior fiscal year used to calculate formula grants for state victim compensation programs from 60% to 75%;

Direct states to waive the matching requirement for recipients of state victim assistance formula grants during and for one year after a pandemic-related national emergency; and

Allow states to waive the matching requirement for victim assistance grants.

Grassley also has proposed a temporary version of the VOCA Fix bill that would include a sunset date to buy more time for Congress to debate a permanent fix.

The issue here is getting enough votes to get the bill done. What you dont want to have is a situation where, if there isnt enough support for this version of the permanent fix right now, then nothing happens and these programs suffer in the meantime, Foy said.

Sen. Joni Ernst is a co-sponsor of the bill.

Having volunteered at a womens shelter in college and as a survivor myself, this issue is deeply personal for me, which is why Im working across the aisle to strengthen support for the Crime Victims Fund, Ernst said Monday. Im hopeful Congress can come together to get this important bill passed.

But time is running out.

Even if either bill is passed, it will be another two years before it can go into effect.

Foy deferred to U.S. Sen. Chuck Schumer, a New York Democrat, when asked when the bill will be put to a vote.

A message left Friday with Schumers Washington office has not been returned.

Its stalled and we absolutely need it to take action, Medea-Peters said. We need them to do something. We need them to take action now so that in two years we are not in a worse position. ... If the VOCA Fix Act does not go through, it will be absolutely catastrophic for programs across the state of Iowa. Theres no way around that.

Grassley and other senators sent a June 23 letter to members of the U.S. Senate Committee on Appropriations urging support for funding of programs offered by the Violence Against Women Act in the Fiscal Year 2022 appropriations process to ensure that crimes collection money allocated for the Crime Victims Fund will be devoted exclusively to assisting victims of crime to keep programs running in the meantime.

Meanwhile, programs like DVIP are scrambling to secure other means of funding.

Just more than half of DVIPs funding comes from state and federal money. The rest comes from private grants and donations from individuals and businesses.

In addition to closing offices to meet the shortfall, DVIP has expanded its community engagement in an effort to reach more donors and explore additional grant opportunities.

Its money we can count on that doesnt fluctuate based on whos in the leadership of different governmental agencies, Medea-Peters said. We are expert problem-solvers, because that is literally our job, so we are always looking for ways to pivot and build both growth and support for victim survivors.

She and others with DVIP hope a sustainable giving campaign, wherein individuals donate a set monthly amount, will help to supplement the coming shortfalls and growing need for the services it provides.

It costs $35 per day to house an individual in an emergency shelter and $75 per day to house an individual in a hotel.

Our shelters are full 365 days of the year, seven days a week, Medea-Peters said.

DVIP started in 1979 in Iowa City after a group of people at the Womens Resource Connection Center applied for a grant to see if domestic violence services were needed in the area.

Within 24 hours of that grant award being announced, there were a line of individuals waiting for services outside the Womens Resource Connection Center, Medea-Peters said. Thats really where everything began. It was around the kitchen table and it was about how do we help our friends, how do we help other women back in the late 70s.

From there, the first emergency shelter opened, and services grew as the need rose.

In 2013, Iowas counties were grouped into service regions, with DVIP taking over services and partnering with existing service providers, such as the YMCA, in Cedar, Des Moines, Henry, Iowa, Johnson, Lee and Van Buren counties.

Shelters continued to be filled throughout the state, but many would close.

In 2000, we had 38 programs and 27 shelters in the state of Iowa, Medea-Peters said. At this point in 2021, we have eight shelters in the state of Iowa, because of cuts and slashes and not prioritizing victim survivors.

She fears more shelters will close in lieu of the VOCA Fix, and says the need has never been greater.

Fueled by pandemic-related stress, quarantine and financial circumstances, calls to DVIPs crisis hotline have increased by 28% each month since May 2020. Housing costs for victim survivors also have increased.

With the pandemic, we have seen an increase ten-fold in dollars spent on temporary sheltering at hotels, apartments, those types of things, because individuals cannot stay with family members or friends like they normally would to get a reprieve, Medea-Peters said.

The increase has more than doubled advocate caseloads. Peterson said one advocate who typically averages about 20 clients now has 54. Services provided to those individuals vary on a case-by-case basis and include check-in, court and hospital advocacy, one-on-one peer counseling, housing assistance, emergency pet sheltering, safety planning and resource gathering.

Furthermore, domestic violence incidents, particularly in Des Moines and Lee counties, are growing more intense, with an increasing number of calls involving weapons and other high-trauma circumstances.

(The pandemic) is escalating things for a lot of people, Peterson said

Medea-Peters does not believe the rise in clients or calls will change soon.

The WHO, the Biden Administration and the kind of the CDC have all said that domestic violence, intimate partner violence has become the shadow pandemic, she said. In reality, I think its always been there. The pandemic just brought it to light.

In explaining the importance of the services DVIP provides, Medea-Peters recalled her first day volunteering for a youth program at an emergency shelter 20 years ago.

There was a little boy there, and the only thing he wanted in the whole world was to sit on a porch on my lap and have a piece of pizza. It was one of the most purely blissful moments to just sort of feel his stress melt away and understand that everything he had seen in his life was more than most do, she said. By funding victim services, we can be present and give people space to heal through trauma. ... Funding for these services literally comes down to peoples lives. If we do not have funding support for victim services, there will not be a way for people to get to safety or to survive.
SEOUL, South Korea (AP)  The North Korean and Chinese leaders expressed their desire Sunday to further strengthen their ties as they exchanged messages marking the 60th anniversary of their countries defense treaty.

In a message to Chinese President Xi Jinping, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un said it is the fixed stand" of his government to ceaselessly develop the friendly and cooperative relations" between the countries, the state-run Korean Central News Agency said.

Xi said in his message that China and North Korea have unswervingly supported each other, according to China's official Xinhua News Agency.

The world has recently seen accelerating changes unprecedented over the past century, Xi said. I wish to ... lead bilateral relations to unceasingly rise to new levels to the benefit of the two countries and their peoples.

North Korea has been expected to seek greater support from China, its major ally and aid benefactor, as it grapples with economic hardship exacerbated by the coronavirus pandemic and crippling U.S.-led sanctions over its nuclear weapons program. China, for its part, sees preventing a North Korean collapse as crucial to its security interests and would need to boost ties with North Korea and other traditional allies amid fierce rivalry with the United States, some experts say.

Kim said in his message that the bilateral treaty is displaying its stronger vitality in defending and propelling the socialist cause of the two countries ... now that the hostile forces become more desperate in their challenge and obstructive moves.

Under the 1961 Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation and Mutual Assistance, North Korea and China are committed to offering one another immediate military and other aid in the event of an attack.

North Korea-China ties go back to the 1930s, when Kim Il Sung, the grandfather of Kim Jong Un, led Korean guerrillas as they fought alongside Chinese soldiers against Japanese colonizers in northeastern China. The two countries established diplomatic relations in 1949, one year before North Korea launched a surprise attack on South Korea and started a three-year war that killed hundreds of thousands of people.

China fought alongside North Korea during the 1950-53 Korean War, while U.S.-led U.N. forces supported South Korea. About 28,500 U.S. soldiers are still stationed in South Korea to deter potential aggression from North Korea. China doesnt deploy troops in North Korea.
AUGUSTA, Maine (AP)  Maine is close to enacting a law that would make it easier for students to attain a high school diploma after going through a disruption to their education.

The proposal, from Democratic Sen. Nate Libby, would change state law to help such students build a portfolio for high school graduation. Libby said such disruptions can include living in foster care, experiencing homelessness or relocating schools.
RAHWAY, N.J. (AP)  A man will be extradited to New Jersey to face charges in connection with the alleged abduction of a 2-year-old boy whose mother was found dead in Tennessee, authorities said Sunday.

The Union County prosecutor's office and Rahway police said 27-year-old Tyler Rios, of Highland Park, is charged with first-degree kidnapping, and additional criminal charges are pending in connection with the death of 24-year-old Yasemin Uyar of Rahway."

The child was the subject of an Amber Alert on Friday after he wasn't taken to day care in New Jersey and Uyar did not arrive for scheduled work shifts, prosecutors said. The boy was found unharmed early Saturday in Monterey, Tennessee. Rios was taken into custody.

Uyar's body was found Saturday in a wooded area off an interstate, authorities said. No information on a possible cause of death was immediately provided and New Jersey authorities did not provide additional information about charges pending in her death.

Tyler Rios remains in custody in Tennessee pending extradition back to New Jersey. It's unclear whether he has an attorney; a listed number for him couldn't be found Sunday.

Karen Uyar told NJ Advance Media that her daughter was a doting mother who struggled in an abusive relationship. On Facebook, she said the family grieves her loss but doesn't want her remembered solely as a victim.

She was a daughter, sister, mother, aunt and cousin," Karen Uyar said. Her life will be celebrated as her greatest gift to this world.

___

This story has been corrected to note that the victim's first name is Yasemin rather than Yasmine, per prosecutor's office.
LOS ANGELES  Bill Hutchinson, a prominent Dallas-area developer who stars in the reality TV show Marrying Millions, has been charged in Orange County with rape and sexual assault involving two teenage girls, the district attorney said Friday.

Hutchinson, 63, was charged with one count of rape of an unconscious person and five misdemeanors counts of nonconsensual touching, Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer said.

An arrest warrant has been issued for the multimillionaire developer, who owns a home in the Emerald Bay community of Laguna Beach, court records show.

Prosecutors say Hutchinson sexually assaulted two 16-year-old girls while they were vacationing with him in April in California. He raped one of them on April 1 and sexually assaulted the other four times during that trip, the district attorney said. He then returned to the property a second time with one of the girls and committed a sexual battery on her, according to court documents.

Attorney John Manly, who represents one of the girls, said that she was 16 when she was assaulted but that she met Hutchinson when she was 15 through one of his daughters.

The Orange County charges come on the heels of Hutchinsons arrest Wednesday in Texas on suspicion of sexual assault involving a 17-year-old.

According to an affidavit in that case, the 17-year-old reported the incident to police in early June and alleged that Hutchinson provided her and other minors with alcohol and let them smoke marijuana at his Highland Park, Texas, home in May.

The teen told investigators she woke up and Hutchinson was touching her without her consent.

He has been charged in that case with inappropriate touching, including massages and groping, a second-degree felony under Texas law.

Anyone who knows me in this city knows that I am not capable of assault, sexual or otherwise, Hutchinson said in a statement following his release in Texas on a $30,000 bond. Hopefully all of my colleagues and friends will give me the benefit of the doubt until I prove my innocence in court.

According to the Texas affidavit, which was obtained by the Dallas Morning News, investigators obtained video of another teen stating that Hutchinson had displayed similar behavior with her at his home in Laguna Beach.

Hutchinson, the founder of Dallas-based real estate firm Dunhill Partners, has been featured on Lifetimes Marrying Millions, which follows wealthy people as they pursue romantic relationships with partners who are far below their income level  or age. In the show, Hutchinson is engaged to 23-year-old Brianna Ramirez, whom he met at a Tex-Mex restaurant in Dallas where she was a hostess. He has been married twice before and has six children.

Hutchinson told the Dallas Morning News in a 2019 story that he did not feel his age. I dont feel like a grandfather, and I dont even like being called a grandfather, he said. I dont want to fit that role for a long time.

Hutchinson could not be reached for comment Friday. If convicted of all charges in Orange County, he faces eight years in state prison and 2 1/2 years in jail.
BOSTON (AP)  A mobile vaccination clinic is working its way through Massachusetts, one arm at a time.

The so-called Vax Bus had scheduled stops in Brockton Sunday and Monday. It was in Revere on Saturday. The shots are administered on the bus, and no appointment is needed.

State officials say the two buses that make up the Vax Bus fleet will spend a day or two in nearly two dozen communities before its last stops next month.

Upcoming visits are planned to Attleboro, Provincetown, Pittsfield, Springfield and Fall River.

More than 80% of adults in Massachusetts have gotten at least one dose of the vaccine and more than 4 million residents are fully vaccinated, according to state officials.

The Vax Bus schedule can be found at: mass.gov/VaxBus.

In other pandemic-related news throughout the region:

___

MAINE

Recent tests by Maine's largest hospital network indicate the more contagious delta variant of COVID-19 is more widespread than state findings suggest, the Portland Press Herald reported Sunday.

Since July 1, MaineHealth has collected 49 samples from COVID-positive patients, including some very sick young people. Eighteen tested positive for the delta variant, according to MaineHealth's chief health improvement officer, Dr. Dora Anne Mills.

Yet the state's own count of confirmed delta cases is only four as of June 18.

The gap suggests the variant may be spreading more widely than had been known. Results from MaineHealth's own tests have been shared with the state.

Dr. Nirav Shah, director of the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention, told the Press Herald that he expects the delta variant's impact to grow in the coming weeks.

Vaccination remains the best way for Maine people to protect themselves from the Delta variant and other forms of COVID-19, as our partners at Maine hospitals tell us that the majority of patients requiring treatment for severe COVID-19 symptoms are not fully vaccinated, Shah said.

___

NEW HAMPSHIRE

Child care providers in New Hampshire will soon get some help in the form of federal pandemic recovery funds.

Starting Monday, licensed and enrolled licensed-exempt child care providers in the state are eligible for grants funded by the American Rescue Plan Act. The money is intended to help the child care industry recover from the pandemic's economic fallout, and to ensure that parents have options when they return to work.

The program is administered by the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services.

___

RHODE ISLAND

Restaurants in the state's largest city are celebrating the return of Providence Restaurants Weeks.

The two-week event started Sunday and runs through July 24. Dozens of restaurants through Providence will be offering special menus and deals to mark the occasion.

The event comes at a critical time for the restaurant industry as it emerges from the shadow of the pandemic and tourism returns.

As leisure travel continues to pick up momentum and locals continue to support small businesses, this is the perfect opportunity for everyone to get a taste of the regions world-class dining scene," Kristen Adamo, the president and CEO of the Providence Warwick Convention and Visitors Bureau, told WPRI-TV.

___

VERMONT

Burlington has launched a new workforce training program for future caregivers and nursing assistants to help fill a growing demand for those professions.

Mayor Miro Weinberger said the pandemic showed the need for more caregivers and licensed nursing assistants, creating opportunities for many low-wage or unemployed workers looking for new skills.

Called the Moving On, Moving Up workforce training initiative will offer 10 weeks of free, specialized training to 35 students. The program is a partnership between the city, the University of Vermont Medical Center, Cathedral Square and Ethan Allen Residence.

The experience of the COVID-19 pandemic has made the essential nature of caregiving and healthcare services crystal clear," Weinberger said last week when he announced the new program.
AVALON, N.J. (AP)  The mayor of one town on the New Jersey shore has ordered the closure of the boardwalk and beaches overnight due to large crowds and what he called unsafe and disruptive behavior."

Avalon Mayor Martin Pagliughi's executive order Friday continues the pandemic-related state of emergency restrictions blocking access to the beach from 9 p.m. to 4 a.m. and closing the boardwalk between 11 p.m. and 4 a.m., the Cape May County borough said.

Pagliughi said the order, which will remain in effect until further notice, is aimed at enabling local police to disperse large groups of individuals who are congregating in unmanageable numbers on public property which often results in unsafe and disruptive behavior.

Recently, the beach and boardwalk have experienced vandalism to public property and excessive litter and debris created by large groups of individuals who congregate at night," the mayor said.

The mayor blamed what he called an unfortunate measure on state initiatives calling on authorities to issue warnings to juveniles and avoid jailing them except for serious offenses. Pagliughi called on parents to exercise better control of children, otherwise more drastic measures will be considered that would impact everyone as a result of actions of a few inconsiderate people."

Avalon Police Chief Jeffrey Christopher said the state directives bar police from doing anything other than issuing warnings for ordinance and disorderly persons offenses even when alcohol or cannabis use or possession is involved."

State leaders have said the changes in dealing with problems involving young people were needed to end racial disparities in the justice system, NJ.com reported.

If we can turn a youth away from the juvenile justice system, we know they stand a much better chance of turning their life toward success in the long run, Attorney General Gurbir Grewal said last year.

Other communities along the New Jersey shore have reported problems with crowds, often teenagers, trashing property, harassing residents, fighting and leaving excessive litter and debris in their wake.

Over the July Fourth weekend, Long Beach Island officials said at least 300 teens converged on the borough, the Asbury Park Press reported. Large crowds were also reported in Beach Haven and prompted cancelation of the holiday fireworks display in Long Branch. Toms River police have imposed a curfew, citing complaints about youth crowds.
JERUSALEM (AP)  Benjamin Netanyahu and his family vacated the Israeli prime minister's official residence early Sunday, nearly a month after the longtime leader was ousted from office with the formation of an alternate government.

A family spokesman confirmed the Netanyahus left the residence on Balfour Street in Jerusalem shortly after midnight, in line with a deadline agreed upon last month with newly inaugurated Prime Minister Naftali Bennett.
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP)  Across Florida, people living in the thousands of condominiums rising above the states 1,350 miles of coastline wonder if the building collapse in Surfside could happen to their home as state and local officials discuss what they can do to make sure it doesn't.

Although building collapses are rare, local governments are looking at whether they need to adopt new inspection policies  the vast majority of counties don't require reinspection of a building once it's completed.

We inspect bridges every two years and yet a high-rise can go up right on the coast and its inspected at the time its built and never again, said Volusia County Chair Jeff Brower, who said residents have sent photos of damaged buildings. Its kind of a wake-up call, and some of the pictures I have seen of our own structures are scary.

He's in contact with the governor's office on the issue but thinks acting locally will be quicker. One idea is reinspecting new buildings after 10 years and, depending on what's found, inspecting again another decade later.

Miami-Dade County, where the 40-year-old Champlain Towers South partially collapsed last month, requires buildings to be recertified as safe every 40 years and every 10 years after that.

We definitely have to have inspection of the infrastructure of these buildings, Brower said. They're not falling all over the place, but we don't want even one more like the tragedy at Surfside.

The collapse prompted the county  as well as cities and towns within it  to take a closer look at the recertification rules already in place. One municipality, North Miami Beach has evacuated the nearly 50-year-old Crestview Towers and won't allow residents back in until required repairs have been completed. The county announced late Friday that the 28-story Miami-Dade County Courthouse will begin undergoing repairs immediately because of safety concerns found during a review prompted by the deadly collapse of a nearby condominium building

Floridas beachfront high-rises take a beating from storms, saltwater and sea air, which can wear down concrete and rust rebar. There isnt a mile of Floridas coastline that hasnt been affected in one way or another by hurricanes and tropical storms in the past 40 years  with some areas taking multiple hits.

Although construction standards improved when statewide building codes were strengthened in the 1980s, the quality before then was often questionable, said Brett Turner, a project manager in southwest Florida who has been in the construction industry for 45 years.

Up until the late 80s, there virtually were no inspections. Our codes were horrible. So any building or house that was built prior to 1986 is suspect, Turner said. It was the Wild West  whatever you could get away with if you were making a buck.

Turner, who previously specialized in repairing older buildings, said hes seen very dangerous damage in Florida buildings. Im surprised that (Surfside) is the first one that Ive seen this happen to," he said. "Im not surprised it happened; Im surprised its the first one.

In Boca Raton, officials are working quickly to establish a recertification process for older buildings, Councilman Andy Thomson said.

We have a number of high-rise condos on the beach, particularly. And I think thats what causes the most heartburn for people because of the potential of corrosion due to saltwater, Thomson said.

Steven Rogers lives at the Chalfonte condominiums in Boca Raton, where neither the city nor Palm Beach County requires building recertification. But Rogers, who was elected the condominium association president, said they're not waiting for either to set a policy.

The association hired engineers two years ago to inspect the two 22-story towers built in the late 1970s on the Atlantic Ocean. Rogers said he called engineers again after the Surfside collapse and told them he wants an inspection policy thats more stringent than Miami-Dades. The association is now making repairs with plans to do so every year.

Do inspections that you feel are necessary, not what the city or the state feels is necessary, Rogers said. Its going to take time for the city or the state to come out with new laws, and in that time, we have to move. We have to do the right things now.

How the state will act could depend a lot on what's learned about the Surfside collapse, Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis said at a news conference.

We want to be able to identify, why did this happen? Is this something that was unique to this building?" DeSantis said. "Is it something that buildings of that age that would have implications beyond that, whether southern Florida or the entire state of Florida? I think we need to get those definitive answers.

Democratic state Sen. Jason Pizzo, who represents Surfside, has indicated hell seek legislation to address condominium inspections when lawmakers return to Tallahassee in January.

Were going to be pushing for a few new provisions in FL condo law (like we have for the last three years). In the interim, condo associations must comply with existing laws and serious structural deficiencies, so our residents are not uprooted and forced to sleep in shelters, Pizzo recently tweeted.

Escambia County, which includes Pensacola Beach, has no recertification program for older high-rises, and Building Services Director Tim Tolbert said the area will probably wait to see if a statewide code is enacted.

I think it will be more enforceable that way, Tolbert said. Even if thats a requirement and an association refuses to do anything, what do you do? If you go to condemn the building, youre talking about major lawsuits. Its just going to be tough to enforce even if its a state requirement.

___

Associated Press writer Freida Frisaro in Fort Lauderdale contributed to this report.
CHARLESTOWN, N.H. (AP)  Authorities say one man is dead and another injured after their small plane crashed in New Hampshire.

WMUR-TV reports the Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board are investigating the incident, which occurred in Charlestown just after 5:30 p.m. Saturday.
OSAGE COUNTY, Kan. (AP)  Kansas authorities have identified human remains found this spring as a man who has been missing for years, and they are investigating his death as a homicide.

The sheriff's departments in Osage and Franklin counties said the remains that were found in March in a remote part of Osage County have been identified as Jeffrey Myers.
INDIANAPOLIS (AP)  A man recently found dead behind a church on the city's east side was fatally shot, Indianapolis police said Saturday.

Police were called around 7 p.m. on Friday to Indianapolis First Church of the Nazarene after church members reportedly found a body, WISH-TV reported. The next day the coroners office conducted an autopsy and found the man died from injuries consistent with a gunshot wound, according to police.
SPRINGFIELD, Ohio (AP)  Authorities say they are seeking a suspect in a shooting that killed a man and wounded three other people, two of them children, and which appears to have been domestic violence.

Springfield police said officers were dispatched to the Speedway station at about 1:30 p.m. Saturday and found the man, the woman and a juvenile male, and they later found a juvenile female victim. Police told reporters at the scene that the gunfire happened both inside and outside the convenience store at the station.
IRVINGTON, N.Y. (AP)  This time, the weather gods were smiling on Kerby Jean-Raymond and his label, Pyer Moss. So too were the fashion gods.

Two days after torrential rains and lightning sent guests fleeing for cover and forced Jean-Raymond to postpone unveiling his hotly awaited first couture collection, the sun came out Saturday and the crowds came back. They were rewarded with a hugely imaginative, visually audacious show that blurred the lines between fashion and art as it paid tribute to the ingenuity of Black inventors often overlooked by history.

And so, there was the peanut butter dress  literally, a huge, soft sculpted jar of the stuff. There was a stunning hot roller cape  which was what it sounds like, hot rollers from head to toe. There was an ice cream cone with chaps for the cone. There was an air-conditioning unit, an old-fashioned mobile phone, a kitchen mop.

There was a pastel pink lampshade dress, with beaded fringes. There was a chess board, and a white metal folding chair, and a bottlecap  each costume a sophisticated work of sculpture. There was also a refrigerator with colorful letter magnets spelling out the phrase: But who invented Black trauma?

There were also dancers, a rap musician, a string section, and a history lesson from Elaine Brown  activist, writer and a former leader in the Black Panther Party.

Jean-Raymond, whose shows always entwine his ideas about fashion with those about culture, race and society, said in an interview after the show that his goal was to highlight inventions by Black people and show them in a nontraditional way, involving 3D construction and sculpture.

All Pyer Moss shows attract intense interest, but this show had even more buzz because Jean-Raymond was the first Black American designer invited by Frances Chambre Syndicale to show a collection during Paris Couture Week -- the event was livestreamed, with officials in Paris extending the length of Couture Week to accommodate the rescheduled show.

And the setting was deeply significant: Villa Lewaro, an early 20th-century mansion in leafy Irvington, N.Y., about 30 miles (48 kilometers) from New York City built by Madam C.J. Walker, the daughter of enslaved parents who became a hair-care magnate and a self-made millionaire.

Madam C.J. Walkers wealth was more than money, Jean-Raymond wrote in the show notes. Black prosperity begins in the mind, in the spirit and in each other. She knew that no dollar amount could ever satisfy the price tag of freedom  that green sheets of paper & copper coins could never mend souls, heal hearts or undo the evil weve endured.

Chartered shuttle buses ferried guests from Manhattan and Brooklyn, and the rescheduled show Saturday included a contingent from the public, adding to the excitement in the air.

It began with a speech by Brown, who gave a history lesson of sorts of the Black struggle for justice in America and asked the crowd, Where do we go from here? Where does the freedom movement go from here? She urged the crowd to look past differences and get back on the freedom train.

Then came the dancers  men in white, who slowly shed their jackets and eventually their shirts as they accompanied rapper 22Gz performing several numbers, including Sniper Gang Freestyle and King of NY, while the models walked the circular runway.

Jean-Raymond said he and his team had gone through an exacting and exhaustive process to meet the demands of a couture collection.

We went through rounds and rounds of design, he said. We started with a completely different concept. Then the team went out to Joshua Tree and did ayahuasca together. And then we came back with this concept.

So it wasnt just couture in the traditional sense where were sewing up garments, he said. There was welding involved and and fiberglass molding. And we made shoes.

The hair curler outfit alone, he said, took months because it was just people sitting there and curling real weaves onto hair rollers. You know, the bottle-cap took two months. Every time we made something, we we sat back, we thought, How can we make it better? And every time the construction got more complicated.

Jean-Raymond was relieved to not have to contend with freak weather again on Saturday.

Its been a long, long process to get this where we are right now, he said. But Im very happy with the results and that the audience gave us a second chance, after that monsoon on Thursday almost wiped us out.

-

Associated Press video journalist Ted Shaffrey contributed to this report.
MILFORD, Del. (AP)  The numbers of years that Steve Warren and his late father Bill managed to accrue while working at i.g. Burton & Company Inc. are astounding.

Consider that fifth-generation-owned i.g. Burton & Co. is one of the oldest auto dealers in the United States, having been founded in 1908.

Over that time period, one of the two Warrens worked for the company in various roles for 90 years.

The amazing streak came to an end just last week when Steve Warren retired from the auto body shop at i.g. Burton in Milford, ending his 42-year run with the company.

It was kind of surreal, actually, Mr. Warren said, of his last day at i.g. Burton. I left some good people behind. But on the other hand, you start a new era in my life. I guess theres more things to come. I have enough to keep me busy.

Mr. Warren started working with i.g. Burton as a kid.

My father Bill started working here in 1938 and retired here, too, he said. So, I grew up around the business. In the late 60s I would come into the old Seaford store where my dad was the general manager and wipe cars off in the showroom, wash cars  just about anything that needed to be done.

It was just a fun place to be. Thats back when Camaros and Chevelles were big. And eventually, it turned in to being a real job.

Mr. Warren said the best thing about his many years working at i.g. Burton are the people hes met and the relationships hes built.

The Burton family has been great, he said. Ive known them all my life from back when I was in school and a lot of people that Ive worked with became really good friends. We still have a few of them.

Its always. You can even learn more, learn different things from everybody really, if you really press them to find out something that they know that you dont.

Mr. Warren has a shop at his house where he will continue to paint and tinker on vehicles even after his retirement.

Body shop people are getting scarce. Thats a dying breed, said Charlie Burton, the current and fifth-generation owner of the family business. Steve Warren is a very good painter, and we got a lot of business from people that wanted him to paint their cars.

But hes still going to be knocking around. Hes got his own shop at home and those old tech and body shop guys seem like they always work forever. Its just what they do. Hes still going to be banging on some metal and there is always another project.

Mr. Burton oversees i.g. Burton dealerships in Milford, Seaford, Lewes and Smyrna, as well as Berlin, Maryland. They sell vehicles from Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram Fiat, BMW and Mercedes-Benz. They are also the oldest Blue Bird bus dealer in the country.

Mr. Burton was astounded when his father informed him of the extended length of time that a Warren has worked for the company.

To be honest with you, I think its great, he said. You know, weve been around forever. Im a fifth-generation car dealer, which is very rare. Usually, the first one builds it, the second one enjoys it and then the third one destroys it.

Our focus has always been on our people and developing and building them and we hope they stick around. We want the great ones to stay and Steves father Bill Warren, he was a great one, and Steve was a great guy. They stuck with us for a long period of time, and we really appreciate that. Businesses like ours need guys like the Warrens.

Mr. Burton said the company celebrated Steve Warrens retirement with a nice luncheon. He said there are several 20-, 30-, and 40-plus-year employees across his familys dealerships.

He said the COVID-19 pandemic has made the company miss many employee milestones, but he is hoping to have a big celebration this fall to mark the anniversaries and retirements that might have been ignored.

Mr. Warren said coming to work at i.g. Burton every day was just a natural thing for him. He never really thought about going anywhere else.

You can come and go and leave, he said. You know, leave your job and go to another job, but I never really saw where it was better to do that. Prove it to me that the grass was greener on the other side.

The people that work there  Ive always had plenty of support. There was always somebody that was able to help me do whatever I was trying to do.

Mr. Warren has a pair of sons but neither of them followed him into the automobile business. So, the familys remarkable streak will come to an end at 90 years.

Mr. Burton said the Warrens have been model employees for the company.

The best thing about our company is our people he said. Our company has been in business since 1908. We hire great people who maintain strong core values like honestly and integrity. Then we train and develop them so they stay with us.

Of the 113 years that i.g. Burton has been in business, the Warrens were with us for 90 of them. This is something my family is very proud of. I thank Steve and his family for all they have done for ours.
SURFSIDE, Fla. (AP)  The mangled concrete and twisted rebar from the collapsed high-rise near Miami triggered flashbacks for retired Oklahoma City Fire Chief Greg Marrs, who spent weeks with his crew digging through the rubble of the Alfred P. Murrah federal building in 1995.

From afar, Marrs empathized with the Florida teams searching the debris that was once the 12-story Champlain Tower South condominium complex. The scenes in Surfside brought back memories of the urgent search for survivors after the Oklahoma City bombing, followed by the heartbreak of pulling out nothing but bodies, he said.

It was the same for other rescuers who responded to past tragedies. They say the crews in Surfside will carry on with the same commitment and care, even though authorities this past week officially gave up on finding any survivors.

Joseph Pfeifer, former counterterrorism and emergency preparedness chief for the New York Fire Department, was one of the first commanders on the scene after the World Trade Center towers came down in 2001. He said the Florida crews will preserve any human remains and separate any building pieces that provide clues to the cause of the collapse.

They are literally going to peel off every layer. They will clean the site right to the very last piece, said Pfeifer, who teaches crisis leadership at Harvard and Columbia universities and has a 9/11 memoir, Ordinary Heroes, set for publication Sept. 7.

When Marrs first saw photos of the Florida collapse, he said, the images were reminiscent of the destruction at the federal building after a truck filled with explosives was detonated outside. The blast killed 168 people.

In the aftermath, the shells of both buildings were still standing, or teetering, above mounds of broken concrete and twisted metal, with the interiors exposed.

The confirmed death toll from the tragedy in South Florida stood Saturday at 86, with another 43 people still missing. Authorities concluded that there was no chance of life in the remaining rubble, but the pressure has not waned for the crews to find victims so families can lay their loved ones to rest.

Recalling his own experience, Marrs was sure the Florida crews would be just as respectful in searching for the dead as they had been in looking for the living.

Theyre certainly not going in there with bulldozers and moving that stuff out, you know, not caring about whether they run across a body or not  thats not something thats even considered, Marrs said.

The shift from a rescue mission to a recovery effort does not ease the urgency, Marrs said.

Theyre just doing it in a way that is more cautious and safer because there is no longer a race against time, he said. Crews are likely being encouraged to take fewer risks.

Pfeifer agreed: It's a difficult task. First responders know this is something very important to the families. They want to do the job even though it's a difficult job.

Sometimes no identifiable remains are found. About 40% of the more than 2,600 people killed at the World Trade Center on 9/11 still have not been physically identified, Pfeifer said.

Crews in Florida, using their hands with help from heavy machinery, have removed 13 million pounds of concrete and debris from the site.

Heavier equipment has rolled in, making it easier to remove layers of debris, Miami-Dade Fire Chief Alan Cominsky said.

We are expecting the progress to move at a faster pace with our recovery efforts, Cominsky said. He has said that recovering all the victims could take weeks.

Retired Miami-Dade County Fire Chief Dave Downey was part of a crew from South Florida that was dispatched to help in Oklahoma City  perhaps crossing paths with Marrs. He also rushed to the World Trade Center after terrorists attacked.

Every disaster is different. Every disaster has its unique wrinkle, Downey said.

For the past two weeks, Downey has been in Surfside to help coordinate the rescue mission and now the recovery operation.

What happens now is that you change your mindset, Downey said, describing the transition from seeking survivors to knowing that were going to bring closure to these families, but not in a positive way that we had all hoped.

That doesn't mean were not going to work as hard as we can, he said.

___

Associated Press writer Curt Anderson in St. Petersburg, Florida, contributed to this story.
DOYLINE, La. (AP)  A slain police officer is being remembered as a beloved member of his village in northwestern Louisiana.

William Earl Collins Jr. was fatally shot Friday while responding to a disturbance call at a home in Doyline, Webster Parish Sheriff Jason Parker said. KSLA reported that community members remembered Collins, who was known as Billy, as kind and said the fatal shooting was a tragedy for the area.
MONTGOMERY, AL. (AP)  Former President Donald Trump repeated his support of U.S. Rep. Mo Brooks in the Alabama race for U.S. Senate, and took a jab at Brooks well-funded rival Katie Britt.

Britt said Saturday that its a sign of her campaigns momentum and fired back that she didnt need anyone to fight her battles.

Trump in a statement reiterated his support for Brooks and took jabs at senators, including U.S. Sen. Richard Shelby of Alabama and U.S. Sen. Mitch McConnell of Kentucky. Britt was Shelbys chief of staff but left to lead an influential business group.

Trump, in a statement, said Britt, is not what Alabama wants.

I see that the RINO Senator from Alabama, close friend of Old Crow Mitch McConnell, Richard Shelby, is pushing hard to have his assistant fight the great Mo Brooks for his Senate seat, Trump wrote in a statement, using the expression for Republican in name only.

Britt posted a video Saturday that didnt mention Trump by name but said she was responding to a statement put out about her candidacy.

What I want to tell you is that doesnt scare me. Im here to fight for you, Britt said in a video posted on her campaigns Twitter account.

It is clear that our message is resonating. People are ready for something new. They are ready for fresh blood, fighting for Christian conservative and putting Alabama first. That is what people want, Britt said.

Shelby, who is retiring at the end of his term, has backed Britt as his successor.

The Republican primary is shaping up to be a bitter battle. Trumps former ambassador to Slovenia, Lynda Blanchard, and Jessica Taylor, the owner of a grant-writing business who narrowly missed the runoff for a south Alabama congressional seat, are also in the race.

Britt, who launched her campaign in early June, raised an impressive $2.2 million in her first weeks on the trail.
BOSTON (AP)  The U.S.S. Constitution is returning to its full summer visitation hours next week for the first time in more than a year.

Starting on Tuesday, the warship known as Old Ironsides" will be open for free public tours from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. The ship suspended public visits in March 2020 at the start of the pandemic, but reopened on a limited basis last August.
RICHMOND, Va. (AP)  Ferwerdin Al Barzanji has nightmares about what could have been  the promises she could have kept  if her almost 30 years as a university professor and medical researcher in Kurdistan were enough.

When she fled her home homeland bordering Iraq, Syria and Turkey to find refuge in Harrisonburg in 2016, families were depending on the monthly stipends she provided for food and housing. Students awaited her go-ahead to apply for grants at the college where she would teach.

But within two years, she sent apologies instead. There was no money to send. There was no university job, no lab that would let her continue her work.

Like so many refugees, Al Barzanjis options were limited, even with decades of experience and her fluent command of English, Arabic and Kurdish. Credentials, including her doctorate, were worthless in Virginia. To continue her career, shed have to start over and go through school again. She couldnt afford it, and it would be years before money flowed in again.

Refugees in the U.S. receive roughly eight months of financial assistance upon arrival, and after extensive interviews from federal officers abroad who determine their eligibility for resettlement, theyre immediately able to work. But neither Al Barzanji or her husband, Heja Al Sindi, could find employment that paid them a living wage.

They told me from the beginning, You (cant) think about your degrees. Ph.D.? Masters? Teaching? No. You have to go to either the food factories or these distribution centers. Places like that in order to work, she recalled. You cant start like a university professor or a lab scientist.

If both of them stayed in the U.S., they wouldnt be able to give their five children a better education  the reason they left their hometown after 50 years and the one promise Al Barzanji refused to let go.

So they made a decision that would separate their family: Al Sindi would go back and work as the vice president of the University of Kurdistan and send his salary to his family in Harrisonburg while Al Barzanji continued her work as an interpreter and full-time mother.

I put all my feelings and everything into their success. I have to forget about myself, she said. So I have to think about it like this. This is it. I have to live like this.

Del. Kathy Tran, D-Fairfax, introduced budget language establishing a work group to identify barriers keeping refugees out of the workforce and policy changes that could help so Al Barzanji doesnt have to.

Tran, who came to the U.S. from Vietnam at age 2, saw her father spend 14 years getting a dental license after already being a practicing dentist in Vietnam. Its a recurring pattern that carries a toll, she said.

While the work groups recommendations wont be ready before the special session focused on COVID-19 recovery, Tran said she hopes her colleagues recognize that immigrants and refugees are communities in need of investment and resources as they face a gutting economic and emotional fallout.

***

The lack of job security, or availability of only lower-wage jobs with limited benefits, is heavily tied to health, said Dr. Fern Hauck, a University of Virginia professor who founded Charlottesvilles refugee clinic in 2002. Her patients have reported headaches, backaches and dizziness as a result of doing work theyre not used to  which then leads to mental distress.

While the U.S. is seen as a land of opportunity, that opportunity is often not there immediately, Hauck said  especially when employers ask for prior experience and references within the country.

In many cases, people had to flee their homes, Hauck said. Ive had the experience where someone was looking for his records from a professional school and the school had been attacked and bombed and no records existed anymore. So then how do you get a job here?

Loosening the regulation process for credentialed refugees or creating a pathway for internationally trained workers could help alleviate the impact, said Hauck, adding that shes met patients who were doctors back home and didnt have the luxury of doing a residency program that meant long hours away from their family.

The loss of family support and increase in family separation are among the major reasons why immigrant health deteriorates in the U.S., said Dr. Gabriela Leon-Perez, a sociology professor at Virginia Commonwealth University specializing in migration and immigrant health. Leon-Perez added that immigrant women especially balance a complicated web of work and parental stress often fueled by a shift to more demanding low-wage jobs with inflexible hours.

Theyre working a lot mostly for their children to give them a better life, but then theyre spending no time with their children and they feel guilty, Leon-Perez said. Theyre only home when their children are asleep. They dont have dinner together; they dont have family time. So its kind of like, Im doing all of this for them, but then Im also abandoning them all day.

The global health crisis also accelerated unemployment among immigrant women, who continually had the highest rates in the U.S. throughout the pandemic and reached 18.5% in May 2020.

When the pandemic struck and Al Barzanjis appointments as an interpreter dried up, all she had to pay her rent with was the $1,000 in savings she had planned to use if her uncle, whos on dialysis, needed help paying bills. In the first 20 days, money transfers between Kurdistan and Harrisonburg werent going through and rent was due.

The support then was coming from her predominantly immigrant community, who rallied behind her and offered to pay.

Al Barzanjis house was $925 a month, but when school shifted online and colleges sent students home, her kids needed faster internet. They needed rooms to study. She needed space to conduct her interpretation work, which was now virtual and scattered. Al Barzanji would take what she could. They moved to a larger home that was twice the rent and whose increased electricity price tag atop the other changes culminated in an additional monthly cost of $1,200.

For three years, she had volunteered at the Harrisonburg free clinic to feel alive again  to feel like her lifes work hadnt been wasted. Then in December, it closed.

***

When Al Barzanji arrived in Harrisonburg in 2016  a year after Turkeys ramped-up attacks on Kurdistan resulted in thousands being killed or displaced  Virginia was one of only five states in the U.S. to introduce at least four anti-refugee bills that would essentially block lawfully admitted refugees from residing in the state. Republicans representing areas with major resettlement agencies, such as Northern Virginia and Richmond, proposed all of them. None made it past committee.

But President Donald Trumps 18,000-person federal cap on the number of refugees allowed in the U.S.  the lowest in 40 years  would result in Virginia experiencing a nearly 70% sustained decline in refugee arrivals after 2017.

The only year Virginia recorded fewer new refugees was this past year, when the pandemic slashed global travel and constrained resettlement opportunities.

At 1,484, the figure is only a 332-person difference from 2019  the same year Gov. Ralph Northam wrote then-Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to refuse Trumps executive order allowing states and localities the power to prohibit refugee arrivals.

Virginia has welcomed refugees who are fleeing war, persecution, or other dire circumstances. We know that no one chooses to abandon their home until conditions become so difficult that the unknown is preferable, Northam wrote. Virginias lights are on and our doors are open, and we welcome new Virginians to make their homes here.

But the cap had already reduced the federal funding of refugee agencies and shut down 100 of them heading into a pandemic in which immigrants faced a surge of unemployment, loss of health care and housing, and limited COVID information that was translated into their languages.

The cutbacks meant that even with the workforce training, there was no guarantee of jobs in industries where employers were previously just as distressed as we were and experiencing worker shortages, said Harriet Kuhr, the executive director of the International Rescue Committee in Charlottesville and Richmond.

Those four or five years were not fun for us, said Kuhr, noting how the federal cap also separated families that partially came before 2016 while the rest were stuck outside the U.S. even after being vetted by the government.

The separation of families  whether it be through work, living in separate countries or at the U.S.-Mexico border  is a significant stressor, Leon-Perez said.

***

For Al Barzanji, the daily phone calls are the closest option she has to bridge the 6,000-mile divide standing between her husband and their five children in Harrisonburg. Over the past five years, the conversations clung to hope that the pain in being apart will soon be worth it. Other times, they were filled with desperation. Fear. Doubt.

Fera, do you think we did the right thing? her husband asks.

She always reassures him with a yes  because of the kids.

The oldest graduates from George Mason University with an engineering degree next spring. One is at James Madison University studying biology. Another is headed there in the fall. The two youngest are in high school.

We have to the best for our kids. ... But dont think too much about us, she tells him. If you are fed up with being apart, come here. I will go to work  factory work  for six months until youre able to work here again.

As a university professor getting his doctorate in management, the restrictions in the way of him getting a job are not as stringent as they are in the medical field, Al Barzanji said. But even the idea of those six months feels as distant as ever. Its more likely that the next time theyre together for longer than a few weeks out of the year is when he retires to the U.S.

That could take years, but in the minutes leading up to the goodbyes, she likes reminding him of the life they will one day live  one where the beach is a frequent destination; where theyre side by side cheering on their children as they walk across the graduation stage; where theyre no longer afraid.

He rarely questions it. The weight of tomorrow can wait.
By Amelia Williams

Bay City News Foundation

This is probably the last thing you want to do right now, but bear with me. Think back, imagine if you will, where you were a year ago. July 2020 was one of the worst months for COVID cases, a month after the police shooting of San Francisco's Sean Monterrosa and a month before Gov. Newsom declared a state of emergency because of hundreds of fires burning up and down the West Coast.

Unemployment was climbing, the streets were abandoned but not deserted and the smell of sourdough starter wafted from the scant window that residents left open. What did you think would happen, a year on? Did you anticipate a fire season buoyed by climate change and exacerbated by government negligence, an election that prompted thousands to scream themselves hoarse claiming fraud, an insurrection at the U.S. Capitol? Now that it is that time of year again, what comes next? Our national media has shifted. Our government has shifted. The truths we all told ourselves have been revised or reinforced.

The immediate future, not much more than a decade off, is the plane on which poet, essayist, author and San Jose State University professor Keenan Norris sets his latest novel, "The Confession of Copeland Cane," released June 15 by Unnamed Press. Copeland Cane (the fifth) is an East Oakland native, a kid never lacking in observations who, as both Copeland and Norris put it, "falls outta Colored People Time and into America," putting him on a path that diverges from his world in the hood to the Bay Area of private schools, shoe shows, racial microaggressions, gentrification and community activism.

Told as a series of encrypted audio and text correspondences between Copeland (who goes by Cope) and a high school friend (and crush) Jacqueline, the book relates Cope's brief life story as he grows, reads, writes, crawls, runs and hustles his way through a wrongful arrest, juvenile detention, private prep school, stints as both a journalist and a track star, and an immense personal loss that catalyzes what he may or may not have to confess.

Norris moved to the Bay Area in 2003 to attend Mills College for his Master of Fine Arts. Even back then, the same systemic issues that push Cope through a ringer of race- and class-based trauma had been manifesting for generations. Norris first conceived of the book back in 2015, moved by the publicized murders by police of Black Americans like Eric Garner in New York and Walter Scott in South Carolina and the collective repercussions, both the grief of citizens and the intensifying of the police state in response to the protests.

In the context of this book, instances of state-sanctioned or state-led violence are vehicles for the bigger story, a "Trojan horse for these other, more deeply systemic, slower violences that are baked into the Bay Area: its terrain, its geography and the way people are, you know, or have been," he says.

Norris based his future East Oakland on the Town of today: communities insulated by their poverty but unmoored by the increasing pressure of gentrification, a national conservative monopoly on news media called SoClear (resulting from a very familiar Capitol insurrection) and an increasingly privatized police force. Cope, his parents and his friend group that ebbs and flows throughout the book all live in Rockwood, a housing project that faces imminent bulldozing for a new living complex with security guards and fingerprint technology. And buzzing in the background is the constant threat of return of a COVID-like virus deemed "the ghetto flu" for how disproportionately Black and brown communities are affected.

"I've seen the kind of predation of big tech and its impact on Bay Area communities in general, specifically the way it pushed people out of San Francisco and into Oakland, and then the cascading effect there," Norris says. "And so, I guess, that would be a place to start specifically with this book. What if the gentrification that was so obvious in downtown Oakland, and near West Oakland, came to deep East Oakland?"

Up until he is 13, Cope knows his place within the Rockwood world: what his parents expect of him, the role he plays in his friend group (which includes track-and-field star Keisha and the "Black Hercules," DeMichael) and how to stay out of the way. After he is (wrongfully) arrested for "arson" for using a questionable homemade cleaning solution to get mold off his mother's tableware, Cope is temporarily sent to Treasure Island, still known for toxic waste. While there, he falls through a sinkhole, Norris' version of the passage through the fire that leaves characters transformed, for better or worse. Despite its sinister implications, Cope takes it in stride; he doesn't realize what is about to change until he's back in the East Bay, where he's forced to part with all the illusions of safety, justice and personhood he'd managed to hold onto.

Two of the most insightful parts of the book are Cope's retellings of two very different worlds he passed through on his journey to adulthood, first as an adolescent inmate of the juvie-inspired "Youth Control," where he both physically and mentally matures without really meaning to, given there's little to do but exercise and read books. Here, he is exposed to not only the violence of fellow children, but also adults, including an incompetency that often allows the violence to play out. The other is when Cope, now out of Youth Control and flipping sneakers, gets a scholarship to a private Ivy League feeder school, where he is expected to take on the mantle of the exemplary Black student. A teacher with good intentions encourages him to join the journalism class and write for the newsletter, but Cope soon realizes the tokenism applied to him by the predominantly white institution, and the limits of the written word.

But despite Cope's cynicism, words can change people's minds. The explanation for the book's form, as a correspondence and then documented confession, ends on a hopeful note, amid all the evidence to the contrary. Despite the pessimism that this imagined future begets, the book isn't really a downer. Cope's voice carries readers through bloody altercations with gang members, yet he can't relinquish the parts of him that yearn for a first love, or make fun of how white some of his teachers are. Longtime Bay Area locals will chortle at the references to local geography and the cartoonish archetypes of fake-woke school administrators, finance bros and supposed agents of justice. "The Confession of Copeland Cane" is an engaging and pensive work of fiction that feels more and more like premonition as the story unfurls.

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.

Copyright  2021 by Bay City News, Inc. Republication, Rebroadcast or any other Reuse without the express written consent of Bay City News, Inc. is prohibited.
About 90 minutes outside of San Francisco, over the winding Santa Cruz Mountains and through the otter-filled Elkhorn Slough, lies a peculiar cultural treasure.

Knights in armor guard the entrance to a two-story Colonial-style home that serves as the headquarters for the Shakespeare Society of America. Inside, precariously stacked shelves hold Shakespeare finger puppets, Shakespeare bobbleheads, Shakespearean costumes  even a book on management lessons found in the Shakespearean canon (Shakespeare on Management). It is the single largest collection of Shakespeare ephemera I have ever seen in one building  and I spent more years than Id like to admit studying English literature.

This cache of literary memorabilia is one of the few attractions in Moss Landing, a tiny coastal town of just 54 people north of Monterey thats overlooked by the steaming towers of a power plant. Its .6-square-miles contains a couple art galleries and shops, a Mexican and seafood restaurant, a massive marine biology research center and thats about it.

Every single day of the year, you will find one man among the thousands of Bard-related objects and ephemera. You might consider Terry Taylor a Renaissance man in the literal sense of the phrase. He has devoted the past decade of his life to all things Shakespeare. He hasnt taken a day off in two years. He isnt paid. And to make matters more peculiar, Taylor says he doesnt actually love the Bard.

Liz Celeste Photography

How could a man whos devoted his life to Shakespeare not love him? For Taylor, its about something more than that.

Im an educator, and I have the responsibility to make these things available for a long time, he said. He sees todays culture as lacking in worthwhile output. Shakespeare, on the other hand, is a man he can respect  and he sees it as his duty to preserve his legacy.

There are more than 15,000 unique objects in his collection: 1,000 graphics  some more than 500-years-old  3,000 books, 1,000 miscellaneous pieces of memorabilia and at least 10,000 photos from theatre productions. Taylor is the steward of them all and he has a story to tell about each one of them.

It is a responsibility Taylor does not take lightly and one that has led him into $300,000 of debt. Corporate offices float the society, he said. When pressed for more detail, Taylor was mum. He hopes a major donor will pull through to protect the society for years to come. In the meantime, he relies on donations and sales from the small gift shop at the front of the building. He has big plans to digitize the items in the collection and sell them online and even bought Shakespeare-related domain names, including Shakespeareamerica.com and Shakesepearebrand.com.

Liz Celeste Photography

Protecting the society is extremely personal for Taylor. His uncle, R. Thad Taylor, founded it around 1965 with a dream and an old mansion off the Sunset Strip in West Hollywood. It later became a nonprofit and moved to a new property in West Hollywood, where Taylor went on to construct what he claimed was the first authentic one-half scale composite replica of the original Globe Theatre, where Shakespeare famously staged his plays.

Even the replica has a story behind it. According to Taylor, the Globe replica was built from a set donated by sci-fi author Ray Bradbury, when the space drama he sought to produce hit major stumbling blocks.

The theatre staged all 38 of Shakespeares plays work in succession from 1976 to 1979. It did it again from 1981 to 1984. Ed Harris performed on its stage, as did thousands of renowned theatre actors.

Liz Celeste Photography

Tragically, the theatre closed in 1972 after it ran out of funds. Taylor remembers the day well. He and his uncle had just 45 days to clear the theatre of its thousands of Shakespearean objects that had been amassed through donations and gifts over the years.

The Taylors filled two trucks to the brim and stored the items in a warehouse in Santa Cruz County, where Taylor grew up. In 2008, Taylor relocated the Shakespeare Society Archive to Moss Landing. He says more than 20,000 visitors have passed through its doors since from more than 140 countries.

Liz Celeste Photography

When I asked Taylor why he persists each day, with no vacation, no money, just Shakespeare, he didnt hesitate.

I could be out working 9 to 5 and have a $300,000 mortgage, but instead, theres this, he continued, barely pausing for breath as he gestured at the objects around him. This is more valuable than a four-bedroom house in my book. Whatever the sacrifice, it's worth it.
The Nation's Weather for Monday, July 12, 2021

_____

NATIONAL SUMMARY

The heat will continue in the West tomorrow with no signs

of slowing down. The dry conditions and historic heat are

worsening already scary drought conditions, as well as

leading to an increase in wildfires. Wet weather is set

once again for most of the the East tomorrow, and even back

through Mississippi and Texas along a cold front. No severe

weather is expected at this point for Monday, however

strong storms in New York and New England have the ability

to produce flash flooding. Parts of the four corner states

could see afternoon pop-up thunderstorms. There is the

chance that these storms could be locally damaging with

strong wind gusts and torrential downpours. The Plains

states should stay dry tomorrow except maybe a late

afternoon thunderstorm up in North Dakota.

SPECIAL WEATHER

No new information for this time period.

WEATHER HIGHLIGHTS

No new information for this time period.

DAILY EXTREMES

National High Sunday 116 at China Lake, CA

National Low Sunday 34 at Walden, CO

_____

Copyright 2021 AccuWeather
We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. This includes cookies from third party social media websites and ad networks. Such third party cookies may track your use on Sharedots sites for better rendering. Our partners use cookies to ensure we show you advertising that is relevant to you. If you continue without changing your settings, we'll assume that you are happy to receive all cookies on Sharedots website. However, you can change your cookie settings at any time. Learn more
You are now listening to the sounds of the New Generation. A podcast created for those who desire a new way of gaining information rather than reading a traditional newspaper. In our show we will discuss everything from sports, pop culture, politics, and local news. To stay up to date on our latest episodes every week be sure to follow us on your favorite podcast service. And dont worry, we keep it short.
By Lee San

Have you had your vaccine?

During the FMCO, the first greeting in short message exchanges is invariably this: Have you had your vaccine? Is it AZ or Sinovac?

Then people would start gossiping about who and who lie flat on the bed for two days after getting AZ, who and who are still waiting desperately for their vaccine, and who and who have complained about unfair distribution of vaccines, etc., etc. And then someone would say who and who had a fever two days after vaccination, tested positive for coronavirus, was rushed into an ICU, and then gone...

Suddenly the vaccine has become the life-saving last straw for humanity! With daily new infection and death numbers spiraling and the fact we indeed lack capable leaders who really care about the rakyat, we can only look to the vaccine to come to our salvation!

Sure enough there are friends who are worried that the vaccine could trigger genetic changes in our body, cause impotence or infertility, and are therefore unwilling to go for vaccination.

A father even yelled: these vaccines that have been hastily put to use are all "chronic killers".

Nevertheless, when I asked this uncle several weeks later whether he had received his jab, I was shocked to discover that he had secretly received his Sinovac jab. Good luck, uncle!

Actually there are rumors people receiving the Sinovac vaccine can travel to China but "may not" be able to travel to Western countries. What about people receiving Pfizer and AZ, can they go to China? It was reported last week that people taking the AZ vaccine manufactured in Asia would not be allowed to travel to the EU, but fortunately the decision was soon reversed, otherwise our WHO would be reduced to a useless empty shell.

As a matter of fact, politics is a million times more dreadful than the virus itself!

I have a friend by the name of Hean who told me he had planned to have an AZ shot on his right arm, Pfizer on the left, and Sinovac on his butt, so that he could travel to any country in this world. I think I've got to do the same. Haha..

John's 30th wedding anniversary is coming soon, but unfortunately this will happen in the middle of the EMCO. His wife asked him: Will you give me an anniversary gift?



John answered: Sure! What do you want? Flowers? Designer handbags? Let me check with Shopee first!

"I only want you to take me overseas for holiday. I don't mind even just Phuket!"

"But Honey, I really don't think I can do this, you know"

"I don't care..." and she started to flare her temper.

John tried to explain: Even if I can, people will shut me out seeing our country's infection numbers!

Then he saw his wife raise a black flag in protest, signaling the start of a cold war. But fret not, John already prepared a white flag to appeal for help!

The thing is, many people are becoming mad having been confined to their homes for so long. They used to be able to travel around freely but now, they cannot even afford the luxury of traveling more than 10km from their homes! To make things worse, they don't see an end to their woes anytime soon, and the current political chaos only serves to dampen their moods further.

It's hoped that after the mass vaccination exercise, we will get to move about freely once again. Imagine life without traveling!

P/S: Oh ya, I thought your boy is still in Year 1? What? He's finishing his Year 2 soon? My friend did a quick math and confirmed that his son is in the school classroom for not more than two months in total. What a crazy world in Malaysia, huh!

(Lee San is Founder and Group Executive Chairman of Apple Vacations. He has traveled to 132 countries, six continents, and enjoys sharing his travel stories and insights. He has also authored two books.)
The era of working five days per week in the office looks to be all but over in Australia, with the nations biggest employers saying hybrid work models will be entrenched even after the danger of the coronavirus pandemic has passed.

A survey conducted by The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald of 50 of the nations largest companies, which between them employ more than 1 million staff in Australia and overseas, reveals an overwhelming majority expect to continue allowing employees to work at least part of the week from home once the pandemic ends.

Hybrid work is the future. Credit:Dionne Gain

And the chair of Australias Productivity Commission and leading economists say it might make us more productive.

On balance, I think theres good grounds to be optimistic when it comes to the overall impact, the Productivity Commissions chair, Michael Brennan, told The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age. University of Michigan economics professor, Justin Wolfers, who is currently working from home in Australia, said: Everyone is better off  no question. Total output has gone up.
The controversial team behind the disastrous float of Nuix last year is still involved with another tech startup, Haventec - a company closely associated with the troubled e-forensics group.

Haventec, which specialises in password protection and data security, was founded by tech entrepreneur Ric Richardson and Tony Castagna, the co-founder of Nuix, which has been dragged into separate criminal investigations by the corporate regulator and the Australian Federal Police. The AFP have confirmed they are investigating Dr Castagna for potential breaches of the Corporations Act, and ASIC is looking into former Nuix CFO Stephen Doyle for suspected insider trading.

Richardson is best known for founding Uniloc, an anti piracy software group which won a David and Goliath legal victory against Microsoft in 2009, and was awarded $US388 million in damages - one of the highest in US patent history at the time.

Nuix co-founder and former chairman Tony Castagna was heavily involved in its ASX float in December 2020. He is also co-founder of Haventec.

The legal battle continued until 2011 when an appeals court upheld the decision that Microsoft infringed the patent and the matter was settled for an undisclosed sum.
Top finance officials representing most of the worlds economy have backed a sweeping revision of international taxation that includes a 15 per cent global minimum corporate levy to deter big companies from resorting to low-rate tax havens.

Finance ministers from the Group of 20 countries, which includes Australia, endorsed the plan at a meeting over the weekend in Venice.

The political impetus for the new tax deal came from European states indignant at derisory taxes paid by the US internet sector despite huge revenue generated in their markets. Credit:AP

US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said the proposal would end a self-defeating international tax competition in which countries have for years lowered their rates to attract companies. She said that had been a race that nobody has won. What it has done instead is to deprive us of the resources we need to invest in our people, our workforces, our infrastructure.

The next steps include more work on key details at the Paris-based Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development and then a final decision at the Group of 20 meeting of presidents and prime ministers in October in Rome.
The ability to combine work with other duties, like doing a school pick-up, or putting on a load of washing, or putting the meat in the slow cooker  whatever it is  between meetings is actually quite a significant flexibility for households. So those two things combined are very beneficial. On productivity, a lot of survey evidence does suggest people feel more productive working from home. But employers are a little sceptical of that claim. And clearly not everyone is. Its a very individualistic thing. It depends a lot on the circumstances of the role, the individual and the home environment. Sydneys CBD has been hit hard by the latest lockdown. Credit:Jessica Hromas Overall, however, Mr Brennan said there was scant evidence so far of a large drop in productivity as a result of increased working from home. University of Michigan economics professor, Justin Wolfers said the most obvious economic impact of increased working from home was not on productivity, but on overall output, which was now higher thanks to shorter commute times.

Everyone is better off  no question. Total output has gone up, said Mr Wolfers who is currently working from home in Australia. It turns out people are very productive working from home. Everyone has 16 hours to achieve a set of task, and working from home gives greater ability to allocate your tasks throughout the day in ways that enhance your productivity. Pre-pandemic, the average daily commute for a NSW worker had blown out to 1 hour and 17 minutes, a study by the NSW Innovation and Productivity Council found. On average, employees who have shifted to working from home have reallocated those 77 minutes a day to 13 minutes of increased work, 19 minutes of more caring and 49 minutes of personal time. Professional workers reported spending an extra 25 minutes a day on work for their employer while working from home. But economist Saul Eslake warns there are potential downsides to increased working from home.

There is a potential loss of innovation and productivity gains arising from planned or serendipitous interactions among people working in different firms or industries, Mr Eslake said. Economist Saul Eslake at his new home at Acton Park near Hobart. Credit:Peter Mathew Workers too, may suffer if reduced face-to-face working makes it harder to gain access to new job opportunities. A lot of mobility between jobs happens as a result of in real life encounters ... between people working in similar jobs but at different businesses or workplaces between prospective employers and employees, at breaks during conferences and other work-related events, or even at gyms  and those sort of encounters are less likely when a lot of people are working from home, Mr Eslake said. Its unclear whether such benefits can be replicated through online interactions.

Steve Sammartino, an economist, futurist and member of the NSW Innovation and Productivity Council is hopeful. Theres nothing clearer than that people want home working. I guess the core challenge is management resistance and their old legacy thinking when it comes to control and supervision. Theres still this old ethic of watching staff members with clipboards. Most of the push back we have seen from corporations, its got much more to do with power than with output - power and the loss of that power. Mr Sammartino said employers need to be more outcomes oriented and less punch-clock oriented. Offices will also need to be redesigned to facilitate more collaboration for when workers do come into the office.

The Productivity Commissions Mr Brennan said reports of the death of the CBD had been exaggerated, given the overwhelming trend towards hybrid models. I think CBDs will adapt and I think offices will adapt, Mr Brennan said. Loading The thing that will no doubt emerge is the hybrid model could prove to be the easiest one to choose and the hardest one to execute because it will require significant or different managerial approaches and it will require a lot of thought. The pandemic forced an experiment in working from home, which no one would have really taken on - certainly not at scale  but for the pandemic. And in a way having done that now, this is the second experiment where individual firms and workers have got to now work out whats right for them.
Karin Rezkalla is a clever kid. She excels at school, raises money for refugees, plays multiple instruments and speaks three languages.

But thats not enough to keep the 15-year-old from Wagga Wagga challenged, so she has also signed up to study accelerated maths at a new private, online high school that is offering British school-leaving qualifications to students around the world - and particularly Australia.

Karin Rezkalla at home with brother Daniel in Wagga Wagga. Credit:James Farley

Crimson Global Academy was founded last year by 26-year-old New Zealander and Harvard graduate Jamie Beaton, who modelled the idea on the Stanford Online High School for gifted students in the United States. Last month, former Australian prime minister Kevin Rudd joined former New Zealand prime minister Sir John Key on the schools advisory board.

I saw [the online high school concept] had really great potential, said Mr Beaton, who also runs an organisation that helps students apply for admission to British and American universities. Outside America, it is really non-existent.
Loading Biden used his summit to unveil a new US 2030 target of 5052 per cent reductions in emissions. Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga offered up a 46 per cent reduction target and Canadas Justin Trudeau put up 4045 per cent. All were close to double Australias 2030 target. But Morrison again declined to commit even to a net zero by 2050 target, let alone change Australias 2030 target. Before Morrison could put his case to the summit, a senior US administration official was briefing the media, suggesting Australias strategy was unsustainable. At the moment I think our colleagues in Australia recognise there is going to have to be a shift, the official said. Its insufficient to follow the existing trajectory and hope that they will be on a course to deep decarbonisation and getting to net zero emissions by mid-century. But when Morrison spoke, he stuck to the technology not taxes mantra and Australias slower approach to reducing emissions. Australia is on the pathway to net zero, he said. Our goal is to get there as soon as we possibly can, through technology that enables and transforms our industries, not taxes that eliminate them and the jobs and livelihoods they support and create, especially in our regions. For Australia, it is not a question of if or even by when for net zero, but importantly, how. To back up his argument, Morrison invoked Dr Alan Finkel, noting that the former chief scientist was now the governments special adviser on low-emissions technology and the roadmap. But as one former insider put it, Morrison cannot use Finkel as a human shield for his policy.

Morrisons argument of how not when Australia gets to net zero missed the point. For Biden, it is a question of when as well as how. This is not just about the climate science. The United States sees itself in a race against China for clean energy supremacy in the net-zero emissions world. Secretary of State Antony Blinken made this clear shortly before the Biden summit. Its difficult to imagine the United States winning the long-term strategic competition with China if we cannot lead the renewable energy revolution, Blinken told reporters. Right now, were falling behind. China is the largest producer and exporter of solar panels, wind turbines, batteries, electric vehicles. It holds nearly a third of the worlds renewable energy patents. If we dont catch up, America will miss the chance to shape the worlds climate future in a way that reflects our interests and values, and well lose out on countless jobs for the American people. Biden, like the Europeans, wants to spend big to back the rapid shift to clean energy. US Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm underscored the new urgency in Washington when she announced at the summit a US goal to slash the cost of clean renewable hydrogen by 80 per cent by 2030, making it competitive with natural gas. Australia risks being overrun in this clean energy race. If green hydrogen becomes competitive with natural gas by the end of the decade, the oil and gas industry will react by slashing prices, and Australian liquefied natural gas prices will plummet. As Fortescue Metals chairman Twiggy Forrest put it colourfully in his Boyer lecture, the result will be like a knife fight in a telephone box.

For now, the Morrison government is making a strategic bet that the energy transformation wont happen this fast. It does not believe that China, let alone India, will be able to radically shift course this decade. This will put the 1.5 Celsius plans out of reach and curb the enthusiasm in developed countries for ambitious targets to cut emissions. The message from Morrison and his Energy and Emissions Reduction minister, Angus Taylor, is that Australias big exports of liquefied natural gas and coal will continue for decades to come. Loading The latest International Energy Agency review gives some comfort for this view. Energy-related carbon dioxide emissions are on course to surge again in 2021, the second-largest increase in history, reversing most of the pandemics decline. This years expected rise in coal use dwarfs that of renewables. Some 80 per cent of the projected growth in coal demand is expected to come from Asia, led by China. As IEA chief Fatih Birol put it: We remain on a path of dangerous levels of global warming. But the IEA also released its own roadmap in May, warning that if the world wanted to keep to the 1.5 Celsius goal, there could be no new oil and gas fields approved for development beyond 2021, and no new coalmines or mine extensions. The IEA roadmap, Net Zero by 2050, flew in the face of both Labor and Coalition support for new fossil fuel developments.

Labors muted response to the Biden summit and the 1.5-degree goal has reinforced the view in the government that its current policy is the right course politically. But outside Australia, there is a growing belief that Chinas clean energy transition will speed up, due to its capacity for innovation and its need to compete with the US. Loading Former Australian diplomat Dean Bialek, who is now advising Britain on preparations for COP26, believes there is a chance that China will bring more to Glasgow than Xis net zero by 2060 pledge. I think the Chinese could do it if they wanted. I think their current policy positions are intended to leave a bit of negotiating room this year. Both on the net zero timeline but also in terms of where they can get to by 2030, said Bialek. And indeed whether they could potentially look at bringing forward the current target on peaking of emissions  which is currently expressed as around 2030  to a much earlier date, to 2025, is one that has been bandied around. The need for China, India and other big emitters in the developing world to ramp up their ambition in Glasgow explains why the US and Britain are so exercised about Australias 2030 target. As a rich developed country with abundant renewable resources, Australias weak target will give diplomatic succour to other carbon-intensive economies wanting to slow the pace of change, such as Saudi Arabia and Russia. Johnson invited Morrison to Cornwall for the G7 meeting in June in part because of this. His other special guests were India, South Africa and South Korea. In their final communique, the G7 leaders reaffirmed their commitment to reach net zero no later than 2050 and to halve their collective emissions by 2030. They also called for international investment in unabated coal-power generation to stop, committing to end new government support for it by the close of this year.

The message to Morrison from the entire G7 leadership was that big-emitting economies such as Australia needed to bring their highest possible ambition to cut emissions to Glasgow. But Morrison baulked again at the G7, refusing to give either Biden or Johnson a commitment to reach net zero by 2050 or to agree to an ambitious 2030 target. Instead he kicked the decision down the road. Loading In Canberra, where the climate wars still haunt politicians on both sides, the goal of keeping to 1.5 degrees is still seen by many as the naive aspiration of climate scientists, activists and school strikers. Morrison is certainly trapped in this mentality, quipping to the Business Council dinner this year: Were not going to achieve net zero in the cafes, dinner parties and wine bars of our inner cities. Morrison has never accepted the urgency of the science on climate change, but he is increasingly becoming an outlier among world leaders. Between now and November, he has a decision to make: whether he will join those leaders who see the Glasgow summit as the worlds last best hope to get the clean energy transition on track  or side with those whose aim is to derail it. This is an edited extract of Marian Wilkinsons essay The Outlier from the current issue of Australian Foreign Affairs, Feeling the Heat: Australia Under Climate Pressure, published today.
The rising daily COVID-19 case numbers in Sydney is leading to inevitable comparisons with the start of Melbournes second wave from around this time last year.

The data on the two is worth a look, but there are some key things to note about it.

The graph below compares the seven-day average of local cases in Melbourne at the start of the states second wave with the current Sydney outbreak.

As with any data, keep in mind that whenever two areas are being compared over different time periods, there are some important caveats to take into account.

It might look like Sydneys current outbreak has taken off faster than Victorias second wave, but thats partially a result of the data itself.

When Victorias second wave was taking off, the virus was still circulating at low levels throughout the community and there were other concurrent clusters being followed up on. During this time there would still be about five new locally acquired new cases confirmed each day, unlike NSW prior to the most recent outbreak where there had been a string of zero days.

The true extent of Melbournes growing second wave only became apparent down the line once testing was stepped up, so in some ways the data in the Victorian experience was playing catch-up.

Anyone who looks at this graph will unavoidably start wondering what path the NSW line on the graph will take over the coming days. Its clearly on the rise.

But what we dont know is how high that line will rise or how long it will take to get there  that will depend on many other factors.
The cost to City of Sydney ratepayers of allowing businesses two votes in elections is set to hit almost $13 million since the state government backed controversial changes to its electoral process.

The bill has led to claims that the business voting process has eroded the democratic power of residents over Town Hall and placed an unworkable and costly burden on the council.

Ahead of council elections on September 4, the City of Sydney has calculated the operational cost of maintaining a register of non-residential business voters has averaged $1.57 million a year since the changes seven years ago.

The City of Sydney has to cover the cost of keeping a register of non-residential voters. Credit:James Alcock

The council also booked an extra $1.74 million to develop the system to hold the data. While most costs are ongoing, additional costs are incurred close to each election to help ensure local business understand their requirements for that election, a spokeswoman said.
I have not commented before because I had undertaken already that the case would be placed before the Advisory War Council this week. But in view of the one-sided publicity which has placed the Governments attitude in an entirely false light, I feel obliged to make a short, but by no means full, statement. These men are not being detained merely because they are avowed members of the Communist Party. They are being detained because on facts submitted it was deemed necessary, in the interests of national security, that they should be. They have already exercised their right to appeal to one of the advisory committees set up under the National Security Regulations for leave to object to their detention. Their applications would have been heard last Friday, but, at the request of their solicitor, was deferred until after the War Advisory Council had met. Thomas and Ratliff were prosecuted for an offence against the law, including possession of illegal documents. One of the documents found in their possession contained instructions about fomenting strikes.

Horace Ratliff in bed at Yaralla Hospital The Sun, July 20, 1941 Credit:The Sun/National Library of Australia They were convicted and sentenced to six months imprisonment; and were ordered by the magistrate to enter into a bond to observe the regulations in the future. They refused to enter into that bond. AVOWED COMMUNISTS Thomas gave evidence on oath in court stating that he was and had been for a number of years secretary of the St. George District Committee of the Communist Party in Australia. He said one of the principles of the Communist Party was opposition to all Imperialist wars, and he defined the present war as an Imperialist war. He stated that he considered it to be his duty to struggle against the war and to stop it by any means within his power. Horace Ratliff, in his address to the Court, stated that he had been for the last 15 years, and still was, a member of the Communist Party of Australia, and that membership was the action in his life of which he was most proud. He added that he was against Churchill and all that he stood for. He stated also that he did not deny that he was endeavouring to stop the war.

I mention these facts because they have been made known to the public already. I refrain from mentioning other facts. 300 demonstrate for mens release Loading The secretary of Illawarra Labour Council, Mr. J. Cranston, told 300 people, who demonstrated on Saturday afternoon for the mens release, that he, the secretary of the Port Kembla Waterside, Mr. E. Roach, and the secretary of the Wangawilla Miners Lodge, Mr. M. Fitzgibbon, had come to Sydney at the request of South Coast unions to determine the most effective method to help the hunger strikers. They had made a recommendation to the unions. Carrying placards and singing Solidarity for Ever, the Internationale, and other songs, the demonstration continued for more than two hours.
Newspaper office torched

At a Coronial inquest into the fire that destroyed the office of the Torch newspaper in Bankstown, Mr Arthur Powell, MLA for Bankstown, denied that he had told the Sun-Herald that the Torch had been blown up by a gangster ring. Mr Powell also denied having told the Sun that big money was involved in certain Bankstown municipal contracts. Mr Morgan, MP for Reid, gave evidence before the inquiry was adjourned.

Mrs Jones forced off property

Mrs. Mabel Jones will start droving with her 500 head of stock when she is forcibly evicted from her 1035-acre Boorowa farm. Her husband, who was given the property as part of the War Service land settlement scheme, deserted her in 1952 and assigned all interest in his goods and chattels to his wife; a fact the court deemed irrelevant. Mrs Jones will hit the trail droving her stock by car with the help of her dogs.

Sewage crisis
The NSW Rural Fire Service exonerated itself over the ill-fated Mount Wilson backburn during the black summer bushfires in an internal investigation that the government has declined to release publicly.

The backburn escaped on December 14, 2019 and ran for 53 days, affecting the communities of Mount Irvine, Bilpin, Berambing, Kurrajong Heights, Blackheath, Mount Victoria and Bell, destroying rail, road and power infrastructure and at least 20 houses, including Mount Wilson RFS captain Beth Rainess home.

A view of the Blue Mountains area scorched by the bushfires taken from Du Faurs Rocks at Mount Wilson. Credit:Kate Geraghty

But an interim report prepared for the NSW Bushfires Inquiry last year, obtained by the Herald, concluded that the backburn was the result of careful planning, adequate consultation with the local brigades and community and had been rightly determined a necessity. It escaped due to a change in the wind direction and intensity.

The Mount Wilson backburn was part of a broader strategy by the RFS to run a continuous line of backburning from Colo Heights in the east to Lithgow in the west, to protect the populous parts of the Blue Mountains along the Great Western Highway from the Gospers Mountain fire, which was running rampant in the north.
A four-week court trial will decide whether a former strawberry farm supervisor deliberately put needles in Queensland strawberries, sparking national hysteria and crippling the industry.

The Brisbane District Court trial of My Ut Trinh will start on Monday, with the 53-year-old woman charged with eight counts of contamination of goods with intent to cause economic loss.

She allegedly inserted needles into strawberries while she was working at Berrylicious farm in her home town of Caboolture, north of Brisbane, between September 3 and 12, 2018.

A Brisbane man found the first needle when he bit into a contaminated strawberry on September 9, sparking a national food safety frenzy.
Now, 20 countries including the UK, Turkey, France, Sweden, Belgium, the Netherlands and Ukraine have brought in their own versions of plain packaging legislation. Thousands of Australians still die from smoking-related diseases every year, but the rate of smoking has continued to fall. Data from the National Drug Strategy Household Survey estimated about 11.6 per cent of adults smoke daily, down from 12.8 per cent in 2016 and more than half the 25 per cent who smoked in 1991. Plain packaging was not the only reform introduced to help bring down the rate. Taxes on tobacco were upped by 25 per cent in 2010, and then increased by 12.5 per cent each year from 2013 to 2020. Those increases made tobacco excise the fourth largest individual tax collected by the federal government, worth an estimated $15 billion last financial year.

While other factors including a ban on smoking in certain areas has also helped, Professor Melanie Wakefield who heads the centre for behavioural research at the Cancer Council of Victoria and was also on the advisory group to government on plain packaging implementation, said plain packaging has had a measurable impact. Plain packaging accounted for about a quarter of the total decline in smoking prevalence in three years after plain packaging. And so Australia had about 100,000 fewer smokers as a result, she says. Importantly, she says, it has also had an impact on youth smoking rates. In the last national survey, only 5 per cent of secondary school students had smoked in the last week, and that was down by a third from before plain packaging. The law passed in December 2011, and from December 2012 all cigarettes and tobacco products had to be sold in plain packaging, making Pantone shade 448C the only colour of choice for the tobacco industry in Australia.

Loading But it didnt become reality without a fight. Tobacco companies fought against what they and libertarians argued was a nanny state going too far. British American Tobacco Australia ran a national media campaign against it, arguing it would increase smoking rates through a boost to illegally imported and cheaper products. Why should Australians have to potentially foot a huge bill for experimental legislation which has not been adopted anywhere else in the world? chief executive David Crow said in May 2011. Another argument was mandatory plain packaging breached trademark laws and intellectual property rights.

Tim Wilson, who was head of the IPA at the time of the plain packaging legislation, stands by his opposition to it. Credit:Eamon Gallagher Liberal MP Tim Wilson was director of the libertarian Institute of Public Affairs at the time. He argued introducing plain packaging would cost taxpayers up to $3 billion as tobacco companies fought it through the courts. Although the court battles were won by the Commonwealth, Wilson still disagrees with the move. Health activists now talk of replicating plain packaging to other products, like they want higher taxes and sales restrictions and public warning labels. The Coalition was also broadly opposed to it. Liberal backbencher Dr Mal Washer, however, was not shy of supporting the measure, telling The Age at the time he would be voting for the legislation.

Dr Mal Washer (left) lobbied his party, under then-opposition leader Tony Abbott, to support the plain packaging rules. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen I support these reforms unequivocally and whatever my party decides to do, I dont give a shit, he said. Dr Washer spent more than two decades as a GP before joining Parliament and was highly regarded in the party room. He says a number of his colleagues at the time didnt want to see a nanny state, but hed seen first-hand just how harmful smoking could be. I was very determined that we would try and save lives with appropriate packaging, he says. And its made a difference. It has made a big difference.

Loading Professor Daub says the tenacity of Roxon was crucial in helping secure the laws. She declined to be interviewed for this story. Professor Wakefield says its time to revisit and update our tobacco regulations as the industry evolves new marketing strategies to recruit and hold customers. Theres always more to be done because the industry never stands still, its very agile, she says, pointing to gimmicks including crushable menthol capsules in filters as an example, or bonus cigarettes in packs. Loading
The federal government is being urged to use Australias friendship with the United States to secure supplies of the Pfizer vaccine instead of relying totally on Europe, which has so far shipped about 4.4 million doses to Australia.

Labor leader Anthony Albanese called on Prime Minister Scott Morrison to aggressively increase the vaccine supplies as the greater Sydney region enters its third week of lockdown, with only 10 per cent of eligible people fully inoculated with two doses nationwide.

A registered nurse fills syringes with Pfizer vaccines at a COVID-19 vaccination clinic. The latest alarming coronavirus variant, the delta variant, is exploiting low global vaccination rates and a rush to ease pandemic restrictions, adding new urgency to the drive to get more shots in arms and slow its supercharged spread. Credit:AP

The federal government has a contract with Pfizer for 40 million doses this year and a contract with another manufacturer of a messenger RNA vaccine, Moderna, for 10 million doses this year and 15 million doses next year.

Pfizer has confirmed to The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age that all the doses shipped to Australia so far have come from Europe. Diplomatic sources, who spoke on condition they not be named, said the amount had reached 4.4 million doses in deliveries, distinct from jabs administered.
Aged care unions and providers will use a private meeting with the Health Minister and federal coronavirus taskforce commander to warn care for the elderly risks being compromised if nursing home staff are not vaccinated by the time it becomes mandatory.

Aged care workers have until September 17 to receive at least one vaccine dose or they will be unable to work, creating the risk of workforce shortages if too many cannot find a dose and sparking the calls for a new wave of visits by federal teams to aged facilities to jab workers.

The coronavirus has had devastating consequences when it has entered aged care homes. Credit:Justin McManus

Health Minister Greg Hunt and COVID-19 Vaccine Taskforce commander John Frewen will be asked to agree to five principles designed by the Australian Council of Trade Unions and Australian Aged Care Collaboration, representing providers, to ensure all employees can be vaccinated quickly.

A joint communique prepared by the groups for Mondays meeting and seen by the Herald and The Age demands aged care staff get Pfizer vaccines at their workplaces and up to two days of federally-funded paid vaccination leave per dose.
More financial support will flow within days to households suffering from extended lockdowns in a federal move to overhaul disaster payments and prepare for restrictions that run for weeks.

The new federal assistance will offer help to NSW residents already forced to stay at home but will also be available to households in any location subject to a lockdown that lasts for more than two weeks.

Treasurer Josh Frydenberg is expected to put the changes to a meeting of federal cabinet ministers on Monday. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen

One objective will be to ease the system for people who must repeatedly apply for the $500 disaster payment paid each week when a lockdown lasts for more than seven days.

More than 90,510 claims for the COVID-19 Disaster Payment had been granted to NSW residents before Sunday but federal officials expect a big rise in applications as the restrictions continue.
A surge in domestic violence cases during the coronavirus pandemic has prompted calls for the federal government to pour billions of dollars into social housing to close a shortfall of almost 17,000 homes for women fleeing abuse.

Spending $7.6 billion on almost 17,000 new homes would help the more than 9000 women a year who become homeless due to domestic and family violence and a lack of stable housing, an Equity Economics report, Nowhere To Go, shows.

Domestic violence victims are at risk of homelessness. Credit:IStock

The social housing expense is further estimated to help create 47,000 jobs and provide upfront economic benefits worth $15.3 billion while providing savings from reducing homelessness. These savings are calculated by considering the costs of health and justice expenses and forgone taxation.

The report, released on Monday, will be submitted to the federal governments National Womens Safety Summit being held at the end of July, said Kate Colvin, spokeswoman for the Everybodys Home campaign, which aims to end homelessness and support vulnerable households, first-home buyers and renters.
Berlin: Countries across southern Europe are rushing to reimpose COVID restrictions amid concern at rapidly rising cases of the delta variant.

Although deaths and hospitalisations remain low across Europe, a new wave of infections is unnerving governments and creating rifts across the continent.

A man films a person dressed as an astronaut on the beach of Barcelona, Spain, where tourist growth has been matched by growing COVID infections. Credit:AP

Countries that were among the first to reopen such as Spain, Portugal, Greece and Cyprus are among those now tightening restrictions. France this week warned its citizens against holidaying in Spain and Portugal, while Germany added Cyprus to its list of high incidence destinations, meaning travellers who do not have both jabs will have to self-isolate on return.

Across Europe, the main fear is that there will be a new wave like Britains - despite the UK largely escaping serious cases thanks to its vaccine rollout.
Washington: Pfizer says it will meet with top US health officials to discuss the drugmakers request for federal authorisation of a third dose of its COVID-19 vaccine as President Joe Bidens chief medical adviser acknowledged that it is entirely conceivable, maybe likely that booster shots will be needed.

The company said it was scheduled to have the meeting with the Food and Drug Administration and other officials on Monday (US time), days after Pfizer asserted that booster shots would be needed within 12 months.

Pfizers Dr Mikael Dolsten said last week that early data from the companys booster study suggests peoples antibody levels jump five- to 10-fold after a third dose, compared to their second dose months earlier  evidence it believes supports the need for a booster.

Dr Anthony Fauci has cautioned that the booster shot is not yet needed. Credit:AP

On Sunday, Dr Anthony Fauci didnt rule out the possibility but said it was too soon for the government to recommend another shot. He said the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention and the FDA did the right thing last week by pushing back against Pfizers assertion with their statement that they did not view booster shots as necessary at this time.
~St. Maartens Bonita Hart installed as President~

PHILIPSBURG:--- On July 3, 2021, The Rotary E-Club of the Caribbean for District 7020 held its first meeting of the new Rotary year and St. Maartens own Bonita Hart was installed as Club President.

Outgoing President Abigail Leese thanked the outgoing Board of Directors for their service over the past year. Leese explained, The last year has been a challenging time for the world, yet our Club was well positioned given our well-established online protocols and the hard work and generosity of each member and our Committee Chairs. Our projects, like The Butterfly Storybook, continue to impact youth around the region in an extremely positive way. It is with great pride that I look back on the past year. Thank you for the opportunity to serve.

President Leese then officially turned over the reigns of the Rotary E-Club of the Caribbean to Bonita Hart, by installing Ms. Hart as President.

President Hart went on to say, I want to thank outgoing President Abigail Leese for her service as president of our Club. Only a life lived for others is a life worthwhile and being the president of the Rotary E-Club of the Caribbean 7020 gives me the opportunity to Serve to Change Lives.

Newly installed President Hart introduced her new Board Members and Directors. They include, Abigail Leese, Immediate Past President, Vice President, Fundraising Chair and Volunteer Coordinator residing in St. Barth, Diana White, Treasurer and Administration Director residing in Cotswolds, United Kingdom, Lou deLagran , Secretary residing in Ontario, Canada, John Fuller, Sergeant at Arms, residing in St. John, USVI, Brent Leerdam, Membership Director residing in St. Thomas, USVI, Jeffrey Dr. Soc Sochrin, Public Image Director, residing in St. Maarten, Terry Robinson, Rotary Foundation Director, residing in Reston Virginia, Natasha Parchment-Clark, Services and Youth Director, residing in Jamaica, Denison Stockman, Environmental Director, residing in Venice, Florida, Camile Seaton, International Director, residing in Jamaica, Dawn Johnson, Disaster Relief Director, residing in Cincinnati, Ohio, Roger White, Assistant Governor and Training Director, residing in Cotswolds, United Kingdom, Services Project Director, Paul Amoury, residing in Lorton, Virginia, H. Wein Dimetros, Support Team Caption Program, residing in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Henriette Raccah, our Translator, residing in Guadeloupe and Jacqueline Heyliger, General Support residing in St. Croix.

For more information about the Rotary E-Club of the Caribbean District 7020, please contact the Rotary E-Club of the Caribbean Press Officer at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. <mailto:This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. ; or visit the website www.e7020.org <http://www.e7020.org> .
Please log in, or sign up for a new account and purchase a subscription, or activate your access, to continue reading.
Somerset, KY (42501)

Today

Scattered thunderstorms, especially during the afternoon hours. High around 80F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 50%..

Tonight

Scattered thunderstorms early, mainly cloudy late with a few showers. Low 64F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 40%.
Somerset, KY (42501)

Today

Scattered thunderstorms, especially during the afternoon hours. High 79F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%. 1 to 2 inches of rain expected..

Tonight

Scattered thunderstorms this evening followed by a few showers overnight. Low 64F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 40%.
Support local journalism

Now, more than ever, the world needs trustworthy reportingbut good journalism isnt free. Please support us by making a contribution.

Contribute
Abidjan, 11 July 2021 (SPS) - The international community must compel Morocco to respect its commitments concerning the organization of a self-determination referendum for the Sahrawi people and Morocco must respect the borders with its neighbors, Sahrawi Foreign Minister Mohamed Salem Ould Salek said on Saturday.



If the international community accepts the annexation of Western Sahara by Morocco, there will be wars everywhere and that will be dangerous, affirmed Mohamed Salem Ould Salek in an interview he granted to the Ivorian Youtube channel L'intelligent TV.



The international community must compel Morocco to respect its commitments. Morocco must respect the borders of its neighbors, he added.



He underlined that the war situation between Morocco and Western Sahara, since 13 November 2020, threatens the region of West Africa, calling on the international media to come and observe the situation.



Foreign minister of the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR) lamented the fact that the interests of some powers come before the respect of international legality.



The Sahrawi people are victims of the aggression of their northern neighbor, but there is also a complicity within the Security Council which weakens the action of the United Nations for the holding of a self-determination referendum, decided in 1991, he added.



Ould Salek had clearly accused France of bringing the self-determination referendum within the UN Security Council to a standstill.



France has also refused that the UN Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO) has a component in charge of enforcing human rights, letting Morocco commit several violations, he underlined. (SPS)



062/090/700
NEWTOWN - In the long-running lawsuit filed by the families of the Sandy Hook victims against Remington over its marketing of the AR-15-style rifle used by Adam Lanza to murder 26 first-graders and educators in 2012, the families requested various documents from Remington, including marketing and social media materials.

The Sandy Hook families attorneys filed a motion to compel alleging that, as part of its response to these document requests, the former gunmaker provided 18,000 random cartoons. As a Connecticut judge awaits an explanation from Remington, legal observers are scratching their heads.

One the one hand, its a well-known strategy for a defendant to try to bury the opponent with so much pretrial data that the opponent wears down and settles, or potentially misses key documents that could turn the case, legal experts Alexandra Lahav, the Ellen As Peters Professor of Law at UConns School of Law and her colleague Leslie Levin, the Hugh Macgill Professor of Law at UConns School of Law said.

On the other hand, if Remington dumped 18,000 apparently random cartoons and 15,000 irrelevant pictures and videos that had nothing to do with its marketing strategy, as alleged in the Sandy Hook families motion to compel, it would be unprecedented, two local legal observers agreed.

No, I have not heard of such a thing, Lahav said.

3 1 of 3 Connecticut Superior Court Show More Show Less 2 of 3 AP Photo /Mike Groll Show More Show Less 3 of 3





Her colleague agreed.

[I]f the documents are truly random cartoons, I have never heard of a party doing something like that, Levin said. It would likely provoke a sanction.

The motion to compel, which is the latest in the seven-year-battle by the Sandy Hook families to hold Remington accountable for the worst crime in Connecticut history, does not allege that all 46,000 documents turned over by the gunmaker were irrelevant to the families request for marketing documents.

About 6,600 documents were potentially useful documents in response to the plaintiffs requests, the motion to compel reads.

Remingtons lead attorney, James Vogts declined to comment specifically on the families motion to compel, but promised to respond in court to what he called incorrect representations, numerous half-truths, and important omissions in the motion.

The families allege that Remington has already showed its hand.

Remingtons  effort to lard its document production with cartoons and duplicate catalogues sends a strong message about the real motive here the families attorneys wrote in their motion to compel. The motion continued: Remington is desperate to avoid a true review of the internal and external communications detailing its abusive marketing practices.

At stake is the outcome of what has been one of the highest-profile lawsuits of its kind in the country, which is scheduled for jury selection in September.

Document dump

There is nothing new about document dumps during the discovery phase, where two sides hand over requested information in preparation for trial.

Large corporations with a high-powered law firm would turn over so many documentsthat it was virtually impossible for a plaintiff to process all the information, said William Dunlap, a professor of law at Quinnipiac University. There was one case where the plaintiff asked for the information and the defendant handed over the key to the files where there were perhaps thousands of times more files than what they were looking for.

A legal observer at Yale Law School agreed.

The outcome of cases often turns on whether a defendant hands over a small number of key documents. One of the classic strategies for avoiding such disclosure is to produce mountainous stacks of irrelevant files, which can slow down the discovery process and wear down the other sides attorneys, said Noah Messing, lecturer in the practice of law and legal writing at Yale Law School. This strategy also lets a defendants lawyers brag to a judge that their client has already produced vast numbers of responsive documents, with the aim of causing the judge to focus on quantity rather than quality.

Levin opined that whats unusual about the allegations of Remingtons cartoon dump is there doesnt appear to be any relevance between the cartoons and the gun-makers marketing strategy. Some of the Remington images that the families attorneys included in their motion to compel included cartoons of Santa, a farmer, a weightlifter, and a bowl of tri-color ice cream.

It is not unheard of for lawyers to do a document dump, Levin, a UConn professor, said.

Yales Messing noted that sometimes the strategy works.

Unfortunately, some judges fail to police this sort of questionable conduct sufficientlybecause theyd rather focus on the underlying legal issues than on fights about documents, Messing said.

The families also argued in their motion to compel that Remington provided little to no metadata about the documents origin and authorship.

If that is true, that makes much more work for the families attorneys, a UConns Lahav said.

[I]n electronic discovery, including documents without metadata means that the plaintiffs have to look at each of these thousands of pictures to figure out if they are relevant, whereas with metadata they can search the documents for the ones they need, she said. Basically electronic discovery without metadata returns the user to the dark ages when people had to look through each document in a paper file.

Vogts said Remington will respond to the plaintiffs motion to compel in the coming weeks.

The alleged cartoon dump is the latest battle to make headlines from a lawsuit which has been thrown out of state Superior Court, reinstated by Connecticut Supreme Court, turned down for review by the U.S. Supreme Court, and is back in trial court.

Remington has treated discovery as a game, the families motion to compel said. The motion stated: Unwilling to have this case decided by a jury on the merits with a full record, Remington has sought delay and obfuscation at every turn.

rryser@newstimes.com 203-731-3342
STAMFORD  Strawberry Hill School kindergarten teacher Ashley Vicaro knows the value of a para-educator in her classroom.

Which is why she said shes confused by the school districts move to further slash the position, especially with the additional challenges brought on by COVID-19.

Due to the trying circumstances over the past year-plus, incoming kindergartners next year will need more support than in the past, she said at a Board of Education meeting last month. To cut down on that support would be detrimental.

The year before coronavirus shut down school buildings and forced the district to make drastic cuts to positions, the number of kindergarten para-educators was 69, almost matching the number of teachers in the grade level, 71.

But three of those positions were cut from the superintendents original budget proposal last year, and then another 15 positions were eliminated that same year as part of a massive $12.5 million cut to the school budget brought on by COVID-19. This year, another 13 were cut from the budget, bringing the remaining total to 38.

Now, instead of having one para-professional per classroom, there will be one for every two classes.

Vicaro called it a recipe for disaster.

At a time when we need to provide more supports to incoming kindergartners ... why would we cut down their opportunities to succeed and grow? she said to school board members. Who do I call downtown in September when my class is chaos because Im lacking the support my kindergartners need? Please use your best judgment and remember we do this for the children.

Michael Fernandes, associate superintendent of intervention and student support, told the Advocate the mass cut of kindergarten para-professionals last year was because of the budgetary crisis brought on by COVID-19. Plus, with the move to more remote learning, the district was expecting to have fewer students in classrooms, meaning such additional support in classes was not as needed.

He said the district had planned on cutting the positions in half last year, and moving to a ratio of one para-professional, or para, for every two kindergarten classes. The cuts this year essentially just complete the move.

He said that while 13 positions will be cut, no one will be laid off from the move.

Fernandes said support positions, including special education paras, have been a struggle to fill because of a labor shortage that has affected districts across the country. Stamford is currently trying to hire slightly more than 30 special education para-professionals across all schools, but a recent round of job postings only resulted in two applicants.

Were struggling to fill those positions, he said.

The kindergarten para cuts will affect every elementary school, except for Davenport Ridge, which will continue to have three para-educators at the kindergarten level.

The rest of the schools will see one fewer kindergarten para-educator next school year, with the exception of Strawberry Hill and Toquam Magnet Elementary Schools which will both go from five to three paras.

All elementary schools will remain with three kindergarten para-educators, except Stillmeadow Elementary which will have four next semester.

Rogers International School, a K-8 school, has one kindergarten para-educator.

Kindergarten para-educators are paid an average salary of about $40,300, according to figures from the districts 2021-22 budget.

It is unclear how many of the kindergarten para-educators were moved into special education para-educator positions, but Fernandes said such a move was not part of the decision-making when deciding to eliminate half of the kindergarten support positions.

Para-educators at the kindergarten level are meant to work with the general population, while special education para-educators at higher grade levels work with students who need extra support.

In kindergarten, the paras assist teachers with lessons and the overall organization of the classroom.

It is also unclear if the district will use federal COVID-19 relief funds to bolster kindergarten support next school year. Stamford schools will receive roughly $32.6 million from the American Rescue Plan federal stimulus, on top of the $14.5 million coming from the second Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief, or ESSER, funds.

The districts approved budget includes an introduction section that lists three transitional kindergarten teachers and three transitional kindergarten para-educators as positions that would be added this year because of challenges presented by the pandemic.

Ryan Fealey, finance director for the school department, said those positions did not make it into the final budget, however.

When asked why, Fealey said the district is developing a transitional type kindergarten at each elementary building, if needed, but did not provide any further details.

Vicaro said kindergarten teachers are expected to administer three separate one-on-one assessments with each student every year. And each one is done three times during a school year. Doing so with less support will be a daunting task, she said.

How can we accomplish any of this without an extra set of hands? Vicaro said.

ignacio.laguarda@stamfordadvocate.com
In less than a year, an incinerator in Hartford that takes in roughly half a million tons of garbage annually is scheduled to close. But as the shutdown grows closer, theres less and less agreement about where all that trash will go.

Right now, the Materials Innovation and Recycling Authority handles about one-third of Connecticuts municipal waste. But the waste-to-energy plant has been plagued with mechanical problems and has faced declining receipts for the power it produces.

So MIRA announced in December the time had come for it to close the incinerators at its South Meadows facility in Hartford by July of next year. Initially, Tom Kirk, MIRAs president and CEO, told Connecticut Public Radio the closure meant all that trash would no longer come into the city.

Its clear now that we dont expect to be able to turn the South Meadows facility into a transfer station, Kirk said in March. Well be redirecting the garbage to other disposal sites, to be determined.

The garbage wont be coming into Hartford, Kirk said.

But now, Kirk is backing off that assertion.

I probably spoke too soon when I said it looks like were not going to be able to use South Meadows, Kirk said during a Wednesday interview. Because I dont think thats clear. It may end up there. But it certainly was premature for me to say were not going to be able to use South Meadows.

That new position was formally outlined in a letter to the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection in late May.

In it, MIRA argues it has the permitted authority to transform the South Meadows site from an incinerator into a transfer station  basically a spot where trucks dump garbage and then reload that waste onto other trucks, which take it elsewhere for disposal.

We believe the permit as written plainly gives us the authority to top-load trucks, Kirk said, and transfer out of that facility.

But in an eight-page letter dated July 8 , the DEEP disagrees, saying MIRA must either apply to the agency for a modification of its existing permit or get an entirely new permit if it wants to switch its operations to function solely as a transfer station.

Katie Dykes, commissioner of the state DEEP, said Thursday her agencys position is not new.

Frankly, it was a year ago that we sent a letter to MIRA and clearly stated that a new permit would be required, Dykes said. We didnt see any action taken by MIRA at that time to pursue a new permit for a transfer operation. The timeline is ultimately in their hands.

In the latest letter, DEEP Deputy Commissioner Betsey Wingfield told MIRA that any submission to the agency for a permit modification would need to consider such factors as traffic flow and impact, the maximum amount of garbage to be sorted, stored and transferred, and odor mitigation and management, among other considerations.

It also said MIRA needs to communicate directly with Hartford and other member towns.

DEEP strongly believes that a successful implementation of MIRAs transition depends on the clear, consistent, and proactive communication and cooperation among MIRA, MIRA municipalities and Hartford, the host community, Wingfield wrote.

Dykes said its important that converting a waste-to-energy site to a transfer station goes through an updated permitting process that is open to public input from the community.

Some of the odors associated with the management of the municipal solid waste at the South Meadows site are mitigated by the operation of the resource recovery facility and its ventilation, Dykes said. If that facility were no longer operating, some of those odor issues might not be mitigated.
STAMFORD  The trial will begin Monday in a case that made national headlines after a town of Greenwich employee accused an RTM member of improperly pinching her during a political argument nearly five years ago.

Chris von Keyserling was charged with fourth-degree sexual assault in connection with the incident that occurred on Dec. 8, 2016.

The trial in the misdemeanor case was paused for more than a year because of the COVID-19 pandemic. But jury selection for the high-profile case took place late last month, as Stamford Superior Court resumed the activity for the first time in nearly 15 months.

Attorney Phil Russell, who represents von Keyserling, a longtime member of the Representative Town Meeting in Greenwich, said he expects the trial to last three to four days but declined to comment further.

A town of Greenwich employee at the town-operated Nathaniel Witherell nursing home told police that von Keyserling had grabbed her genitals from behind and pinched her as she walked away from him following a heated exchange, according to the arrest affidavit.

After a police investigation, von Keyserling was arrested on a fourth-degree sexual assault charge on Jan. 11, 2017, at Greenwich Town Hall, nearly a month after the alleged incident. The now-75-year-old Cos Cob resident has pleaded not guilty.

In July 2018, a state Superior Court judge determined that the case could not be resolved through a plea deal after an impasse arose between prosecutors and von Keyserling and his legal defense, sending the case to trial.

At the time of his arrest, Russell described the charge as unrealistic.

In almost 30 years of practicing law in this town, I would say Mr. von Keyserling is the one person I would never suspect of having any inappropriate sexual predilections, Russell said at the time.

Von Keyserling has been out of office since losing a 2017 election for the RTM in District 8, where he was chairman. His loss came after he refused to step down from the RTM despite calls for his resignation after his arrest.

His arrest also triggered discussion in the community about the misconduct of men in the workplace, mirroring the #metoo national movement. Protesters turned out at the courthouse for von Keyserlings arraignment.
Milton, PA (17847)

Today

Overcast. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 76F. Winds NNW at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Some clouds this evening will give way to mainly clear skies overnight. Low near 60F. Winds NW at 5 to 10 mph.
Chamber of Deputies Speaker Ludovic Orban urges Moldovan citizens to go to the polls in large numbers on Sunday, "because the democratic future of the Republic of Moldova depends on this vote."

"I was glad to see the mobilisation of those in the diaspora, who, as in Romania, understood the important role they play in determining the fate of their country. With each vote, the Republic of Moldova is closer to a stable, pro-European government, guaranteeing progress and welfare for its inhabitants. It is time for the people dedicated to the democratic path to receive, through your vote, the power to perform the much-needed reforms. Dear Moldovans, it is in your power today to decide the future of the country, as Moldova deserves more. I am by your side and I support you on this extremely important day!," Ludovic Orban wrote on his Facebook page.

Early parliamentary elections are taking place in Moldova on Sunday.

Polling stations are open until 21:00.

12 polling stations are set up on the Romanian territory, of which two in Bucharest.
Dr. George Turabelidze, a state epidemiologist with the Department of Health and Senior Services, said at a briefing that parts of the St. Louis, Columbia and Kansas City areas are now seeing increases in COVID-19.

Do not assume it is over. It is not over, by far. And get vaccinated, Turabelidze said. That is what we can do as a community to stop this outbreak from going out of control.

The virus has spread rapidly throughout southwest Missouri in recent weeks. In Greene County, home to Springfield, the seven-day average of new cases hit 171 on Friday, the highest level since Jan. 13. The county reported 205 hospitalized COVID-19 patients, nearing the peak of 237 seen on Dec. 1.

Garza warned that because the St. Louis metro region is behind on vaccinations and because there is a more transmissible variant of the virus circulating, the coming weeks will likely bring more cases and hospitalizations.

The delta variant recently became the most common strain in the U.S. And the region that includes Missouri, Iowa, Kansas and Nebraska is reporting the highest proportions in the nation, according to data from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Actual innocence is enough, Johnsons attorneys write. And, it should be, of course, but for that to be the case, for Johnson, for Dunn and for Strickland, the court will have to admit that the appellate judges got the Lincoln case wrong and that the Missouri Supreme Court has let that injustice stand for too long.

Dwight Warren, the former prosecutor in the Johnson case, is retired but has lots of friends in law enforcement and the courts. He defends his handling of the case. Joe Nickerson, the detective in the case, is still working  in St. Louis County, though some activists are calling for him to be fired. Most of the judges involved in the cases cited to keep Johnson and the others in prison are still on the bench.

Its difficult for the courts to look inward, at themselves, and those who are entrusted to enforce the law, and rule in judgment against them. But failure to do so would continue the manifest injustice that has Johnson stuck behind bars for a crime that every credible witness and the prosecutor says he did not commit.

The truth is inescapable: Lamar Johnson did not kill Marcus Boyd and the evidence of his innocence is clear and convincing. His unconstitutional convictions rest on perjured testimony, false evidence, and misconduct committed by those who took an oath to enforce constitutional rights and tell the truth, Johnsons attorneys write. The office that prosecuted him determined nearly two years ago that he is innocent and should be freed. Justice should not be denied a moment longer.

From City Hall to the Capitol, metro columnist Tony Messenger shines light on what public officials are doing, tells stories of the disaffected, and brings voice to the issues that matter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy.
UPDATED with more details from police.

ST. LOUIS  A 15-year-old boy was shot and killed Sunday afternoon in a shooting in St. Louis' Carr Square neighborhood just north of Downtown.

St. Louis police were called just after 1 p.m. Sunday to the Preservation Square apartments near the 1400 block of North 14th Street.

The victim, Kyle Faulkner, was found dead and had several gunshot wounds, police said. Kyle lived in the 700 block of Biddle Place. Relatives said he was with friends when he was shot.

Police have no suspects.

Police Lt. Scott Aubuchon said investigators believe the boy was "probably" shot with a rifle. The shooting took place right near a tower of police cameras inside the complex.

"We got a good description of the vehicle (and) suspect," Aubuchon said, "which we will release when we believe it's appropriate."

At the crime scene, dozens of neighbors stood outside their homes talking while police gathered evidence behind the tape. Several family members were on scene, comforting one another.

"We've gotten a lot of cooperation," Aubuchon said. "So far we're pleased with the neighborhood assistance."
It seems to me it was purposefully planned to go around the council, probably figuring wed ask too many questions like we did last year, he told the Post-Dispatch last week. I think the council deserves an explanation as to how this happened and who was involved in making these decisions.

Council Chair Rita Heard Days, D-1st District, said she didnt question the merits of the jails new phone and tablet service but said the contract should have been put out to bid.

It seems to me that we didnt get what we wanted through the RFP process but then you went through the state cooperative, she said. Youve obviously gone ahead and awarded the contract without council input. That seems a little disingenuous.

Councilwoman Lisa Clancy, D-5th District, who as council chair in 2020 dropped the Securus contract at procurement officials recommendation, said she was pleased to see jail inmates get access to the tablets and that there was no evidence that anything was done to secure this new contract that was improper.

Councilman Ernie Trakas, R-6th District, said that putting the service out to bid would have subjected it to council politics and delays.
ROBERTSVILLE, Mo.  Several high-profile conservatives joined former Missouri Gov. Eric Greitens at a rally for his U.S. Senate campaign.

Former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani and former New York City Police Commissioner Bernie Kerik joined Greitens at Saturday's campaign event in rural Franklin County. More than 200 people attended the rally for Greitens, who was forced from the governor's office by scandal just a year and a half into his tenure.

After Greitens was elected governor in 2016, he was viewed as a rising Republican star who might run for president as a charismatic former Navy SEAL officer and Rhodes Scholar.
Overall, there was 26% turnover reported in 2020. A sense of staffing levels has been hard to come by. The state hasnt provided clear employment data by region to the Post-Dispatch, despite a Sunshine request for the information. State legislators, who have been investigating the Childrens Division through the Missouri House Special Committee on Government Oversight, recently received data indicating the agency isnt keeping up with the speed of the revolving door.

As of May 4, 2021, one in five frontline positions allocated to judicial circuits statewide  mainly investigators and caseworkers  sat empty, or 317 out of 1,506 positions, according to a Post-Dispatch analysis of the data.

Of the 46 judicial circuits, a third of them had less than 75% of their frontline Childrens Division positions filled. Nearly one in three positions in each of the three circuits that cover St. Louis, St. Louis County and St. Charles County were vacant. In the 12th Circuit, covering Warren and Montgomery counties, 42% of positions were unfilled. Two other circuits  the 14th Circuit, comprised of Howard and Randolph counties, and the 42nd Circuit, where Shearin worked  tied for worst, with 53% of positions unfilled.
A mental health professional from Memorial Behavioral Health and several police officers were also present.

Thats something, Johnson said, Ill never forget, watching the families reaction, the shock and awe of that. Ive dealt with crises and those types of things, but never a shooting.

In both situations, Johnson was able to address the families.

I remember talking about how none of this makes sense, that they werent alone in this, said Johnson, one of three SPD chaplains. Youre just trying to give some pastoral support, that was the main thing. Do they even remember anything I said? Im sure they didnt.

It wasnt real yet. The coroner just tells you your loved one (was taken from you). How do you process that? How do you even begin to process that? What I saw was that once that news was finally delivered (by Allmon), there was the initial reaction then there was the now what?

Thats where I try to step in from the spiritual perspective, just to say youre not alone in this. Theres a God who loves you. Theres a God who cares. I cant understand why he would allow this to happen. Nobody can, but all I know is that he hasnt left us. Thats when we went into prayer and tried to provide some comfort.
From everything the Taliban leadership has said and done so far, the time for negotiations is over. They clearly are bent on mowing down all opposition in their path, democracy and human rights be damned.

Saying that the United States didnt go into Afghanistan to nation-build is a distraction from what the actual mission was: to ensure the al-Qaida presence was wiped out and to stabilize Afghanistan so its territory would never again serve as a base for international terrorism. A giant question mark hangs over that latter mission.

When the U.S. troops occupied Germany and Japan after World War II, they also werent there to nation-build. Yet U.S. forces remain in Germany and Japan to this day, ensuring those two countries will never again pose threats to humanity while also warning Russia and China to stand down.

Sometimes, a sustained, non-combat U.S. military presence is what it takes to serve warning that American resolve will not be questioned. But no, in Afghanistan, the Taliban has received exactly the opposite message.

In Iraq, at least, the 2011 U.S. withdrawal (which resulted in disaster) came at the demand of that countrys government. This time, the Afghan government is being thrown to the slaughter. Not since Vietnam has the United States so shamefully created a mess of these proportions and then abandoned it because a succession of leaders lacked the focus, persistence and resolve to accomplish what needed to be done.
Parson's ineptness led state to virus disaster; media shouldn't divide us on race and other top letters
The U.S. Navy has had considerable success in developing and testing large ocean-going USVs (unmanned surface vessel). This is the Ghost Fleet Overlord program that is developing Class 4 USVs (those over 50 meters/160 feet long). The navy has built two development Ghost Fleet vessels (Nomad and Ranger) for testing, each displacing about 2,000 tons. Both have made autonomous voyages, travelling about 8,000 kilometers from the American Gulf coast to the West coast, including transit through the Panama Canal. These voyages had the ships in autonomous mode 98 percent of the time. A small crew was on board in case of problems, but there were none. Each vessel picked up a pilot for going through the Panama Canal. The navy wants to buy ten of these Ghost Ships for operational use, mainly in the Pacific where China has a growing number of anti-ship missiles, including a ballistic missile, for use against American ships. The autonomous ships will be armed with a dozen or more VLS cells carrying anti-ship and land-attack and anti-aircraft missiles as well as RWS (remote weapons stations) armed with machine-guns or autocannon for defense. The main function of the Ghost Ships would be ELINT (Electronic Intelligence), ASW (Anti-Submarine Warfare) and similar support functions. Encrypted satellite communications would handle sending data and receiving commands from manned ships or land bases. Sensors include the usual array of vidcams, radar and acoustic sensors to help with navigation and security. On the open ocean these ships could be boarded by hostile forces seeking to take over the USV or just plunder it (as in pirates) of anything valuable and portable. There will probably be a landing pad for manned or unmanned helicopters. The unmanned aircraft would assist with the mission while manned helicopters could land to deal with any malfunctions if a ship was not close enough to take care of this.

These larger USVs take advantage of technology already used on smaller coastal and harbor USVs as well as tech already in use by commercial firms for large ferries and cargo vessels. Commercial ships have pioneered the use of automation on large ocean-going container and tanker ships. That means a crew of about 30 for ships as large as an aircraft carrier but only carrying cargo. Most of the time these ships navigate autonomously and the crews are for maintenance, including quickly dealing with equipment problems. Commercial ships, like commercial airliners and transports are more heavily used than military ships and aircraft. Time is money for the heavily used commercial ships and aircraft and both spend most of their time in the air or at sea.

Automation, including navigation and open-seas movement is already largely automated and human intervention is only needed to complex maneuvers, like getting into or out of a crowded harbor or getting through canals (like Panama or Suez), For the canal transits the canal operators provide pilots, as do many harbors that handle very large cargo or tanker ships.

The Ghost Fleet Overland program builds on decades of development and use of smaller military USVs, including autonomous ocean-going UUVs (Unmanned Underwater vessel) the size of a torpedo and able to stay at sea up to year at a time. Originally developed for scientific research, these autonomous USVs were seen by the navy as an ideal tool for monitoring undersea conditions constantly and inexpensively. This data is important to detecting submarines.

These smaller USVs and UUVs have gone through several generations of development and use. For example, in 2019 an Israeli firm introduced its new Seagull coastal USV. This USV is equipped with a HELRAS (Helicopter Long-Range Active Sonar) active low-frequency dipping sonar that is normally used by a helicopter to pinpoint the location of a submarine before launching a lightweight torpedo. Seagull can carry and launch one of those torpedoes after HELRAS has located a target, usually a naval mine sitting on the ocean bottom in coastal waters.

While Seagull development concentrated on mine detection and destruction, the remotely controlled boat can carry 2.5 tons of specialized equipment and has been tested with many systems, usually in the presence of officers from various navies as well as representatives from the European and American companies that build the mine-clearing, anti-submarine, EW (Electronic Warfare) and anti-swimmer (frogman) systems Seagull users can purchase and use. Improved relations between Israel and the Persian Gulf Arab states make those nations potential customers. Iran is a mutual enemy and Iran poses several naval threats to its Arab neighbors. Seagull offers a cost-effective way to deal with numerous Iranian threats like small submarines, naval mines and armed speedboats. Standard equipment on Seagull enables it to operate safely in areas containing other ships, both large and small. Seagull navigation sensors can automatically detect and avoid other ships as well as underwater obstacles.

In mid-2017 Seagull demonstrated its ability to perform MCM (mine countermeasures) missions (finding and destroying bottom mines) off the Belgium coast in rough weather. Seagull was designed to operate in Sea State 5 (six-meter waves and 38 kilometer an hour winds) conditions and survive Sea State 7 (nine-meter waves and 59 kilometers an hour winds).

Each Seagull system consists of two Seagulls and a base station. The Seagull is based on a small manned boat and retains the wheelhouse. From a distance, it looks like a manned boat. In fact, Seagull is either operating autonomously or remotely by human operators using base station control equipment that can be up to a hundred kilometers away on land or a manned ship. The base station crew includes the three people needed to operate Seagull and its equipment. For MCM work, one Seagull carries several types of sensors (onboard, towed and autonomous sonars) while the other Seagull carries a minisub for getting a closer look at bottom mines. Small wire-guided torpedoes are used for destroying subs or bottom mines.

A Seagull USV is 12 meters (39 feet) long, has a top speed of 57 kilometers an hour and can stay at sea for up to 100 hours (four days) at a time. Each Seagull system will cost from $12 million to $30 million depending on installed equipment. Seagull can do the work of a manned MCM (mine countermeasures) ship costing three times as much or, when it comes to ASW (anti-submarine warfare) operations, a frigate or corvette costing ten times as much. Seagull is a lot cheaper to maintain and operate and puts far fewer personnel at risk.

Seagull also has an RWS (Remote Weapons Station) armed with a 12.7mm machine-gun. When a threat is detected, an operator can control the machine-gun or if Seagull communications are jammed the USV can be programmed to fire on certain types of targets autonomously. This makes Seagull an effective way to guard ports and offshore facilities. The Israeli Navy plans to use them to guard Israeli offshore natural gas wells in addition to the pipeline carrying the gas to shore.

Seagull is not a radical new concept but rather the result of decades of unmanned aerial, land and naval vehicle development. The Israelis have been in the lead in most categories. The American Predator UAV was based on Israeli designs. Israeli firms continue the development of these autonomous systems. For example, in 2013 an Israeli firm presented a larger (11 meter/34 foot) version of their original nine-meter Protector USV. This one was armed with a water cannon and Spike missiles. The 2013 model was more stable in rough seas and can stay out for over 12 hours at a time.

The original Israeli USV was the 2005 version of the Protector, a four-ton, 9 meter (30 foot) long speedboat that could move at up to 72 kilometers an hour and was armed with an RWS 12.7mm machine-gun using night vision and a laser rangefinder. Both versions of Protector were equipped with radar, GPS, and vidcams, as well as a public address system, to give orders to boats that should not be there. All these features were carried over to the Seagull.

Protector has been used since 2005 in places like the Israeli coast, the Persian Gulf, and Singapore for port and coast patrol. Protector can be controlled from an operator ashore or in a nearby ship, usually out to the horizon or at least 10-20 kilometers distant. The original Protector could stay out eight hours at a time. The one big shortcoming was Protector being built for speed, not rough seas. So when the weather turns bad, and the waves get higher, Protector has to be brought in. Protector is used to patrol the Gaza coast and the waters around the Lebanese border. These USVs were also used off Gaza during the several wars with Hamas in Gaza.

Seagull development was driven in part by the need to guard the new Israeli offshore natural gas fields and the pipelines moving the gas to shore. Most of these natural gas operations are near the maritime border with Lebanon. Seagull is being offered to trusted allies who need a less expensive way to deal with MCM and ASW operations. NATO nations, especially those with coasts bordering the North Sea and Baltic Sea are particularly concerned about MCM and ASW capabilities now that Russia has become more aggressive.

The United States has also developed similar small USV systems but so far Israel is in the lead and the Americans have cooperation agreements with Israel to share tech, some of which is jointly developed.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - July 9, 2021) - Central African Gold Inc. (TSXV: CAGR) (FSE: BC2) (OTCQB: NDENF) (the "Corporation" or "Central African Gold") is pleased to announce the Corporation has retained South African based MSA Group to complete technical due diligence and NI 43-101 technical report on the Musefu Gold project in the DRC. Central African Gold recently announced it has entered into an agreement to acquire an interest in the Musefu Gold Project which has historical gold exploration and production.

About MSA

Established in 1983, the MSA Group has grown to become a holistic consulting and contracting company providing specialist technical input into international projects in the resource, financial, infrastructure and development sectors. They have worked across multiple sectors, on all commodities and in diverse environments on five continents for some of the largest multinational companies, listed juniors and private companies and investors. MSA has worked in over 30 countries in Africa, and has an intimate, first-hand knowledge of the African continent and extensive knowledge of remote project environments. MSA has recent and relevant experience in the DRC on gold projects.

Mr. Stephen Barley, Chairman and CEO of Central African Gold stated, "We required an experienced and independent consulting group to complete a NI 43-101 report on the Musefu Gold Project. The consultants had to have a strong knowledge base of the geology and mining practices in the DRC; have an impeccable reputation in the industry; and be responsive to our timing requirements and proceed with a sense of urgency. MSA exceeds all our requirements. Musefu is a large land package with great potential, and we believe MSA is the right group to assist us in unlocking that potential."

Musefu Gold Project

The project comprises five concessions covering 924 sq kms located 315 kms south of the city of Kananga in Kasai Central Province, southern DRC. Kasai Central Province has been underexplored due to its location and the need for infrastructure expansion. Central African Gold believes the required investment in infrastructure is imminent and it is opportunistic to be an early entrant into the region with such a large tract of high potential underexplored land. Prior work programs returned impressive high assays and high potential targets for additional exploration. (See news release dated June 29, 2021).

About Central African Gold Inc.

Central African Gold is a natural resource company with a primary focus on the acquisition, exploration, development, and operation of mineral projects in the Democratic Republic of the Congo ("DRC"). Central African Gold currently holds rights to multiple mineral projects with base and precious metal potential strategically located in the southern DRC. Central African Gold has the intention to acquire interests in additional concessions or relinquish concessions in the normal course of business. Central African Gold has an experienced management team located in the DRC.

For further information, please contact:

Stephen Barley, Chairman & CEO

Phone: (604-834-2968)

Email: info@centralafricangold.com

Website: www.centralafricangold.com

Reader Advisory

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 may contain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws including, but not limited to the satisfactory completion of due diligence on the Musefu Gold Project; the closing of the acquisition of the Musefu Gold Project; the completion of a NI 43-101 Report; and the completion of the announced necessary financings to fund the Corporation. Although the Corporation believes considering the experience of its officers and directors, current conditions and expected future developments and other factors that have been considered appropriate, that the expectations reflected in this forward-looking information are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on them as the Corporation can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. Actual results and developments may differ materially from those contemplated by these statements. The statements in this press release are made as of the date of this release. The Corporation undertakes no obligation to comment on analyses, expectations or statements made by third parties in respect of the Corporation its securities, or its financial or operating results.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/89838
Aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt returns to Naval Air Station North Island on May 25, 2021. (Robert Price/U.S. Navy)

SAN DIEGO (Tribune News Service)  Next week, the Navy takes another step to add the Pentagon's newest, stealthiest aircraft to its carrier-borne air wings.

The San Diego-based aircraft carrier Theodore Roosevelt will leave San Diego on Friday to transfer its home port to Bremerton, Wash., where it will undergo maintenance and a retrofit that will enable the ship to operate with the F-35, the Navy announced.

The ship will be in the maintenance yards for 16-18 months, said Steven Fiebing, a Naval Air Forces spokesman in San Diego. About 3,000 sailors and their families are expected to make the move to Washington, the Navy said in a statement.

The Theodore Roosevelt will be the last of the three carriers currently based in San Diego to field the F-35C version of the fighter; Carl Vinson is currently undergoing pre-deployment workups ahead of what will be the first-ever carrier deployment of the jets. In the coming months the Lincoln will also deploy in what will be a first for Marine Corps F-35Cs, Fiebing said.

Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 314, known as the Black Knights, based at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, became the first Marine F-35C squadron to achieve full operational capability July 1, the Marine Corps said in a statement.

The F-35C is the third and final variant of the Pentagon's trillion-dollar Joint Strike Fighter to reach the operational milestone of deployment. The largest of the three aircraft types, the "A" variant, is flown in the U.S. by the Air Force. The "B" variant, a short-takeoff and vertical-landing capable aircraft, has been flown by the Marine Corps since 2018 and operates from Navy amphibious ships.

The "C" is flown by both the Navy and Marine Corps and is designed to operate as part of a Navy carrier air wing. It has a larger wingspan and longer range to meet the demands of carrier operations.

That air wing integration was dependent on a few factors, said Cmdr. Zachary Harrell, a Naval Air Forces spokesman.

Nimitz-class carriers, Harrell said, need to have stronger deflectors installed on their flight decks to handle the jet blast of the F-35C's single engine. Some interior spaces on the ships also have to be refurbished for F-35 missions.

However, it isn't just material upgrades the ships needed to deploy with the next-generation fighter, Harrell said. They also have to integrate another aircraft into the wing  the CMV-22B Osprey.

"Any carrier with F-35s will need a CMV squadron," Harrell said. "You need the Osprey to carry the (F-35) engine module."

Those modules, Harrell said, are too large for the Navy's MH-60 helicopters and C-2 Greyhound aircraft, which normally carry replacement parts, to carry.

All of the Navy's current Osprey squadrons operate out of Naval Air Station North Island since only West Coast carriers are currently configured to deploy with F-35s.

The stealthy F-35 brings new capabilities to the air wings, according to pilots who've flown them. Advanced sensors, communications and touch-screen cockpit controls makes the jets easy to fly, a Marine Corps pilot told the Union-Tribune last year. This allows pilots to focus on their missions.

The fighters are the most expensive weapons system ever fielded by the Pentagon and are expected to cost more than $1 trillion to operate and maintain over their lifetime.

One F-35C squadron will integrate into each of the two air wings, Harrell said.

In addition to the F-35 retrofit, the Navy said, the Roosevelt will also receive upgrades to its self-defense system, its 25 mm machine gun and its computer network.

Maintenance crews will also work on the ship's hull, rudder, propulsion shaft and anchor while the ship is in drydock at the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard.

Nimitz-class nuclear aircraft carriers have service lives of 50 years but require frequent maintenance and technological upgrades, including a one-time, multi-year midlife refueling that is done on the East Coast. Some maintenance is routinely performed pier-side in San Diego, but more involved maintenance necessitates occasional work in Bremerton.

The Puget Sound Naval Shipyard has the only dry dock on the West Coast large enough for Nimitz-class carriers.

Because of these maintenance requirements, the Navy frequently relocates its carriers.

Fiebing said Navy leaders have not decided whether the Roosevelt will return to San Diego after its time in the yards. The last San Diego-based carrier to transfer homeports from San Diego to Bremerton  the Carl Vinson, which left in January 2019  returned in September after more than a year and a half of maintenance in Washington.

The Abraham Lincoln arrived in San Diego in January 2020 after a 10-month round-the-world deployment following its midlife refueling and maintenance in Norfolk, Va.

The carriers are an economic boon for the region. According to the 2020 San Diego Military Economic Impact Report from UC San Diego and the San Diego Military Advisory Council, the three carriers each contribute $767 million to the area economy per year. The report indicated that military spending in San Diego softened the economic impact of the pandemic in 2020.

For the Theodore Roosevelt, the move north comes after a tumultuous 18 months for the ship and its crew.

After leaving San Diego in January 2020 for a routine deployment, the crew found itself at the forefront of the coronavirus pandemic when several sailors came down with the virus after a port call in Vietnam. Sidelined for month in Guam, the virus would eventually infect a third of the crew.

The ship's captain at the time, Capt. Brett Crozier, was fired by then-acting Navy secretary Thomas Modly after a letter from Crozier critical of how the Pacific Fleet was handling the outbreak was leaked to the media. Modly himself then resigned after making disparaging comments about Crozier to the crew days after the firing.

A 41-year-old chief petty officer died from the virus.

The ship returned to San Diego last summer but quickly began preparing for yet another deployment. Sailors began a mandatory pre-deployment quarantine in November and left San Diego Dec. 7, meaning they were away from their families over the Thanksgiving and December holidays. During its second deployment in a year, the ship did not visit any ports.

The Roosevelt returned to San Diego in May.

2021 The San Diego Union-Tribune.

Visit sandiegouniontribune.com.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
A family member watches on as police forensics officers carry the body his brother who was found inside a burned shop, in Johannesburg, South Africa, Sunday, July 11, 2021. Protests have spread from the KwaZulu Natal province to Johannesburg against the imprisonment of former South African President Jacob Zuma who was imprisoned last week for contempt of court. (AP Photo/Themba Hadebe) (Themba Hadebe)

JOHANNESBURG  Violent rioting has erupted in two South African provinces against the imprisonment of former President Jacob Zuma, with supporters blocking roads and looting shops. At least 62 people were arrested, South Africa police said Sunday.

Zuma started serving a 15-month sentence for contempt of court last week. Zuma has been imprisoned for defying a court order to testify before a state-backed inquiry probing allegations of corruption during his term as president from 2009 to 2018.

His bid to be released from the Estcourt Correctional Center was rejected by a regional court on Friday. He is set to make another attempt Monday with the Constitutional Court, the country's highest court.

The rioting by Zuma's supporters began in his home region of KwaZulu-Natal province last week and over the weekend spread to Gauteng province, which includes Johannesburg, South Africa's largest city.

Several hundred people looted and burned stores in the Alexandra and Bramley neighborhoods of Johannesburg, according to a statement by police Maj. Gen. Mathapelo Peters.

The body of a 40-year-old man was recovered from a shop that had been burned and police are investigating the circumstances, he said. In addition, at least three police officers were injured when trying to arrest looters and one was hospitalized, according to the statement.

Police said they are increasing capacity in both provinces and warned Zuma's supporters against inciting violence on social media, saying they could become liable for criminal charges.
People attend a protest rally in Berlin, Germany, Saturday, July 10, 2021, as part of the Free Iran World Summit 2021. (Michael Sohn/AP)

BERLIN  The Iranian government has expressed anger over the appearance of senior European and U.S. politicians at a rally in support of an opposition group that has long sought to overthrow Iran's theocratic rulers  and which was once considered a terror organization by the West.

Iran's official IRNA news agency reported that the country's foreign ministry on Sunday summoned Slovenia's envoy in Tehran over a video message by the EU nations' prime minister at the event hosted by the National Council of Resistance of Iran.

The NRCI is the political wing of the Mujahedeen-e-Khalq, which is considered a terror organization by Iran and was once designated as such by the United States until it was delisted in 2012. The EU removed the group from its terrorism list in 2009.

Hundreds of people rallied Saturday in front of Berlin's iconic Brandenburg Gate, while speakers including former U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, Democratic strategist Donna Brazile and numerous serving U.S. senators from across the aisle lauded the NRCI and its aims.

Pompeo, who defended the Trump administration's hard-line stance against Iran over its nuclear program, claimed in his video address that the Iranian government was "at its most precarious state" since the 1979 Islamic Revolution and called for sustained pressure on Tehran.

The former top U.S. diplomat also compared Iran's newly elected president, Ebrahim Raisi, to a "mass murderer" for his role in the execution of thousands of Iranian political prisoners in 1988.

"The United States should take the lead to hold him accountable for the crimes against humanity that he committed," said Pompeo, adding that the U.S. government should tell allies in Europe and Asia if they deal with Raisi, "the United States will hold them accountable as well."

Pompeo praised the NRCI, whose funding is unclear and which has in the past paid foreign politicians to appear at its rallies, urging the group to "keep up the fight."

"May your mission be blessed and protected, may the Iranian people be blessed," said the Republican, who has refused to rule out running in the 2024 U.S. presidential election.

Pompeo's support for the group was echoed by Brazile, who praised the "remarkable courage and leadership" of the NRCI's president, Maryam Rajavi.

Also speaking during the event were Democratic Sens. Bob Menendez and Cory Booker, and Republican Sens. Roy Blunt and Ted Cruz, the former U.K. House of Commons Speaker John Bercow, former Italian Foreign Minister Franco Frattini, former Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper and others.

Iran slammed Western politicians taking part in the event, with Foreign Ministry spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh accusing them of "(selling) themselves cheap for a Europe-hosted circus arranged by a once Saddam-backed terrorist cult with Iranian blood on its hands."

The ministry also condemned the speech by Slovenian Prime Minister Janez Jansa, calling it "unacceptable, against diplomatic norms and spirit" of bilateral relations, the IRNA news agency reported.

Jansa, whose country holds the rotating European Council presidency, had said he backed calls for an independent investigation into Raisi's role in the 1988 executions.

"The Iranian regime must be held accountable for human rights violations and the international community must be more firm on this," he said.
Migrants from Cameroon rest at the refugee camp in the village of Vydeniai, Lithuania, Saturday, July 10, 2021. European Union member Lithuania has declared a state of emergency due to an influx of migrants from neighboring Belarus in the last few days. (Mindaugas Kulbis/AP)

HELSINKI  The European Unions border agency is pledging to significantly step up its support to Lithuania in the coming days due to the growing migratory pressure at Lithuanias border with Belarus that the Baltic nation is trying to contain.

The decision by Frontex, the agency responsible for coordinating border control between EU member states and third countries, was announced late Saturday following a video call between Frontexs Executive Director Fabrice Leggeri and Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda.

Lithuanias border is our common external border and Frontex stands ready to help where needed, Leggeri said in a statement. We are ready to strengthen our level of support and deploy more European standing corps officers and equipment to Lithuania, an EU and NATO member of 2.8 million.

Frontexs operation, which started earlier this month with the deployment of a dozen officers and patrol cars, will more than double next week, the agency said.

Nausedas office said reinforcements pledged by Frontex were expected to reach Lithuania by July 15 and that some armed border patrols and additional translators arrived over the weekend. In addition, a patrol helicopter will be sent to Lithuania from neighboring Poland and discussions were under way to dispatch another helicopter from Germany, Nausedas office said.

In a tweet, Nauseda thanked Frontex for its support to manage flows of illegal migrants through eastern border with Belarus, another former Soviet republic that is not in the EU.

Lithuania, which has granted refuge to Belarus opposition figures, accuses its neighbor of organizing the border crossings by people mainly from Iraq, the Mideast and Africa.

In June, the number of illegal border crossings from Belarus into Lithuania rose six-fold, increasing the pressure on national border control authorities, Frontex said. The phenomenon has accelerated in July. More than 1,500 people have crossed into Lithuania from Belarus in the past two months  20 times more than in all of 2020.

Tensions between the EU and Belarus escalated even more after Belarus diverted a passenger jet on May 23 to arrest an opposition journalist. Belarus authoritarian President Alexander Lukashenko has said his country will halt cooperation with the 27-nation bloc on stemming migration in retaliation for bruising economic sanctions the EU slapped on Belarus over the passenger jet diversion.

On Friday, Lithuania started building a double barbed wire fence on the Belarus border. It will run for 550 kilometers (342 miles), covering most of the nearly 680-kilometer (423-mile) border and cost 41 million euros ($48 million), according to Lithuanian authorities.

In addition, Lithuania has set up tent camps to accommodate the growing number of migrants.

Nauseda, on a visit to Poland on Sunday, said that technical steps are necessary to make the border work and be a real barrier, because now it can be easily crossed.

Nauseda said Lithuania was talking to the governments of the countries where the migrants come from and also with transit countries like Turkey in order to curb the (illegal migration) process that is being supported by the Belarusian regime.

It is a kind of revenge for EU sanctions, Nauseda said in Krakow, following talks with Polands President Andrzej Duda.

Duda said Poland will extend the necessary assistance to Lithuania and was talking about the best way to do that with Frontex.
JERUSALEM  Israel's Security Cabinet on Sunday froze nearly $200 million in tax transfers to the Palestinians that it said represented the amount of money the Palestinians transferred to the families of alleged attackers last year.

Under interim peace agreements, Israel collects hundreds of millions of dollars in taxes for the internationally recognized Palestinian Authority. The tax transfers are a key source of funding for the cash-strapped Palestinians.

Israel has long objected to the Palestinian "martyrs fund," which provides stipends to thousands of families that have had relatives killed, wounded or imprisoned in the conflict with Israel.

The Palestinians say the payments are a type of welfare system meant to assist families affected by the conflict. But Israel says such payments serve as rewards and incentives for violence.

In its decision, the Security Cabinet approved a recommendation by Defense Minister Benny Gantz to freeze some 597 million shekels  or roughly $180 million  for what it called "indirect support of terrorism" in 2020. It said the funds will be frozen on a monthly basis out of payments that Israel transfers to the Palestinians.

For the Palestinians, the families of attackers are widely seen as victims of a half century of Israeli occupation. The Palestinians say that many Palestinians are unfairly held by Israel and that the number of prisoners involved in deadly attacks is a small percentage of those aided by the fund.

Qadri Abu Bakr, head of the Palestinian commission for detainees' affairs, accused Israel of stealing Palestinians funds, calling the decision a "crime and piracy."

The official Palestinian news agency Wafa said that President Mahmoud Abbas spoke by telephone Sunday with Israel's new president, Isaac Herzog.

It said Abbas called for a "comprehensive calm" in Gaza, the West Bank and Jerusalem, and called for steps that would create conditions for a "achieving a just and comprehensive peace."

The statement made no mention of the frozen tax transfers.
A statue of Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee stands in Market Street Park in Charlottesville, Va. (Wikipedia Commons)

The city of Charlottesville, Va., will take down two prominent Confederate monuments Saturday, officials said, capping an intense push in courtrooms and on city streets to remove the state of Gen. Robert E. Lee that became a focal point of the deadly Unite the Right rally in 2017.

The removal is the result of more than five years of campaigning by residents to take down monuments to Lee and fellow Confederate Gen. Stonewall Jackson  all of which began with a petition in 2016 from Zyahna Bryant, then a local high school student.

Bryant, now a student at the University of Virginia, said the move was a first step for the city to begin to uplift stories that had been concealed or omitted from Charlottesvilles history.

This is an opportunity to tell a more complete and historically accurate narrative of what Charlottesville is, she said. It shows that, this isnt just Dixieland, this isnt a place where Confederate generals did this and that. This is a place where Black people have worked to liberate themselves.

The Charlottesville City Council voted in February 2017 to take down the Lee statue, prompting white supremacists to descend on the city months later to defend Confederate iconography. One of them drove his car through a crowd of counterprotesters, killing a 32-year-old woman, Heather Heyer.

As the city also pushed to remove the nearby Jackson statue, several local residents sued to prevent the statues from coming down. They argued that a state law passed in 1997 prohibited localities from removing Confederate war memorials.

But the city successfully appealed to the Supreme Court of Virginia, which earlier this spring said that the law applies only to monuments erected after the law was adopted. The ruling cleared the way for the city to remove the figures. On June 7, the council voted unanimously to do just that.

Wes Bellamy, a former city council member who helped lead the push for the Lee statues removal, said that Fridays news demonstrates the power of perseverance.

Theres a level of fear that a lot of Black folk just lived in because of the terror of the past, said Bellamy, now chair of the political science department at Virginia State University. This is a beautiful thing to show our folks that we dont have to be afraid.

Charlottesville officials said in a news release Friday that only the statues will be removed on Saturday, to be stored securely until the city council decides what can happen to them next. The stone bases will be removed later.

Public viewing areas will be set up to allow spectators to watch the statues come down in Market Street and Court Square parks, where the statues stand, the city said. Protective fencing was being erected around the statues Friday in preparation for the removals.

City spokesman Brian Wheeler declined to comment on whether local officials were expecting protests or pushback against the removal of the statues.

As with any large event like this, we have a security plan and a team thats been hard at work ensuring that our contractor has access to the statues and can remove them safely, he said.

But Don Gathers, an activist and a deacon at First Baptist Church of Charlottesville, said he expects some presence of white supremacist groups  even if he prefers to be wrong in the end.

I can just imagine theyll be there to voice their displeasure, he said. Theyve been fighting this battle that they lost 155 years now, and I dont expect that theyll give it up at this point.

Gathers said that observers from the National Lawyers Guild and volunteers offering medical aid, security and deescalation measures will be on hand.

It is unclear where the statues will end up permanently following their removal. City officials in recent months have been seeking museums, historical societies or battlefields that may be interested in housing the statues. Ten potential sites, including four in Virginia, have expressed interest.

But before that question was considered, some said, it was important to recognize the activism that led to Fridays announcement. Susan Bro, Heyers mother, said that Black women  beginning with Bryant  should be acknowledged for their key role.

Heather did not protest for the sake of the statues, Bro said in a text message Friday. She protested in support of Black Lives after seeing the tiki torch marchers threaten them. She was referring to a nighttime march of torch-bearing white supremacists on the eve of the deadly clash in August 2017.

Jalane Schmidt, an activist and religious studies professor at the University of Virginia, said that while removal of the statues had been a long undertaking, much work remained to be done in the fight for racial justice in Charlottesville.

It wasnt about the monuments, she said. It was about what they symbolize, and the story of racial injustice in this country.

The Washington Posts Gregory S. Schneider contributed to this report.
(Tribune News Service)  A deadly heat wave engulfing the Pacific Northwest and Canada has killed hundreds of people  and more than a billion shellfish cooked alive on scorching beaches, experts say.

A mussel on the shore in some ways is like a toddler left in a car on a hot day, Chris Harley, a marine biologist at the University of British Columbia, told CBC News.

They are stuck there until the parent comes back, or in this case, the tide comes back in, and theres very little they can do, Harley said.

Harley described smelling dead mussels, clams and sea stars before even reaching a beach near his home, CNN reported.

I started having a look around just on my local beach and thought, Oh, this, this cant be good,  he told the network. Harley described another nearby beach as a catastrophe.

Temperatures soared higher than 100 degrees Fahrenheit in British Columbia and the Pacific Northwest in recent weeks, but conditions were even worse on beaches.

It was a Murphys Law of extreme heat and the lowest tides of the year at the same time, Megan Dethier, University of Washington Friday Harbor Laboratories director, told KUOW.

A shellfish farmer in Puget Sound reported temperatures in the muddy sand reached 135 degrees Fahrenheit, according to the station.

In British Columbia, shoreline temperatures reached 120 degrees Fahrenheit, CBC News reported.

At clam beds owned by Hama Hama Oysters in Lilliwaup, Wash., workers watched in astonishment as shellfish cooked alive, KIRO reported.

The clams were popping up, it looked like they were steamed open, Adam James told the station.

Experts blame climate change for the skyrocketing temperatures.

What worries me is that if you start getting heat waves like this every 10 years instead of every 1,000 years, or every five years, then its  youre getting hit too hard, too rapidly to actually ever recover, Harley told CNN. And then the ecosystem is going to just look very, very different.

2021 The Charlotte Observer.

Visit charlotteobserver.com.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Port Richey, FL (34668)

Today

Partly cloudy early followed by scattered thunderstorms this afternoon. High 87F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 40%..

Tonight

Partly to mostly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 73F. Winds light and variable.
An explosion of colour has appeared in Greerton Village this week as yarn bombing returns to brighten up the winter days ahead.

Under the theme Colour my World, creativity abounds as knitters and crocheters break out vibrant colours after the unsettled year of 2020.

Many of the famous cherry blossom trees around the Greerton Village are no longer naked but are now dressed, with help from Greerton Lions and Greerton Mainstreet members, resulting in a colourful array of trunks along Chadwick and Cameron Roads.

This year bombers range from five years to 90 years of age, with local schools participating once more and grannies enjoying assistance from their grandchildren.

Flowers created by Karen Wood. Photo: Rosalie Liddle Crawford.

Creating tree sleeves takes a lot of planning, with Greerton Mainstreet Manager Sally Benning and yarn bombing coordinator Carol Power, who is contracted by the Greerton Community Association, beginning event preparation well in advance.

Once the years theme is chosen, and knitters and yarn bombers choose the charity they want to support, then the creating begins.

Marilyn Mouat, Carol Power and Greerton Village Mainstreet Manager Sally Benning. Photo: John Borren.

Local retailer Marilyn Mouat, owner of MDs Leatherworks in Chadwick Rd has been involved for the last six or seven years. Shes knitted as well as been the drop-off and pick-up point for the yarn. Last year she knitted the stunning Edmonds Cookbook scene as part of the Aotearoa: What it means to me theme.

Ive done a bicycle, Thomas the Tank Engine, an octopus for Under the Sea, and I did Cinderella in blue coming out of a tree, says Marilyn.

The Greerton Village Community Associations yarn bombing event began in 2013 with 16 decorated cherry blossom trees.

Belinda Sands. Photo: John Borren.

Belinda Sands started the yarn bombing with Greerton Guerrillas, says Carol.

Belinda, who is also the owner of Greerton Lotto has knitted all her life and noticed that yarn bombing was becoming a popular social media phenomenon in Europe. After discussion with the then Greerton Mainstreet Manager, a local version was organised.

People thought we were quite crazy but we just have the perfect cherry trees in Greerton, says Belinda.

Word spread and many others joined in. Nowadays, groups or individuals are responsible for one or more trees each, with public voting to find an annual winner, and groups selecting a local charity they are fundraising for.

The Te Puke Kiwicoast Lions Club tree. Photo: Rosalie Liddle Crawford.

Themes from previous years have included Depict Your Favourite Song, Childrens Books, and Aotearoa: What it means to me.

Numerous subjects have been knitted into life over the last decade, from pukekos, flamingos, gumboots, lollies, NZ scenery, Edmonds Cook Book, and Marmite jars to name a few. Causing a mild controversy last year because of the upcoming General Election was the depiction of Jacinda Adern as part of Aotearoa: What it means to me.

Some of the knitting in the Rurus Tea Party tree, raising awareness about Assistance Dogs New Zealand Trust. Photo: Rosalie Liddle Crawford.

Birds and flowers created by the Nutty Knitters. Photo: Rosalie Liddle Crawford.

Carol says the artworks are becoming more three-dimensional.

Its been a fantastic year. There are over 30 new sleeves, and some of the trees this year are designed so you can be a part of it for a photo.

Greerton has the best yarn bombing in New Zealand now because of the real intricate and 3-D designs that people are doing.

A creation by the Greerton Village Community Yarn Bombing Group in support of Blind and Low Vision New Zealand. Photo: Rosalie Liddle Crawford.

The year of click-clacking, nattering and knitting culminates in the final set-up day. Usually this is a rain-free Sunday in late June or early July, with groups dotted along Chadwick Rd decorating their selected tree. After a health and safety check, people are up the top of ladders wrapping their creation around the trunks and branches.

The Greerton Village Community Association is celebrating a decade of yarn bombing in the village, and inviting the public to join in through July and August by voting for their favourite tree.

The Pacific Coast Village  Aquatic World tree. Photo: Rosalie Liddle Crawford.

The public is invited to join in through July and August by voting for their favourite tree and associated charity.

For the first time this year there will be cash prizes in four categories. The winning trees will take away a total of $2750 for their chosen NZ charities thanks to the generous sponsorship of Crockford Real Estate t/a Ray White Greerton and Greerton Village Mainstreet.

This years judge Allan Smith has been an active member of the Bay of Plenty creative arts sector and as well as creating his own art he has been a teacher of art, photography and performing arts for many years. He is looking forward to judging the installations.

The butterfly in the Arohanui Art and Education Trust tree. Photo: Rosalie Liddle Crawford.

On Saturday July 31 between 10.30am and noon in front of the Greerton Library, cultural groups and choirs will be colouring up Greerton Village with song and dance displays celebrating the yarn installations.

The winning tree will take away a significant amount of money for their chosen NZ charity thanks to the generous sponsorship of Crockford Real Estate t/a Ray White Greerton.

The trees are on full display now in Greerton Village until August 29, in perfect time for the school holidays.

Manual voting is available at six locations in Greerton Village  look out for the window posters to see where, or to vote online on the Greerton Village Yarn Bombing Facebook page. Voting closes at 10am on Friday August 20, and winners will be announced by August 24.

The Pyes Pa Junior School tree, supporting SPCA. Photo: Rosalie Liddle Crawford.
In 1983, when Simon Thurston was born, doctors told Lyall Thurston and his wife Gabrielle that Simon would likely only live for 24 hours.

Simon had spina bifida, a condition which affects about one in every 1000 pregnancies in Aotearoa.

Simon is now a successful professional with a tertiary education  Lyall even boasts of how Simon even completed a third major almost by accident.

They called him in one day and said, do you realise youre one paper off a triple major?

Lyalls not just a proud dad. He was celebrated by his colleagues at a Lakes District Health Board on Friday morning for his 40-year role in advocating for folic acid to be put into bread-making flour to help prevent neural tube birth defects such as spina bifida.

It follows a Government announcement on July 8 that fortification of non-organic bread-making wheat flour would begin from mid to late 2023.

The policy is expected to prevent between 162 and 240 neural tube defects over 30 years, saving the country between $25 million and $47m in health, education and productivity costs over the same time.

The Government will hand over about $1.6m for flour millers to cover the cost to buy and install equipment for the task.

In the meeting fellow board member Johann Morreau says Thurston has been New Zealands primary advocate for the introduction of folic acid to bread, describing his work tireless.

Its absolutely huge to see this happen and its got massive implications.

Another member, Rob Vigor-Brown, says he salutes Thurston, saying it's work for the kids.

Chairman Dr Jim Mather acknowledges Thurstons leadership in the area, which he calls an important issue for our tamariki and future generations.

He toka tu moana. You are the rock in tumultuous seas and tremendous storms, to be able to withstand all the challenges over the years.

A five-line email from the DHBs Woman, Child and Family Service clinical director Dr Stephen Bradley to chief executive Nick Saville-Wood contains four exclamation marks, congratulating Thurston on a lifetime of advocacy.

In his home in Rotoruas south on Friday afternoon, Thurston is less focused on taking the credit for himself, instead soberly recalling the trials, tribulation, and sheer data trawling over 40 years of campaigning.

He says shortly after Simon was born, he began reading and discovered the discussion about a lack of folate in modern people of child-bearing age.

Thats when I started pushing for it.

He connects with epidemiologists such as Dr Godfery Oakley in the US and Professor Fiona Stanley in Australia  both leading advocates for folic acid fortification of flour to prevent conditions such as spina bifida.

Since then Oakley has become part of the family. Hed just got off the phone with Stanley, who was absolutely blown away at the news.

Thurston is still on message though: folic acid is a soluble vitamin B that is non-toxic and any excess in the body will be excreted.

It has significantly reduced brain, spine or spinal cord birth defects in the many other countries it has been implemented, such as the US, Canada and Australia.

Hes battle-worn from last time - in 2009, New Zealand and Australia agreed to mandatory folic acid fortification.

Thurston, then described as Mr Folate graced the Rotorua Daily Posts front page over the victory.

But it wasnt to be. The National Government backed out of the decision following opposition from bakers and industry lobby groups.

They were all about dismantling the nanny state of Helen Clark.

Australias rate of neural tube defects dropped by 14 per cent overall and 74 per cent for the indigenous population.

Thurston says Oakley told him to just keep going and never lose sight of the prize.

It was families like mine who kept pushing and knocking on doors.

Particularly the doors of MPs, Thurston says, which he believes made the difference. There had been opposition from the Greens about choice and pure food he says, but that has changed.

We got everybody on board.

However, in that time, children had been committed to wheelchairs he says, and some children hadnt survived  something he described as unforgivable.

He says those who opposed it had blood on their hands.

It was a political decision [not] one based on science and research. The science has always been there.

Thurston says after about 40 years of campaigning he had mixed emotions at hearing the news, but elation was one of them.

What a gift the New Zealand Government has given to babies yet to be born.

But theres a sense of foreboding, weve been here before.

He thinks the roll-out could come sooner, and he thinks the cost of implementation is inflated.

There is hope though, too  Thurston believes the public now understands the science.

I think were there this time.
Shipping chaos is escalating with empty shipping containers piling up at depots and ghost ships being sent in to fetch them.

The fourth largest container shipping line in the world, CMA CGM, is refusing to take any more empty containers at its Auckland depot because it has too many of them there. Instead, the company is asking importers and others to return their containers to Northport or Tauranga.

Another container shipping line, Mediterranean Shipping Company, the second-largest in the world, is charging customers a hefty fee for returning empty containers to the Auckland depots they were originally destined for.

Customs Brokers and Freight Forwarders federation president Chris Edwards says relationships between shipping companies and other players in the supply chain are breaking down as the former start laying on fees.

What has changed in the last 12 to 15 months is lines are being drawn between some of the shipping lines and the clients, Edwards says.

The latest move around empty container fees means extra costs for importers who are responsible for getting those empty containers to the right depot, so they can be evacuated out of the country.

When an importer or someone else brings something into the country in a shipping container, they take on the responsibility of transporting it once it is unloaded off a ship.

If a container is not at the right port when an importer is finished with it, then they have to pay significant penalty fees.

Edwards says the pile-up of empty containers is so bad, shipping lines are sending ghost vessels down and filling them up with empty containers just to relieve pressure on rapidly-filling depots.

Yet the financial incentives are there for shipping lines to take as many empty containers out of the country as they can.

Which has led to a different set of problems for exporters.

In recent months, exporters have faced significant problems getting shipping lines to carry export produce out.

Demand for empty containers is high overseas, which means containers of low-value agricultural produce are less valuable for shipping companies to carry than empty containers.

Infometrics senior economist Brad Olsen says this could be the reason behind a drop in goods exports during the first quarter of this year.

Vespucci Maritime chief executive Lars Jensen whose firm is well-known for its work analysing trends and data in the container-shipping industry, says the global shortage of empty containers is coming up against the much larger problem of port congestion.

There is a range of bottlenecks in the supply chain influencing each other. Not only is there a shortage of containers but the sailing schedules of the vessels are completely disrupted  much worse than ever seen before, Jensen says.

Sea Intelligence chief executive Alan Murphy has previously provided data showing shipping schedule reliability in New Zealand dipped to a historic low of 6 per cent in April.

Edwards says the Customs Brokers and Freight Forwarders federations data puts this figure at 14 per cent.

Jensen says 10 per cent of the worlds shipping capacity has been taken out due to port congestion issues.

Shipping lines are dealing with these congestion issues by loading fewer containers onto their ships.

The fewer containers you load, the quicker you can handle the ship, Jensen says.

Fixing the vessel problem and fixing the empty container problem then becomes two opposing priorities.

CNA CGM has told its customers they will now need to get their containers to Northport or the Ports of Tauranga, or face penalty fees for holding onto containers for too long.

Mediterranean Shipping has told its clients it wants them to drop-off empty containers in Tauranga or be charged a $1000 fee per container for the empty containers they drop-off in Auckland.

This applies to containers shipped through Australia which were originally destined to be unloaded in Auckland but redirected to Tauranga.

To put this fee in context, before the pandemic $1000 was roughly the price of sending a container across the ocean from New Zealand to Asia.

Which means importers are on the hook for significant costs either way.

Either they pay extra freight costs to get containers to Northport, or the Port of Tauranga, or they pay hefty detention charges for holding onto them for too long.

Edwards says it is unfair to say people who imported these goods are liable for the extra cost of transporting it to a different port.

He argues it is the responsibility of shipping companies like CNA CGM to make sure they have enough space to store the containers where they originally agreed to take them, or to compensate importers and others if a container ends up having to be shipped out from a different port.

All of this comes on top of a steadily building set of shipping woes: a Covid-19 outbreak in Southern China is seriously hampering global shipping, shipping schedule reliability is the worst it has ever been, fewer ships are visiting, while technology companies are stocking up on basics like power adapters fearing future shortages to come.

Edwards says moves to get people to take their empty shipping containers to Northport are a sign the port is now a semi-permanent option for shipping lines thanks to congestion at Ports of Auckland.

Ports of Auckland coming right is not going to be this year, Im sure of that, it may be next year perhaps.

So until that happens [CMA CGM] will say hey look we cant come to Auckland and be anchored for days therefore Northports our option.

Edwards says he has taken cases to the disputes tribunal on behalf of clients and notes others are considering further legal action against the shipping lines.

You dont want to be doing legal action against a shipping line. We have to sort of work together right? Were all part of the same supply chain.

International shipping lines are reacting in wildly diverging ways to the situation.

The shipping industry profits are soaring globally after a decade of bankruptcies and mergers driven by low profitability and overcapacity.

Edwards says some lines place a good deal of value on their long-term contracts. They realise demand can turn quickly and are sticking with long-term clients in the hope this will be reciprocated when things change.

Other shipping lines are seeing it as just deserts for importers and exporters who have had it too good for too long.

There are some shipping lines who are seeing this period of time, where rates are at unbelievable historic highs, as revenge for the many years when importers and exporters had rates so cheap.

Thats a personal opinion, but thats what Ive felt speaking to some of the shipping lines.

The feedbacks almost well you guys had it so good for 10 years, now its our turn.

-Dileepa Fonseka/Stuff.
Transpower have applied for leave to appeal a High Court decision regarding power lines which traverse over the Maungatapu Marae.

In May, the High Court overruled a previous Environment Court decision to grant consents to Transpower to replace the 3.3km 110kV A-line, with a power pole set to be placed next to the marae.

The powerlines, operated by Transpower, were installed by the Ministry of Works in the late 1950s.

The lines, which stretch across Rangataua Bay between the marae in the south and Matapihi in the north, have long been a source of contention for the Ngati He hapu and the community surrounding the Opopoti marae.

Transpowers plans for replacing the lines did not align with members of that community, but the Environment Court granted consents.

The High Court quashed that decision in late May, following an appeal by the Tauranga Environmental Society, with the backing of Ngati He and marae trustees.

Justice Palmers ruling stated that Ngati He are the experts of their own land and that if their collective considered, consistent and genuine view is that the proposal has a significantly adverse impact on an area with cultural significance to them it is not the place of the Court to rule in opposition.

The High Court ruled that the solution to replacing the power lines is not in line with Ngati Hes rangatiratanga, guaranteed to them by article two of the Treaty of Waitangi.

It is quite a phenomenal case, says Tauranga Environmental Protection Society secretary Antoon Moonen.

This has made New Zealand case law, and right here in Maungatapu. But the fight is not over.

The facts are that if you are kaumatua and explain that your cultural values are harmed by a proposal and why, by law, proper consultation with the rightful people, not self-appointed so-called representatives, is needed prior to applying for consent.

It was a decision celebrated and discussed at a hui last month, under the shadow of the powerlines.

But it now appears the contentious battle, which has waged for more than 60 years, may still continue.

We appreciate the harbour, pa and marae are of cultural significance to manawhenua, says a Transpower spokesperson.

We are concerned that the High Court decision has not properly taken into account the significant positive benefits of the proposal, including maintaining security of supply to Mount Maunganui and for affected landowners.

The decision has significant legal implications for Transpower and other infrastructure operators on how to correctly interpret and apply RMA planning instruments when consents are sought.

These legal implications include when it is appropriate for the High Court to interfere with the Environment Courts findings of fact to substitute its own.

Therefore, we have applied for leave to appeal the decision to the Court of Appeal.

The Tauranga Environmental Protection Society will be opposing the leave to appeal.

Transpower state they will continue to engage with affected parties, including the Maungatapu Marae Trust, hapu/iwi, Regional and City councils and communities on both sides of the harbour, but can give no further comment given the matter is now before the courts.

Tauranga City Council and Bay of Plenty Regional Council were both respondents of the High Court appeal launched by the Tauranga Environmental Protection Society.

A High Court decision last month put a stop to current plans to replace the lines. Photo: Supplied/Bay Waka.

Both Antoon, and Peter McArthur, Tauranga Environmental Protection Society chairman, believe communication from Transpower, and the two councils involved, was not of the required level throughout the decision making process.

It is time to listen and find out from those involved, whether that be the marae or whoever, says Peter.

But they all sit in their little silos. There has been a complete lack of communication.

There are numerous other options available that would suit all parties, but they need parties to listen to each others needs and suggestions and identify the best solution for the community.

"Otherwise, says Antoon. Like in this case, good local tax payers like us end up paying a hundred times more in avoidable legal costs, plus the cost of time and effort in our communities, while these civil servants continue to take home their wages paid for also by us.

This is a very bad business model.

From now on, learning about our wonderful local Maori communities will be essential to progressing a smooth consent driven development of this awesome city.

Tauranga City Council were unable to comment on the High Court decision at this time, but state an intention to ensure continued communication with those impacted by the issue.

Our communitys needs and wants are always at the heart of our decisions, says Barbara Dempsey, general manager: Regulatory and Compliance.

We have proactively been engaging with the impacted parties over this issue, and will continue to do so.

Bay of Plenty Regional Council confirm they will consent to Transpowers application for leave to appeal the High Court decision as they believe it creates significant uncertainty for resource consent decision making.

We recognise the sensitivity of our decision, and tangata whenuas potential disappointment with our approach, says Bay of Plenty Regional Council consents manager, Reuben Fraser.

We value our relationships with our iwi partners and do not challenge the significant relationship that Ngati He have with Te Awanui and Rangataua Bay.

On the subject of communication, BOPRC insist they have a strong commitment to engagement and a fair process.

Reuben highlights a public notification process which was highlighted in local media, the posting of letters to property owners, landowners and all relevant tangata whenua groups.

This led to a hearing where independent commissioners considered evidence from all parties and decided to approve consent, says Reuben.

The councils are responsible for facilitating a fair hearing process, which, in conjunction with Tauranga City Council, we upheld.

Our second area of responsibility is ensuring that applicants engage directly with tangata whenua. We understand Transpower undertook extensive engagement as part of their application preparation.

TEPS chairman Peter says he considers the marae one of the most picturesque scenes of beauty in Tauranga and is pleased the High Court has, at present, put a stop to the potential erection of a new pole.

We all want Transpower to deliver power safely and efficiently to our communities and industry, he says.

But we must also ensure that, in doing so, other matters, such as the rights of the Marae, and the natural beauty of our harbour are not unreasonably damaged.
The four commissioners leading Tauranga City Council have together been paid more than half a million dollars in remuneration for less than five months' work.

All four have already each been paid more than a city councillors annual salary.

In February, Local Government Minister Nanaia Mahuta appointed a four-member Crown Commission to act in place of Taurangas elected members.

The commission took over all the councils governance responsibilities, and is expected to be in place until the next local government elections in October 2022.

Commissioners remuneration figures for February 9 to June 30 this year, show the four commissioners  Anne Tolley, Stephen Selwood, Shad Rolleston, and Bill Wasley  were paid a combined total of $520,200.

On top of that, there was more than $26,000 paid to the commissioners for mileage and expenses.

Remuneration has been set by Minister Mahuta at $1800 per day for the commission chair, which is Tolley, and $1500 per day for the three other commissioners.

The council is responsible for paying the commissioners' remuneration.

The figures are GST exclusive and withholding tax is deducted from the remuneration.

Tolley was paid $160,200 for 89 days work between February 9 and June 30 this year.

That is more than the last annual salary of the mayor of Tauranga.

When he resigned, Tenby Powell had an annual salary of $158,175.

Before it was reduced in response to Covid-19, his annual salary was $166,500.

Bear in mind that we now have four commissioners doing the job formerly carried out by the mayor and 10 councillors, Tolley told Stuff on Friday.

The workload involved in familiarising ourselves with the councils business, and in the preparation, community engagement, hearings and deliberations required to implement the 2021-31 Long-Term Plan, has had a material effect on the commissioners remuneration for the February to June period, she says.

Now that is behind us, the expectation is that our ongoing commitment for at least the next three quarters will reduce to three days per week, as was envisaged by the minister when the commissioners were appointed.

Working three days per week for the rest of the year  about 12 days a month, for six months  still has Tolley tracking to be paid almost $290,000 in 2021.

Tolley says during the formal draft LTP consultation period, the commissioners met with some 2000 people and attended 34 community meetings and pop-up information sessions.

We then considered close to 1800 submissions, heard 50 hours of oral submissions and spent a day-and-a-half deliberating on the content of the LTP which will be brought back for adoption later this month.

Commission chair Anne Tolley.

Before the commission was appointed, no Tauranga city councillor (apart from the deputy mayor) was being paid an annual salary of more than $115,000.

In less than half the year, all four commissioners have each been paid more than that.

Selwood was paid $122,250 for 81-and-a-half days work, Rolleston was paid $120,000 for 80 days work, and Wasley was paid $117,750 for 78-and-a-half days work.

If those three commissioners each work three days per week for the rest of the year, as is expected, they will all be paid more than $220,000 this year in remuneration by the council.

Then there are the expenses.

Selwood was paid $1208.04 for mileage and $12,561.74 for expenses between February 9 and June 30, including accommodation.

Rolleston claimed no mileage or expenses. Wasley was paid $291.92 for mileage and $243.92 for expenses.

Tolley was paid $602.66 for mileage and $11,153.94 for expenses, including meals and accommodation.

Tolley and Selwood each receive $750 per week towards the cost of permanent accommodation in Tauranga. That is included in their expenses.

The council says having the commissioners living in the Tauranga community is a more efficient use of their time and resulted in a neutral financial outcome for the council, with potential savings in commuting costs, hotel accommodation and meals.

The council said it also allowed the commissioners to be more accessible to the council and community when fulfilling their responsibilities.

This amount will be reviewed in August 2021.

In a statement, a spokesperson from Mahutas office says that commissioners are entitled to receive fees determined in accordance with section 258V of the Local Government Act 2002.

Remuneration will be paid by the council at a rate of $1800 a day for the chair and $1500 a day for commissioners.

The commissions fees are set at a higher rate than the prescribed Cabinet Fees Framework fees due to the significant time commitment, immediate commencement and the high level of skills and expertise required for the role.

The spokesperson says the commissions chair is responsible for ensuring that any expenses claimed are reasonable and necessary.

-Scott Yeoman/Stuff.
Do you already have a paid subscription to any of the SWNewsMedia newspapers? If so, you can Activate your Premium online account by clicking here. Activation will allow you to view unlimited online articles each month. To activate your Premium online account, the email address and phone number provided with your paid newspaper subscription needs to match the information you use in setting up your online user account. If you are having trouble or want to confirm what email address and phone number is listed on your subscription account, please call 952-345-6682 or email circulation@swpub.com and we'll be happy to assist.
Current Print Subscribers will be prompted to either login to their current site user account or to create a new one. A confirmation email will be sent when a new user account is created, which must be confirmed within three days in order to provide uninterrupted online access through your Print Subscription.

Once the email address is confirmed please provide your Account Number to activate your Print Subscription Service.
Thank you for Reading!

Please log in, or sign up for a

new account and

Purchase a Subscription

to continue reading.
Before submitting an Obituary to the Temple Telegram, please review our Obituary Policy.

View Obituary Policy
The big picture: Samsung's upcoming 3nm-class lithography process will be their first to use gate-all-around (GAA) transistor technology. In the face of concerns raised about if the company will have GAA designs out in time to keep pace with competitor TSMC, it insists that its first iteration of the technology will begin mass production in 2022.

Samsung's public roadmap was presented recently at its Foundry Forum 2021 in China. Particularly conspicuous in its absence from the slide shown however was Samsung's 3GAE (3nm, GAA-Early), the first iteration of their 3nm technology. 3GAE was originally revealed in 2019 alongside its follow-up, 3GAP (3nm, GAA-Plus), but only the latter was shown off in the presentation.

Prior to this roadmap being revealed, there had already been concern brewing over the health of the node; 3GAE had originally been planned for risk production in late 2020 and volume production in 2021, but the company only taped out its first 3nm test chips last month.

Furthermore, Dr. Chidi Chidambaram, VP of Engineering at Qualcomm, Samsung Foundry's largest third-party customer was quoted by SemiAnalysis as estimating GAA technology as only reaching production in 2023-24, at a recent event hosted by Applied Materials.

While the estimate is likely intentionally vague for NDA reasons, it still puts Samsung a year behind TSMC's plans for volume production of 3nm-class silicon next year. This, combined with the absence of 3GAE on the published roadmap, led to speculation that the node had been completely skipped over in favor of 3GAP.

Just to explain the naming by Samsung: 3GAE (Gate-All-Around Early) is missing here. This indicates that the early process is not viable for mass production and got killed completely. 3GAP (Gate-All-Around Plus) now planed for HVM in 2023, which is confirming Qualcomm's statement https://t.co/9GeMcLq3jt  Andreas Schilling (@aschilling) July 7, 2021

When contacted for comment by Anandtech, the company said that 3GAE was still due for mass production in 2022, and it's possible that the node isn't being publicized simply because it's reserved for internal usage at Samsung LSI.

However, while this was done with other "-Early" process variants from the company in the past, those were still marked on the map; 5LPE saw third-party usage in Qualcomm's Snapdragon 888, but that node was itself derived from 7LPP.

The company is also putting out a 4LPP, based on more traditional FinFET technology. This (and its predecessor 4LPE) are now listed as their own family of nodes, instead of being an evolution from 5nm/7nm-class technologies.

It may be that the process has a substantial enough improvement to warrant marketing as a new "headline" node, or simply because of more significant differences in design and manufacturing.

Still, the absence of 3GAE on the public roadmap and the FinFET-based 4LPP node overlapping with Samsung's stated 2022 target for 3GAE draws uncomfortable comparisons with Cannon Lake, Intel's earliest 10nm processors.

Those technically shipped in 2018 to meet investor commitments, but were so bad that they were passed over in favor of further evolutions of the older 14nm node; the company now ignores that generation completely, insisting that Ice Lake was its first real 10nm line-up.

But, perhaps, at least the oft-mocked 14+++ was more easily understandable than a branching tree of processes and their sub-evolutions.
Richard Branson and Virgin Galactic are getting ready for a monumental space flight that will commence in a few hours from now, on Sunday, July 11.

Richard Branson, Virgin Galactic Gear Up for Space Flight

Richard Branson, billionaire, and Virgin Founder, is expected to travel to space via his Virgin Galactic rocket plane, which carries passengers outside the confines of the Earth.

The said launch will mark the first test flight of the machine with a crew in it.

It will be launching from the New Mexico desert and will travel 50 miles above land. It is important to note that five more employees of Virgin Galactic will accompany Branson.

As per Reuters, the Virgin brand founder said that the upcoming flight is a milestone that will kickstart a new era in space tourism. To add, Virgin Galactic also plans to pioneer commercial space exploration in 2022.

The outlet reported that the plan of Branson to be part of the upcoming test flight is parallel to his "daredevil" personality.

The 70-year-old billionaire is known to have founded the Virgin brands, which has an airline, and music recording division. Not to mention that his company also flaunts interest in hot-air balloons and sailboats.

The rocket plane that will bring Branson into outer space is only as big as an executive jet, which fits two pilots and four passengers. The VSS Unity flying the billionaire carries the SpaceShipTwo name, according to the New York Times.

The spacecraft will be brought by a large plane up to the altitude of 50,000 feet before it finally goes above by itself.

Furthermore, the passengers will be allowed to experience the lack of gravity for at least four minutes by booting out from their seats, NBC News reported.

Read Also: Virgin Galactic Announces Another Human-Tended Research Aboard its Spacecraft VSS Unity

Virgin Galactic Space Flight: How to Watch Live Coverage?

The launch of VSS Unity is due to start at exactly 9:00 am Eastern Time on Sunday, July 11. However, the plan could still change depending on the cooperation of the skies.

If the weather permits, the flight will start to take off from Spaceport America located in New Mexico.

Comedian Stephen Colbert will be hosting the monumental event, which will broadcast live on the YouTube channel of Virgin.

To further add up some entertaining vibes, Khalid is also gracing the launch to introduce his new song.

Not to mention that the founder of another space exploration company, SpaceX, Elon Musk, is also reportedly coming to the event.

Meanwhile, Jeff Bezos' Blue Origin is also slated to launch a similar space tourism test on July 20.

And elsewhere, Richard Branson claimed that the space tourism market could still welcome other 20 companies, which would bring people to space.

Related Article: Richard Branson Has Put DeepFlight Challenger Project 'On Ice' For Now

This article is owned by Tech Times

Written by Teejay Boris

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
(Photo : Getty Images)

Elon Musk, owner of SpaceX and one of Sir Richard Branson's friends, has bought a ticket for one of its future space flights. Branson says he might reciprocate by buying a ticket of his own as well for SpaceX voyage.

As Sir Richard Branson prepares to fly on the very first of Virgin Galactic's many space voyages through space, Elon Musk just paid a $10,000 deposit to reserve a seat.

However, there is still no word as to when Musk would be flying with them

Confirmed by Sir Richard

An interview from the Evening Standard said that Sir Richard confirmed Musk's purchase of the ticket to fly with Virgin Galactic. Sir Richard said, "Elon's a friend and maybe I'll travel on one of his ships one day," to reciprocate.

Despite the billionaire's space race, SpaceX has already launched numerous flights and rockets since the start of the company.

However, Musk has never flown yet in any of the said flights. But that may change soon since the company is already starting its development into a private spaceflight this autumn.

Space tourists who would like to get a chance to fly in Virgin Galactic would cost them $250,000. The flight will also include four minutes of zero gravity that only astronauts had the chance to experience before the space flights were now made available to the public.

Read More: Virgin Galactic Gears Up to Bring Richard Branson to Space How to Watch Live Coverage?

Virgin Galactic Goes to Space

Branson is set to begin his flight along with his crew for the first time on July 11, if the weather is optimal for it, that is.

If they do get the go for launch signal, Branson will effectively have the advantage over Jeff Bezos' Blue Origin in their space race.

Bezos's Blue Origin launch date for their own spaceship would be on July 20, tentatively.

The site where Branson plans to launch his Virgin Galactic mission to space would be located in Sierra County, Mexico. You can also view the event live on their official YouTube channel or other social media sites as reported by us here on Tech Times.

Interesting Details to Note

Virgin Galactic's method to bring Branson to space would be using two of its spacecraft to effectively launch him and his crew to space, as reported by NBC News. The VMS Eve will be in charge of carrying the VSS Unity until high enough for the VSS Unity to be able to orbit just outside of Earth.

The voyage will travel past the Karman line, believed to be 62 miles up or almost 100 kilometers above sea level.

Virgin Galactic's goal is to be the "vanguard of a new industry determined to pioneer twenty-first century spacecraft, which will open space to everybody -- and change the world for good," as mentioned by Branson on their official website.

The flight will be above 300,000 feet above Earth, and within the cabin, you will be able to unbuckle your seat and experience all that you need to experience in space.

There are 17 windows to peer into the void and Earth. There are also 16 cameras in place within the cabin to record every moment of your travel to bring home as souvenirs.

Read More: Blue Origin vs Virgin Galactic: Jeff Bezos' Space Company Takes Swipes at Competition on Twitter

This article is owned by Tech Times

Written by Alec G.

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Nokia and Oppo are set to face a patent infringement legal battle after the Finnish company sued the Chinese phone maker.

As per GizChina, Nokia has been suing tech giants for several years already. Although, it is to note that the Finnish giant wins its suing spree sometimes.

For instance, the tech company has won over a lawsuit against Lenovo and the company behind Mercedes-Benz, Baimler. The two big names were then forced to pay Nokia the compensation that the court decided for patent infringement.

The end result of the legal battle has been in favor of Nokia as the companies agreed to forge a licensing agreement with the patent holder of the technology.

Nokia Alleges Oppo of Patent Infringement

The Finnish giant sued Oppo for multiple patent infringements in Asian and European countries, such as the United Kingdom, Germany, India, and France.

It is to note that Nokia filed numerous cases against Oppo in Germany alone: 23 in total. However, further details of the multiple lawsuits have yet to be unveiled.

Nokia and Oppo Relationship: What Happened?

In hindsight, Nokia and Oppo used to have a confidential license agreement signed in 2018. It then allows the latter to utilize the user interface and security features of the Finnish company for the Chinese giant's devices.

As such, Oppo reportedly agreed to pay Nokia regularly for the said technology.

However, the relationship between the two brands started to turn sour after the Asian phone maker decided not to renew the agreement. Nokia noted that the talks between the two tech giants were progressing, but it turned in a different direction.

The Finnish company further said that the terms that they have laid out to the other party are both "fair" and "reasonable."

Now, Nokia goes on to accuse Oppo of continuing to use the patented feature even as the license agreement has been duly terminated.

Read Also: Oppo Find X3 NEW Leaked Specs: LTPO Screen, 120 Hz Refresh Rate, 10bit Display, and More

Oppo on Nokia's Lawsuit: Shocking

NokiaMob reported that Oppo found the legal move of the Finnish giant surprising, further accusing the latter of not honoring their license agreement.

Oppo said that it "respects and protects its own and third-party intellectual property rights, and has been committed to benign patent licensing cooperation in the industry."

The Chinese phone maker further dubbed the litigation as "unreasonable consultations."

Interestingly, Oppo also uses the OZO Audio tech of Nokia for both its Find X Series and Rene Series, which is not part of the latest lawsuit.

To add, it was reported on July 4 that Oppo is including OnePlus as their flagship smartphone alongside the Find X series after the two brands have merged.

Elsewhere, Oppo and Nokia include the list of smartphone brands that pioneered the 5G processor of Qualcomm.

Related Article: Take that, Lumia 1020! Oppo Find 7 said to boast 50-megapixel camera

This article is owned by Tech Times

Written by Teejay Boris

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) says that it has reactivated a system that could lessen airspace disturbance. This is currently essential since two of the largest space agencies, Blue Origin and Virgin Galactic, are about to send their CEOs into outer space.

FAA explained that its Space Data Integrator or SDI tracks all aircraft, going up and down. It can also transmit the location of those flying objects to the air traffic control system.

"This new capability increases safety for all airspace users and assists the FAA in efficiently managing air traffic during space operations," said the Federal Aviation Administration.

"This vastly improves the FAA's situational awareness of where the vehicle is as it travels to space or as it returns to the Earth," the agency added.

FAA's Anti-Airspace Disturbance System

According to AVWeb's latest report, FAA's anti-airspace disturbance system was already used to manage one of the largest space launches in the world.

This is specifically the recent SpaceX Transponder 2 rocket launch, which was supposed to happen in Cape Canaveral. Elon Musk's space agency was supposed to send its Transponder 2 into outer space on June 30.

Also Read: Elon Musk Debunks Impression on SpaceX and Mars Mission Origins, Reveals Stand on Caffeine

However, an issue happened after an errant pilot flew an aircraft into the vast exclusion zone established for space activity.

To avoid possible collision or other flight issues, SpaceX decided to cancel the activity. On the other hand, FAA's new system version might have prevented the recent issue with SpaceX.

But, FAA Administrator Steve Dickson said that the new version of the tool is critical since various companies are making the planet's airspace busier than before.

If the number of aircraft launched into outer space continue to increase, there's a high chance that some of them will have communication issues.

Other Activities Of FAA

Flight Global reported that the Federal Aviation Administration is also revising its pilot training rules. The agency said that it is doing this so that new plane operators will be safer when they fly their first flights.

FAA announced that instructors need to have the so-called "letter of deviation authority" or LODA before teaching new pilots.

For more news updates about FAA and other similar stories, always keep your tabs open here at TechTimes.

Related Article: SpaceX to Open Rocket Facility in Waco to Produce More "Big Rocket Engines," Elon Musk Tweets

This article is owned by TechTimes

Written by: Griffin Davis

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
(Photo : GettlyImages/ Justin Sullivan ) Google Pixel 5a

Google Pixel 5a's FCC filing has finally appeared, which means its launch date is already confirmed. When an upcoming smartphone makes it through FCC certification, its release date is just around the corner.

Google Pixel 5a FCC Filing

In 2020, there were claims that Google may have canceled the production of the Pixel 5a due to the global chip shortage problem.

However, Google quickly dispelled the rumors and stated that Pixel 5a 5G is not canceled.

The FCC listing aligns with Google's statement that the smartphone may be announced at the same time when Pixel 4a 5G was revealed last year, according to Slash Gear.

Pixel 4a 5G was announced in August 2020, and the Pixel 5a could be launched around August this year, according to Bloomberg.

Also Read: Pixel 5 vs. Pixel 4A 5G Advanced Review: Camera, Processor and More! Which One is Better?

Three Variants

The reports over time have claimed Barbet is the code name of the smartphone, and its model number is G4S1M. This was also revealed in the analysis of the Android 12 beta in the past, according to Pocket Lint.

However, the FCC document that was first discovered by @cstark27, shows that the model numbers G1F8F, G4S1M, and GR0M2 are all connected to the Pixel 5a 5G phone.

Due to confidentiality, the likes of FCC revealing specifications of unannounced phones is highly unlikely, but the shared snippets show that the wireless frequency bands of the listed phone models suggest that the G1F8F will be a CDMA model that is expected to be released in North America.

However, it does not support the mmWave 5G network, even though the Pixel 4a 5G came with mmWave support in a different model.

The two variants, G4S1M and GR0M2, are predicted to be launched internationally. These two variants have CDMA networks disabled by software.

The Pixel 5a 5G is also predicted to follow an identical design language to the Pixel 4a 5G and the Pixel 5. But it could be a bit taller, thicker, and narrower than the previous models.

The Pixel 5a 5G could be 2.3mm longer, 0.8mm narrower, and it could likely have a thicker form factor than the previous models to appeal to the younger consumers.

Other than the exterior variation, the Pixel 5a 5G will look the same as its predecessor. The smartphone is likely to arrive with the same 6.2-inch Full HD+ display, and an OLED panel is also possible, but not much has been revealed about it. If the display remains unchanged, it will have 2340 x 1080 pixels resolution at 413ppi.

The Pixel 5a 5G is also likely to get a 90Hz screen refresh rate. This will be an upgrade from 60Hz on the Pixel 4a 5G, and it will be the same as that of the Pixel 5.

If Google chooses to stick with 60Hz, it will be a massive disappointment, and it could be a deal-breaker for consumers.

Other than that, the Pixel 5a 5G will arrive in a polycarbonate body and not upgrade to the brushed aluminum feel of the Pixel 5.

The smartphone will also support a 3.5mm headphone jack, a staple for Google's a-series devices, and a built-in fingerprint sensor.

Related Article: Google Pixel 5a First Look: Leaks Show its Uncanny Resemblance to Pixel 5-Specs, Release Date, and MORE!

This article is owned by Tech Times

Written by Sophie Webster

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Kaseya was recently attacked by REvil, a popular ransomware group allegedly linked to Russia. The hacking group claimed that it was able to acquire around 1 million devices.

Since it is a massive, serious hack, it seems like REvil really took Kaseya by surprise. However, some former employees claimed that the company already knew about the 2021 attack back in 2019.

If this is true, that means that Kaseya has around two years to prepare for REvil's ransomware attack. The former staff also claimed that they even warned the company about possible user data exploitation of REvil.

The issue started after Kaseya's VSA remote management service was used by the Russian hacking group to compromise around 40 customers of the company. This is just a small number compared to the announced affected consumers. However, it is important since it is actually the first step of REvil.

Kaseya Knows About REvil's Upcoming Data Exploitation?

According to PC Mag's latest report, REvil used Kaseya's VSA to encrypt more than 1,000 businesses. However, security experts claimed that this is just a portion of the affected companies in the latest massive attack of REvil.

Also Read: Ransomware Roundup: Cl0p Releases New Stolen Data; EU, US to Team Up Against Attacks

They added that more could soon surface. On the other hand, Bloomberg's report also suggested that the IT management software provider was already aware of the security issues of its VSA.

On the other hand, one of the former employees even said that the company's VSA has so many issues. He added that Kaseya should replace it because it could lead to massive hacks, which happened this 2021. In total, five former employees suddenly appeared to announce this detail.

"Among the most glaring problems was software underpinned by outdated code, the use of weak encryption and passwords in Kaseya's products and servers, a failure to adhere to basic cybersecurity practices such as regularly patching software, and a focus on sales at the expense of other priorities," they added.

Kaseya Hasn't Released A Statement Yet

Engadget reported that Kaseya still refuses to make any comment regarding the claims of the five anonymous former employees. Some security experts claimed that the company already has some system issues.

Because of this, different hackers were able to use its platform to launch ransomware attacks twice between 2018 and 2019. On the other hand, some analysts criticized the company since it seems like Kaseya did not even enhance its security strategy to prevent REvil's attack from happening.

For more news updates about Kaseya and other victims of REvil, always keep your tabs open here at TechTimes.

Related Article: REvil Ransomware Believed to be Responsible For Kaseya Cyberattack Involving At Least 200 Companies

This article is owned by TechTimes

Written by: Griffin Davis

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
(Photo : Pixabay/Devanath) COVID-19 air cleaner

Numerous businesses sold COVID-19 air cleaners during the peak of the pandemic in 2020. However, it turns out that the government has not officially supported the claims that these products made.

COVID-19 Air Cleaner Dilemma

Fortune reported an incident with one of the sellers, Stephen Matthew Shumaker, who turned to sell air-cleaning products to help his water filtration business afloat.

Shumaker handed out cards to promote the product, but one postal inspector who received it filed a complaint, claiming that the advertisement was false and misleading.

According to the criminal complaint, Shumaker said that the air purifier kills the COVID-19 virus on the spot, a claim that is not clinically proven.

Also Read: COVID-19 Must-Have Cleaning Items: Amazon's Top 5 Computer Cleaners

Shumaker told KHN that police officers detained him. By August, he pleaded guilty to misbranding the product label with no Environmental Protection Agency or EPA establishment number.

Shumaker said that he just sold the products straight from the manufacturers, and he did not know about the sticker.

ActivePure Technologies, the company that makes the air cleaner, said that Shumaker was not an authorized sales agent of its products.

Government Oversight

The COVID-19 air cleaners use high-voltage charges that claim to purify the molecules in the air. The tech companies selling the air cleaners claim that they can destroy pathogens and clear the air around you.

However, experts say that the technology can be ineffective and may even create harmful by-products. The companies that make the air cleaners and purifiers do not have standardized testing or evaluation of their marketing claims.

According to KHN, over 2,000 schools across the United States have bought air cleaners.

Delphine Farmer, an associate professor at Colorado State University specializing in atmospheric chemistry, said that one of the reasons these companies thrive, especially during the pandemic, is that nobody in the government is checking what they do.

Numerous federal agencies have truth-in-advertising oversight powers but did nothing about air cleaners and even left loopholes in the law that allowed companies to sell products. These promising solutions have not been proven.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or the CDC does not regulate the air cleaners but recommends portable HEPA filters to clean the air in closed spaces.

In comparison, dry hydrogen peroxide air purifiers have a less documented record in air cleaning.

The CDC also urges consumers to research the technology used by the air cleaners and request testing data from the companies before buying the products.

The Food and Drug Administration or the FDA regulates medical devices. But only air cleaners for direct medical use or that make a medical claim, like relieving allergies, are qualified. The FDA does not consider ads that say a device can kill a microorganism.

Instead, the COVID-19 air cleaners fall under the Environmental Protection Agency or EPA's authority as devices marketed to destroy pests, including viruses or bacteria.

But unlike chemical pesticides, the EPA does not register devices, which means it does not routinely review their efficacy or their safety.

In order to fill the gaps, states are making their own laws. For example, California officially bans the sale of air cleaners that emit more than a certain level of toxic ozone gas.

Related Article: Scientist Will Be Able to Gather Information About COVID-19 Through The Air

This article is owned by Tech Times

Written by Sophie Webster

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Tehachapi, CA (93561)

Today

Cloudy skies early, then partly cloudy this afternoon. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High near 90F. Winds N at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Some clouds. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low around 65F. Winds WNW at 10 to 15 mph.
Tehachapi, CA (93561)

Today

Sunshine and clouds mixed. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High around 90F. Winds N at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low around 65F. Winds WNW at 10 to 15 mph.
A nurse at Ochsner Lafayette General has died from complications from COVID-19, according to social media posts from friends and co-workers.

UPDATE Olivia Guidry's cause of death unclear; autopsy scheduled, Ochsner Lafayette General says

Olivia Guidry, a registered nurse in the emergency department, died Saturday after battling the virus for days in the hospital's intensive care unit.

Friends, who had been pleading for prayers for the young woman, expressed grief as the news of her death spread Saturday afternoon.

Guidry graduated from LSU Alexandria with a nursing degree. She was taking pre-med courses at LSU Eunice and hoped to go to medical school.

Guidry was diagnosed with COVID in early July, according to a social media post from her sister, Brittany Smith. She spiked a high fever and had a seizure, Smith wrote. She was placed in a medically induced coma on Thursday.

Brooke McIntyre wrote in a Saturday Facebook post that she visited Guidry last Wednesday and is thankful she did. While the two women were talking in the hospital hall, McIntyre said one of Guidry's patients was being wheeled out to his room.

Top stories in Acadiana in your inbox Twice daily we'll send you the day's biggest headlines. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up

"He pointed at you and said, 'You. You are the best nurse I've ever had. You came (every) time I called,'" McIntyre wrote. "I pointed back at (Guidry) and said 'She's the best we've got!'"

Ochsner Lafayette General issues statement about Olivia Guidry, nurse who died after COVID diagnosis Ochsner Lafayette General issued a statement Monday after a nurse who worked in the hospital's emergency room died over the weekend.

A vigil was planned for Guidry's friends, family and co-workers Sunday evening.

While deaths related to COVID have decreased dramatically in Louisiana since their peak a year ago, recent reports have pointed to Louisiana as one of the most vulnerable areas in the United States to a coronavirus outbreak and an area that is highly susceptible to producing variants.

The analysis by researchers at Georgetown University identified hotspots around the U.S. where vaccination is low and the population is high enough that there is a good chance for interaction.

In the past two weeks, Louisiana, along with Mississippi, Arkansas and Tennessee, has seen cases increase around 100%.

Lafayette Parish and the state have a vaccination rate of about 36%, below the national vaccination rate of nearly 50%. In Lafayette Parish, there have been more than 24,000 positive COVID cases and 294 have died, according to the Louisiana Department of Health.

Staff writers Kristin Askelson and Megan Wyatt contributed to this report.
An exhibit of photographs by former chief White House photographer Pete Souza of both Presidents Barack Obama and Ronald Reagan opens July 13 at the Old State Capitol. Souza snapped this famous photo of Obama and members of the national security team as they were updated on the mission against Osama bin Laden in the Situation Room of the White House on May 1, 2011.
When Lakeisha Brown knocks on doors to talk about the coronavirus vaccines, she anticipates tough conversations. Oftentimes, folks are confused or scared of the jab. They have plenty of questions but few opportunities to get answers.

I try not to be pushy, Brown said. Im not here to make your mind up for you. Im here to help you along the way.

Most people are grateful that she cares enough to reach out, and they welcome the pamphlets she provides dispelling myths and rumors about the vaccines. Shes often walking the blocks of impoverished neighborhoods that have been overlooked or abandoned by the health care system.

Once, while canvassing in Colfax in Grant Parish, a homeowner sicced his dogs on her. She escaped unscathed but wasnt fazed by the encounter. She said she's used to the polarizing reactions vaccines now elicit. Its the reason why her job is important.

Since April, Louisiana has trained nearly 300 canvassers to go door to door in hard-to-reach communities to get public health information about the coronavirus vaccines directly in the hands of residents. The targeted outreach is paired with pop-up vaccination sites and is one component of the states sprawling campaign to boost inoculation rates.

Canvassing garnered renewed attention last week after President Joe Biden highlighted the work as an essential tool in the nations vaccination drive. His comments came as Louisiana braced itself for a startling  and avoidable  surge in coronavirus cases, fueled by lackluster vaccination rates and made worse by an aggressive new strain of the virus known as the delta variant.

We need to go to community by community, neighborhood by neighborhood and, oftentimes, door to door  literally knocking on doors  to get help to the remaining people protected from the virus, Biden said Tuesday.

Louisiana began its experiment in vaccine canvassing months ago as the centerpiece of its Bring Back Louisiana campaign. The operation modeled itself after the get-out-to-vote campaigns that materialize ahead of elections, with the goal of mobilizing residents to attend pop-up vaccination sites at nearby churches and community centers.

The program kicked off with a pilot in each of the states nine public health regions and focused on ZIP codes with lagging vaccination rates that ranked poorly on a social vulnerability index, a tool used by U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to predict health outcomes. In a state like Louisiana, where well-being is often divided along racial lines, that primarily consisted of Black communities.

+2 Louisiana COVID vaccine lottery scam: Be wary of suspicious callers, officials warn Officials this week warned residents to be wary of scam calls from people claiming to assist residents in Louisianan's "Shot at a Million" vac

To recruit canvassers, the Health Department has relied on partners with relationships within the targeted communities. That has included groups like Together Louisiana, a faith-based organization with statewide contacts, and the Power Coalition for Equity and Justice, which boasts of its ability to turn out more than a quarter-million Black voters. The vaccine champions, as officials call them, are paid $15 an hour for their labor.

Most of the people I come in contact with Im familiar with in some way, said Brown, whose canvassing has centered around Alexandria. I live in the community. I am the community. They trust talking to me.

Before theyre deployed, canvassers undergo a rigorous module that prepares them with facts about the vaccine and tips on how to have constructive conversations that avoid defensive reactions. The training is administered under a contract with the Louisiana Public Health Institute, which developed the course alongside research from LSU and Tulane University on COVID-19 health disparities and community engagement.

The campaigns overarching goal is to get shots in arms, but the canvassers' main priority is getting facts into the hands of the public. Theyre taught to respect any questions that may arise and to engage in nonjudgmental conversations about the vaccine. Pressuring someone into getting the jab is explicitly off limits.

Work for the yes but respect the no and have faith that the no will turn into a yes, said Benjamin Nugent-Peterson, an organizer with Together Louisiana, reciting a mantra offered by one of his canvassers.

Top stories in Baton Rouge in your inbox Twice daily we'll send you the day's biggest headlines. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up

Oftentimes, getting to that "yes" requires canvassers to make multiple passes through a community. This one woman told me, I keep seeing you, and every time I see you, I learn something different,'  Brown said. She was like, You actually care, so Im going to go for it.' 

The strategy is resource-intensive, but state officials argue its important that their public health strategy have an on-the-ground presence that meets Louisianans where they are, even if does make minimal gains in vaccinations.

No one is under the pretense that canvassing is some silver bullet, said Aly Neel, a Health Department spokesperson. But community engagement, in and of itself, is important.

+3 While state sees COVID deaths plummet, Calcasieu Parish lags behind LAKE CHARLES  Kylee Vidrine was a one-woman vaccination machine when COVID-19 shots were first being distributed. She turned her pharmacy int

Louisianas vaccination rate continues to lag the nation, with just 39% of its population  or 1.8 million people  having received at least one dose, ranking ahead of only Mississippi. Meanwhile, around 55% of the United States population has received at least one dose.

As the pilot programs wound down, the state began tweaking its outreach formula. It began distributing information about nearby vaccination sites into its canvassing material, even if the pop-up event wasnt specifically sponsored by the Health Department. And while door-to-door outreach made sense for dense, urban areas, it didnt quite translate for sprawling, rural communities.

We learned that we couldnt force this model on every place, Neel said. We couldnt have a rigid, cookie-cutter approach. We had to be nimble.

In Bush, out in rural St. Tammany Parish, a crew of volunteer firefighters opted to set up an information table outside the local Piggly Wiggly instead canvassing door to door. Scott Brewer, the areas fire chief, said his staff also weaved conversations about vaccine resources into their everyday work.

You get a little fender bender, and while we wait for the police to show up, instead of sitting there staring at each other, we said, Hey. Were doing a vaccination drive. Got any questions? Heres the info,'  Brewer said.

Recently, the Health Department has begun to experiment with mobile vaccination sites, pairing canvassers with vans manned by Louisiana Army National Guard troops ready to offer doses on demand. That idea emerged after attendance at pop-up vaccination sites, which occurred after canvassing had taken place, was lower than expected.

We found that a lot of people who would say they would get a vaccine simply wouldnt show up, said Dr. David Holcombe, the states regional medical director based in Alexandria. Thats not to condemn them. People have complicated lives.

The feedback canvassers gathered from residents on the ground also helped the Health Department craft alternate strategies to break down barriers to getting vaccinated. It launched a vaccine hotline, for example, with extended hours so residents who lacked internet access or were too busy during the workday could easily schedule an appointment or ask questions of a medical professional. The hotline has since fielded more than 5,000 calls and scheduled 2,300 appointments.

Federal grant boosts Florida Parishes clinic that became model for rural health access CLINTON  Buoyed by federal aid, an East Feliciana health clinic plans to grow the services it provides vulnerable patients via smartphone, ta

The canvassing effort is continuously evolving as new information emerges about the coronavirus, the vaccines and shifting public attitudes. It remains the heartbeat of the states outreach efforts, officials said, even as the state promotes other strategies, like $2.3 million vaccine lottery.

Even if we dont see outstanding results on the front end, were building a better way to do this, Nugent-Peterson said. Theres no lack of challenges, but theres still a lot to be encouraged by.
New East Baton Rouge Parish schools leader Sito Narcisse is continuing to remake and expand the Central Office, recently announcing the hiring of four high level administrators from outside the district and the promotion of four more from within.

These are the latest in a series of hires Narcisse has made since taking over the states second largest traditional school district in January, home to more than 40,000 students. He has generally looked outside, often out of state.

His senior cabinet has expanded from 13 to 16 members and features seven new faces, six in newly created positions.

Make way for Narcisse's newcomers: past leaders of East Baton Rouge schools demoted New East Baton Rouge Parish schools Superintendent Sito Narcisse has placed almost all his new hires in top administrative roles while relegat

And hes not done. Still to be hired are several more new administrative positions: deputy chief of policy, director of equity & diversity, director of multi-tiered systems of support, literacy innovation coordinator, district 504 coordinator and lead social worker.

Narcisse, a Long Island, N.Y. native whos worked in many large school districts but is new to Louisiana, is paying for this burst of hiring with a mix of local funds and federal COVID relief money.

When he started, Narcisse said his reorganization would ultimately prove budget neutral. So far, thats not the case. Just the cost of the senior cabinet has grown from $1.5 to $2.3 million compared with before he arrived, a 51% increase.

But even as hes pulling in people from across the country, Narcisse has turned strictly inward so far when it comes to hiring school-level leaders.

In announcements sent internally on June 5 and July 1, Narcisse named new principals for nine schools, all of them veteran employees. He also named nine new assistant principals, again all in-house.

At Broadmoor and Dufrocq elementaries, the new leaders are replacing principals whove been there for decades. Larry Harris recently retired after 30 years leading Broadmoor, and Mary Robvais retired after serving as principal at Dufrocq for 20 years.

And Southeast Middle is getting a new principal for the first time in 11 years after longtime principal Amber Boyd got promoted to a Central Office position in Human Resources.

Of the nine new principals, six were previously assistant principals at other schools and one was coordinator of a magnet program.

Narcisse still needs to settle on leaders for Broadmoor High and Cedarcrest-Southmoor Elementary, after their principals Stacy Bradford and Christal Aguillard-Sylvain were recently promoted to Central Office to become executive directors.

Executive directors are usually not members of the senior cabinet, but are still important in providing the most direct oversight and support for school principals. Narcisse has so far hired four new executive directors and promoted four more from within. And five of the executive directors who were there when he arrived are gone, either demoted or leaving the district.

Top stories in Baton Rouge in your inbox Twice daily we'll send you the day's biggest headlines. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up

Here are the four newly hired executive directors:

The new executive directors promoted from within are Bradford and Aguillard-Sylvain, but also Demetric Alexander, Cesar Rico and Shalika Scott. Alexander and Rico were previously principals of Bernard Terrace and Twin Oaks elementaries, both of which now have new principals. Scott was the director of professional development.

Narcisse has changed around the duties of the executive directors. For instance, rather than focus on elementary, middle or high schools, Narcisse is having administrators support schools regionally no matter the grade levels present at the schools.

In the case of Rico, his executive director duties focus on students who are learning English, previously a lower position.

Of the four executive directors who catered to elementary schools, only one, Laura Williams, is left.

Darlene Brister, who was the longtime principal of Ryan Elementary, retired in March. She has since become the principal of Iberville Charter Academy in Plaquemine. Her daughter-in-law, Jessica Brister, and colleague Joni Roberts are no longer executive directors. Also no longer holding an executive director post is Shalonda Simoneaux, who oversaw high schools.

Roberts is heading to become principal at Broadmoor Elementary and Simoneaux is doing the same at Southeast Middle. Both have previous prior experience as principals, Roberts at Audubon Elementary and Simoneaux at Broadmoor High.

In his June 5 announcement, Narcisse also said Jessica Brister and fellow executive director Twana Hilton-Pitre would be shifting to principal jobs at Wedgewood and Twin Oaks elementaries. Then, in his July 1 announcement, Narcisse went in a different direction, saying Charlotte Williams and Terrie Junda would be principals of those schools instead. Both Williams and Junda were previously assistant principals at Twin Oaks and Wildwood elementaries.

Brister family, prominent in education, is launching a private school in Baton Rouge One of the most prominent families in local public education is launching a small private school in Baton Rouge focusing initially on children

Its unclear why Brister and Hilton-Pitre did not take those principal positions. Brister was still listed on the district payroll at the end of June but Hilton-Pitre was not, meaning she was no longer employed with the school system.

Here are other notable personnel changes announced in the past month:
Gov. John Bel Edwards addresses the possibility that some of the state's residents might not get the COVID-19 vaccination because of political loyalties, as he speaks at a press conference updating COVID-19 restrictions, Tuesday, March 30, 2021 at the State Capitol.
Across Greater Sydney, residents have spent mornings holding their breath for the latest announcement on the COVID-19 case numbers. Whichever side of the fence we are on, whether pro- or anti-lockdown, we understand that our future rests on the decisions the state government is making right now. We also understand that one of the key elements in the governments response, and one which will have both short- and long-term consequences, is the decision regarding the reopening of schools.

Schools have become a touchstone in the COVID wars. Keeping them open is viewed by many governments as an economic necessity. As they see it, if schools do not function, workers cannot function as they otherwise would, and the economy suffers as a result. At a macro level this presents a stark choice between economic health and public health; at the micro level it frequently comes down to financial necessity versus family health and safety.

Schools need improved ventilation to be safe. Credit:iStock

When frazzled working parents contemplate juggling work while caring for their children, and factor in the educational and psychological impact of keeping them home, the scales often tip in favour of sending them to school. This decision can seem somewhat easier when politicians continue to declare that schools are safe, as NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian did this morning. But in light of the substantial community transmission in Sydney, this couldnt be further from the truth.

If the government ultimately decides to reopen schools in the middle of this outbreak, and if parents are willing to contemplate sending their children, then they need to know what has not been done to ensure their childrens safety, and make an informed choice about the risks that they are taking in sending their children to school.
A Queensland chapter of the Mongols bikie club has been decimated following the arrest of seven people over the Gold Coast murder of Shane Bowden.

The men, aged between 23 and 41, were arrested during raids across six suburbs on Sunday and charged with murder, in an operation police described as nationally significant in their battle against outlaw motorcycle gangs.

Shane Scott Bowden was gunned down in his Pimpama garage when he returned from the gym. Credit:Facebook

The arrests came a day after an alleged leader of the Mongols Brisbane West Chapter was arrested in Ipswich and also charged with murder.

Police allege that 46-year-old directed and financed the killing of Mr Bowden in the garage of his Pimpama unit on October 12, 2020.
After Sydney emerged from its long COVID-19 lockdown last year, the controversial boss of Club Marconi Tony Zappia authorised an unusual payment for $13,750.

Alarm bells sounded for senior managers within the Bossley Park club over the invoice for relocation of machinery. Not only did Marconi have no machinery to move but the club was shut down during the pandemic, club sources familiar with the situation, said.

Tony Zappia, former CEO of Club Marconi and the Cronulla Sharks. Credit:Nick Moir

The Herald can reveal that not only did Mr Zappias family hold shares in RENTfleet, the truck-leasing company which issued the invoice, but other shareholders were Marconi president Vince Foti, who runs a fireworks company, as well as members of Mr Fotis family and Marconi director Frank Oliveri.

Outside the club, the three Marconi executives were close friends and jointly owned Crucero, an unsuccessful racehorse.
Once upon a time, a playground was complete if it had a metal slide, monkey bars, swings and a big concrete pipe.

Today, its almost compulsory to include trampolines, rock climbing walls, flying foxes and water play areas.

Theres a castle, too: the centrepiece of Thomas Street Playground in Hampton is a three-level castle. Credit:Scott McNaughton

Budgets for these schmick mini-villages often exceed $1 million. Users share intel on social media and will cross Melbourne to visit a hotspot.

But when the Thomas Street Playground in Hampton opened two weeks ago, it raised the bar for a destination playground.
Western Australias Mark McGowan is the most lockdown trigger-happy premier out of Australias state and territory leaders, closing down greater Perth on three occasions this year over a total of six coronavirus cases.

An analysis by WAtoday showed since the end of Melbournes second wave in November there had been at least 25 instances of COVID-19 seeping into various states, mostly due to hotel quarantine breaches.

WA Premier Mark McGowan is the most likely of all the countrys leaders to enforce a lockdown in response to a community case.

Eleven of those outbreaks led to snap lockdowns, three in WA, three in Queensland, two in Victoria, and single lockdowns in New South Wales, the Northern Territory and South Australia.

It put WAs lockdown-to-outbreak rate at 75 per cent, the highest in the country for jurisdictions which have experienced multiple incidents. In contrast, New South Wales has recorded nine outbreaks and locked down once, representing a rate of 11 per cent.
On Sunday, with little fanfare, Defence Minister Peter Dutton announced that on June 18 the final six Australian troops had left Afghanistan. A war that began 20 years go after the terror attacks of September 11, 2001, and which then gradually merged into a nation-building exercise, is now officially a closed chapter in Australias combat history.

Its a military and financial commitment, however, that will be much scrutinised over coming years. With Afghanistan itself in such a state of internal conflict and political flux  the US troop withdrawal deadline of August triggered a resurgent Taliban effort to win back territory  the eventual consequences of the war for the Afghan people will be playing out for many months, and possibly years, to come.

In Australia, it will no doubt leave a mixed legacy.

An Afghan soldier walks past vehicles left by the American military. Credit:AP

The darkest cloud is being investigated by the Office of the Special Investigator, a $75 million agency created by Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Mr Dutton in response to the damning findings of the Brereton war crimes inquiry. That report uncovered credible allegations, reported extensively in The Age, that a small number of special forces soldiers committed murders in Afghanistan and covered them up by maintaining a mafia-like code of silence. We welcome the enormous efforts being taken to get to the bottom of these shocking allegations. It is important not just for those Afghans seeking justice, but for the reputation of Australias military.
Residents in border towns will be largely unaffected by the changes that came into effect at 11.59pm on Sunday, with locals allowed to freely travel across state lines, proving their identity by showing their drivers licence. Australias top medical experts met at 1.30pm on Sunday to discuss the situation in Greater Sydney, and by 4pm Victorias acting Chief Health Officer announced the border would be shut to all of NSW and the ACT over fears there could potentially be unidentified cases in regional towns. Premier Daniel Andrews said his states public health team had spent the entire weekend weighing up closing the border to NSW, and on Sunday landed on banning non-Victorians from both NSW and the ACT. In a statement, acting Chief Health Officer Daniel OBrien said the change was about anticipating the potential for transmission in regional NSW and the ACT, which are closely connected.

Shoring up the border and managing our inbound risks gives us more confidence when reducing restrictions here. Theres going to be some complexities at the border, and we recognise that  but it will be far less complex than managing an outbreak. But the ACTs Chief Minister Andrew Barr tweeted that, After more than a year without local COVID cases, it is incredibly disappointing and frustrating that state borders are again being shut to Canberrans. Canberra is not part of Greater Sydney. At this time, there is very little justification to consider the ACT as a COVID-affected jurisdiction that requires the highest level of travel restrictions ... We are asking all states to remove the restrictions on the ACT as soon as possible. Mr Andrews earlier offered Ms Berejiklian, any support or personnel the state needs to deal with its worsening second wave and had repeated warnings for Victorians to be quick about getting home. The oppositions spokesman for Police and Community Safety, David Southwick said the government had known about the situation across the border for days, but left Victorians stranded at the last minute.

Victorians saw the same shambolic and panicked border closure response over New Years Eve and yet again, the government has failed to learn from its past mistakes, Mr Southwick said. Shortly before the Victorian government announced its changes to the border arrangements, Chief Medical Officer Paul Kelly was asked whether he believed it was appropriate and justified for Victoria to shut its doors to NSW entirely. Premier Daniel Andrews, with Health Minister Martin Foley, at the opening of the Victorian Pride Centre on Sunday, before the border closure was announced. Credit:Luis Ascui Border closures are a matter for state governments. Our general sense is that we dont support it from the Commonwealth [perspective], Professor Kelly said. Victorians remember last winter [and] they want to make sure they are protected. Thats a matter of course for the elected government of Victoria to consider. Its not an easy thing to do to close the border with NSW. There are many, many places that people can cross that border so Im sure it will be a decision not taken lightly.

Despite the border bubble arrangements remaining in place, City of Wodonga mayor and Albury resident Kevin Poulton, said each time the border was shut, it caused anxiety and nervousness. Loading He said there would be a severe effect on border communities if a large police checkpoint was erected between the two cities, with residents forced to spend hours in queues of traffic. Sometimes when youre a cross-border resident, youll be travelling across the border four, five, six times a day depending on your industry, Cr Poulton said. What youll notice tomorrow is that everyone here will snap back into working from home mode until its clear whether there will be a checkpoint or not. While thats not as grand an impact on the economy as shutting down an entire capital city, for all border communities, its a huge impact each time.

NSW Chief Health Officer Kerry Chant urged older people who had received one dose of the AstraZeneca to bring forward their second dose to six weeks after a woman in her 90s, believed to be unvaccinated, died with COVID-19. The woman was from south-western Sydney, where the latest outbreak is presently concentrated, and is the first death of the cluster that originated from an unvaccinated limousine driver who caught the Delta variant of the virus while transporting airline staff to hotel quarantine on June 11. Of the 77 cases reported on Sunday, 39 were in Fairfield and nine were in the adjacent local government area of Canterbury-Bankstown. Two of the cases were in the City of Sydney, while Waverley also recorded two COVID-19 cases. Ms Berejiklian said more than 50 were close family members of COVID-19 cases. She told people to brace for further coronavirus cases, saying she would be shocked if there were fewer than 100 new cases on Monday.

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian is expecting more than 100 cases on Monday. Credit:Dean Sewell The Andrews government has for days warned Victorians in regional NSW to return home, foreshadowing a movement on travel restrictions. Mr Andrews issued a stern warning to anyone trying to travel into Victoria without the appropriate permit: Youve got every chance of becoming very, very famous if you do not comply with those conditions. I dont want that to happen. I want everyone to play their part. Victoria recorded no new cases of coronavirus in the community or in hotel quarantine on Sunday from more than 23,000 people who were tested. Almost 13,000 people received their COVID-19 vaccine. Loading

The Police Association Victoria secretary Wayne Gatt said he supported the force opting for a mobile model of policing over a ring of steel option, which they found was less effective and more disruptive for border communities. We called for this last time because the ring of steel approach wasnt efficient, and it wasnt effective, Mr Gatt said. We could see people moving around us in places and roads we couldnt target. This gives us the flexibility and a degree of unpredictability. This means we can move around, be in the areas we think are highest risk and use technology to aid the police response. These operations, including the unrelenting hotel quarantine, are having an aggregate impact on our capacity to police local communities. With Abbir Dib
Truth Or Consequences, New Mexico: British billionaire Richard Branson has soared 86 kilometres above the New Mexico desert aboard his Virgin Galactic rocket plane and safely returned in the vehicles first fully crewed test flight to space, a symbolic milestone for a venture he started 17 years ago.

Branson, one of six Virgin Galactic employees strapped in for the ride, has touted the mission as a precursor to a new era of space tourism, with the company he founded in 2004 poised to begin commercial operations next year.

Virgin Galactic founder Richard Branson carries crew member Sirisha Bandla on his shoulders while celebrating their flight to space. Credit:AP

Were here to make space more accessible to all, an exuberant Branson, 70, said shortly after embracing his grandchildren following the flight. Welcome to the dawn of a new space age.

The success of the flight also gave the flamboyant entrepreneur bragging rights in a highly publicised rivalry with fellow billionaire Jeff Bezos, the Amazon online retail mogul who had hoped to fly into space first aboard his own space companys rocket.
Moises killing has clouded those plans and led to political disarray in Haiti, where the acting government has appealed for US and UN troops. The United States said it has no plans to provide Haiti with military assistance for now, while the request to the United Nations would need Security Council authorisation. Police search the Morne Calvaire district of Petion Ville for suspects who remain at large in the murder of Haitian President Jovenel Moise in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. Credit:AP Power struggle Late on Friday, the man Moise appointed as prime minister just before the assassination claimed the right to lead Haiti, pitting him against acting head of state Claude Joseph, whose government has managed the response to the killing to date.

Ariel Henry, a neurosurgeon who Moise named prime minister on Monday, said he was now the highest authority in Haiti, not interim Prime Minister Joseph, and that he was forming a government. After the presidents assassination, I became the highest, legal and regular authority because there was a decree nominating me, he said. Henry said his government would create a new electoral council that would determine new dates for elections to be held as soon as possible. But Henry has yet to be sworn in, and Joseph, who was named interim prime minister in April, has stayed put.

The power struggle has created confusion over who is the legitimate leader of the countrys 11 million people. Elections Minister Mathias Pierre said acting premier Joseph would keep that role until the September 26 vote. Martine Moise, first lady of Haiti, arrives at Jackson Health Systems Ryder Trauma Centre, in Miami, on Wednesday for treatment after the attack in which her husband, President Jovenel Moise, was killed. Credit:AP Meanwhile, Haitis Senate, which currently comprises just a third of its usual 30 senators, nominated its head, Joseph Lambert, on Friday to act as the interim president. Haitis 1987 constitution stipulates the head of the Supreme Court should take over as interim president. But amendments that are not unanimously recognised state that it be the prime minister, or, in the last year of a presidents mandate  as was the case with Moise  that parliament should elect a president.

Further complicating matters, the head of the Supreme Court died last month after contracting COVID-19 in one of the few countries yet to start a vaccination campaign. There also is no sitting parliament as legislative elections scheduled for late 2019 were postponed amid political unrest. Investigation under way Haitian officials have not given a motive for the assassination or explained how the killers got past Moises security detail. None of Moises guards were injured in the attack, Pierre, the elections minister, said.

Taking power in 2017, Moises administration was beset by mass protests, first over corruption allegations and his economic record, then over his increasing grip on power and impunity amid worsening gang violence. Seventeen of the men suspected of involvement in his assassination were captured after a gun battle with Haitian authorities in a hillside suburb of Port-au-Prince, while three were killed and eight are still at large, police say. Steven Benoit, a former senator, told local radio station Magik9 on Saturday, The president was assassinated by his own guards, not by the Colombians. ... The latter were hired by the Haitian state. Benoit could not be reached on Saturday for comment. The sister of Duberney Capador, 40, a Colombian killed in the firefight with Haitian police, said on Saturday that the retired soldier had been offered work in security for high-profile people.

Jenny Carolina Capador said her brother messaged her on the day of Moises death, saying, We got here too late; unfortunately the person we were going to guard ... we couldnt do anything. Colombian media reports from outlets including Semana and El Tiempo suggested the Colombian suspects were hired to work as security for politicians in Haiti, including Moise. Semana cited conversations with other former soldiers and family members of some of the men. El Tiempo said some of the men were contracted to provide security to several dignitaries in Haiti for a three-month trial period. Reuters was unable to verify those reports. Colombian police declined to specify on Saturday who hired the men, saying the matter is still under investigation. Officials have said the soldiers were hired by four companies, without naming them. Colombian officials acknowledge soldiers are often recruited to work as mercenaries in other countries upon retirement from the army. Colombia has requested more information from Haiti about what the soldiers are suspected of participating in.
This is the temporary subscription pass for users returning from the Vision Data subscription process. Your subscription will be updated within 24 hours, after your information is verified. Please click the button below to get your pass.
Click the image to the left and log in to get your exclusive reader perks.
1,500 Letters Written by World War II Soldier to His Wife Discovered: Amazing Collection

An incredible collection of more than 1,500 letters, cards, and telegrams written by a young soldier to his wife during World War II has been unearthed after being hidden away for over 70 years.

Lieutenant David Dawson wrote to his wife, Blanche, often between 1939 and 1945.

Ruth Walker, whos from Scarborough, North Yorkshire, in England, and is a granddaughter of family friends of the Dawsons, donated the letters to the Scarborough Museums Trust. The messages written during the wartime paint a vivid portrayal of a young soldiers memories, and of his persistent longing for home.

The letters were left to collect dust in Ruths attic in her home in Scarborough but were found again during a lockdown project.

The soldier wrote to his wife with impressive regularity, and the heartfelt notes were raw in emotion. Despite being written between 1939 and 1945, they have been remarkably preserved.

In a letter penned the day after Victory in Europe Day, he told his dearest Blanche that the day they have been waiting for for so long has arrived.

The letter read:

My dearest Blanche,

At last, the day we have been waiting for for so long [h]as arrivedit seems hard to realize. The main topic now is when will they be starting demobilization and let us get back to civvy street. There was very little in the way of celebration here yesterday, in fact as far as we were concerned, there was nothing at all.

Today we went to the cemetery and the burgomaster [laid] a wreath on each of the graves of some RAF men who had been brought down somewhere near here. The graves had been beautifully kept and I know that if the relatives could see them they would be very pleased

There [have] been some weird and wonderful [processions] throughout the day reminding me somewhat of my extreme youth.

According to the wireless there was much merrymaking in Britain yesterdayI suppose the people were glad of the opportunity of letting themselves go.

David, who was a lieutenant in the Royal Army Pay Corps, was stationed in London, Scotland, the Netherlands, France, and Germany.

The prevailing theme of the letters was his love for Scarborough and his longing to come home.

On May 7, 1940, while in Hastings in southeast England, he wrote: I am writing this letter in the open-air as it is a pleasant evening, and I want a bit of fresh air after being closed indoors for the best part of the day, so I am [sitting] on a seat on the front in a small sheltersomething like the North Side at Scarborough, but not as good.

Ruth said her family had been taking care of the letters for some years now.

David and Blanche were good friends with her grandparents, and her mother was the executor of the Dawsons wills.

Ruth said: The letters have been sitting in the attic for years; finally, sorting through them was my lockdown project.

Its very apparent from them that David was very much a Scarborough man. He loved the town, and a running theme of the letters was his wish to come home, so where better to give them to than Scarborough Museums Trust?

The Trusts Collections Manager Jim Middleton says: Were delighted to have been donated this amazing collection of wartime letters: they offer a rare personal insight into the everyday plight of ordinary people during extraordinary times.

So often collections like these are lost over the years as people pass away, so for such a complete record to be saved for the town is fantastic both for local historians and future generations.

The museum has been collecting Scarborough history for nearly 200 years, and its donations like these that make up the core of our collections.

As an accredited museum, donors can be safe in the knowledge that anything given to the museum will be very well looked after, saved for future generations, and available to all for research.

Andrew Clay, chief executive of Scarborough Museums Trust, says: We are privileged to look after the collections held in trust on behalf of the people of Scarborough.

It is vast and comprises over 250,000 objects, including some of [the] exceptional rarity but also some like these letterswhich are wonderful artifacts relating to the normal, everyday life of this remarkable town.

One of our key strategic aims is to democratize the collection, to make it more accessible. Well do this by organizing more exhibitions and displays, but also by introducing new digital formats so people can access the collection online. It is growing all the time and we are enormously grateful for the innumerable gifts and bequests we receive from local people and beyond.

Epoch Times staff contributed to this report.

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
Police officers stand guard at a local police hospital where the bodies of militants killed during a raid were taken to, in Palu, Central Sulawesi, Indonesia, on July 11, 2021. (Josua Marunduh/AP Photo)

2 Suspected ISIS-Linked Terrorists Killed in Central Indonesia

PALU, IndonesiaIndonesian security forces on Sunday killed two suspected terrorists with ties to the ISIS terrorist group who were believed to be connected to the killing of Christian farmers on Sulawesi island, the countrys military said.

The two men, identified as Rukli and Ahmad Gazali, were fatally shot during a pre-dawn raid by a five-man team of military and police in Central Sulawesi provinces mountainous Parigi Moutong district, said Maj. Gen. Richard Tampubolon, who heads the joint operation. Parigi Moutong borders Poso district, considered an extremist hotbed in the province.

Security operations in Central Sulawesi have intensified in recent months to try to capture members of the East Indonesia Mujahideen terrorist network, particularly targeting Ali Kalora, the groups leader and Indonesias most wanted terrorist. The network pledged allegiance to ISIS in 2014.

Tampubolon said the security team located the terrorist camp on Wednesday in the densely forested village of Tanah Lanto.

The team was able to approach the camp early Sunday with five terrorists inside, however three terrorists escaped the firefight into the jungle, Tampubolon said in a statement.

He said security forces were still searching for the seven remaining members of group who are still at large, including Kalora.

The East Indonesia Mujahideen has claimed responsibility for several killings of police and Christians.

In May, the group killed four Christians in Kalemago village of Poso district, including one victim who was beheaded. Authorities said the attack was in revenge for the killing in March of two terrorists, including the son of the groups former leader Abu Wardah Santoso.

Kaloras predecessor was killed by security forces in July 2016. Dozens of other leaders and members of the group have been killed or captured since then.

Indonesia, the worlds most populous Muslim-majority nation, has conducted a sustained crackdown on radical Islamic terrorists since bombings on the tourist island of Bali in 2002 killed 202 people, mostly foreigners.

Attacks on foreigners have been largely replaced by smaller, less deadly strikes targeting the government, police, and anti-terrorism forces.

By Josua Marunduh
Queensland police have charged a further seven men in relation to the 2020 shooting murder of outlaw motorcycle gang defector Shane Bowden on the Gold Coast, Australia.

Detectives from the states homicide and gangs squads along with other specialist officers raided a string of properties along the glitter strip on Sunday, making a total of eight arrests.

The seven charged with murder will appear before Brisbane Magistrates Court on Monday.

A 37-year-old Wanora man also taken into custody is accused of unlawful weapons possession and will face Ipswich magistrates Court on July 29.

Their arrests follow that on Saturday of Ian Robert Crowden, 46, identified as the president of the Brisbane West chapter of the Mongols bikies.

He has also been charged with murder.

Bowden, 47, was gunned down in the driveway of a residence at Pimpama last October.

A total of 21 rounds were fired, 19 from a machine pistol and two from a shotgun before the offenders ran back to a waiting silver commodore and fled.

Detectives said on July 1 they were without doubt the Mongols orchestrated the execution of Bowden, as he sat in his BMW.

Detective Superintendent Brendan Smith said Sundays arrests represented a significant step towards dismantling organised crime in Queenslands southeast and beyond.

These arrests have decimated a whole chapter of the Mongols OMCG, he said in a statement.

The numbers involved are unprecedented and will be nationally significant.

It points to the true nature of these gangs but importantly the ability of law enforcement to break their so-called loyalty and code of silence and bring them to justice.

Supt Smith said the murder of Bowden involved significant planning by those involved resulting in a long and complicated investigation.

The community can be assured police have the ability to tackle organised crime groups regardless of their so-called sophistication, he added.

Bowden was initially a member of the Finks criminal biker gang, and part of its terror team jailed over the Gold Coasts so-called ballroom blitz brawl in which three people were shot and two stabbed in 2006.

After his release, he defected to the Mongols but was booted out and rejoined the Finks just before he was shot.
Signage warns of extreme heat danger at the salt flats of Badwater Basin inside Death Valley National Park, in Inyo County, Calif., on June 17, 2021. (Patrick T. Fallon/AFP via Getty Images)

After Hottest June Ever, US Braces for New Heatwave in West

Western states are bracing for more scorching weather this weekend after the hottest month of June on record in the United States killed scores of people, strained electric grids, and depleted reservoirs.

The National Weather Service has issued an excessive heat warning for much of the West through Monday evening, predicting dangerously hot conditions including temperatures up to 130 degrees Fahrenheit in Death Valley, California.

Temperatures are expected to soar above 100 degrees F in multiple states.

Long-standing record high-temperature values are likely to be rivaled or broken, the weather service said, warning of the elevated risk of heat-related illnesses.

The extended heatwave, which coincides with a record-setting drought, has already killed at least 116 people in Oregon alone, the state medical examiner said.

The extremes in the Pacific Northwest would have been virtually impossible without human-caused climate change, according to a study by World Weather Attribution, a collaboration of climate scientists around the world.

The National Weather Services color-coded map shows most of California and large swathes of Oregon, Idaho, Nevada, Utah, and Arizona shaded pink for an excessive heat warning, meaning temperatures are expected to reach or exceed 105 degrees.

Further patches of those same states plus Washington, New Mexico, and Colorado are colored in orange for a heat advisory when temperatures are expected between 100 and 104 degrees.

This comes after the hottest June in 127 years of record-keeping, according to the National Oceanic and Atmosphere Administration.

The average June temperature in the contiguous United States was 72.6, or 4.2 degrees above average, surpassing the record set in June 2016 by 0.9 of a degree, the NOAA said.

Eight states recorded their hottest June on record and another six states logged their second-hottest June, the NOAA said.
Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) listens during a Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee hearing on the federal COVID-19 response on Capitol Hill on March 18, 2021. (Susan Walsh/Pool/Getty Images)

Alaska Republican Party Endorses Sen. Lisa Murkowski Challenger Kelly Tshibaka

Alaskas Republican Party has endorsed Kelly Tshibaka, a Republican candidate running for the states Senate seat, in the Republican Primary against incumbent Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska).

In a statement on July 10, Tshibaka confirmed the endorsement and said that shes grateful and thrilled to have the strong support of the Alaska Republican Party, which voted overwhelmingly to endorse my candidacy for the U.S. Senate.

We all share a unified goal: to promote the principles upon which our country and state were founded. I have pledged that I will be true to our shared, conservative Alaska ideals and be a senator upon whom they can depend to make every decision based on what is best for our great state.

She also noted that the party has to be determined to defend Alaska from the continued onslaught of the radical Biden administration.

It is time for conservative leaders, with courage and common sense, to rise together across the nation, Tshibaka said. I am honored to be endorsed as that candidate for Alaska.

Tshibaka announced her candidacy earlier this year against Murkowski, considered by some to be a member of the moderate wing of the Republican Party and a swing vote in the upper chamber. Murkowski notably opposed President Donald Trump on several key issues, voting to convict him during his second impeachment trial in February.

Alaska Department of Administration Commissioner Kelly Tshibaka addresses reporters in Anchorage, Alaska, on Sept. 26, 2019. (Mark Thiessen/AP)

Trump did everything in his power to stay in power, Murkowski said after voting to convict him.

She also claimed that his Jan. 6 speech was intended to stoke passions in a crowd that the president had been rallying for months.

Trump has categorically denied allegations that he incited violence involving some protesters at the Capitol on Jan. 6.

Trump has also endorsed Tshibaka, who is the former Alaska Department of Administration commissioner, for Murkowskis seat.

Lisa Murkowski is bad for Alaska, Trump said in a statement. Kelly Tshibaka is the candidate who can beat Murkowski, and she will. Kelly is a fighter who stands for Alaska values and America First.

Murkowski spoke about the former commander-in-chief during a radio interview last week.

I think one of the things that Ive learned is that none of the races that Ive been part of have ever really been easy or ordinary. This will probably prove to be much, much along those lines, Murkowski said. I know that former President Trump is skeptical about me and the job that I do for Alaska, but I really think that thats for Alaskans to judge.

The Alaska senator also hasnt publicly said whether shell run for reelection for her fourth term in office. Murkowski hasnt issued many public comments about Tshibaka since she declared her candidacy.

Murkowskis office didnt respond to a request for comment by press time.
Australian Defence Minster Peter Dutton has confirmed that all of the nations defence troops have now been withdrawn from Afghanistan.

Dutton said there had been 1,500 troops in the country, which was recently reduced to 80, and now they have all been withdrawn under the advice of the chief of defence, earlier than the original September deadline.

That doesnt mean we wont be a part of campaigns with the United States perhaps involving the SAS or special forces where we deem that to be in our national interest or in the interest of our allies, the minister told Sky News Sunday Agenda program.

For now though, that campaign has come to an end.

He said the threat of terrorism hasnt gone away and whether that manifests in Australia, in the middle east or elsewhere around the world, then Australia will be part of an effort to defeat that.

Dutton wants there to be a national day of commemoration for those 39,000 troops that served in Afghanistan in the past two decades that saw the loss of 41 lives.

I want those diggers to hear very clearly the message that because of their efforts in Afghanistan, in Iraq and in the region, they have stopped terrorist attacks from taking place in our country, he said.

We are incredibly eternally grateful for that.

He sees it as a similar story to other days of national significance in the military calendar, such as Anzac day and Vietnam Veterans day.

By Colin Brinsden
First responders assist an injured coaster rider at the Branson Coaster on West 76 Country Boulevard in Branson, Mo., on June 20, 2021. (Branson Professional Firefighters Local 152/TNS)

As People Flock to Theme Parks This Summer, Series of Accidents Plagues Popular Rides

By Maxwell Adler

From The Kansas City Star

KANSAS CITY, Mo.Headlines across the country have been abundant with news of shocking theme park accidents in the last several weeks, some of them fatal. Last month, a Tennessee boy got caught under a Missouri coaster and was seriously injured.

And in early June a woman died from internal bleeding after sustaining an injury while riding a roller coaster in Indiana. It was ruled an accident.

The likelihood of dying on a roller coaster is pretty low, with odds at roughly one in 750 million, according to the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions.

But when injuries do happen, they can be life-changing and tragic. And accidents while suspended in the air are certainly frightening.

Heres a look at some of the most recent amusement park accidentssome did not result in injuryin the United States:

Holiday World & Splashin Safari In Indiana

Dawn R. Jankovic, 47, of Brunswick, Ohio, died from internal bleeding after sustaining an injury while riding The Voyage roller coaster at Holiday World & Splashin Safari in Santa Claus, Indiana, in June.

The coroner in charge of the case listed force from the roller coaster as a third cause of death. The force from The Voyage ride caused her right internal thoracic artery to tear, resulting in rapid blood loss, according to the coroner.

Officials said the roller coaster was functioning properly and the death had nothing to do with the ride itself, the Indianapolis Star reported.

Six Flags Great Adventure In New Jersey

On June 13, two people were taken to the hospital after sustaining injuries on the Saw Mill Log Flume ride at Six Flags Great Adventure in New Jersey. The log flume, which takes riders down a 4-story plunge, has been in service since the parks opening in 1974.

Branson Coaster In Missouri

An 11-year-old from Tennessee fell while getting off the Branson Coaster in the Missouri tourist town and was then stuck underneath the rails of the ride for roughly 90 minutes on June 20.

He incurred serious injuries to his legs and right arm. His grandmother said at the time that doctors were unsure if they would be able to save his legs. Before boarding the coaster, Aalondo Perry, who has impaired vision, was told by ride operators that he couldnt sit in the same car as his 13-year-old brother.

Adventureland In Iowa

A child died and three other people were seriously injured when a boat on the Raging River ride at Adventureland in Altoona, Iowa, overturned this month.

Michael Jaramillo, 11, died from his injuries, the Altoona Police Department announced two days after the incident. Another child was in critical condition after the incident. Two adults were hospitalized.

The Raging Rivers ride has been operating since 1983. This was not the first time someone lost their life on the Raging Rivers ride. An employee was killed by the ride in 2016, according to The Associated Press.

Castles N Coasters In Pheonix

On May 15, 22 people were rescued from the Desert Storm roller coaster at Castles N Coasters amusement park in Phoenix. After the riders spent roughly two hours suspended 20 feet above the ground in a sideways position, firefighters were able to rescue the group, which included a handful of children. Nobody was physically injured during the incident.

Six Flags Fiesta In San Antonio

At the end of May, 20 people were rescued from the Poltergeist roller coaster at Six Flags Fiesta Texas in San Antonio.

The 2,700-foot-long roller coaster, that takes passengers from zero to 60 mph in less than four seconds, stalled midride on May 29. After riders were stuck on the coaster for more than three hours, several firefighter crews and rescue teams were able to safely remove them from the ride. Nobody was physically injured during the incident.

2021 The Kansas City Star. Visit at kansascity.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Police tape is seen in a file photo. (Jason Connolly/AFP via Getty Images)

At Least 12 Killed as Bus Carrying Illegal Immigrants Crashes in Turkey

ISTANBULA minibus carrying illegal immigrants overturned and caught fire in eastern Turkey, killing 12 people and injuring 20 others, the state-run Anadolu news agency reported Sunday.

The vehicle tumbled into a ditch while traveling overnight near Yumakli in Van province, which borders Iran.

Television broadcasts showed groaning survivors being treated by the roadside as emergency workers sifted through the burnt-out wreckage.

Illegal immigrants, mostly from Iran, Afghanistan, and Pakistan, regularly cross the Iranian border into Turkey on foot before being ferried west to cities such as Istanbul and Ankara.

In June 2020, more than 60 migrants drowned in Lake Van when their boat sank.
A wreckage of a rickshaw is seen at the scene of a car explosion near Banadir hospital in Mogadishu, Somalia on July 10, 2021. (Feisal Omar/Reuters)

At Least 8 Killed in Mogadishu by Suicide Bomb Targeting Government Convoy

MOGADISHUA suicide car bomb targeting a government convoy exploded at a busy junction in Somalias capital on Saturday, killing at least eight people, an eyewitness told Reuters.

Abdiasis Abu Musab, military operations spokesperson for the al-Qaida-linked terrorist group al-Shabaab, told Reuters it was responsible for Saturdays attack. The group, which wants to overthrow the government and impose its strict interpretation of Islamic sharia law, frequently carries out such bombings.

The convoy was carrying senior police official Farhan Qarole, who survived the attack, the Somali government news agency reported.

I have seen eight dead bodies at the scene including a woman, Hassan Sayid Ali, a driver of a three-wheeled motorized vehicle taxi, told Reuters at the scene of the blast at Banadir junction in Mogadishu.
Australian Treasurer Josh Frydenberg has recently indicated the government is considering introducing more flexibility to the nations retirement saving system. (Sam Mooy/Getty Images)

Australian Treasurer: National Interest Over Trade With China

Australian Treasurer Josh Frydenberg said on July 7 during an interview with Australias Sky News that, While the economic relationship with China is very important, we have a clear sense of our national interests.

Frydenberg was referring to Australias response to Beijings retaliatory trade sanctions.

All of the measures we are taking have been designed to protect, enhance, and advance our national interests, he said.

A Strained Relationship

China was Australias biggest trading partner in 2018 with imports and exports totaling over $200 billion (US$144 billion) dollars a year.

But bilateral ties became strained that year when the center-right ruling party of Australia banned Chinese tech giant Huawei from its 5G network. Relations worsened last year when Canberra led the push for an independent international investigation into the origins of the coronavirus.

In April this year, Australia cancelled two deals struck by its state of Victoria with China as part of Beijings Belt and Road Initiative, which the countrys foreign minister, Marise Payne, said was considered to be inconsistent with Australias foreign policy or adverse to our foreign relations.

Beijing retaliated with a trade war. It has since officially admitted that it is punishing Australia for not siding with the communist regime on political and ideological grounds. It continues to restrict imports from Australia, including coal, barley, seafood, and wine.

National Interest First

Frydenberg is responsible for Australias Foreign Investment Review Board. In response to Beijings hostility, Australia implemented laws to raise new barriers to deals backed by state-owned enterprises.

Chinese deals blocked in recent years include a $13 billion (US$9 billion) bid for pipeline company APA Group by Hong Kong investor CK Infrastructure Holdings, a $600 million (US$430 million) offer for Lion Dairy & Drinks from Mengniu Dairy, and a $300 million (US$231 million) bid for construction company Probuild from China State Construction Engineering Corp.

Beijings Trade War Backfires

Although Australias exports to China have decreased, most of its goods have found new markets.

Following the restrictions, those same goods found other export markets, and trade rose by about $4.2 billion (US$3.14 billion) in annualized terms for those goods, offsetting most of the losses from China, according to Roland Rajah, lead economist at The Lowy Institute. These include coal, timber and seafood.

Australia is responsible for a third of the worlds traded coal. (Ian Waldie/Getty Images)

Take Australias thermal coal for example. Due to its high quality, it was popular with Chinese power utility firms, selling at US$55 per tonne (5,500 Kcal/Kg). However, because of Beijings restrictions, Chinese utility firms have been forced to buy the same grade quality coal from Russia at the whopping price of US$115 per tonne. Meanwhile, Australian coal has found new markets, including India.

Another interesting example is Australias lobsters, which have found a detour to Chinese dining tables. This detour is via Hong Kong. Prior to November last year, lobster imports from Australia to Hong Kong were negligible. However, in the first three months of this year, Hong Kong imported respectively 240, 250 and 340 tonnes of lobster, according to figures from the Western Rock Lobster Council.

Dealing With A Different China

The China [that] Scott Morrison is dealing with under Xi Jinping is very different to the China that John Howard was dealing with under Hu Jintao, Frydenberg told Sky News. China a lot more assertive today than theyve been in recent past.

We are now dealing in a very different geostrategic environment.
Members of the 501st Legion wear the costumes of their favorite 'Star Wars' characters while raising money for charities. (Courtesy of Briian Hazelrigg)

Bad Guys Doing Good: Star Wars Troop Supports Local Charities

If youve taken a picture with a squad of Stormtroopers at Costco, or high-fived Darth Vader and a battalion of Clone troopers during a local parade, you may have encountered the 501st Legion.

More than 60 Star Wars characters from the Orange County squad marched in front of a spaceship float during Tustin Meadows annual Fourth of July parade.

When Im in a helmet, nobody sees that I have a Cheshire cat grin on my face, Briian Hazelrigg, Orange Countys squad leader, told The Epoch Times.

Nobody sees that I am literally about to burst out of my own skin with the happiness that I see. Then attach that to a charity or some sort of good cause. We cry more than we smile because were so happy and full of joy.

The 501st Legion is a worldwide organization that brings smiles to Star Wars fans of all ages, with the motto bad guys doing good.

Its members wear the costumes of their favorite Star Wars characters while raising money for charities such as Make-A-Wish Foundation, the Starlight Starbright Childrens Foundation, Ronald McDonald House, Walk Now for Autism Speaks, American Cancer Association, various regional childrens hospitals, and more.

Worldwide, the charity has raised more than $4 million for charity, Hazelrigg said.

Its only after I do it that I realized the smiles that I had brought, he said. Its like being the worlds greatest cheerleader.

Since 1997, the 501st Legion costuming organization has been approved by Lucasfilm (now a subsidiary of Walt Disney Studios) to spread joy through authentic-looking costumes at fan-filled charity events. The 501st Legion is not affiliated with Lucasfilm.

The Southern California Garrison is the organizations local unit made up of 500 members, spanning the Channel Islands, Inland Empire, Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Joaquin. They volunteer at up to 14 events per week.

Members of the 501st Legion wear the costumes of their favorite Star Wars characters while raising money for charities such as Make-A-Wish Foundation, the Starlight Starbright Childrens Foundation, Ronald McDonald House, Walk Now for Autism Speaks, American Cancer Association, various regional childrens hospitals, and more. (Courtesy of Briian Hazelrigg)

Hazelrigg is in charge of Orange Countys squad, which has more than 170 members.

Im a hairdresser by week and a plastic spaceman by weekend, Hazelrigg said.

The costumes are hand built by each member, which takes a lot of hard work and careful research, Hazelrigg said.

It becomes kind of an addiction, he said. Your first costume  leads to your second. Its a good time that you just dont want to give up because you get into the excitement of this new costume you get to go present to people.

Weve become such a big family and we [like] to see each other because we know what were doing is so much fun, he said.

Hazelrigg said hes had, on multiple occasions, wedding proposals in front of him while dressed as Darth Vader.

Many times, a man will come up to him and ask if he can hide behind his cape and step out beside him to propose to his girlfriend on one knee in front of Vader.

You wouldnt think the most villainous of all villainshes standing there at wedding proposals, he said.

Hazelrigg said his squad frequents CHOC hospital and the Ronald McDonald House to interact with kids in the ward.

Hazelrigg recalled speaking with a wide-eyed, 2-foot-tall boy who had a visible scar on his head from a suspected brain surgery.

He just grinned, and it just made him so happy, and his eyes were so expressive, like everything I said was the most important thing I ever said, Hazelrigg said.

Hazelrigg has been a Star Wars fan since age 9, when the first film came out.

In 1977, my mom took me to the movies, and I just couldnt get enough for some reason, he said.

Hazelrigg has been a part of the 501st Legion for 3 1/2 years. In his first six months after joining, he volunteered at nearly 70 events.

Standing tall at six-foot-six, Hazelrigg fits the Darth Vader look.

Its one of the greatest things I have ever been a part of, he said. Its a community of people that like to do good, and its kind of beyond my wildest dreams.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken speaks during a news conference at the end of a NATO Foreign Affairs Ministers meeting at NATO headquarters in Brussels, Wednesday, March 24, 2021. (Olivier Hoslet,/Pool Photo via AP)

Blinken Honors Chinese Human Rights Lawyers on 6th Anniversary of 709 Crackdown

July 9 marked the start of Beijings mass persecution directed at Chinas human rights lawyers in 2015, called the 709 crackdown. On its sixth anniversary, U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken vowed that the United States will always buttress them to build a more just, stable, and prosperous Chinese society.

The persecution targeted hundreds of human rights lawyers, dissidents, and their families across Chinas 23 provinces. These voices for justice were subjected to torture, televised confessions, mass state-sanctioned kidnapping where targets are held incommunicado and likely tortured in the communist partys black jailsa practice euphemistically called Residential Surveillance at a Designated Locationand other forms of mistreatment. The 709 action is widely viewed as a judicial leap backward for China.

In a July 8 statement, Blinken honored the Chinese lawyers and human rights defenders who have been unjustly detained, interrogated, and imprisoned by authorities of the Chinese Communist Party since July 9, 2015. He called on Beijing to release those who have been detained or imprisoned in connection with the 709 crackdown to ensure their family members are free of harassment, and to reinstate the lawyers who were disbarred.

The U.S. CongressionalExecutive Commission on China (CECC), a bipartisan group of U.S. lawmakers, also voiced their support for human rights lawyers and rights defenders in China on July 9 and urged U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to take decisive actions to address horrific human rights abuses in China.

On the 6th anniversary of the #709crackdown, the Chairs call for the release of all human rights lawyers and rights defenders and again urge @UN Secretary-General @AntonioGuterres to take decisive actions to address horrific human rights abuses in China. https://t.co/rcFSZdMHr7 pic.twitter.com/S2bSqRG2qa  China Commission (@CECCgov) July 9, 2021

Through arbitrary detentions, torture, revocation of legal licenses, and threats, the Chinese government has tried to choke off independent representation for Chinese citizens facing politically motivated prosecutions. The unconditional release of human rights lawyers is of critical interest to the United States and the international community. The legal profession is a pillar of the rule of law, without which Chinas obligations under international covenants and treaties are but empty words, the commission chair and co-chair said in a statement.

On the anniversary of the crackdown on human rights lawyers and rights defenders in China, the Chairs call for the immediate release of all detained lawyers, including Zhou Shifeng, Yu Wensheng, Li Yuhan, Xia Lin, Ding Jiaxi, Qin Yongpei, and Chang Weiping and for these cases to be raised by the United States and at the United Nations. The Chairs further call for renewed diplomatic efforts to seek information on the status of Gao Zhishengarbitrarily detained, tortured, and missing since August 2017.

Chinas Human Rights Situation Continues to Worsen

Wang Yu was the first lawyer to be illegally detained by the campaign in the early hours of July 9, 2015. Her husband and her then 15-year-old son were also arrested on the same day. Wang was then tortured and forced to perform a televised confession when police threatened her son to intimidate her.

Wang was then imprisoned for more than a year and then put under house arrest for over a year, before being released in August 2018. In a 2019 interview with The Epoch Times, Wang described the various torture methods inflicted on her in prison.

For years, Chinas human rights situation has continued to worsen, Wang told The Epoch Times.

Wang Yu, human rights lawyer, poses during an interview in Hong Kong on March 20, 2014. (Philippe Lopez/AFP via Getty Images)

In the interview, Wang also expressed her heartfelt thanks to all supportersdomestic and internationalfor their attention to the persecution suffered by Chinas human rights lawyers under the regimes campaign.

Wang had acted on behalf of Chinas vulnerable groups in numerous cases, including those impacted by the persecution of Falun Gonga traditional Chinese meditation discipline that promotes the values truthfulness, compassion, and tolerance.

In June 2015, Wang proclaimed her support to Chinas Falun Gong adherents who had filed lawsuits with the supreme court against Jiang Zemin, then-Chinese leader, on a charge of genocide against the Falun Gong population.

On Nov. 26, 2020, she was disbarred by the Beijing Municipality Bureau of Justice.

In March, Wangs efforts to advocate for human rights in China gained further recognition when she received an International Women of Courage Award from the United States government.

Many Still in Prison

In his statement, Blinken mentioned the names of four lawyers, including Xu Zhiyong, Ding Jiaxi, Li Yuhan, and Yu Wensheng, who are being detained or imprisoned.

Based on the public information available, both Xu Zhiyong and Ding Jiaxi are being held at the Linshu County Detention Center in northern Chinas Shandong province, Li Yuhan is detained at the Shenyang Municipality No. 1 Detention Center in northeastern Chinas Liaoning province, and Yu Wensheng is imprisoned at the Nanjing Municipality Prison in southeastern Chinas Jiangsu province.

Xu Yan, wife of human rights lawyer Yu Wensheng, making a video for her husbands birthday in front of the Xuzhou City Detention Centre This picture taken on Oct. 30, 2019. Yus birthday on Nov. 11, 2019, will mark his 680th days under detention in Xuzhou. (Nicolas Asfouri/AFP via Getty Images)

Yus wife, Xu Yan, told The Epoch Times that the persecution by Chinese authorities on the countrys lawyers has been brutal in the past six years and is continuing. As a result of the 709 crackdown, some lawyers have been disbarred, effectively destroying their careers after their release.

She added that currently, her husbands health is deteriorating in prison. He had developed a shaky right hand, which is too weak to write, to brush his teeth, or hold chopsticks at dinner, as well as high blood pressure and kidney stones.

In my mind, hes always innocent, Xu Yan told The Epoch Times. Thats why Ive clung to redress-seeking efforts despite many occasions of mistreatment.

The Staunch Wives

Xu Yan is not alone in supporting her imprisoned husband.

After many of Chinas human rights lawyers were thrown into detention centers, their wives across the country sprang into action, including Wang Qiaoling, Li Wenzu, and Yuan Shanshan.

This small circle of wives united to petition the judicial authorities. They visited detention facilities, police stations, and courts, and launched protests demanding the government recognize their spouses legal rights and release their husbands.

Wang Quanzhangs wife Li Wenzu and wives of 3 other Chinese human rights lawyers criticize the police of Linyi city in front of the police station on Aug. 31, 2019. (Screenshot/Li Wenzus Twitter)

Wang Qiaoling, the wife of rights lawyer Li Heping, told The Epoch Times that the impact of the 709 crackdown on her family was huge, especially on her husbands physical and mental health while she suffered a lot as well as his spouse.

She revealed that the family faced strict restrictions even after Lis release, including their childs school life and Lis travel.

She said she has been able to get through the difficulty with family support and from confronting her challenges in a positive manner. In the process, she has also met other women facing a similar situation with whom she has forged great friendships.

Were proud of the past when we were together in the fight for just treatment, Wang said. Being in the same boat, she said the women have encouraged each other to stay positive.

We believe the world is governed with justice by God, not by a certain single person, she said. Thats the source of where our confidence comes from. So, its our firm belief that our loved ones will come back.

Never Give Up

Chinese human rights lawyers continue to play their different roles even though many of them have been disbarred, face travel restrictions, or struggle to make a living.

Xie Yanyi was among the imprisoned lawyers during the 709 crackdown. On July 12, 2015, he was detained by communist party authorities. Later, he was transferred to different locations, including two unidentified facilities and the Tianjin No. 2 Detention Center, where he was not allowed to use his real name, according to his account. He was subjected to grueling interrogations, beatings, prolonged punitive sitting, and intimidation. He was released on Jan. 18, 2017.

Human rights lawyer Xie Yanyi and his family in a recent undated photo. (The Epoch Times)

Xie said in an interview with The Epoch Times that the past six years have proven to him that any tyranny, evil, or injustice is doomed to failure. He believes that the power of the awakening Chinese people is unstoppable, and that dictatorships will never be able to beat citizens pursuit of freedom, dignity, and justice.

A democratic China pursuing the supremacy of human rights and rule of law represents the common interests and welfare of all of us and our future generations, regardless of personal social status, the lawyer said.

Hong Ning and Ling Yun contributed to this report.
The statue of Meriwether Lewis, William Clark, and Sacagawea is removed from Charlottesville, Va., on July 10, 2021. (Ryan M. Kelly/AFP via Getty Images)

Charlottesville Takes Down Statue of Lewis, Clark, and Sacagawea

The Charlottesville, Virginia, City Council voted unanimously at a special emergency meeting on July 10 to remove a statue of 19th-century explorers Meriwether Lewis, William Clark, and Sacagawea from the city.

The decision was made shortly after the crew finished dismantling the citys statues of Confederate commanders Robert E. Lee and Thomas Stonewall Jackson. The city council set aside about $1 million to cover the removal of all three statues.

The project follows the successful removals of the statues of two Confederate Generals this morning, city spokesman Brian Wheeler said in an emailed statement to media. The completion of that work ahead of schedule has allowed the removal of the third statue, one which City Council has previously expressed a desire to have removed after a work session with Native American delegations in November 2019.

The statue of Meriwether Lewis, William Clark, and Sacagawea is removed from Charlottesville, Va., on July 10, 2021. (Ryan M. Kelly/AFP via Getty Images)

Lewis was born in Albemarle County, where Charlottesville is located, in 1774. His expedition to the Pacific Ocean between 1804 and 1806 was famously joined by Clark, whom he befriended while in the U.S. Army, and Sacagawea, a Lemhi Shoshone woman who served as a guide and interpreter because of her experience with tribes and the terrain west of the Mississippi River.

The city council voted in November 2019 to remove the LewisClarkSacagawea statue. Critics of the statue, including descendants of Sacagawea living in Idaho, took issue with its portrayal of Sacagawea cowering beneath her travel companions. Some defenders, however, have interpreted the crouched position as her tracking and directing the two men.

The removal of the statue of the explorers took place hours after statues of Lee and Jackson were removed from pedestals in public parks on the morning of July 10. Both Lee and Jackson led the Confederate Army during the Civil War. A push to remove their statues began in 2016 and prompted the Unite The Right rally in the city in summer 2017, during which protesters defending the Lee statue clashed with counter-protesters, which included the anarcho-communist group Antifa.

A crew from the Virginia Department of General Services inspects a statue of Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee on Monument Avenue in Richmond, Va., on June 8, 2020. (Steve Helber/AP Photo)

A statue of Lee in Richmond, Virginia, the fate of which hangs on ongoing lawsuits, remains defaced following Black Lives Matter protests last summer. The monument is now surrounded by two layers of concrete barricade and fencing, while the state Supreme Court considers two cases that challenge Democratic Gov. Ralph Northams plan to remove it.
COVID Heroes and Villains

Commentary

With the COVID pandemic on the wane and life again becoming unextraordinary, this seems a good time to look back and take account at who succeeded and failed in meeting the emergency. Understanding that readers opinions will vary, I offer my Five Best Heroes and Worst Villains of the COVID Pandemic.

Best Heroes

President Donald J. Trump: Operation Warp Speed should be known as Trumps Triumph. The former president earned the crown as the greatest hero in this entire catastrophe by busting through the usual bureaucratic impediments to bring vaccines to the public in unprecedented time. The number of lives Trumps vaccine leadership saved will never be quantified.

Operation Warp Speed should be known as Trumps Triumph. The former president earned the crown as the greatest hero in this entire catastrophe by busting through the usual bureaucratic impediments to bring vaccines to the public in unprecedented time. The number of lives Trumps vaccine leadership saved will never be quantified. Big Pharma: The pharmaceutical industry receives brickbats for its sometime predatory pricing. But without Big Pharmas extensive research investments prior to the plague, Operation Warp Speed would not have succeeded. So, bravo, Big Pharma. But dont let it go to your head.

The pharmaceutical industry receives brickbats for its sometime predatory pricing. But without Big Pharmas extensive research investments prior to the plague, Operation Warp Speed would not have succeeded. So, bravo, Big Pharma. But dont let it go to your head. Hospital Workers and Grocery Clerks: As the information class hunkered safely down in family dining rooms behind laptopsnot missing a paycheckdoctors, nurses, and other healthcare workers valiantly treated patients in overcrowded hospitals at great personal risk and tremendous emotional cost. Hippocrates would be proud! At the same time, lower paid grocery clerks, warehouse workers, truck drivers, and others kept our food chain flowing. Without these valiant workers, the mild panic of toilet paper hording could have escalated into a riotous secondary catastrophe.

As the information class hunkered safely down in family dining rooms behind laptopsnot missing a paycheckdoctors, nurses, and other healthcare workers valiantly treated patients in overcrowded hospitals at great personal risk and tremendous emotional cost. Hippocrates would be proud! At the same time, lower paid grocery clerks, warehouse workers, truck drivers, and others kept our food chain flowing. Without these valiant workers, the mild panic of toilet paper hording could have escalated into a riotous secondary catastrophe. Private Schools: Children have been victimized by adults reaction to the plague by having their schools closedwhen CDC guidelines did not call for that drastic action and children faced an infinitesimal risk of serious illness. Thankfully, not all schools failed their students. Many private schools remained open, administrators and teachers putting their students firstand for often significantly lower pay than their responsibility-abdicating public school counterparts.

Children have been victimized by adults reaction to the plague by having their schools closedwhen CDC guidelines did not call for that drastic action and children faced an infinitesimal risk of serious illness. Thankfully, not all schools failed their students. Many private schools remained open, administrators and teachers putting their students firstand for often significantly lower pay than their responsibility-abdicating public school counterparts. Red State Governors: Being governor in COVID era would challenge the most talented and well-intentioned leaders. Some blue state governors exercised power in an almost dictatorial manner, clearly relished their ability to rule by diktat, with a few failing to live by the standards they imposed on their constituents. (Im looking at you Governors Gretchen Whitmer and Gavin Newsom.) But most red states governors, such as those in Florida, Texas, and South Dakotadespite bitter vituperation in the mediacontinually sought to maximize freedom for their citizens during the emergency, and without experiencing a higher death toll or having their hospitals overrun.

Honorable Mention: President Joe Biden, whose efforts to boost vaccine distribution built upon Operation Warp Speed to the point that any adult can now readily obtain the jab.

Worst Villains

The Chinese Communist Party: The entire COVID catastrophe was the CCPs fault. After the virus began to make people in Wuhan sick, authorities covered up the epidemics existence, even jailing whistleblowers. When news began to get out anyway, they lied about the viruss communicability. The government allowed people to fly internationally from Wuhan (after closing the city to domestic travel), which infected the world. The Chinese government also obstructed investigations into the cause of the outbreak and refused to allow neutral investigators to review the records of the Wuhan lab. All in all, Chinese leaders conduct in creating, and then, worsening the calamity was not only an unmitigated debacle, but may have been a grievous crime.

The entire COVID catastrophe was the CCPs fault. After the virus began to make people in Wuhan sick, authorities covered up the epidemics existence, even jailing whistleblowers. When news began to get out anyway, they lied about the viruss communicability. The government allowed people to fly internationally from Wuhan (after closing the city to domestic travel), which infected the world. The Chinese government also obstructed investigations into the cause of the outbreak and refused to allow neutral investigators to review the records of the Wuhan lab. All in all, Chinese leaders conduct in creating, and then, worsening the calamity was not only an unmitigated debacle, but may have been a grievous crime. The World Health Organization: The WHO proved itself a servile organization led by sycophantic and mendacious leaders who helped China cover up the seriousness of the situation in the pandemics early days when the spread might have been contained. Afterwards, WHO engaged in a farcical investigation in Wuhan that learned nothing of substance about the pandemics cause. No wonder people are losing faith in public institutions.

The WHO proved itself a servile organization led by sycophantic and mendacious leaders who helped China cover up the seriousness of the situation in the pandemics early days when the spread might have been contained. Afterwards, WHO engaged in a farcical investigation in Wuhan that learned nothing of substance about the pandemics cause. No wonder people are losing faith in public institutions. The American Political Class: Trumps communication strategy during the pandemic was abysmal. After wisely naming the phlegmatic Vice President Mike Pence to head up the Covid Task Forcewhose personality better suited the gravity of the momentTrump grabbed the microphone back and held court almost daily at raucous press briefings where he often spoke imprecisely and sometimes intemperately about potential treatments. Trumps implacable enemies in the mainstream media deserve scorn for their many efforts to undermine the presidents authority and twist his words to create false controversies. Meanwhile, Nancy Pelosi, Joe Biden and Kamala Harris cynically exploited COVID politically. A low point was reached when now Vice President Harris said she would not trust any vaccine that Donald Trump touted. All in all, with some exceptions. a failure of our political class pretty much across the board.

Trumps communication strategy during the pandemic was abysmal. After wisely naming the phlegmatic Vice President Mike Pence to head up the Covid Task Forcewhose personality better suited the gravity of the momentTrump grabbed the microphone back and held court almost daily at raucous press briefings where he often spoke imprecisely and sometimes intemperately about potential treatments. Trumps implacable enemies in the mainstream media deserve scorn for their many efforts to undermine the presidents authority and twist his words to create false controversies. Meanwhile, Nancy Pelosi, Joe Biden and Kamala Harris cynically exploited COVID politically. A low point was reached when now Vice President Harris said she would not trust any vaccine that Donald Trump touted. All in all, with some exceptions. a failure of our political class pretty much across the board. Big Tech: Facebook, Twitter, Google, and others in Big Tech used their monopolistic control of public discourse to thwart the free discussion of crucial issues related to COVID. They censored learned discussions about the likelihood of a lab leak as the cause of the outbreak. Ditto, experts questioning the preventative efficacy of masks and the potential dangers of the vaccines. By acting as the Establishments official censors, Big Tech stifled democratic discourse and hindered the proper working of the scientific method by protecting orthodox opinion from heterodox hypotheses.

Facebook, Twitter, Google, and others in Big Tech used their monopolistic control of public discourse to thwart the free discussion of crucial issues related to COVID. They censored learned discussions about the likelihood of a lab leak as the cause of the outbreak. Ditto, experts questioning the preventative efficacy of masks and the potential dangers of the vaccines. By acting as the Establishments official censors, Big Tech stifled democratic discourse and hindered the proper working of the scientific method by protecting orthodox opinion from heterodox hypotheses. Teachers Unions: The people who claim to care the most about children, proved to instead be their worst enemies. Indeed, teachers unions proved that their primary obsessions are attaining power and promoting progressive political goals. By repeatedly thwarting school openings, union leaders deprived children of a quality education, needed socialization, and healthy outdoor playwith sometimes lethal consequences of increased in youth suicides.

Dishonorable Mention: No list of COVID villains would be complete without mentioning New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, who ordered infected seniors back into nursing homes, and apparently covered up the death toll his policy caused to our most vulnerable citizensas he snagged a $5 million book deal to tout baloney about his leadership successes fighting the disease. What a disgrace.

What about Dr. Anthony Fauci? The jury is still out. Some believe he effectively convinced a skeptical public to take the disease seriously. Others charge that his advice led to an unnecessary economic collapse. There are also very serious allegationsled by Senator Rand Paulabout his approving funding for viral research at the Wuhan lab that may have contributed to the outbreak, and about his lack of candor on that question. His erratic flip-flopping on issues such as the efficacy of masks did not help, nor his becoming something of a willing anti-Trump totem in the media. There is no question that Fauci allowed world fame to go to his head. Regardless of his ultimate place in history, if Fauci wants to provide a truly valuable service to his country, he will step back from being the public face of the federal COVID fight. He is just too controversial to be effective.

Whoever the COVID heroes and villains, the last 18 months reveal America to be such a fractured society we couldnt unify effectively against a common threat. That is terrifying. Worse perils than a moderately deadly virus can hit us. If there is a next timeGod forbidwe must do better.

Wesley J. Smith is chairman of the Discovery Institutes Center on Human Exceptionalism. His latest book is Culture of Death: The Age of Do Harm Medicine

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
A logo of Chinese ride-hailing giant Didi Chuxing at its headquarters in Beijing on July 2, 2021. (Jade Gao/AFP via Getty Images)

Didi Debacle Has Forever Changed Chinese Offshore IPOs

CCP scrutiny to slow parade of US IPOs of Chinese companies

Commentary

The United States and China are beginning to agree on one thingthat Chinese technology companies selling shares on U.S. stock exchanges may not work.

Just days after Chinese ride-hailing company Didi Global Inc.the U.S.-listed affiliate of Didi Chuxingwas IPOed in New York earlier this month, Chinas cybersecurity watchdog launched an investigation into the company and removed its app from Chinese mobile app stores. The Cyberspace Administration of Chinas investigation was to safeguard national data security and protect national security.

The fallout of this was immediate and severe. Didis NYSE-listed shares plunged below the IPO price. Two lawsuits filed in New York and Los Angeles by investors accused Didi executives and its lead underwriting banks of failing to disclose ongoing investigations that occurred prior to Didis listing. Investment professionals from Kyle Bass to Jim Cramer decried the news and questioned whether Chinese stocks are investable.

Theres a lot to unpack here. But one thing is for certain: Chinese stocks will never be looked at in the way same going forward.

To start, the crackdown on Didi and other technology giants by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) shouldnt have been surprising. After the CCP scuttled Ant Groups IPO last year, investors up-in-arms about Didi either havent been paying attention or havent done their homework.

We have to go back to the year 2000 for context. That year, Sina.com, which owns Weibo, became the first Chinese technology giant to IPO in the United States.

The CCP prohibits foreign ownership in industries it considers critical to national security, including the technology sector. Sina utilized a complicated legal structure involving a series of variable interest entities (VIEs) to circumvent Chinese regulations around foreign ownership. In essence, U.S. investors would buy shares in a Cayman Islands or British Virgin Islands (BVI)-registered shell company (the VIE), which in turn holds synthetic economic interests in the actual Chinese company through a series of legal agreements.

Put differently, its as if I owned a company and you wanted to buy it. But instead of buying me out and actually owning the company, you and I enter into a paper contract where I promise to pass all future profits of the company onto you in perpetuity. Its not quite that simple, but its a passable illustration.

Since Sinas landmark IPO, this practice has been the norm in offshore IPOs of Chinese technology giants ever since, including those of Alibaba, JD.com, Baidu, and, most recently, Didi.

A Didi autonomous taxi is performing a pilot test drive on the streets in Shanghai on July 22, 2020. (Hector Retamal/AFP via Getty Images)

So U.S. shareholders dont actually own the company and have no real say or voting rights in how it actually does business in China. Case in point: Major Alibaba shareholders Yahoo and SoftBank had no say when Alibaba spun off the very valuable Alipay in 2011. The two shareholders were notably upset by company founder Jack Mas alleged asset-stripping, but had little recourse.

That isnt a problem if the investors know what theyre signing up for when buying into Chinese IPOs. But the fact remains that this VIE structure is technically illegal in China: Its a blatant circumvention of Chinese laws. The CCP has overlooked this for many years for a variety of reasons, but it was foolish for investors to believe that Beijing was never going to take action.

However, the same reasons that put U.S. investors at a legal disadvantage also handcuff Beijing regulators. China doesnt have jurisdiction over Cayman or BVI, and the founders and executives of the Chinese technology giants could create other offshore entities personally owned by them to receive dividends and payouts away from Beijings watchful eyes, potentially dodging capital controls and taxes.

Rumors are already swirling that Beijing is scrutinizing the VIE structure. Bloomberg reported that the China Securities Regulatory Commission is requiring companies contemplating the VIE offshore listing structure to obtain regulatory approval prior to IPO.

Looking at Didis case specifically, the CCP appears to be concerned with data security.

The CCP craves monitoring and control of its populace. And in the information age, data is king. Its why Beijing introduced a digital yuan. Cash cant be tracked, and even mobile payment data via Alipay isnt directly controlled by the Beijing governmentits technically owned by the company.

Didi is Chinas biggest ride-hailing app, and collects vast data on where Chinese people are going and when. The Holding Foreign Companies Accountable Act requires U.S.-listed Chinese companies to submit to U.S. regulatory audits, which could result in such data falling into American hands.

Never mind that few talks have taken place between U.S. and Chinese financial regulators to cooperate on audit work paper sharing. But this is one of Beijings official reasons for clamping down on tech companies.

Theres some speculation that Didi specifically was less than forthcoming with Chinese regulators ahead of its U.S. IPO. The South China Morning Post reported that Chinas data security regulator asked the company to delay the IPO, but that request was ignored.

We wont get into the machinations that may or may not have happened in Didis boardroom. Regardless of the reasons behind such investigations, its clear that raising foreign capital will become much harder for Chinese technology companies going forward.

It has already caused some consternation among Chinese tech giants considering a U.S. listing. On July 7, LinkDoca Chinese medical data provider backed by Alibabapulled its listing after building an IPO order book from potential investors.

For U.S. retail investors, Chinas more hawkish view of offshore IPOs is likely a blessing in disguise. But for venture capital and private equity firmssuch as early Didi backers Uber, SoftBank, and South Koreas Mirae Asset Managementit has suddenly become harder to exit their investments. And without a guaranteed IPO payoff at the end of the road, will VCs and PEs flock to China in the first place?

U.S. regulators were already considering delisting some Chinese companies from American exchanges. Now, it appears that Beijing is doing their job for them.

Fan Yu is an expert in finance and economics and has contributed analyses on Chinas economy since 2015.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, speaks during a Senate hearing in Washington, on June 30, 2020. (Al Drago/Pool/Getty Images)

Fauci: There Should Be More COVID-19 Vaccine Mandates

President Joe Bidens top medical adviser, Dr. Anthony Fauci, said there should be more COVID-19 vaccine mandates at the local level.

I have been of this opinion, and I remain of that opinion, that I do believe at the local level, Jake, there should be more mandates, Fauci, who has become perhaps the federal governments public face regarding its COVID-19 response, told CNN on Sunday in reference to vaccine mandates. There really should be. Were talking about [a] life-and-death situation. Weve lost 600,000 Americans already, and were still losing more people.

Fauci then said that if the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) fully approves the COVID-19 shots, it would trigger a lot more mandates at the local level. Fauci, the head of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases since 1984, did not elaborate on what he believed a vaccine mandate should look like at the local level.

I think the hesitancy at the local level of doing mandates is because the vaccines have not been officially, fully approved, but people need to understand that the amount of data right now that shows a high degree of effectiveness and a high degree of safety is more than weve ever seen with emergency use authorization, he added.

According to the latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 48 percent of Americans have been fully vaccinated while 55 percent have received at least one dose.

At the same time, federal health officials have increasingly started issuing warnings about the Delta variant that they have said is more contagious, although its not clear whether its more deadly. The Delta variant has already sparked more lockdowns in Australia, Malaysia, Israel, Vietnam, and other countries.

In recent weeks, Fauci has come under fire after thousands of his emails were published online following a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request. When the emails were posted online, critics noted that he appeared to have had knowledge about the theory that the virus may have emerged from the secretive Wuhan Institute of Virology in China.

That spurred calls from Republican lawmakers, including House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.), to call for his ouster and argued that he repeatedly misled the public.

I know the American people dont have trust in Dr. Fauci, McCarthy said during an interview with Breitbart News on June 5. Lets find a person we can trust. Take politics aside. I mean, were talking about American lives here.

COVID-19 is the disease caused by the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus.
Workers remove security fencing surrounding the U.S. Capitol in Washington, on July 10, 2021. (Drew Angerer/Getty Images)

Fencing Around US Capitol Removed 6 Months After Jan. 6 Breach

WASHINGTONMore than six months after the Jan. 6 breach on the U.S. Capitol, the remaining high-security fence surrounding the white-domed building has been removed, police said on Sunday.

Workers began removing the last of the eight-foot-high black mesh fencing on Friday, which at one point surrounded several blocks of Capitol Hill and interfered with pedestrian and vehicle traffic.

The decision to take down the remaining fencing was based on the current threat environment and recent enhancements to the Capitol Polices response capabilities, according to a statement released by the agency.

A tall security fence surrounds the US Capitol ahead of President Joe Bidens address to a joint session of Congress in Washington, on April 28, 2021. (Saul Loeb/AFP via Getty Images)

We are prepared to quickly enhance our security posture should the need arise, said Acting U.S. Capitol Police Chief Yogananda Pittman in the statement.

More than 535 people have been charged in taking part in the Jan. 6 breach.

Five people died on the day and the day after, including a Capitol Police officer.

By Linda So
An employee arranges bottles of Russian sparkling wine at a supermarket in Moscow on July 5, 2021. (Tatyana Makeyeva/Reuters)

France Sees Talks With Russia as Best Way to Resolve Champagne Row: Minister

EPERNAY, FranceFrance sees continuing negotiations with Russia as the best way to resolve a dispute over champagne, French Trade Minister Franck Riester said on Friday.

Russia has adopted legislation which will require French producers to attach a label to the back of their bottles sold in Russia with the description sparkling wine.

By contrast, domestic producers of what is known in Russia as shampanskoye will not have to attach any such label.

We are still analyzing the exact scope of this text, which is long, in Russian, with legal and linguistic subtleties, Riester said.

Its probably not just a problem for champagne but for other appellations such as cognac.

Shares in leading Russian producer Abrau-Durso jumped after the law came into force.

The name Champagne has protected status in more than 120 countries, which reserve its use for sparkling wine from Frances Champagne region.

The French government has warned it could seek redress through the World Trade Organization.

By Antony Paone
Gov. Abbott Discusses Texas Border Security Efforts

Texas Governor Greg Abbott has blamed what he called the Biden administrations open border policy for the recent surge in illegal immigrants coming across the border.

He held a border security briefing with sheriffs from border communities on Saturday at the state Capitol.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott holds a border security briefing with sheriffs from border communities at the state Capitol in Austin, Texas, on July 10, 2021. (Courtesy of Office of the Texas Governor)

The briefing comes just over a week after Abbott met with former President Donald Trump at the southern border.

Abbott invited Trump to see the border wall project that was a major initiative under the Trump administration, but halted by the Biden administration.

Our message to the country is that even though the federal government may have abandoned their responsibility, we are not going to abandon our responsibility, Abbott said.

Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, left, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, center, and former President Donald Trump attend a border security briefing to discuss further plans in securing the southern border wall on June 30, 2021, in Weslaco, Texas. (Brandon Bell/Pool via AP)
Sheriff Leon Wilmot in the desert east of Yuma, Ariz., near the U.S.-Mexico border on May 25, 2018. (Charlotte Cuthbertson/The Epoch Times)

Illegal Immigrant Deaths Soar as Heat Sets In

U.S. Border Patrol and sheriffs departments are recording high numbers of illegal immigrant deaths as the summer heat kicks in.

In June, 109 bodies were recovered by Border Patrol, up from 61 in May, according to preliminary numbers obtained by Jaeson Jones, host of Tripwires & Triggers, from Customs and Border Protection (CBP). That brings the total for fiscal 2021 to 321 bodies recovered by Border Patrol, with three months to go.

The majority of deaths over the summer months are due to dehydration and hyperthermia as illegal immigrants traverse desert and remote ranchland to avoid Border Patrol checkpoints. Water is scarce, its not hard to get lost, and smugglers will leave illegal immigrants behind if theyre slow or injured.

To avoid death or injury from severe dehydration, a person walking across the landscape in the heat of summer must consume no less than two gallons of water per day, CBP stated on July 1. The average person cannot carry sufficient water to avoid life-threatening dehydration over the course of several days in the brush.

The Rio Grande Valley sector in south Texas and Arizonas Tucson sector account for most of the summer deaths, which generally spike in tandem with illegal crossing numbers. Over the past 20 years, a high of 492 deaths was recorded by CBP in fiscal year 2005, and a low of 251 deaths in 2015.

Deputy Sheriff Don Whites primary job in Brooks County, Texas, is to find the deceased. That county is about 70 miles north of the U.S.Mexico border, but its also where many bodies turn up.

The only way to skirt the Border Patrol checkpoint on U.S. Route 281 is to be dropped off south of it, walk north on private ranchland, sometimes for days, and then get picked up again. The next destination is usually Houston.

In June, White recorded the recovery of 15 bodies. So far this year, the county has found 52, a dramatic increase over 2020, when 34 bodies were recovered over the whole year.

June was a cool month with lots of rain, White told The Epoch Times on July 11. July and August will be the worst for heat, and its quite possible that the 52 recoveries we have so far may dramatically increase.

White, who operates through his nonprofit, Remote Wildlands Search and Recovery, said the body count would be considerably higher than it is now if it wasnt for Border Patrol EMTs quick response to 911 calls.

Sheriff Leon Wilmot of Yuma, Arizona, blames the border crisis on Homeland Security Secretary Alejandra Mayorkas for not enforcing immigration law.

Right now, we have had 12 people die in our desert on Mayorkass watch, Wilmot told The Epoch Times on July 11. He was warned by me personally what was going to happen, and their deaths are on his shoulders.

Aside from the deaths, CBP is rescuing thousands of illegal aliens who are in distress.

In May, CBP conducted 7,084 rescues along the border. The agency has rescued 35 percent more illegal aliens so far this fiscal year than in all of fiscal 2020.

From October to May, Border Patrol apprehended almost 1 million illegal aliens, according to CBP.

Correction: The article was corrected to say hyperthermia. The Epoch Times regrets the error.
Is (Alleged) China-Defector Evidence Being Slow-Leaked? What Happens if Lab Leak is Confirmed?

Did Chinese spymaster Dong Jingwei actually defect to the United States? If so, why is he being hidden by U.S. intelligence? Meanwhile, the Chinese regime offers evidence that hes still in China.

What could Dong possibly tell us about the Wuhan virus and other hidden Chinese Communist Party agendas? This episode features analysis by U.S.China relations commentator, Solomon YueCEO of Republicans Overseas and a survivor of the Cultural Revolution.

Hosted by NTD journalist Brendon Fallon, Wide Angle is following the latest political developments in the United States and abroad, and finding the connection between these and the larger global trends of our times.

Follow us on Parler, Gab, and Telegram

Follow EpochTV on social media:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EpochTVus

Twitter: https://twitter.com/EpochTVus
President Donald Trump meets with meme makers known as Carpe Donktum and Mad Liberals at the Oval Office in the White House in Washington on July 3, 2019. (White House)

Judge Dismisses Lawsuit Against Pro-Trump Toddler Meme Creator

A New York judge dismissed on July 7 a lawsuit filed against a prominent meme creator by the parents of two toddlers, footage of whom was used in a meme shared by then-President Donald Trump in 2020.

New York State Supreme Court Judge David Cohen granted motions to dismiss the case brought by the Trump campaign and by Logan Cook, a prolific creator of viral memes who supports Trump.

The meme in question used a video of one toddler running away from another overlain with a CNN logo and chyrons reading Terrified Toddler Runs From Racist Baby and Racist Baby Probably a Trump Voter.

The screen then fades to black and a message reading what actually happened after which an unedited video in which the toddlers hug in the end appears. The idea of the meme was to show how the media manipulate the truth to attack Trump and Trump voters.

The video ends with text reading: America is not the problem Fake news is. If you see something, say something. Only you can prevent fake news dumpster fires.

Trump shared the meme on Twitter on June 18, 2020. It was viewed 20 million times before Twitter removed it in response to copyright violation complaints. On June 23, 2020, Twitter banned Cook, who went by the moniker Carpe Donktum, from its platform. Cook continued to share the video on other platforms, including Instagram.

The parents of the toddlers in the video filed a lawsuit on Sept. 17, 2020, alleging that Cook and the Trump campaign violated a New York civil law by using the video for advertising purposes without consent, thereby inflicting pain and mental anguish. The parents also alleged that Cook and Trump intentionally and negligently inflicted emotional duress and breached their duty to act reasonably.

The Trump campaign argued that the meme was a parody that unequivocally involves a topic of significant public concern. The campaign further argued that the video is protected because it was satirical and was not directed at any of the plaintiffs.

Both Cook and Trump argued that the use of the video is protected by the First Amendment and that the plaintiffs action was a strategic lawsuit against public participation, among other arguments.

The judge concurred with the defendants that the video is newsworthy and thus protected against some of the plaintiffs claims.

It is common knowledge that one of the principal tactics of Trumps presidential campaigns, as well as his presidency, was to incessantly attack the mainstream media as purveyors of fake news, including his claim that the media exaggerates the extent of racial division in this country, Cohen wrote.

Thus, the videos references to fake news and its depiction of race relations, however distorted, are clearly newsworthy and, thus, the plaintiffs are not afforded the protections of CRL 50 and 51, the judge added, referring to the relevant New York civil law statutes.

The Epoch Times requested comment from Michael Maggiano, the attorney representing plaintiffs Michael Cisneros, Alex Hanson, Erica McKenna, and Daniel McKenna.
Judge Issues Injunction Against Bidens USDA Over Race-Based Loan Forgiveness Program

A district court judge granted an injunction against the Biden administrations loan-forgiveness program for nonwhite farmers and ranchers, ruling in favor of a Tennessee farmer who argued in a lawsuit that the provision was unconstitutional.

U.S. District Judge S. Thomas Anderson for the Western District of Tennessee ruled that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) should halt its distribution of funds through the program until the case is fully resolved. The program, otherwise known as Section 1005, was created under a provision in the American Rescue Plan Act that was approved by Congress earlier this year.

However important the goal of eliminating the vestiges of prior race discrimination, and it is important, the governments efforts cannot withstand strict scrutiny. Therefore, Plaintiff has shown a likeliness of success on the merits at trial, he wrote (pdf) in favor of farmer Robert Holman, who was being represented by Southeastern Legal Foundation and the Mountain States Legal Foundation.

While there isnt a cap on the amount of loan money that can be granted by the USDA, some $3.8 billion had been provided to the program, and those funds may be depleted before the case is resolved, the judge ruled in explaining why he created an injunction against the program.

Elaborating further, Anderson ruled that Holman has shown a substantial likelihood that he will prevail on his claim that the provision violates the Fourteenth Amendments Equal Protection clause. Absent action by the Court, socially disadvantaged farmers will obtain debt relief, he wrote, while Plaintiff will suffer the irreparable harm of being excluded from that program solely on the basis of his race.

The farm loan program was part of President Joe Bidens plan to promote equity, and it would pay off the loans of black, Hispanic, American Indian, Native Alaskan and Hawaiian farmers and award them an additional 20 percent of the value as a cash payment, the Southeastern Legal Foundation noted.

Section 1005 pays up to 120 percent of a direct or guaranteed farm loan for black American Indian, Hispanic, Asian American, or Pacific Islander farmers, according to the USDAs website.

Following the national injunction, the USDA rebuffed the order on its website and said the law provides USDA direction to deliver debt relief to socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers who hold a qualifying farm loan. The USDA said that borrowers should still submit paperwork and will be prepared to provide the debt relief authorized by Congress at the earliest opportunity, depending on the ongoing litigation.

The USDAs lawyers, meanwhile, had argued before Anderson that Congress enacted the provision in a bid to solve the effects of alleged racial discrimination in USDA loan programs. Offering loans to nonwhite people under the program would, according to the attorneys, remedy those effects.

Congress looked at the evidence that discriminatory loan practices at the USDA placed minority farmers at a disadvantage before the COVID-19 pandemic, which is why the provision had been necessary, the USDAs lawyers also argued.

A judge in Wisconsin previously ruled against Section 1005 of the American Rescue Plan Act, offering a similar argument as Andersons.

Plaintiffs are excluded from the program based on their race and are thus experiencing discrimination at the hands of their government, Wisconsin U.S. District Judge William Griesbach wrote in the opinion last month, adding that plaintiffs have established a strong likelihood that Section 1005 of the ARPA is unconstitutional.

However, Andersons ruling goes a step further than Griesbachs order in that he created an injunction rather than a temporary restraining order.
Leading the Charge Against Critical Race Theory

Commentary

Critical Race Theory continues to permeate our classrooms and infect our childrens minds with outrageous ideas about their nations history. But a growing number of Americans are standing up to fight back against its false tenets and demand its removal from K-12 education. At the forefront of this patriotic effort is 1776 Action, an advocacy group committed to the vital work of restoring honest and unifying education in public schools throughout the nation.

The groups Candidate Pledge has garnered national attention in recent weeks for its emphasis on Americas values and its vow to eradicate divisive race- and gender-based ideologies such as CRT from Americas schools. Political candidates who sign the pledge commit to restoring honest, patriotic education that cultivates in our children a profound love for our country and to promoting a curriculum that teaches that all children are created equal, have equal moral value under God, our Constitution, and the law, and are members of a national community united by our founding principles. The pledge also seeks to prohibit any curriculum that divides students by race and sexor sets out to infuse harmful ideologies into course material.

In May, Gov. Kristi Noem (R-S.D.) became the first candidate to sign the pledge, declaring that CRT and similarly divisive theories are shameful [and] must be stopped. Other high-profile conservatives running for office, such as Republican nominee for Governor of Virginia Glenn Youngkin, also vowed to replace CRT with a high-quality civics curriculum. The two Republican candidates for Governor of Kansas, former Gov. Dr. Jeff Colyer and Kansas Atty. Gen. Derek Schmidt, have also signed the pledge. As more candidates sign this pledge, it will put pressure on teachers, principals, and school boards to declare their stances on CRT and other key educational matters. It will also hold them accountable for the materials they teach and ensure our children are not indoctrinated with malicious theories that seek to denigrate our country and reduce students to their sex or skin color.

Unsurprisingly, the radical Left hates this pledge. Youngkins opponent in the governors race, former Virginia Gov. and current Democratic nominee Terry McAuliffe (D-Va.), refused to sign the pledge and went as far as to claim CRT is a right-wing conspiracy that is totally made up by Donald Trump and Glenn Youngkin. The reality on the ground, however, suggests the opposite. In response to McAuliffe, one Loudoun County parent said, I find it comical that anyone running for office would make such a bold statement when anyone running, Republican or Democrat, should be sitting down with parents and listening to and addressing our concerns. McAuliffe seems to be unaware that the Loudoun County school board has been immersed in fierce debates for weeks about CRTand tensions are likely to continue until at least mid-August when a school board vote is scheduled.

In other parts of the country, governors and state legislatures are enacting legislation that echoes the 1776 Action Candidate Pledge and bans CRT from being taught in public schools. Most recently, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott signed into law House Bill 3979. This legislation outlaws the teaching of CRT and protest civicsmandatory student protests and lobbying activities that almost always overlap with progressive causes. The Texas law was modeled on the National Association of Scholars Partisanship Out of Civics Act, and it is the first to prohibit both practices in public K-12 education. But Texas isnt alone. Anti-CRT bills have been either introduced or signed into law in 22 statesincluding in Ohio, Arizona, and New Hampshirewhere 1776 Action has also run powerful television ads. Meanwhile, Republican North Carolina Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson has created a task force to investigate accusations of indoctrination in the classroom, and Floridas state Board of Education has adopted rules forbidding CRT, saying that it would distort historical events.

As more public officials are pushing back against CRT, public opinion is changingand for good reason. As former Atty. Gen. Bill Barr said in a recent speech to conservative group Alliance Defending Freedom, CRT is Marxisms latest incarnation. It is nothing more than the materialist philosophy of Marxism substituting racial antagonism for class antagonism. It posits all the same things as traditional Marxism, Barr said. Like other forms of Marxism, CRT is fundamentally incompatible with Christianity and other traditional religions. This is because CRT and other progressive orthodoxies constitute a secular religion. As Barr said, the promotion of CRT by public schools may violate the Free Exercise and Establishment Clauses of the First Amendment. Theres nothing more fundamental, Barr said, than the right of parents to pass religion to their children. And its monstrous for the state to interfere in that by indoctrinating students into alternative belief systems.

Former President Donald Trump is also fighting against CRT. In a recent Real Clear Politics op-ed, the former president outlined a seven-step plan to eliminate CRT from our nations classrooms. Writing that the teaching of CRT verges on psychological abuse, President Trump called for measures such as state bans on taxpayer dollars going to any school that teaches CRT, appointment of state-level 1776 Commissions tasked with overseeing curricula, and the adoption of a universal voucher program that shields children from left-wing indoctrination by giving every parent the right to pick another school of their choice.

President Trumps action plan, combined with the recent surge of anti-CRT legislation in nearly half of the states, is a good sign for Americans concerned about their childrens education and Americas future. On the first day of the new administration, President Joe Biden canceled President Trumps 1776 Commission, which was created to promote our nations founding principles and to challenge the radical left-wing idea that America is a systemically racist country whose role in the world has been negative. Thankfully, Trumps 1776 Commission still meets and recently restated its commitment to renew and restore patriotic education in all 50 states.

For those who love America and its historyand who believe in American exceptionalism and the promises of its principlesthere is still much work to do. Through groups such as 1776 Action, we can use our voices to save our childrens futures, defend our deeply held values, and preserve our nations history for generations to come.

From Gingrich360.com.

Callista Louise Gingrich is a businesswoman, author, documentary film producer, and diplomat who served as the U.S. Ambassador to the Holy See from 2017 to 2021.

Newt Gingrich, a Republican, served as House speaker from 1995 to 1999 and ran as a presidential candidate in 2012.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
People are seen queuing to enter a mass COVID-19 vaccination hub in Sydney, Australia, on May 10, 2021. (Mark Kolbe/Getty Images)

Making Sense of the Slow Vaccine Uptake

Commentary

In an illuminating op-ed published in The Epoch Times, Tshung Chang purports to explain why the COVID-19 vaccination program in Australia is proceeding slowly.

Only 1.94 million out of 25 million Australians are fully vaccinated, which is 7.7 percent of the population. This places Australia near the bottom of OECD countries that have embarked on a population-wide vaccination program.

Chang opines that Australians may be reluctant to support the vaccination program unreservedly because the vaccinewhether it is AstraZeneca or Pfizerdoes not offer total immunity but simply reduces the severity of the symptoms. In addition, he points to vaccine-related deaths, presumably the well-documented cases of blood clotting, and more generally, the safety of the vaccines.

He makes the disturbing and revealing point that seniors in their 70s cannot get access to the Pfizer vaccine but all prisoners, including those in their 70s, can.

Undoubtedly, these reasons have contributed to the shambolic rollout of the vaccination program which, because of constantly shifting goal posts, could well be referred to as Australias vaccinegate.

However, there is one critical reason for the demonstrable reluctance of Australians to embrace the government-sponsored vaccination program.

Sydneysiders queue outside a vaccination centre in Sydney, Australia on June 24, 2021. (Saeed Khan/AFP via Getty Images)

As is well known, the national cabinet, which consists of the prime minister as well as the premiers and chief ministers of the states and territories, have repeatedly moved the goalposts with regards to the age groups eligible for different vaccines.

At first, AstraZeneca would be the saviour vaccine for all Australians.

But when reports emerged of blood-clotting issues, it was decided that under 50s should only receive Pfizer, and that over 50sthe older and presumably more vulnerable Australiansshould receive AstraZeneca.

Later, the cabinet recently decided that people under 60 could receive Pfizer but people older than 60 would still have to accept AstraZeneca.

The governments approach is problematic because the distribution of benefits and burdens ends up being determined by a persons age.

If, as appears to have happened, people over 60 are practically compelled to accept AstraZeneca, they would suffer the consequences of a potentially defective risk assessment policy.

This is because firstly, the freedom of seniors to choose their vaccine would been abrogated; second, they would effectively receive a vaccine which, according to medical reports, is inferior in its performance to the Pfizer vaccine; and third, perhaps most importantly, the government rules on the distribution of vaccines condones a form of age discrimination by depriving older people, and indeed all people, of the opportunity to make up their own mind as to which vaccine they would like to receive.

It unfortunately leads to the creation of a two-class Australian society, where some are more equal than others.

The relevant government vaccination rules are also inflexibly administered, and older Australians are only offered AstraZeneca even if they, or their GPsbased on medical opinionprefer them to have the Pfizer vaccine.

I experienced this issue firsthand, as I have had blood-clotting issues in the past and use blood thinners, my GP gave me a letter where he asked the COVID-19 clinics to arrange a Pfizer vaccine for me.

A nurse administers the Pfizer vaccine to a client at the St Vincents Covid-19 Vaccination Clinic in Sydney, Australia on July 01, 2021 (Lisa Maree Williams/Getty Images)

Previously, the Metro North Emergency Operations Centre at the Royal Brisbane and Womens Hospital emailed me saying that the current recommendation as per the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAG) would be for you  to proceed with the AstraZeneca vaccine. But that ultimately they were happy to accept and review emails/referrals from your GP or specialist doctor and vaccinate you based on their recommendation.

However, when I presented myself for vaccination, I was told by an attendant who manned the reception desk that, in accordance with the applicable government rules, I was not entitled to Pfizer but should accept the AstraZeneca vaccine insteador just leave without being vaccinated.

In my experience, it is difficult to negotiate a preferred outcome when rules are implemented strictly without consideration of their real world impact. I left the vaccination clinic, unvaccinated and frustrated.

It would be demeaning to argue that the reluctance of older Australians to accept AstraZeneca is based on ignorance.

It may be reasonable to believe that the rollout would go substantially smoother and more successfully if national cabinet were to adopt a non-discriminatory freedom of choice policy.

However, the implementation of this freedom of choice policy would not necessarily result in the vaccination of more people. Indeed, if people over 60 were allowed to choose their preferred vaccine, they would probably be competing for the same limited amount of the Pfizer vaccine, while leaving AstraZeneca stockpiles untouched.

Such a situation could lead to fewer people being vaccinated since the limited supply of Pfizer would be exhausted quickly. In such a case, Australia would have to wait for new deliveries, which would result in delays for the projected vaccination timeframe.

However, it could be argued that the removal of age discrimination in the context of the distribution of vaccines is a price that society should be willing to pay.

This argument is based on the expectation that in a liberal democratic country, people should be respected and allowed to make up their own mind. Because without freedom of choice, the reluctance to accept what is potentially a less-effective vaccine is only likely to harden.

Of course, even in a liberal democracy, there is often intergenerational conflict. Regarding the vaccine rollout, governments and health officials have created a two-class society, where the interests of one group are served at the expense of another.

What we need in Australia is consistency in risk assessment.

Although risk changes, the governments response should be to ensure that no group in society is unnecessarily disadvantaged.

The government is always involved in risk assessment when it decides on the conferral of benefits and the imposition of burdens. In the pandemic context, the national cabinet has recently decided that people under 40 can now have the AstraZeneca because the risk of getting blood clots is negligible.

It should therefore also accept the corollary, namely that there are seniors in the over 60s category who are at higher risk because of their vulnerability to blood-clotting and other complications: these people should be allowed to access Pfizer as their preferred vaccine.

Registered Nurse, Mesfin Desalegn administers the Pfizer vaccine to a client at the St Vincents Covid-19 Vaccination Clinic in Sydney, Australia on July 1, 2021 . (Lisa Maree Williams/Getty Images)

It should be left to GPs to determine whether their patients are prone to health complications; their assessment and professional opinion should not be dismissed.

Of course, the vaccination program has been hampered by supply issues. However, it is fair to say these problems are grounded in unwise government decisions made many months ago to purchase and produce huge stockpiles of a single vaccine, rather than buying enough of each available vaccinea practice which would have minimised the risks AstraZeneca now presents.

In putting all its eggs in one basket, the government effectively committed itself to market the AstraZeneca vaccine, rather than conceding it made a mistake. Indeed, once the purchase of AstraZenecanow also produced in Australiawas completed, negative reports about the effectiveness and safety of the vaccine reached the country. This information, in turn, worried the over 70s age group, the concerns of which have slowed the vaccination program.

Governments are not infallible, and the federal government should have the courage to admit that in this case, it made a mistake.

If the government were to revisit its risk assessment policies, it would likely choose to offer greater freedom for Australians to choose which vaccines they take. This would go a long way to speed up, and even possibly rescue, the program.

Gabriel A. Moens is emeritus professor of law, The University of Queensland, and served as pro vice-chancellor and dean of law at Murdoch University. He has published a novel about the origins of the COVID-19 disease, A Twisted Choice.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
Metal Detectorist Discovers 400-Year-Old Gold Posy Ring Engraved With 2 Hearts

A metal detectorist said he cried tears of joy after uncovering a 17th-century gold posy ringwhich he claims could have been thrown away after a lovers tiff.

Robin Potter, 50, from Helensburgh, Argyll and Bute, Scotland, found the 400-year-old ring in a farmers field and is now waiting to hear if the rare piece of jewelry will be claimed by the National Museum of Scotland.

Robin Potter, the metal detectorist who discovered a 400-year-old gold posy ring. (SWNS)

Potter, a full-time carer who found the ring in the month of June, said the day had started off pretty normally. The keen metal detectorist, who usually checks with the owner of the field he is going to detect, found this particular field empty.

I had dug several signals which turned out to be random bits of iron and then on about the fifth signal I wasnt going to dig it as it wasnt that strong but I went ahead anyway, Potter said. I started to pull the soil apart and there it was, I could just see the side of the ring but I knew instantly it was gold.

Potter then noticed that the outer engraving had flowers and a criss-cross pattern with entwined hearts on the ends. He also added that there are traces of blue enamel in the criss-cross pattern, which makes the ring rare. Whilst the inside of the special ring has an engraving that reads: Gife parted hearts in paine.

However, the word hearts had been replaced with two overlapping heart symbols.

The 17th-century gold posy ring. (SWNS)

Posy rings, according to Potter, were given as a token of love between the 16th and 18th centuries, and they had a short poem inside that was kept a secret from all except the two lovers.

The name posy derives from the French word for a poem.

When I found it I was so happy I cried. It really is a thing of beauty, and it is the first piece of gold that I have found since I started metal detecting around four years ago, Potter said, recalling the special moment. When you find something like this you go through a range of emotions from shock to pure joy.

Potter says he believes that the ring, which is 15 millimeters in diameter, belonged to a woman or a girl. However, he is unsure of how it got lost.

It could have fallen off on a cold day, it could have been thrown after a lovers tiff or it could have been lost in the heat of passion, who knows, Potter said.

Potter was legally required to report the ring to the Treasure Trove Unit of the National Museums of Scotland, as its more than 300 years old. After it goes through a legal process, the ring will be returned to Potter if it is not claimed by the National Museums of Scotland. He then plans to sell it and split the profit with the landowner of the farm in Helensburgh, where he found it.

The metal detectorist who has been detecting for four years now said that he loves the variety of items that can be found as well as being out in the beautiful countryside.

Metal detecting has its pluses and minuses, the biggest minus is the amount of rubbish like tin cans and ring pulls that you find, Potter said. But things like this makeup for all of the rubbish.

Epoch Times Staff contributed to this report.

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
Nothing Is Your Fault, Ever

Commentary

Its not their fault is now the automatic response to all kinds of problems.

If you dont agree with this response, youre condemned as uncaring or worse.

But is it really caring to cram every problem into the not-your-fault mold?

Does it really help students to hear that their academic setbacks are not their fault? Does it really help an addict, a criminal, a homeless person, a bankrupt person, or a depressed person?

No, it doesnt, because it makes them powerless. The not-your-fault mindset tells us not to try, because nothing we do makes a difference. But not trying makes things worse.

Why is this mindset popular if it makes things worse?

The simple answer is that it builds a strong coalition. Its easy to recruit members into the not-my-fault club, and that makes the club powerful. You can share in its power and resources as long as you accept the knifewhich is my nickname for the Not Your Fault Ever (NYFE) mindset. If you dont accept the NYFE, you are out.

You are banished from the coalition if you even question the presumption that people arent responsible for their life outcomes. You lose access to the coalitions resources and get branded an enemy. Its career suicide and social suicide.

So you submit to the NYFE, even when it strikes you as patently false. You submit when you see evidence that a person would do better if they took responsibility for their choices. You say your NYFE serves the greater good, and no one challenges that because no one wants to risk career and social suicide. You repeat blame-shifting theories until they feel natural.

But then one day, you cant.

You cant violate your own sense of reality any longer. Youre not sure what to say at that moment when people are expecting to hear Its not your fault, but you just cannot repeat platitudes that feel false and detrimental. So you decide to embrace the evidence as you see it, whatever the consequences.

But why should there be heavy penalties for believing in personal responsibility? Why must we disavow personal responsibility in order to be considered good people? How did we get here?

I agonized over this for a decade while I struggled with the choice between social suicide and my own sense of reality. I spent a lot of time reading, because every minute reading was a minute not spent agonizing over that choice. My reading led to three big discoveries.

1. Marxism spread the not-your-fault mindset in the 1800s.

The word Marxism isnt used much today because believers in Marxism use new words, and non-believers are dismissed as conspiracy nuts for acknowledging the historical pattern.

Marxism spread around the world 150 years ago by replacing prior belief systems with the appealing proposition that everything wrong with your life is the fault of the system. Nothing is your fault, ever, according to Marxism, unless youre categorized as an oppressor.

The NYFE has maintained popularity for 150 years because it offers power, resources, and moral superiority without your having to do anything except believe that oppression is the cause of all your problems.

2. Mammals seek safety in numbers.

Mammals often live in herds and packs and troops because that promotes survival. A mammal would rather go its own way to avoid the horns of herdmates, but predators pick off isolated individuals. Mammals unite when they face a common enemy.

Its easy to see how humans do this too. Leaders know that fear of enemies keeps you in their herd, so they try hard to incite such fear. We pretend we are motivated by loyalty and altruism as we follow the herd for our own safety.

3. Each brain is wired by its own past experience.

Each of us is born with billions of neurons but very few connections between them. Our connections build from early experience, so were easily wired to follow the herd. Were deeply wired to see one flock as the good guys and another as the bad guys, even if the facts dont fit.

My new knowledge helped me feel safe without following the Marxist herd. I learned to feel like a good person even when the Marxist herd defines me as a bad person.

It took a long time to rewire my early training with the NYFE and trust my own perceptions, so I wrote a book to help others do it faster: How I Escaped Political Correctness, And You Can Too.

Loretta G. Breuning, Ph.D., is founder of the Inner Mammal Institute and Professor Emerita of Management at California State University, East Bay. She is the author of many personal development books, including Habits of a Happy Brain: Retrain Your Brain to Boost Your Serotonin, Dopamine, Oxytocin, & Endorphin Levels. Dr. Breunings work has been translated into eight languages and is cited in major media. Before teaching, she worked for the United Nations in Africa. She is a graduate of Cornell University and Tufts. Her website is InnerMammalInstitute.org.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
Parenting Matters: The Lifesaving Power of Mothers

Think of all that mothers do! First they carry us for nine months, then birth us into the light. They clean, feed, educate, and support us physically, emotionally, and often financially. But most of all, they love us and teach us how to love others.

This past year has been especially hard on mothers. Many of them work full- or part-time to support their families, and with schools closed, they somehow manage to school their kids as well. Thank God for mothers!

Mothers Are Often Heroes

One of my 14-year-old patients told me this story about her mother:

When my brother Fred was about 10 months old, he was napping with a Hey Diddle Diddle mobile hanging above his crib. Somehow, he was able to reach one of the stars, pull it off, and put it in his mouth. Mom felt something wasnt quite right, so she opened the door to his room and saw him all blue and just limp. She knew he was choking on something.

But she didnt panic or anything because she knew just what to do. She picked him up, turned him over, and whacked him really hard on the back; the star came flying out of his mouth. He started to cry and in a few seconds he was just his normal self, but if Mom hadnt known what to do, he would have been dead in just a few more minutes. At least thats what the doctor told her when she called him a little while later. So Mom is Freds hero and Fred is my favorite brother, so shes my hero too.

Its amazing what mothers can do, isnt it? I said.

Oh yeah, thats why I think that  She paused and hit me with those big brown eyes. I think mothers save more lives than doctors.

Mothers do save more lives than doctors. Not all mothers perform CPR on their kids, but think of the accidents mothers prevent by carefully watching their toddlers, or the lives they save by putting them in car seats, and making and enforcing rules of behavior for children and yes, even for adolescents.

There are many other ways mothers save lives. On May 3, 1980, 13-year-old Cari Lightner was killed by a drunk driver who had had three prior drunk driving convictions and was out on bail from a hit-and-run accident two days earlier. Turning Caris tragic death into something positive, her mother, Candy Lightner, founded MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Drivers). MADDs mission is to stop drunk driving, support the victims of this violent crime, and prevent underage drinking. Due to efforts by MADD and other programs to reduce drunk driving, alcohol-related traffic fatalities have decreased from more than 30,000 in 1980 to 10,511 in 2018. Because of MADDs work, more than 370,000 lives have been saved.

But mothers social activities havent stopped. Today mothers are taking a stand against Critical Race Theory. A Wall of Moms united to protect the protesters in Portland, Oregon. No matter which side of the equation you stand on, there are mothers who stand with you.

Setting the Tone at Home

Every day we read about mothers doing heroic deeds to save their kids. But moms do so much more. Mothers set the tone of a home; if the father is a single parent, he needs to be sure his kids have a woman to act as a surrogate mother. Their grandmothers often volunteer, but an aunt, a neighbor, or even a good sitter can fill this position.

I believe mothers are one of Gods greatest creations. It may sound sacrilegious, but God could have done it differently. He could have made mothers more like dads, or in some way made them less influential in our livesbut he didnt.

In her commencement speech at Wellesley College in 1990, Barbara Bush said, Your success as a family  our success as a society, depends not on what happens in the White House, but on what happens inside your house.

Commenting on Mrs. Bushs remarks, columnist Cal Thomas said, Home, not Congress or the White House, is where ultimate power lies.

I would add that the power in the home lies with the mother. Mothers have the opportunity to shape their families and their communities. In a poem published in 1865, William Ross Wallace summed up the feelings of many of us when he praised motherhood by stating, For the hand that rocks the cradle is the hand that rules the world. This line from his poem has become a well-known adage.

My thoughts keep going back to the girl who told me her mother saved her brothers life. If only the mothers of the world knew how important they were in their childrens lives, maybe more of them would have the kind of relationships that she and her daughter enjoy. I cant imagine anything that could make the world a better place than that.

May God continue to bless you and your family!

Dr. Parnell Donahue is a pediatrician, military veteran, author of four books and the blog ParentingWithDrPar.com, and host of WBOUs Parenting Matters show. He and his wife Mary, have four adult children; all hold Ph.D.s, two also are MDs. Contact him at Parenting-Matters.com
Pennsylvania Department of State Tells Counties Not to Allow Outside Access to Voting Systems

Directive comes after state senator initiated forensic investigation into 2020, 2021 elections

The Pennsylvania agency in charge of elections has issued a new directive telling counties not to let outside parties access electronic voting systems or components of such systems, such as tabulators and ballot printers.

The directive from the Pennsylvania Department of State, released on July 9, states that county boards of elections shall not provide any access to third parties that are seeking to examine the systems or system components.

If the counties do allow access, the voting equipment thats examined will be considered no longer secure or reliable to use in subsequent elections, and the department will withdraw its certification for the equipment.

Such access by third parties undermines chain of custody requirements and strict access limitations necessary to prevent both intentional and inadvertent tampering with electronic voting systems, Acting Pennsylvania Secretary of State Veronica Degraffenreid, appointed in February by Democrat Gov. Tom Wolf, said in a statement. It also jeopardizes the security and integrity of the systems and will prevent electronic voting system vendors from affirming that the systems continue to meet Commonwealth security standards and U.S. Election Assistance Commission certification.

Pennsylvania Senate President Pro Tempore Jake Corman, a Republican, said in a response that the directive is an attack on the General Assemblys power to review, investigate, and legislate in matters within its legislative authority, which includes Pennsylvanias election system.

The Legislature has clear authorityboth statutorily and constitutionallyto provide oversight and issue subpoenas. This directive tramples those rights which were specifically put in place to prevent potential abuses and overreach by the Executive Branch, he said.

State Sen. Doug Mastriano, a Republican, added that the directive was an example of a disturbing pattern of obstruction and violation of constitutional powers of the state Senate by the Wolf administration that dates back to March 2019.

Wolf and other Pennsylvania executive branch officials have condemned the push by some state Republicans for an audit, saying the 2020 election ran smoothly with virtually no problems. Mastriano triggered a probe of recent elections last week, sending letters to Philadelphia, York, and Tioga counties.

Mastriano cited abnormalities in the election, including how the number of mail-in ballots increased by more than 2 million compared to four years prior and the acceptance of ballots that arrived after Election Day.

The chairman of the Senate Intergovernmental Operations Committee requested all ballot production, processing, and tabulation equipment that was used during the election, as well as forensic images of all election equipment and software from the equipment, according to the letter to Philadelphia County, which was obtained by The Epoch Times.

Pennsylvania Sen. Doug Mastriano attends a hearing of the Pennsylvania State Senate Majority Policy Committee in Gettysburg, Pa., on Nov. 25, 2020. (Julio Cortez/AP Photo)

Officials were asked to provide the documents by July 31. If they dont, then Mastriano plans to go to his committee and hold a vote that would give him the authority to issue subpoenas.

Lets just find out what happened and get to the bottom of it and do what weve got to do to either safeguard our elections or celebrate how perfect the election was, Mastriano told The Epoch Times in a recent interview.

The bottom line is, were always asking for transparency in government, constantly, and regardless of who won the election, last year was unparalleled in so many ways. And so, if theres ever a time to do a forensic analysis of an electorate, this is the time to do it. Theres so many things that kind of were disruptive last year. And so, I dont know why anyone could be opposed to this, unless you have something to hide.

The Office of City Commissioners for Philadelphia confirmed to The Epoch Times in an emailed statement that it received the letter.

Our office is reviewing it and [we] have no comment about the requests at this time. We do want to be clear, however, that Senator Mastrianos letter reiterates claims about the November 2020 election that have been resoundingly rejected by courts. The repetition of baseless claims by elected officials poses a real challenge to our democratic processes. We are committed to continuing the hard work of ensuring that Philadelphians are able to exercise their right to vote, the commissioners office stated.

York and Tioga county officials confirmed to The Epoch Times their receipt of Mastrianos letter, but declined further comment.

Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro, a Democrat, has said he is prepared to try to block audits of voting equipment in court.

Mastriano visited the audit taking place in Maricopa County, Arizona, last month, and has said his investigation is aimed at going even deeper than that election review. He would like to hire the firms conducting the Arizona audit, pending support from Pennsylvania Senate Republican leadership.

The Pennsylvania Department of State noted that Maricopa County has opted to replace the machines that were examined by auditors. The department said it wouldnt reimburse Pennsylvania counties for the cost of obtaining replacement equipment for which it withdraws certification if outside access is granted.

It also referenced an elections assessment that took place in Fulton County, Pennsylvania.

We already have seen systems compromised in Fulton County and in the state of Arizona, the agency said in a statement last week. In both cases, the politically motivated reviews turned up absolutely no evidence of any fraud or discrepancies. Those partisan exercises did, however, prove to be very costly for local officials and taxpayers when election administrators were forced to lease or purchase replacement equipment.
Sen. Rand Paul to Introduce Bill to Bar Farce Mask Mandate on Planes

Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.) said that he will reintroduce legislation that would bar the public transportation mask mandates on airplanes that were implemented earlier this year by the federal government.

When the Senate returns to session, I will be introducing an immediate repeal of the mask mandate on planes. Enough! Time to stop this farce and let people travel in peace! he wrote last week on Twitter.

On his second day in office, President Joe Biden signed an executive order requiring that face coverings be worn when using all forms of public transportation, including inside airports and on airplanes.

His order directed several federal agencies to immediately take action, to the extent appropriate and consistent with applicable law, to require masks to be worn in compliance with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on airplanes, trains, buses, ferries, and other forms of public transportation.

That mandate has been left intact even after the CDC issued guidance in April saying that fully vaccinated people dont have to wear face masks indoors.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA), an agency within the Department of Homeland Security, announced that it would continue its mask mandate until at least sometime in September. Fines are doled out for people who dont comply.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has handed out fines totaling more than $682,000 in 2021 alone, the agency said earlier this month. Those fines appear to stem from passengers who have refused to wear masks.

Since Jan. 1, 2021, the FAA has received approximately 3,271 reports of unruly behavior by passengers, including about 2,475 reports of passengers refusing to comply with the federal facemask mandate, the agency wrote in a statement. We have identified potential violations in 540 cases and have initiated enforcement action in 83 cases.

But in recent months, there have been studies suggesting that mask-wearing can be detrimental to ones health, namely among children.

A paper from the Journal of the American Medical Association, published in late June, found that there are consequences of elevated carbon dioxide levels in kids and hypercapnia from inhaled air from the dead space a mask creates, Johns Hopkins professor Marty Makary wrote on Twitter on July 1. This is why I was so fired up by the CDC guidance for kids to wear masks outside.

The study, citing data from 25,930 children in Germany, found that 68 of participating children had issues when wearing nose and mouth coverings.

Most of the complaints reported by children can be understood as consequences of elevated carbon dioxide levels in inhaled air, the study reads. This is because of the dead-space volume of the masks, which collects exhaled carbon dioxide quickly after a short time. This carbon dioxide mixes with fresh air and elevates the carbon dioxide content of inhaled air under the mask, and this was more pronounced in this study for younger children.

Paul, during a recent interview, argued that mask mandatesnamely in schoolsarent based on scientific data, coming after the CDC issued new guidance saying children who arent vaccinated should continue to wear masks when school starts in the fall.

Its about submission, he told Fox News. Theres never been any evidence of spreading events in the schools. The kids do very well with this. The idea that were going to put masks on the kids, and then were going to punish the kids who, for their own medical decision-making or their parents, decide not to submit to this mandate.

Paul described the CDCs latest guidance around schools as basically advertisement and encouragement to get out of the government schools and send children to private schools or opt to homeschool them.

But dont submit to the state, dont submit to the government, he said.
Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez prepares to deliver a statement at the Moncloa Palace in Madrid, Spain, on June 22, 2021. (Paul White/AP Photo)

Spanish PM Sanchez Remodels Cabinet to Focus on Economy

MADRIDSpains prime minister overhauled his Cabinet on Saturday, forming what he called the government of the recovery following the coronavirus pandemic.

Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has led a minority coalition government formed by his Socialist Party and the United We Can party since January 2020.

He has managed to keep it afloat during the pandemic and pass a budget by securing key votes from opposition parties.

Once we have got over the worst of the pandemic the new government has the objective of consolidating the economic recuperation and the growth in employment, Sanchez said.

Spains Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez (C), talks with Spains Deputy Prime Minister Carmen Calvo (L), Spains Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economic Affairs Nadia Calvino (2nd left), and Spains Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Ecological Transition and Demographic Challenge Teresa Ribera during a cabinet meeting at the Moncloa Palace in Madrid, on June 22, 2021. (Borja Puig de la Bellacasa/Spanish Government via AP)

Sanchez left untouched the five ministers of United We Can and made all seven changes on the Socialist side of his Cabinet.

The biggest change was the exit of Carmen Calvo, the deputy prime minister.

Economy Minister Nadia Calvino was elevated to take her place.

Calvo leaves in the aftermath of a tug-of-war with Equality Minister Irene Montero, of United We Can, over the draft of a law that will allow gender self-determination.

Jose Albares will become the new foreign minister after leaving his post as ambassador to France.

Albares will replace Arancha Gonzalez Laya, who was heavily criticized for the recent diplomatic spat with Morocco.

Juan Campo is out as minister of justice just weeks after Spains government pardoned nine instigators of the 2017 secession attempt by the northeastern region of Catalonia.

Judge Pilar Llop will leave the presidency of the Senate to take over for Campo.
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton speaks during the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) held at the Hilton Anatole in Dallas, Texas, on July 11, 2021. (Brandon Bell/Getty Images)

Texas Now Investigating 386 More Cases of Voter Fraud, Attorney General Tells CPAC

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton told an audience at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) on July 11 that his office is investigating nearly 400 more alleged cases of voter fraud and told audience members that concern about election fraud isnt overblown.

The 386 cases that are being investigated are in addition to more than 500 cases that his office has prosecuted, Paxton said, without elaborating on the details of some of the cases.

Do not believe the narrative, because in Texas we are going to fight election fraud, Paxton said, noting that Republicans would have struggled during election day last year if his office hadnt stopped local election officials from breaking rules around balloting.

Referring to claims that voter fraud doesnt existmade typically by Democratsthe Republican attorney general described it as a false narrative.

People tell you there is no election fraud. Let me just tell you right now, my office has 511 counts in court because of COVID waiting to be heard. We have another 386 that were investigating, he told the CPAC audience in Texas. If you add those together, thats more election fraud than my office has prosecuted since it started investigating election fraud years and years ago. So do not believe the narrative, because in Texas we are going to fight election fraud.

In June, Paxton announced that his office is investigating 500 cases that are waiting to be heard in court.

Texass state Senate approved a sweeping bill a month prior to that announcement that would grant more power to poll watchers by giving them increased access inside polling areas. It would also create new penalties against election officials who restrict poll watchers movements and would allow a judge to void the outcome of an election if the number of fraudulent votes could change the result, among other provisions.

Democrats walked out during the very end of the previous legislative session in late May, ending the chances of approving any new voter integrity laws in the near future. That prompted Gov. Greg Abbott, a Republican, to call a new session focused on passing the election reform bill.

While Republicans have said the bill is needed to shore up any election irregularities or potential fraud, Democrats claim that theyre designed to suppress voter turnout rates, namely among minority groups.

During an interview on July 11, Abbott again pushed for the bills passage.

Even Democrats in the Texas House of Representatives, they agree that as [it] concerns mail-in ballots, that is an area where improving the mail-in ballot system is a way to achieve greater election integrity, he said.

Paxton is running for reelection as attorney general in 2022, and faces Republican primary opposition from Texas Land Commissioner George P. Bush, a member of the Bush political dynasty, and former state Supreme Court Justice Eva Guzman. Guzman spoke at CPAC last week.

Paxtons office didnt respond to a request for comment by press time.
Trump, in CPAC Speech, Promises to Defeat Critical Race Theory, Marxism

Former President Donald Trump promised on July 11 to defeat critical race theory during his speech to the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in Texas.

With the help of everyone here today, we will defeat the radical left, the socialists, Marxists, and the critical race theorists, Trump told the audience. We will secure our borders, we will stop left-wing cancel culture, we will restore free speech and free elections and we will make America great again.

Parents across the United States have wrangled with teachers, school boards, and teachers unions over whether critical race theory (CRT) should be taught to public school students. CRT is strongly associated with the antiracist movement, cancel culture, as well as diversity, equity, and inclusion training in the workplace.

According to Legal Insurrection Foundations Criticalrace.org and other critics of the ideology, CRT is an offshoot of the earlier critical theorya European Marxist school of thought that originated in the early part of the 20th century. Several governors have signed measures in recent weeks to bar the teaching of CRT or similar content to students, with the latest being Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey, who signed a bill last week that prohibits local governments from teaching it to employees.

Never forget that the radical left is not the majority in this country, Trump said. Were the majority, and its not even close.

The former president said the battle is so much bigger than policy proposals or Supreme Court rulings, saying the radical left has infiltrated or is controlling centralized institutions such as bar associations, universities, schools, Hollywood, Big Tech, and large banks. And some of the pressure campaigns waged by Democrats, he said, are straight out of the communist countries around the world.

Throughout his speech, Trump contrasted his own immigration policies with those of the current administration, accusing President Joe Biden and Democrats of mishandling border security.

We deported criminal aliens by the thousands  and we built almost 500 miles of the border wall, he said. Now the Biden administration has turned the border into the single greatest disaster in American history.

Former President Donald Trump speaks during the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) held at the Hilton Anatole in Dallas, on July 11, 2021. (Brandon Bell/Getty Images)

Trump also made reference to his class-action lawsuits against the CEOs of Twitter, Facebook, and Google for engaging in alleged censorship of conservatives. Big Tech companies nearly simultaneously suspended Trumps social media accounts in January, saying he incited violence with his claims about election fraud; Trump has categorically denied the allegations.

The Big Tech election interference in 2020 was an outrageous assault upon our republic and upon the American voter, he told the crowd, noting how Twitter and Facebook censored articles that reported on Hunter Biden and his overseas business dealings in the leadup to the Nov. 3, 2020, election.

On July 11, Trump again panned Republicans in name only, or RINOs, for capitulating to Democrats. This time, the former president specifically called out Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-La.), saying the senator often touted Trumps support of him during his reelection campaign but later voted to convict him in the impeachment trial. Rep. Liz Cheney (R-Wyo.), he also said, is now the most quoted GOP lawmaker by mainstream media outlets.

Trump, who departed the White House six months ago, remains popular with Republican voters and influential among Republican lawmakers. It isnt known if Trump will run for president in 2024, but hes teased the idea in several recent interviews, while saying he wants Republicans to take back control of Congress during the upcoming midterm elections.

The CPAC speech comes amid a recent flurry of activity that saw Trump hold a campaign-style rally in Ohio for a former aide and a second rally a week later in Florida.

Trump also appeared alongside Republican Texas Gov. Greg Abbott for a visit along the U.S.Mexico border at the end of June, and last week, he unveiled the class-action lawsuit against the Big Tech companies at his golf course in Bedminster, New Jersey.

Before that, the 45th president spoke at an Orlando CPAC event in February with a theme similar to his July 11 address.
Volkswagen to Appeal Ohio Court Ruling on Dieselgate Emission Test Cheating Scandal

After it had already paid out hefty fines for rigging its cars to cheat on federal emissions tests, Volkswagen said in court papers that it will appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court last months Ohio Supreme Court ruling that allows the state to sue for hundreds of billions of dollars more over the same claim.

The news comes after European regulators fined German automakers Volkswagen and BMW a total of 875 million euros ($1 billion) for colluding to prevent the use of emissions-reducing technology they pioneered. Volkswagen will pay 502 million euros; BMW, 373 million euros.

This is a first, European Union competition policy chief and Executive Vice President Margrethe Vestager told reporters. We have never had a cartel whose purpose was to restrict the use of novel technology.

In the United States, Volkswagen has already paid out more than $33 billion in fines and settlements after it was found to have used software to trick U.S. diesel emissions tests. Some refer to the scandal as Dieselgate.

Citing a legal complaint, Volkswagen said in a brief that Ohios unprecedented claims seek up to $25,000 for each day of each violation, for each of the approximately 14,000 cars allegedly registered in Ohio, which could total $350 million per day, or more than $127 billion per year, over a multiyear period. [Italics original.]

The German company filed a motion July 8 to stay the June 29 state Supreme Courts 61 ruling pending appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court. Dave Yost, Ohios Republican attorney general, does not object to the requested stay, a motion filed in the Ohio court states.

In a separate appeal, Volkswagen filed a petition with the Supreme Court on Jan. 21 of this year seeking review of a June 1, 2020, federal appeals court decision. That case, still pending, is Volkswagen Group of America Inc. v. Environmental Protection Commission of Hillsborough County, Florida, court file 20-994.

The federal appeals courts ruling is wrong, the company argues in its petition, because the Clean Air Act grants the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) broad and exclusive authority to enforce auto manufacturers compliance with [the laws] standards over the entire useful life of their vehicles. Section 7543(a) states that no State or any political subdivision thereof shall adopt or attempt to enforce any standard relating to the control of emissions from new motor vehicles.

According to the Ohio Supreme Courts ruling, beginning about 2009, Volkswagen programmed its vehicles with software enabling them to perform better on federal emissions tests than they otherwise would have.

The software, known as a defeat device, would identify when a vehicle was being tested by regulators for compliance with emissions standards and during the test would trigger equipment within the vehicle that would temporarily reduce the vehicles otherwise unacceptably high emissions to an acceptable level to pass the test.

Years later, the company discovered that the software was malfunctioning and adversely affecting performance. Around 2013, Volkswagen updated the software to fix those problems and continue cheating on emissions tests.

Without telling its customers the true reason why, Volkswagen also installed the updated software in its older vehicles through a voluntary recall program and when its customers brought their vehicles in for routine maintenance, the decision stated. Eventually, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) uncovered the scheme, Volkswagen admitted what it did, and agreed to pay a $2.8 billion penalty.

In 2016, the state sued Volkswagen, alleging it violated Ohios Air Pollution Control Act. The trial court agreed with the companys argument that the suit was preempted by the federal Clean Air Act and dismissed it. The state appealed, and Ohios 10th District Court of Appeals ruled against the company.

The Ohio Supreme Court then rejected Volkswagens arguments, holding that the federal law does not suggest that Congress intended to shield vehicle manufacturers from state-law emissions-control-tampering liability.

If Congress had wished to preclude states from punishing companies or persons for emissions-control tampering, it could have said so.

In his dissenting opinion, Justice Michael P. Donnelly writes that if states and municipalities are permitted to sue motor vehicle manufacturers based on admissions made when settling civil actions with the EPA, manufacturers will be deterred from making such admissions.
GREENWICH  Ryan Fazio has won the GOP nod to run in the Aug. 17 special election for the state Senates 36th District seat.

Of 29 delegates present, Fazio, a member of Greenwichs Representative Town Meeting, earned 20 votes at the nominating convention that Republicans held virtually Saturday. Leora Levy, a member of the Republican National Committee for Connecticut, received nine votes.

Hours before the convention, state Rep. Harry Arora, R-151, withdrew from the race to become the Republican candidate, telling supporters in an email blast that he didnt have the support of enough delegates to secure the party endorsement.

During Saturdays convention, which the public could watch live on Facebook, Fazio said Hartford needed a change in leadership.

Lets build consensus across this state to solve the biggest challenges we face, Fazio said. Lets reduce taxes, the cost of electricity and health care, and create economic opportunity for all. Lets make our neighborhoods safe and support our local police. Lets create the greatest school system of any state in the country. Lets protect our environment, and lets bring people together from every walk of life.

Delegates who spoke in support of Fazio noted he narrowly lost to then-Sen. Alex Kasser when he ran for the 36th District seat last year.

Kasser was elected in 2018, becoming the first Democrat in decades to represent the district that covers Greenwich and parts of Stamford and New Canaan, beating Republican L. Scott Frantz, who held the seat from 2009 to 2019. She resigned unexpectedly in June, citing the strain from her ongoing divorce.

There are less than 40 days (until) the special election. Lets not mess this up, said Whitney Williams, a delegate from New Canaan. Ryans campaign is prepped and ready to go. And I believe that we owe it to our fellow Republican voters that we allow him to pursue his desire to once again be our state senator  a desire that will be fulfilled when he wins on Aug. 17.

Icy Frantz, whose husband had held the seat Kasser won and who nominated Fazio, had praise for the Republican choice.

A delegate from Greenwich and fellow member of the RTM, she said that after his loss to Kasser, Fazio didnt just walk away but rather re-assembled his team and provided a full analysis.

Lets give him the chance to finish what he started and return the district to the capable hands of a wonderful Republican, Frantz said.

On July 6, Democrats officially endorsed Alexis Gevanter, who formerly led the Connecticut chapter of Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America. Gevanter was endorsed by Kasser.

The candidate the Democrats have put up is far worse than Alex Kasser, if thats possible, said Ed Dadakis, the chairman of the Republican nominating convention. She is a San Francisco progressive, a left-winger, who has left San Francisco because those left-wing policies ruined the city, and now shes coming to Connecticut to do it here.

John Blankley, a former Democratic member of the RTM and the Board of Estimate and Taxation, is gathering signatures to appear on the ballot as an independent candidate.

Levy congratulated Fazio in a statement after losing to him Saturday, saying she is committed to joining with everyone to elect a Republican for our next state senator of the 36th district.

Greenwich delegate Tom Michaud called Levy the definition of the American dream, noting that her family fled from Cuba in 1960 when she was a child. Two years ago, Levy was nominated by then-President Donald Trump to be the U.S. ambassador to Chile, but she wasnt confirmed by the U.S. Senate.

Includes prior reporting by staff writers Ken Borsuk and Ken Dixon.
WESTPORT  A lawsuit filed in state Superior Court in Bridgeport last month makes multiple allegations against state Rep. Jonathan Steinberg  who recently announced he was running for First Selectman of Westport  including that he misrepresented his background, used cronyism and quid pro quo to secure his nomination and made defamatory statements against those who opposed him.

The suit was filed by Westport resident and Democratic Town Committee member Kristan Hamlin and named Steinbergs campaign chairperson Lisa Newman as a co-defendant. Both Steinberg and the attorney representing Newman said the suit lacked merit and accused Hamlin of playing politics.

The 45-page lawsuit poses multiple charges against Steinberg, starting with the allegation that he misrepresented his career in marketing. The lawsuit alleges that Steinberg advertises on the professional networking site LinkedIn that he has worked as a marketing executive for JPS Marketing for the past 14 years.

That assertion is entirely false, the suit claims.

It goes on to say that a review of corporate registrations filed with the Connecticut secretary of the state shows that there is no such entity by the name of JPS Marketing or JPS plus any name that is registered in the state as associated with Steinbergs name or for which he works.

The document states that Steinbergs fraudulent misrepresentations about his professional background constitute a fraud on the voters and volunteers who supported his state representative candidacy, and his First Selectman candidacy. It further claims that Steinberg has not worked in marketing during the past fourteen years, because his previous conduct with employers has rendered him unemployable in the marketing profession, because he cannot secure a good reference from his last or previous employer.

The lawsuit also claims that Steinberg and Newman engaged in nefarious tactics to secure his nomination. The document includes a lengthy section alleging that Steinberg conspired with Melissa Katz-Kane to get Steinberg the first selectman nomination.

According to the suit, Kane wanted Steinberg to run for first selectman so that she could run for his state representative seat.

Steinberg therefore conspired with Kane to enter into a corrupt deal, in which Kane would use her influence on (Westport DTC Chair Ellen) Lautenberg to appoint a Nominations Committee weighted in Steinbergs favor, the suit alleges. If nominated and elected for First Selectman with Kanes help, then Steinbergs state representative job would open up.

According to the suit, Newman told Hamlin that Lautenberg had told Newman they should choose Steinberg to become the first selectman candidate so his job would be free for Kane. The suit alleges that Newman told Hamlin in 2020 that, if she would forgo running for the DTCs executive committee, Lautenberg would put her on the nominations committee. Hamlin allegedly agreed to the arrangement.

However, the suit goes on to say that Newman later wrote Hamlin a text message that she had already concluded that Steinberg was a nightmare as a candidate and could never win against the predicted Republican candidates, Jen Tooker and Andrea Moore.

In light of that and other alleged critical statements Newman made against Steinberg, Hamlin purportedly expressed enthusiasm for two other candidates who submitted their names for the first selectman race.

Hamlin alleges in the suit that, upon hearing that she spoke favorably of the other candidates, Lautenberg removed Hamlin from the nomination committee.

The suit goes to on to detail other ways in which Steinberg, Newman and others allegedly undermined the democratic process in Westport. It accuses Steinberg of falsely claiming he was the DTC-endorsed candidate for first selectman, and accuses of him making defamatory statements about Hamlin, including that she was spreading lies about him and was out to get him.

Plaintiff has in fact worked tireless and selflessly over fourteen years to promote all DTC candidates and has never taken any action ever to destroy any DTC candidates, the suit states.

The suit alleges that Newman made defamatory statements against Hamlin as well. Hamlin is seeking damages in excess of $15,000 and is seeking a jury trial on the matter.

Newmans attorney, Joshua Koskoff, said in a statement Friday that the suit asserts no cognizable legal claim and that he would ask that the case be dismissed.

The case seems to have been born from a bruised ego and is filled with personal attacks and disparagements, rather than facts supporting a viable claim for defamation, Koskoffs statement read.

Steinberg said Friday he believed that the suit was without merit.

We all know that politics has an ugly side, he said. Kristan has made it clear she plans to impede my campaign. Using the legal system to do it is just plain wrong.

Hamlin referred comment to her attorney William Lalor, who said multiple people complained to the Democratic State Central Committee about the DTCs actions.

Plaintiff and others complained about the rules violations and were retaliated against, Lalor said in a statement Friday. The DTC had just confirmed the Plaintiff in January as Chair of Communications Strategy, but when she complained about corrupt processes, that all changed.

The photo accompanying this story has been updated to reflect that Jonathan Steinberg is a Democrat.
NORWALK  A local affordable housing developer is one step closer to winning a lucrative contract to help build new public housing in the city.

The Board of Commissioners of the Norwalk Housing Authority on Thursday voted to begin negotiations with Heritage Housing, a South Norwalk-based real estate firm, to assist in the construction of a planned 69-unit expansion of Colonial Village.

The multimillion-dollar project aims to create a mixed-income housing development complete with a community building, a management office and after school educational programs for the children of residents.

The commission voted 4-0 to proceed with negotiations with Heritage. Brenda Penn-Williams, the vice chairperson of the board, was the only commissioner who did not attend the meeting.

Adam Bovilsky, the director of the housing authority, said Heritage was one of four firms that submitted proposals to the agency to help build the new apartments.

The local developer was chosen as a finalist in part, he said, because it agreed to turn over management of the property shortly after construction is complete. The commission has prioritized directly managing its own properties.

The principal of Heritage Housing is David McCarthy, and he has a long history in development work, Bovilsky said. He is native to Norwalk and his vision of this deal, as far as his proposal is concerned, seemed to match our interests most closely.

Heritage, founded in 2017, works to build and preserve housing for families and seniors who face a shortage of housing options, according to its website. The developer is currently building or in the process of preserving more than 500 units of affordable housing in Connecticut, West Virginia and Pennsylvania.

We build new affordable housing to create opportunities for low-income families to live comfortably in safe, high-quality apartments, the firms website states. We acquire and rehabilitate existing affordable housing to preserve its affordability into the future and to bring the apartments up to modern standards.

Colonial Village, which was originally built in 1951, is now undergoing a complete renovation. The authority is in the process of upgrading each of the existing 200 units with new kitchens, bathrooms and porches. The final stage of the renovation project is slated to conclude by early 2023.

We are moving toward that target and are humming along, Bovilsky said.

As early as next summer, the authority will begin expanding the housing complex onto a nearby plot of vacant land. The expansion plans call for the construction of a new community center and 18 residential buildings with a total of 69 apartments.

Bovilsky said the exact timing of the start of construction may change due to fluctuating market conditions. Construction costs have spiked in recent months largely due to supply constraints.

I think we need to consider whether we want to plow ahead and start even earlier, potentially, he said. Or if we want to delay a little bit to see if construction supplies costs go down.

All together, the renovation and expansion project is expected to cost about $35 million. Much of the project is paid for through the use of low-income housing tax credits and bank loans.

A little more than $4 million of the total cost is expected to be spent on developer fees, according to a draft financial plan. Bovilsky, who noted the exact details of the financial plan could change as a result of the negotiation process, said the fees will be shared between the housing authority and the co-developer selected for the expansion.

Bovilsky said the commission could vote to approve a co-developer as soon as next month. Though Heritage has a leg up on the competition, he noted the authority has not yet officially decided on the firm as the development partner.

richard.chumney@hearstmediact.com
BUFFALO, N.Y. (AP)  If a majority of voters, along with the four-term incumbent, mostly ignored political newcomer India Waltons campaign for mayor during the Democratic primary, theyre paying attention now.

After upsetting Byron Brown in the June race, a victory in November would put a self-described democratic socialist and, for the first time, a woman, at the helm of New York's second-largest city.

Walton's vault to the doorstep of City Hall may have seemed unlikely while growing up on Buffalos impoverished East side and becoming a mother at age 14.

There has been turmoil for the registered nurse and community activist, including financial challenges that she says are all too familiar to many would-be constituents in the Rust Belt city. All, she says, have helped prepare her for this moment.

I believe that the people closest to the problem are also those closest to the solution, she said.

Once home to a thriving manufacturing base that over time evaporated, along with nearly half the population, Buffalo's story in more recent years has been about revival. The waterfront was transformed and old industrial buildings given new life as offices, restaurants and living spaces that appeal to young, educated newcomers.

But there remain residents and neighborhoods that feel passed by, and Walton says that while she is eager to work with long-time community and elected leaders, her success shows there is room to challenge the establishment.

I think its important to note that the people of Buffalo are ready for progressive change, she said. "We must work together to do what is best for our city. And also we are saying no more to the status quo.

Bhaskar Sunkara, founding editor of socialist magazine Jacobin, said enthusiasm for Walton could suggest openings in similar cities nationwide.

Theres some irony that youre seeing a resurgence of socialism now when these cities are facing a lot of challenges," Sunkara said, and ordinary working-class residents are looking for answers and theyre looking for something different.

Since shocking Brown in a low-key primary that about 80% of registered Democrats skipped, Walton has confronted questions about her past, revealing she was in an abusive marriage and is a survivor of domestic abuse. Her premature twins inspired her to get her GED and become a registered nurse in the same hospital where they were born.

While in her early 20s, she was accused by the Department of Social Services of food stamp fraud and made to repay a $295 overpayment. She and her ex-husband also were the subject of a $749 state tax lien, which included $562 in back taxes plus penalties, WKBW reported.

We call it the poor tax, right? Walton told the station. Late fees and fines that occur because of things that you are really unable to do because of your financial situation.

She was arrested at the hospital where she worked in 2014 after missing a court appearance related to a coworker's order of protection, The Buffalo News reported. Walton said the notice to appear had been mailed to her ex-husband's home and that the violation eventually was dismissed.

Her most recent work has been to help establish and run a land trust to protect affordable housing in a neighborhood threatened with gentrification by the citys expanding medical campus.

Sochie Nnaemeka, state director of the Working Families Party, said Walton ran a campaign rooted in her lived experience that appealed to poor and working-class voters who felt slighted by the incumbent's strategy of refusing to debate or seriously acknowledge his challengers.

Walton had 500 volunteers for a primary effort that was capped by nearly 19,000 phone calls the night before the June 22 vote.

Although she had considered running for state Assembly, Walton said she saw an opening to challenge Brown during Black Lives Matter protests that followed the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis. Specifically, when cameras captured a young Black man throwing a burning basket through a Buffalo City Hall window, Brown, who like Walton is Black, publicly called him an idiot.

Our mayor should have said, 'This is a young person who was expressing their frustration. Lets call them in and do some problem-solving together,'" Walton said, and not disparage, dismiss and write off a young person who had some very valid concerns.

Backed by the Buffalo Teachers Federation and Democratic Socialists of America, she favors removing police officers from most mental health and routine traffic calls and reallocating funding, but shies away from using the term defunding police.

After her primary showing, Walton fielded praise from other progressive lawmakers, including Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders and U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who represents parts of New York City.

Brown is pursuing a rematch in November. In announcing his write-in campaign, he said city residents oppose having a radical socialist lead the city he has governed for 15 years.

But we have enjoyed many things that could be considered socialism during the pandemic that helped us get through," countered Walton, the economic stimulus, free health care, SNAP benefits for families with children.

These are things that we all enjoy and appreciate and weve proven that it can happen, she said. "We just need to scale up."

___

Associated Press writer Marina Villeneuve contributed from Albany.
SPRINGFIELD  The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) on Friday announced it is fully adopting the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated guidance for COVID-19 Prevention in Kindergarten (K)-12 Schools released today.

Our goal is to protect the health of students, teachers, and staff so that in-person learning can resume as safely as possible, said IDPH Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike. The CDC is right: vaccination is the best preventive strategy.

As school board members, parents, teachers and superintendents plan for a return to in-person learning in the fall, we strongly encourage those who are not vaccinated to continue to mask, she said. IDPH is proud to fully adopt school guidance issued by CDC, which is based on the latest scientific information about COVID-19.

The updated school guidance now aligns with guidance for fully vaccinated people, which allows activities to resume for fully vaccinated people without wearing a mask except where required by federal, state, and local rules and regulations.

Major elements of the updated guidance include:

 Masks should be worn indoors by all individuals (age 2 and older) who are not fully vaccinated.

 CDC recommends schools maintain at least 3 feet of physical distance between students within classrooms, combined with indoor mask wearing by people who are not fully vaccinated, to reduce transmission risk. When it is not possible to maintain a physical distance of at least 3 feet, such as when schools cannot fully re-open while maintaining these distances, it is especially important to layer multiple other prevention strategies, such as indoor masking.

 Screening testing, ventilation, handwashing and respiratory etiquette, staying home when sick and getting tested, contact tracing in combination with quarantine and isolation, and cleaning and disinfection are also important layers of prevention to keep schools safe.

 Many schools serve children under the age of 12 who are not eligible for vaccination at this time. Therefore, this guidance emphasizes implementing layered prevention strategies (masking, distancing, testing) to protect people who are not fully vaccinated.

Schools and communities should monitor community transmission of COVID-19, vaccination coverage, screening testing, and outbreaks to guide decisions about on the level of layered prevention strategies being implemented.

State Superintendent of Education Dr. Carmen I. Ayala issued the following declaration mandating in-person learning with limited exceptions:

Beginning with the 2021-22 school year, all schools must resume fully in-person learning for all student attendance days, provided that, pursuant to 105 ILCS 5/10-30 and 105 ILCS 5/34-18.66, remote instruction be made available for students who have not received a COVID-19 vaccine or who are not eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine, only while they are under quarantine consistent with guidance or requirements from a local public health department or the Illinois Department of Public Health.

All our students deserve to return safely in-person to schools this fall, said Dr. Ayala. With vaccination rates continually rising and unprecedented federal funding to support safe in-person learning, and mitigations such as contact tracing and increased ventilation in place in schools, we are fully confident in the safety of in-person learning this fall. We look forward to a great school year and to the energy of Illinois young minds once again filling our school buildings.

The updated school guidance can be found at http://www.dph.illinois.gov/covid19/community-guidance/school-guidance.
MARYVILLE  The spirit of a small town was alive and well during Maryville Fire Departments annual Homecoming at Firemens Park this past weekend.

The two-day celebration featured carnival rides, live music, food, childrens parades and huge crowds after a one-year absence due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Though the rain put a damper on some of the afternoon activities Sunday, the community still flocked to the celebration, which raises funds for the fire department.

It feels wonderful to be back, volunteer Eric Hartlein said. Weve been getting calls from as far away as Litchfield asking about it.

Hartlein, a retired firefighter from Maryville, has participated in the homecoming for 42 years.

Every year it grows a little bit more, but it keeps the small-town feel, he said. Its extremely family-oriented and we keep prices low so everyone can enjoy it.

People are really nice here and everyone is polite to us, said Glen Kidd, Highland resident and member of Ainad Shrine Drum and Bugle Corps. We always enjoy doing the parade here.

For many locals, the annual tradition is an event that creates lasting memories.

I love coming back every year because of my childhood here, said Katelyn Buckhannon, a student at Lewis and Clark Community College. Especially for the corn dogs. There is no other place in the world where you can get corn dogs like these.

92-year-old Earl S. Gulin has attended homecoming for many years. This year, he attended the celebration with his daughter Sherry Gross, who travels annually from her home in Houston, Texas to her hometown for the occasion.

I remember coming when I was just a small child, she said. In many ways, it feels the same, though many of the people I knew are gone now. We always come to get something to eat and watch the parade.

The community lined up to support the two childrens parades, on Friday and Saturday, which were coordinated by the Maryville Womens Auxiliary. The parades featured firetrucks, marching bands, cheerleaders, floats and, of course, candy.

Maryvilles Homecoming began in 1938 in response to the Donk Brothers coal mine closing. The Donk Brothers mine operated between 1900 and 1925 and pulled out 10.4 million tons of coal from a six- or seven-foot coal seam at a depth of 238 feet.

Maryville received financial help from the mine, said Mike Picchioldi, chairman of the Maryville Heritage Museum. So after it closed, the village fell on hard times and the population decreased tremendously. It is thought that the fire department and the village were looking for new avenues to try and raise money.

Picchioldi said that the fire department used either hand or horse-drawn fire wagons at that time.

With the money raised from the first two homecomings, the fire department was able to put a down payment on their first gasoline motorized fire apparatus, Picchioldi said.

Now, the event raises money for EMS, training and other expenditures required by the Maryville Fire Department. The event also gives the community a chance to participate in a summer tradition that spans decades.

This is a great community and we are so glad to be able to do this for them again, Hartlein said.
TRUTH OR CONSEQUENCES, N.M. (AP)  Swashbuckling billionaire Richard Branson hurtled into space aboard his own winged rocket ship Sunday, bringing astro-tourism a step closer to reality and beating out his exceedingly richer rival Jeff Bezos.

The nearly 71-year-old Branson and five crewmates from his Virgin Galactic space-tourism company reached an altitude of 53.5 miles (86 kilometers) over the New Mexico desert  enough to experience three to four minutes of weightlessness and witness the curvature of the Earth  and then glided back home to a runway landing.

The whole thing, it was just magical," a jubilant Branson said on his return aboard the gleaming white space plane, named Unity.

The brief, up-and-down flight  the space plane's portion took only about 15 minutes, or about as long as Alan Shepard's first U.S. spaceflight in 1961  was a splashy and unabashedly commercial plug for Virgin Galactic, which plans to start taking paying customers on joyrides next year.

Branson became the first person to blast off in his own spaceship, beating Bezos, the richest person on the planet, by nine days. He also became the second septuagenarian to go into space. Astronaut John Glenn flew on the shuttle at age 77 in 1998.

Bezos sent his congratulations, adding: Cant wait to join the club!  though he also took to Twitter a couple of days earlier to enumerate the ways in which be believes his companys tourist rides will be better.

With about 500 people watching, including Branson's family, Unity was carried aloft underneath a twin-fuselage aircraft. Then, at an altitude of about 8 1/2 miles (13 kilometers), Unity detached from the mother ship and fired its engine, reaching more than Mach 3, or three times the speed of sound, as it pierced the edge of space.

Spectators cheered, jumped into the air and embraced as the rocket plane touched down on Earth. Branson pumped his fists as he stepped out onto the runway and ran toward his family, bear-hugging his wife and children and scooping up his grandchildren in his arms.

Mike Moses, a top executive at Virgin Galactic, said that apart from some problems with the transmission of video images from inside the cabin, the flight was perfect, and the ship looked pristine.

That was an amazing accomplishment, former Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield, a one-time commander of the International Space Station, said from the sidelines. Im just so delighted at what this open door is going to lead to now. Its a great moment.

Virgin Galactic conducted three previous test flights into space with crews of just two or three.

The flamboyant, London-born founder of Virgin Atlantic Airways wasnt supposed to fly until later this summer. But he assigned himself to an earlier flight after Bezos announced plans to ride his own rocket into space from Texas on July 20, the 52nd anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing. Branson denied he was trying to outdo Bezos.

Bransons other chief rival in the space-tourism race among the worlds richest men, SpaceXs Elon Musk, came to New Mexico to watch and congratulated Branson for a beautiful flight.

Bezos Blue Origin company intends to send tourists past the so-called Karman line 62 miles (100 kilometers) above Earth, which is recognized by international aviation and aerospace federations as the threshold of space.

But NASA, the Air Force, the Federal Aviation Administration and some astrophysicists consider the boundary between the atmosphere and space to begin 50 miles (80 kilometers) up.

The risks to Branson and his crew were underscored in 2007, when a rocket motor test in Californias Mojave Desert left three workers dead, and in 2014, when a Virgin Galactic rocket plane broke apart during a test flight, killing one pilot and seriously injuring the other.

Ever the showman, Branson insisted on a global livestream of the Sunday morning flight and invited celebrities and former space station astronauts to the companys Spaceport America base in New Mexico. R&B singer Khalid performed his new single New Normal  a nod to the dawning of space tourism  while CBS Late Show host Stephen Colbert served as master of ceremonies.

Before climbing aboard, Branson, who has kite-surfed the English Channel and attempted to circle the world in a hot-air balloon, signed the astronaut log book and wisecracked: The names Branson. Sir Richard Branson. Astronaut Double-oh-one. License to thrill.

But asked afterward whether he is planning any more adventures, Branson said he will definitely give it a rest for the time being" because I'm not sure it would be fair to put my family through another one. He said he thinks he holds the record for being pulled out of the sea five times by helicopter.

Virgin Galactic already has more than 600 reservations from would-be space tourists, with tickets initially costing $250,000 apiece. And upon his return to Earth, Branson announced a sweepstakes drawing for two seats on a Virgin Galactic jaunt. Blue Origin is waiting for Bezos flight before announcing its ticket prices.

Kerianne Flynn, who signed up in 2011 to fly with Virgin Galactic, had butterflies ahead of the launch Sunday.

I think theres going to be nothing like going up there and looking back down on the Earth, which is what I think Im most excited about, she said. She added: Hopefully the next generations will be able to explore whats up there."

Blue Origin and Musks SpaceX both fly Apollo-style, using capsules atop rockets, instead of an air-launched, reusable space plane.

SpaceX, which is already launching astronauts to the space station for NASA and building moon and Mars ships, plans to take tourists on more than just brief, up-and-down trips. Customers will instead go into orbit around the Earth for days, with seats costing well into the millions. The company's first private flight is set for September.

Musk himself has not committed to going into space anytime soon.

___

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.

___

Dunn reported from Cape Canaveral, Fla.
Elizabethtown, KY (42701)

Today

Partly cloudy early followed by scattered thunderstorms this afternoon. High near 80F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 30%..

Tonight

Mostly cloudy skies this evening will become partly cloudy after midnight. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 63F. Winds light and variable.
Drug raids net seven suspects, 2,000 pills of ya bah

PHUKET: Phuket Provincial Police separately arrested seven suspects in raids in Thalang, netting 2,000 pills of methamphetamine (ya bah) and more than 180g of crystal meth (ya ice) in two days.

drugscrimepolice

By Eakkapop Thongtub

Sunday 11 July 2021, 12:05PM

Photo: Phuket Provincial Police

The raids, led by Capt Chaiwat Chuwang of the Phuket Provincial Police, were announced yesterday (July 10).

On Friday (July 9), police arrested four suspects, as follows.

Wisit Bao Kongsrisuwan, 24, originally from Nakhon Sri Thammarat, and Panomkorn Diew Petchkong, 20, were arrested with 98.77g of ya ice separated in 33 bags at a house in Moo 6, Srisoonthorn.

Police also seized a digital scale, two mobile phones, a black Suzuki Smash motorbike, a gold ring, a bankbook and other nine unspecified items of evidence.

Wisit and Panomkorn were taken to Thalang Police Station and charged with possession of a Category 1 drug with intent to sell.

Padungsak Yo Suepan, 26, was arrested with 80.93g of ya ice at a house in Moo 1, Srisoonthorn.

Police also seized a mobile phone, a black Honda Wave 110 motorbike, and other seven unspecified items.

Padungsak was taken to Thalang Police Station and charged with possession of a Category 1 drug with intent to sell.

A Myanmar national named as Fon, 27, was arrested 0.03g (30mg) of ya ice, a pill of ya bah and a set of drug-taking equipment at a room of an apartment building in Moo 4, Cherng Talay.

Fon was taken to Cherng Talay Police Station and charged with possession of a Category 1 drug and illegally entering the country.

Yesterday (July 10), police arrested three suspects at a building under the National Housing Authority in Moo 1, Srisoonthorn, as follows:

Prarom Bond Chaowai, 35, was found with 1,000 pills of ya bah, 0.05g (50mg) of ya ice, a set of drug-taking equipment. Police also seized a digital scale and a mobile phone and other six unspecified items.

Naren Nui Namthong, 40, was found with 1,000 pills of ya bah. Police also seized a mobile phone and a black-blue Honda Click motorbike.

Pornchita Bew Longlok, 39, was found with 2.05g of ya ice. Police also seized a mobile phone and a pink Scoopy i motorbike.

Prarom, Naren, Pornchita were taken to Thalang Police Station and charged with possession of a Category 1 drug with intent to sell.
Loki unlocked in new series

One of the biggest complaints that some film lovers have levelled at Marvel films over the years is that the films have been the same. Epic battle sequences and cities crumbling to dust while muscle-bound heroes yell lines at the top of their voices. With the arrival of Wanda Vision on Disney+ it felt like Marvel had listened and created something vastly different. Something so different that the haters then decided it was too different.

World-Entertainment

By David Griffiths

Sunday 11 July 2021, 12:25PM

The new Loki series brings a lot more depth to the character usually depicted as no more than a mischievous villain. Image: IMDB

Perhaps though the perfect middle-ground is the latest Marvel show to be released on Disney+ Loki. Set after the events of The Avengers: Endgame the show sees Loki (Tom Hiddleston  Kong: Skull Island) brought before the mysterious Time Variance Authority whose job it is to monitor the timelines through space and time.

Charged with breaking a timeline Loki is sentenced to being erased from time and space by Ravonna Renslayer (Gugu Mbatha-Raw  Beauty and the Beast) but her colleague Mobius (Owen Wilson  Wedding Crashers) begs for Lokis life to be spared and instead his punishment should be working for the TVA and helping them with their investigations. Mobius ultimate plan is to not only have Loki for them but to also study him so that they can track down the various Loki variants that are causing havoc across timelines, including the female Loki (Sophia Di Martino  Yesterday) named Sylvie.

Created by Michael Waldron (Ricky and Morty), Loki is unlike anything that Marvel has previously created. It is epic in a completely different sense to anything that Marvel has done before. While other Marvel productions have gone with an epic scale of crashing spaceships and battle sequences, here Loki goes into epic fantasy worlds that H.P. Lovecraft would be proud of.

That different feel sees the creators take Loki into a steam-punk world while the scenes set in the halls and offices of the Time Variance Authority seem to have taken inspiration from The Ministry of Magic in J.K. Rowlings Harry Potter franchise. The similarities to the Potterverse also dont end there with Wilsons Mobius often dressing like Arthur Weasley.

The story that weaves through Loki is complex but compelling. While often kids can watch a Marvel movie and completely understand the plot, that certainly isnt the case with Loki. As the characters time-travel and jump through timelines the plot itself does require its audience to totally evolve themselves with it and not even look away for a moment. Even hardened fans of the show have admitted that if they have become distracted by something while watching it they have had to rewind the show in order to work out what happened while they were distracted.

Also coming to the fore with this series has been the acting capabilities of Tom Hiddleston. Often in the movies the character of Loki has been restricted to being the villain or the comic relief, so it has been quite refreshing to see his character grow throughout the Loki series. This has shown just how talented Hiddleston is as an actor especially during sequences when Loki has been shown the repercussions of his actions throughout history and some of the more touching scenes he shares with Sylvie.

Owen Wilson has also adapted well to a more serious role than we would normally expect from him but the star of this show to date has been Sophia Di Martino. Sylvie is an interesting character  she is capable of great evil but also at other times shows that she cares for people who are close to her. Di Martino has really relished the role and it is obvious that this will give her a spring-board to bigger roles in Hollywood very soon.

Loki is very much a must see for fans of the Marvel universe and while some of the Marvel shows available on Disney+ are more like mini-series Loki has just been given the green-light to film a second season so it seems that longevity is on its side.

There are currently five episodes of Loki on Disney+, available for viewing in Phuket.

David Griffiths has been working as a film and music reviewer for over 20 years. That time has seen him work in radio, television and in print. You can follow him at www.facebook.com/subcultureentertainmentaus
Phuket Opinion: Trapped Sandbox tourists need test and release

PHUKET: The Phuket Sandbox scheme has a serious problem with the forced quarantine of 13 tourists this week and Thai officials spouting off how much the Sandbox reopening of tourism to Thailand is going to help kickstart the Thai economy are about to find out just how much it is going to cost them.

opinionCOVID-19tourismhealth

By The Phuket News

Sunday 11 July 2021, 10:00AM

Just how much damage the forced quarantine of tourists who test negative for COVID-19 has done to the Phuket Sandbox scheme remains to be seen. Photo: MoTS

The 13 tourists were among the 14 people who arrived on Emirates flight EK378 which landed in Phuket on Tuesday (July 6). On the same flight was one man from the United Arab Emirates who tested positive for COVID-19 after landing at Phuket International Airport.

As is now standard procedure under the Phuket Sandbox model, once the man tested positive for COVID-19, he was taken into care at a local quarantine venue, while all people deemed to be high-risk contacts were taken to ALQ venues.

According to the terms of entering Thailand under the Phuket Sandbox policy, tourists are responsible for all costs related to any COVID measures and must have health insurance of no less than US100,000 to cover any costs related to COVID infection.

What is flying in the face of the policy to shunt Sandbox tourists who have tested negative for the virus into an ALQ costing in excess of B3,700 a night by declaring them as high-risk contacts is that right now there is nothing stopping a person from driving from the dark red zone of Bangkok  recognised by Thai officials themselves as the most contagious place in the country  to Phuket and being allowed onto the island.

The Bangkokian only needs to present an RT-PCR test results certificate proving they were not infected sometime up to seven days earlier and they will be allowed into Phuket. Once on the island, they are allowed to go anywhere they like.

As of today, Thai officials have no way to explain why domestic arrivals who have tested negative for the virus sometime in the preceding seven days may roam the island freely while tourists who have tested negative for COVID-19 within the past 24 hours must remain in quarantine for two weeks.

Were looking forward to any explanation of why this is so.

Worse, right now Thai officials are placing people in quarantine because they tested negative for the virus, and placing people in quaratnine because they tested positive for the virus.

The Royal Thai Government has to decide whether it trusts its own tests it forces people to take. Either ruling officials trust RT-PCR tests or they dont. They have to pick one. The current duality smacks of a government making up rules as it goes along out of nothing more than fear.

To argue that they are waiting for the incubation period is to admit that the test is pointless.

While officials are pondering their next move they can also ponder just how many prospective Sandbox tourists are now figuring out how to delay their planned holiday in Phuket because of this.

As of Thursday, 12 of the 13 Sandbox tourists stuck in quarantine had asked to fly home to the UAE. "All of them agreed to return home as the provincial health authority allowed them to depart since last night. Were considering rewarding them with special privileges if they plan to revisit Thailand in the future," said Tourism Authority of Thailand Governor Yuthasak Supasorn told the Bangkok Post yesterday.

Mr Yuthasak said travellers in the sandbox scheme already acknowledge the possibility of a 14-day quarantine if they are determined to be a high-risk group, according to the certificate of entry application process.

Mr Yuthasak also said all travellers choosing to return should receive full refunds from hotels, including costs for COVID-19 tests. As head of the agency that invited the world to come to Phuket under the Sandbox scheme. Mr Yuthasak should be able to do better than that.

What should be applied is a test-and-release policy, whereby any Sandbox tourists who test negative for COVID-19 after arriving in Phuket should be allowed to continue their holiday as planned, just like anyone else in the country.
Montreal, CA (H4T1V6)

Today

Mostly cloudy. Periods of light rain this morning. High 26C. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 80%..

Tonight

Considerable clouds this evening. Some decrease in clouds late. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 19C. Winds light and variable.
Media Content Creator

Ian Ostroff is a writer/reporter who resides in Montreal. He is passionate about getting to know the people and places that make his hometown so great. In his spare time, you can find him at the gym, eating ice cream, or working on his novel(s).
Top finance officials representing most of the world's economy have backed a sweeping revision of international taxation that includes a 15% global minimum corporate levy to deter big companies from resorting to low-rate tax havens.

Finance ministers from the Group of 20 countries endorsed the plan at a meeting Saturday in Venice.

U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said the proposal would end a self-defeating international tax competition in which countries have for years lowered their rates to attract companies. She said that had been a race that nobody has won. What it has done instead is to deprive us of the resources we need to invest in our people, our workforces, our infrastructure.

The next steps include more work on key details at the Paris-based Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development and then a final decision at the Group of 20 meeting of presidents and prime ministers on Oct. 30-31 in Rome.

Implementation, expected as early as 2023, would depend on action at the national level. Countries would enact the minimum tax requirement into their own laws. Other parts could require a formal treaty. The draft proposal was approved July 1 in talks among more than 130 countries convened by the OECD.

Italy hosted the finance ministers meeting in Venice because it holds the rotating chair of the G-20, which makes up more than 80% of the world economy. The event also attracted around 1,000 protesters under the banner We Are The Tide, an umbrella group of environmental and social justice activists, including opponents of large cruise ships and the hordes of tourists they bring to the lagoon city. A small group scuffled Saturday with police after breaking away from an approved demonstration area.

The U.S. already has a minimum tax on overseas earnings, but President Joe Biden has proposed roughly doubling the rate to 21%, which would more than comply with the proposed global minimum. Raising the rate is part of a broader proposal to fund Biden's jobs and infrastructure plan by raising the domestic corporate tax rate to 28% from 21%.

Yellen said she was very optimistic that Bidens infrastructure and tax legislation will include what we need for the United States to come into compliance with the minimum tax proposal.

Republicans in the Congress have expressed opposition to the measure. Rep. Kevin Brady of Texas, the top Republican on the tax-writing Ways and Means Committee, has blasted the OECD deal, saying, This is an economic surrender to China, Europe and the world that Congress will reject.

The international tax proposal aims to deter the world's biggest firms from using accounting and legal schemes to shift their profits to countries where little or no tax is due  and where the company may do little or no actual business. Under the minimum, companies that escape taxes abroad would pay them at home. That would eliminate incentives for using tax havens or for setting them up.

From 2000-2018, U.S. companies booked half of all foreign profits in seven low-tax jurisdictions: Bermuda, the Cayman Islands, Ireland, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Singapore and Switzerland.

A second part of the tax plan is to permit countries to tax a portion of the profits of companies that earn profits without a physical presence, such as through online retailing or digital advertising. That part arose after France, followed by other countries, imposed a digital service tax on U.S. tech giants such as Amazon and Google. The U.S. government regards those national taxes as unfair trade practices and is holding out the threat of retaliation against those countries' imports into the U.S. through higher import taxes.

Under the tax deal, those countries would have to drop or refrain from national taxes in favor of a single global approach, in theory ending the trade disputes with the U.S. U.S. tech companies would then face only the one tax regime, instead of a multitude of different national digital taxes.

___

McHugh reported from Frankfurt, Germany.
ANCHORAGE, Alaska (AP)  The leaders of Alaska's Republican Party on Saturday endorsed a challenger to incumbent U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski, who has been one of the GOP's most outspoken critics of former President Donald Trump, the Anchorage Daily News reported.

The Alaska Republican State Central Committee endorsed Kelly Tshibaka in the 2022 race for the U.S. Senate seat held by Murkowski. The committee approved Tshibakas endorsement in a 58-17 vote during a meeting in Fairbanks, the newspaper reported.
BANGKOK (AP)  Soe Win stood in line at a plant to buy oxygen for his grandmother, who is struggling with COVID-19 symptoms.

I have been waiting since 5 in the morning until 12 noon but Im still in line. Oxygen is scarcer than money, said the resident of Myanmar's biggest city, Yangon.

Consumed by a bitter and violent political struggle since the military seized power in February, Myanmar has been slow to wake up to a devastating surge in cases since mid-May. It has left many of the sick like Soe Win's grandmother to suffer at home if they cannot find a bed at an army hospital, or prefer not to trust their care to the widely disliked government.

Under Aung San Suu Kyi, the civilian leader ousted by the military, Myanmar had weathered its second coronavirus surge beginning in August last year by severely restricting travel, sealing off Yangon, and curbing election campaigning in virus hot spots where lockdowns were imposed.

Suu Kyi appeared frequently on television with stern but empathetic entreaties to the public on how to deal with the situation. Vaccine supplies were secured from India and China. Her ouster came less than a week after the first jabs were given to health workers.

Suu Kyis removal by the military sparked widespread protests, and medical workers spearheaded a popular civil disobedience movement that called on professionals and civil servants not to cooperate with the military-installed government.

Military hospitals continued operating but were shunned by many, while doctors and nurses who boycotted the state system ran makeshift clinics, for which they faced arrest. The pace of vaccinations slowed to a crawl, threatening an explosion in infections.

No wise person with a good heart and a sincere desire for truth would want to work under the juntas rule, said Zeyar Tun, founder of the civic action group Clean Yangon who helped out at quarantine centers. Under Suu Kyi, the government and volunteers worked together to control the disease, but it is difficult to predict what the future holds under military rule.

Photos and news stories early last week of people lining up to buy oxygen in the city of Kalay in the northwestern Sagaing region brought home the reality that Myanmar's health care, already one of the world's weakest, was on its knees.

From Myanmar, our U.N. colleagues on the ground say theyre concerned about the rapid increase in the number of recorded COVID-19 cases, U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric said in New York. The U.N. team warns that a major outbreak of COVID-19 would have devastating consequences on both peoples health and on the economy. They stress the importance of resuming the delivery of essential health services, implementing measures to prevent the spread of the virus, and to scale up vaccinations.

By the end of the week, residents of Myanmars two biggest cities, Yangon and Mandalay, were also having trouble finding oxygen supplies.

Myanmars new leader, Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, in a Friday meeting on COVID-19 response ordered oxygen plants to work at full capacity, including converting industrial oxygen for the needs of patients.

Investment and Foreign Trade Minister Aung Naing Oo followed up on Saturday with an announcement that the government is dropping all duties and licensing requirements for the import of oxygen concentrators  devices that generate oxygen.

The Health Ministry on Saturday reported a record 4,377 new confirmed cases for a total of 188,752, as well as a record 71 deaths, bringing the toll to 3,756. The number of tested people found to be infected is hovering around 25%, and equally alarming is how quickly the numbers have been rising.

The data on vaccinations is not very clear, but it appears that as of last month, only 3.5 million doses had been administered to the country's 55 million people, meaning a maximum of 3.2% of the population would be fully vaccinated with two doses.

According to Johns Hopkins University, the seven-day rolling average rose from 1.18 cases per 100,000 people on June 25 to 6.08 cases per 100,000 people on July 9. In the same period, deaths jumped from 0.01 per 100,000 people to 0.08.

Even those numbers are likely an undercount.

According to aid group Relief International, Myanmars major challenges are a lack of adequate screening, testing capacity and availability of vaccines.

The Health Ministry announced Thursday night that all schools would be closed for two weeks. Stay-at-home orders had already been issued for badly hit neighborhoods in several cities, including Yangon, and basic field hospitals set up.
Announcement is made of the engagement and upcoming wedding of Emily Pambianco to Joshua Toolajian, both of Summit, New Jersey.

The bride-elect is the daughter of Rick and Marina Pambianco, Archbald. She is a graduate of Valley View High School and earned a bachelors degree in communication sciences and disorders from The Pennsylvania State University. She also earned a masters degree in speech language pathology from Bloomsburg University, and is a territory business manager for Scilex Pharmaceuticals.

The prospective bridegroom is the son of Loren and Anne Toolajian, Chatham, New Jersey. He is a graduate of Chatham High School and earned a bachelors degree in communications from The Pennsylvania State University. He is a senior producer/editor at Barstool Sports.

The couple met in college at PSU.

The wedding is set for Sept. 5 at 1:30 p.m. in Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish, Peckville.
Mary Ann Stoppini took a culinary challenge and made a dish all her own.

When the North Pocono womans late husband, Francesco, began dialysis a few years ago, he wasnt allowed to have tomatoes or anything tomato-based. For an Italian like him, this was a tough blow, but she began experimenting with vegetable-based pastas. Stoppini estimated that she created about 20 kinds of pastas using different vegetables.

I think for me its the fun of mixing together different vegetables and seeing how they taste, she said on a recent day at her Elmhurst Twp. home. Its also relaxing for me to just get to be creative. Thats what I love about cooking.

One of her favorites is Pasta with Asparagus and Prosciutto Cream Sauce, which earned Stoppini a $50 gift card to Riccardos Market, 1219 Wheeler Ave., Dunmore. While cooks can use any type of pasta for this dish, Stoppini noted that short pastas work best (she prefers penne). Cooks also can add some carrots to the pasta for a little more color, she said, and all different vegetables and meats will work in it. Sometimes, she adds artichokes, black olives and cherry tomatoes.

You really can do whatever you want with it, she said. I just try it out and see what works and what doesnt. Its very forgiving, though.

Stoppini and her husband lived in Italy for a time, and it shaped her culinary style. Stoppini rarely serves pasta without another course. And while she made soup from scratch for her husband to have every day for lunch, Stoppini also makes risotto with different mix-ins as well. Dessert usually means something fruit-based, such as baked apples or a dish she makes with red wine and pears. She also makes a great tomato sauce.

A member of Keystone Chapter UNICO, Stoppini also fills her time with sharing her love of Italian culture. She and her daughter host private European tours, too. If you see Italy with Stoppini, you wont visit the traditional tourist spots but rather Italys best-kept secrets.

Were only stopping at the places that we would eat at or like to visit, she said. Its a beautiful country and a beautiful culture.
DICKSON CITY  After a quick, hands-on lesson in making an excavator bucket drop, scoop, lift, move and unload, Michael Cain, 4, of Archbald deftly dug into a big pile of dirt all on his own.

The boy and his family were among a big crowd of big-truck enthusiasts who attended the Andrew Mazza Diesel Jam on Saturday at the Circle Drive-In.

The event supports the Andrew Mazza Foundation, Johnson Colleges diesel truck technology program, and scholarships for students at the college and in high school.

Mazza, of Greenfield Twp., was 23 when he was killed in a car crash in 2016.

While he never went to Johnson, Andrew was passionate about heavy equipment and the kinds of skills the college teaches. He graduated from Career Technology Center of Lackawanna County with a degree in machine tool technology and, like many in his family, including his father and grandfather, was a member of the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 542.

Family and friends have honored his memory by forming the nonprofit foundation that holds the annual truck extravaganza fundraiser and other charitable events.

We figured what better thing to do, than to find a diesel truck program, which was right here at Johnson, and pair up with them. Its just a fantastic match, said Dawn Ziegler, Mazzas friend and the foundations president. It took off. It was just a little idea we had and here we are.

The first two Diesel Jams, in 2018 and 2019, were held at Johnson College in Scranton, and were followed by a pandemic pause last year. The event motored back this year bigger than ever at the Circle Drive-In.

Event marketing chairwoman Theresa Bandru estimated that at least 500 people attended the free event, which also had 150 trucks registered. The vehicles on display, ranging from heavy equipment to semis to tow trucks to antique pickups, and spectators sprawled across the drive-ins spacious grounds.

They flock to it, Bandru said of the crowd.

Kids waited in long lines with their parents at a Diggerland attraction for the chance to manipulate a big-time excavators levers to control the bucket.

David Fultz, 4, of Exeter, who has a toy excavator at home, exclaimed I made a big scoop after his turn. Its like a 4-year-olds dream come true, Davids mom, Lindsey Fultz, said of the Diggerland activity.

Andrew Mazzas father, Phil Mazza, got a big kick out of seeing the small fry get the hang of operating an excavators arm and bucket. I love watching them, when you take someone who never ran them, Phil Mazza said.

A dynamometer that tested horsepower of diesel trucks and caused them to belch out black smoke also drew large crowds.

Trophies were awarded in various categories. A 1978 GMC pickup truck in honor of the late Kayla Jean Hartwell of Harpursville, New York, won Best in Show.

Organizers envision growth of the annual event.

We have bigger plans to just grow and be bigger and do more stuff, Ziegler said. Were hoping eventually to be a weekend event. That is a long-term goal, not maybe for next year, but that is the long-term goal. Youve got to look ahead.
Long before competitive eating became fodder for ESPN programming, Olyphant resident Phillip Yazdzik faced down an 18-pound ham.

An April 3, 1955, news article set the scene at Kolbacks Tavern on Grant Street in Olyphant, where about 100 people packed in to watch the eating exhibition  or whatever it could be called, according to reports. Both The Tribune and The Scrantonian covered the event.

Yazdzik approached the ham challenge casually. A photo caption with the news story showed him munching a tray of pizza before getting down to business and reported that the Olyphant trencherman, who believes in a sound conditioning program, ate his three regular meals (the day before) including a few between-meal snacks, in order to prepare his digestive system for his attack on the large porker.

The initial challenge called for Yazdzik to polish off the 18-pounder in 90 minutes. He set off at a comfortable pace, downing six bottles of soda and a quantity of rye bread along with the ham without apparent strain, the article reported.

But the salt in the ham prevented him from cleaning the bone in the 90 minutes he allowed himself for the project, the article said. However, after finishing about 13 pounds before the deadline, he agreed to continue until he finished. The eating project looked like it would continue into the wee hours of the morning.

His wife, Kathryn Yazdzik, told reporters she was surprised he didnt finish up the ham in 90 minutes, since hed done so before.

Last Christmas Eve when I went to midnight Mass I left a 15-pound ham on the table, she said. When I came back, there was only the bone.

The ham challenge wasnt the first extreme eating event the 5-foot 7-inch, 201-pound man had undertaken, the article added.

He set a record for eating 76 hamburgers at a sitting. He also once ate 53 pierogies, according to The Scranton Times.

But Im at my best at a clambake, he told Scranton Times reporter Tom Casey, who reported Yazdzik could consume dozen after dozen of clams (and) gallons of chowder.

His huge appetite led to a grocery bill of $130 a week for himself, his wife and seven children  that equates to more than $1,200 today. To help support his love of eating, Yazdzik worked as a locomotive brakeman for Hudson Coal Co.s Olyphant shaft and picked up part-time hours at Pinkus & Son Furniture Store in Olyphant.

Later that month, Yazdzik traveled to Chicago for a burger-a-thon at Peter Pan Restaurant, The Tribune reported.

The publicity stunt was the work of ad man Robert Bob Murphy, a former Scrantonian. Murphys firm, Harshe-Rothman in Chicago, represented the Peter Pan chain and thought Yazdziks bottomless appetite would bring attention to the restaurant, according to the April 17, 1955, Tribune article.

Yazdzik received a substantial sum of money and all expenses paid for his trip to the Windy City, Murphy told The Tribune.

After a day of press conferences and guest appearances on TV and radio shows, Yazdziks hamburger showdown began with a physical exam and a weigh-in. He ultimately downed 77 burgers  along with 24 glasses of milk, 10 pounds of rolls and six bottles of soft drink, one account reported  setting an unofficial record and earning a mention in the Guinness Book of Superlatives, as it was called in the late 1950s.

In 1983, Guinness Books wrote to Yazdziks granddaughter, a C. Shelesky of Archbald, to say they had tried to track down the weight of the burgers he consumed in Chicago in 1955 but had been unable to do so.

I think the best we can do in the circumstances is to name your grandfather as one of the great trenchermen, along with Bozo Miller, the letter reads. The data simply does not exist to be precise about the amount of biomass he consumed and in any event modern eating records ... have the accent on speed rather than mass.

Yazdzik continued his eating exhibitions, including consuming 101 bananas in 15 minutes in 1957 for a Lackawanna United Funds Top Banana fundraiser. He also made headlines in the late 1950s and beyond for consuming mass amounts of chicken (15 in one sitting), hot dogs (81 at a time), pancakes and more.

He died at his Olyphant home in late December 1986. He is buried in St. Michaels Church cemetery, according to his obituary, which does not mention his eating fame.
An often-cited, hypothetical example of chutzpah is the man who murders his parents and then asks the court for mercy because he is an orphan.

Now some Republican state legislative leaders have added a real-world court-based example of their own.

Six underfunded Pennsylvania school districts, a group of parents and several civil rights organization have sued the state government for its demonstrable failure to equitably fund all 500 districts statewide.

The cause of the disparity is obvious. When the Legislature adopted a fair funding formula in 2015, it applied it only to additional money appropriated after that year, rather than to all funding.

The Scranton School District (not a party to the suit), would receive nearly $40 million more every year if the fair funding formula were applied to all state school funding.

Some of the same lawmakers who are responsible for those appalling disparities argued Wednesday in Commonwealth Court that the racial compositions of the adversely affected districts should not be admitted as evidence because the plaintiffs did not allege intentional racial discrimination.

Apparently, coincidental racial discrimination is OK, as in: Black and Latino students make up about 25% of the states K-12 population, but half of Black students and 40% of Latino students attend school in the poorest fifth of the states districts.

A lawyer representing Republican Speaker of the House Bryan Cutler argued that the inclusion of racial data is an appeal to the sympathies of the court and the court of public opinion.

If so, heres hoping it succeeds.
Angela B. Brinko of South Abington Twp. died peacefully July 3, 2021.

Born in Scranton, she resided in South Abington Twp. for many years after moving with her husband to Taiwan, Libya, Germany, Upstate New York and Maine. She had an extensive and varied nursing career, working in military hospitals, home health, and ending it as school nurse for the Abington Heights School District.

A lover of art, flowers, and beauty, she tried to leave the world a better place. She loved exploring places close and far. As someone who could converse with anyone, it was not unusual during her travels to find new friends, get a new recipe or learn about a local attraction to visit. At her core, she was positive, honest and a fighter; fighting for what was right and fighting to persevere with her various health issues. All who knew her will deeply miss her friendship, character, force and presence. She is preceded in death by her husband, the late Joseph Brinko, and various relatives, and is survived by her daughter.

A blessing service will be held on Tuesday, July 13, at 7 p.m. at Lawrence E Young Funeral Home, 418 S. State St., Clarks Summit, with services by the Rev. Arbogaste Satoun. Friends may call from 5 p.m. until time of service. Interment will be at Fort Indiantown Gap, Annville.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Wills Eye Foundation for the Cornea Service, 840 Walnut St., Philadelphia, PA 19107 or a charity of your choice.
Westerly, RI (02891)

Today

Mostly cloudy skies early, then partly cloudy this afternoon. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 79F. Winds SSW at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy skies this evening will become overcast overnight. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 66F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph.
Westerly, RI (02891)

Today

Cloudy skies early, followed by partial clearing. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 79F. Winds SSW at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy skies early will give way to cloudy skies late. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low around 65F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph.
Motorists are being warned about a new wave of scammers that are taking advantage of problems at the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency to rip people off.

The Government-backed website has struggled to handle a backlog of paperwork this year  with unanswered phone calls and failures at responding on its online chat service when users try to renew a driving licence or pay their car tax.

Exploiting the potential chaos, fraudsters have been bombarding people with fake text messages claiming they are from the DVLA  and warning motorists that their payment details need to be updated or that their road tax requires renewal.

Scam: Fraudsters have been bombarding people with fake text messages claiming they are from the DVLA

These messages provide a link for recipients to give their bank account details, enabling thieves to go on and steal from them.

The scams are often headed with capitalised letters: for example, 'ACTION REQUIRED' or 'FINAL REQUEST'. Another favourite criminal ruse is sending out emails explaining how 'your latest vehicle tax payment failed' or 'you are not up to date with your vehicle tax'.

Accompanying these fraudulent messages are often financial threats, such as a 1,000 fine if payment is not made. Copycat websites should also be avoided. These pose as being official but are nothing to do with the genuine gov.uk website.

A DVLA spokesman says: 'Gov.uk is the only website where customers can find our official services  many of which are free. You may be charged a premium when using other websites. You should also be wary of texts and emails being sent from potential fraudsters.'
Green, socially responsible investing is all the rage. It's a welcome trend in a world where evidence of frightening climate change is everywhere.

It's spawned a rash of investment funds with an 'ESG' label  ESG standing for environmental, social and (corporate) governance  and it has got a lot of youngish people interested in investing for the very first time.

Recent research by Boring Money suggests that more than six in ten adults between the ages of 18 and 34 would choose a new fund manager based on ESG factors.

Flying the flag: At the end of the day, L&G's fund principally invests in government bonds issued by the Ministry of Finance of the People's Republic of China

All fine and dandy then? Well, not really. In the rush to profit from this surge in socially responsible investing, some (not all) investment companies are taking short cuts. They are labelling investment funds as ESG friendly when they patently aren't according to the contents of their underlying portfolios.

This misleading art is called greenwashing and it's bang out of order. It's like buying a chicken for Sunday lunch that is labelled as free-range, only to discover later that it came from a battery farm.

Over the past year, we've questioned the authenticity of some ESG portfolio management services. We have also raised concerns over the favourable sustainability ratings given to stock market-listed companies that operate in sectors normally off limits for ethical investors  for example, gambling and alcohol. Yet evidence of greenwashing keeps resurfacing like sewage in a river.

The latest example is that of an ESG-labelled exchange traded fund that is being promoted by Legal & General, a company that goes out of its way to signal its ESG credentials.

As it says on its website: 'Environmental, social and governance factors and impact investing in the real economy are at the heart of our investment approach.'

I don't doubt for one moment its commitment 'to act decisively on ESG matters', but I cannot see how the L&G ESG China CNY Bond fund  listed on the UK stock market  merits its socially responsible investing label.

Although L&G's literature says the fund's performance is linked to an index that tilts towards bond investments that are 'ranked higher on ESG criteria', this is no more than glossy marketing speak  in other words, greenwashing.

At the end of the day, the fund principally invests in government bonds issued by the Ministry of Finance of the People's Republic of China. Indeed, its top ten holdings are all Chinese government bonds with maturity dates ranging from 2023 through to 2030.

Maybe, some of these bonds are being used to fund China's push into green energy, but L&G's latest factsheet on the fund makes no mention of this.

But then, maybe the bonds are being used to finance the country's continued investment in new fossil fuel-burning coal plants  or even worse, to help suppress human rights in parts of the republic and to fund its aggressive militarisation of the South China Sea.

We just don't know because L&G doesn't tell investors. But what we do know is that the fund's portfolio is little different to that of other China bond funds  for example, iShares China CNY Bond ETF  which do not use an ESG label.

Alan Miller, co-founder of wealth manager SCM Direct, says the ESG labelling of this L&G fund 'is the most flagrant example of greenwashing' that he has seen to date in the UK. Quite damning words given Miller has spent a big chunk of the last 18 months examining the robustness of ESG-badged investment products.

He believes L&G should remove ESG from the fund's name on the grounds of misrepresentation and possible mis-selling. I agree. And if it doesn't, the regulator  quite hot on ESG issues  should instruct it to (again, I'm in agreement).

Some of the country's powerful wealth platforms should also do their bit by either removing the fund or putting a warning notice on it. Both Hargreaves Lansdown and AJ Bell are selling the fund.
Tony Hetherington is Financial Mail on Sunday's ace investigator, fighting readers corners, revealing the truth that lies behind closed doors and winning victories for those who have been left out-of-pocket. Find out how to contact him below.

D.L. writes: A friend advised me of a one-year bond from Investec which offered a good return, so I checked the website and spoke to a helpful adviser who was not pushy, and I agreed to invest 25,000.

When I was making the payment transfer, my bank  Santander  asked the usual questions about sending money to a previously unknown account and mentioned potential fraud, but without detailing how to check any indications.

I now know that I was dealing with a clone of the real Investec, and the clone's existence was known to Santander, so I think the bank should shoulder some of my loss.

A good result: The unexpectedly good news though, is that Santander is refunding the entire 25,000

Tony Hetherington replies: Investec is a major investment company, and the clone used its logo, its address and the names of its staff to offer you a bond yielding 5.75 per cent. It also used the correct company registration number and the authorisation code issued by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Crucially though, the clone fraudsters did not use the real Investec's website, telephone number or bank account. So when you looked at the website, spoke to an adviser, and then transferred your 25,000, you were only dealing with the crooks. Without realising it, you had sidestepped all the details of the genuine firm.

In fact, even the fraudsters' fake phone number was itself fake. I traced it to a communications company called Numbergroup Utilities, but was told the number has never been used, and no call has ever been connected to it.

This means the crooks were 'spoofing' the number, quite possibly from abroad.

You transferred 25,000 from your Santander account to sort code 040483, account number 04388673. This sort code belongs to Viola Money (Europe) Limited, which is licensed by the Financial Conduct Authority as an 'electronic money institution', allowing it to provide payment services.

It is not a bank like Santander, which told me that Viola has not signed up to the voluntary code under which most banks repay money lost through 'authorised push payment' scams, where customers are tricked into transferring funds. I repeatedly invited Viola to comment and say who received your stolen 25,000 but it failed to do so.

This brings me to Santander. I was disturbed by what you told me about the bank being aware of the clone. After all, Santander turned down any idea of refunding you, as it said it had done nothing wrong, even though the existence of the clone was well known and the FCA had even issued an alert.

So why had Santander not warned you about the fake Investec?

The answer is that Santander had no idea you thought you were sending money to Investec. On instructions from the crooks, you told Santander you were sending money to a firm that you were 'paying for a service'.

If you had mentioned Investec, Santander would certainly have sounded the alarm.

The unexpectedly good news though, is that Santander is refunding your entire 25,000.

Staff told me: 'We have the utmost sympathy for Mr L and all who fall victim to the criminals who carry out these scams.' By the time you read this, the 25,000 will be back in your account.

In future though, it would be a good idea to compare an investment firm's telephone number with the number shown on the FCA register and only use the number from the register. And if a supposedly genuine firm tells you to lie about where you are sending your money, do not trust it a second longer.

Why was I billed by a nail bar in Miami?

J.F. writes: I ordered two sets of cushions online. Next day I received confirmation of my payment from PayPal, but my PayPal account referred to an order from a nail bar firm in Florida, which was nothing to do with my order for cushions.

I contacted PayPal and was told my order had been delivered to an address in California.

PayPal now says it regards the matter as closed.

Scam: J.F.'s PayPal account referred to an order from a nail bar firm in Florida, which was nothing to do with the order for cushions

Tony Hetherington replies: The online advertisement for cushions has disappeared and seems to have been a scam, simply aimed at getting you to authorise a payment by PayPal that could be diverted.

I did track down the nail bar in Miami, Florida, but found it had ceased trading. It is now impossible to tell whether the nail bar was involved in this scam, or whether someone in California did place an order with the Miami business, but found a way to charge your PayPal account instead of their own.

The good news is that I had a word with PayPal and staff there reopened their investigation and decided they will repay you in full after all. PayPal told me: 'We originally rejected Mr F's claim as he claimed on the basis that the payment was unauthorised, rather than because he did not receive the goods he ordered. We have now taken another look and refunded on the basis of non-delivery of the goods.'

British Gas dented my credit report by mixing up names

Ms N.K. writes: I received my credit report from Experian and found that British Gas has linked me to someone with a similar name, but different spelling, and who lives in a different part of the country.

British Gas told me it would sort it out, but did not and said it was up to me.

It denied filing any report to another agency, Equifax, though I found out it had, in fact, given it the same false information.

Tony Hetherington replies: Worse was to come. You raised a dispute with both credit agencies, but both replied that British Gas was standing by its report.

Experian told you: 'They have confirmed the address link is accurate, so we do not have permission to amend or delete this entry on your credit report.'

Absurdly though, when I looked at the report itself, it was clear that there were two similar surnames, spelled differently. And when I checked voters' lists, you appeared at your home address, but there was no trace of your double at the other address, in Bootle, Merseyside. British Gas has told me that it linked the two addresses because your double had actually used your home address when she arranged for British Gas to supply the other address in 2017.

She no longer uses it as a supplier and British Gas has conceded that it has no real evidence to link you to the Bootle address so it has now contacted credit agencies, cancelling the link.

If you believe you are the victim of financial wrongdoing, write to Tony Hetherington at Financial Mail, 2 Derry Street, London W8 5TS or email tony.hetherington@mailonsunday.co.uk. Because of the high volume of enquiries, personal replies cannot be given. Please send only copies of original documents, which we regret cannot be returned.
Like the UK economy, dividends paid by UK companies to shareholders are firmly in recovery mode. Last week, wealth platform AJ Bell forecast that dividend payments made by the 100 largest companies listed on the UK stock market would grow by 25 per cent this year to just short of 77billion.

Although the bounce back is admittedly after the dividend decimation of last year caused by the economic fallout from the pandemic, it will be warmly welcomed by an army of private investors who depend on the income to bolster their household finances.

If AJ Bell's financial crystal ball gazers are right, it should mean that the FTSE100 Index as a whole will deliver an annual income this year equivalent to around four per cent  a rate not available from most other financial assets, especially cash where savers are lucky if they can get an annual return of 0.01 per cent.

Hot stuff: While many investors will be comfortable holding big income-friendly stocks, an increasing number will be more selective as a result of ethical considerations

Furthermore, AJ Bell believes the recovery in dividends will continue into next year, albeit at a slower pace (2.2 per cent).

So, all good news? Well, not really. If you dig a little deeper into the wealth platform's analysis, you soon discover that much of this year's dividend lift will be provided by just ten companies.

These include a clutch of big banks  Barclays, HSBC, NatWest and Lloyds  which last year were leant on by the City regulator to stop paying dividends while the pandemic raged and the economy teetered on the edge of catastrophe. Also, among the ten are mining giants Anglo American, BHP, Glencore and Rio Tinto. Completing the list are BT and housebuilder Persimmon.

While many investors will be comfortable holding some of these big income-friendly stocks, an increasing number will be more selective as a result of ethical considerations. A heightened focus on environmental, social and corporate governance (ESG) issues means many investors are now shunning 'sin' stocks  irrespective of the juicy dividend carrots dangled before their eyes.

Although 'sin' is a subjective term when used in investment circles, 'sin' stocks tend to include mining companies (including the four just mentioned); oil and gas companies (the likes of BP and Shell); and businesses involved either in the manufacture of cigarettes (Imperial Brands and British American Tobacco) or alcohol (Diageo). All are dividend-friendly.

Indeed, last week, Shell confirmed its intention to give shareholders more cash following its decision last year to slash its dividend by two-thirds.

Dan Lane, senior analyst at share-dealing service Freetrade, says the link between 'sin' stocks and attractive dividends presents a dilemma for income investors mindful of ESG considerations.

He says: 'With the FTSE100 full of big pharmaceutical, mining and weaponry businesses and vice stocks such as tobacco and alcohol, matching your morals with your money is easier said than done. Especially, given that some of the least 'sustainable' businesses pay some of the highest dividends.'

Among some of the big companies expected to pay dividends this year, equivalent to an annual rate (yield) of seven per cent, are 'sin' stocks Anglo American, BAT, BHP, Imperial Brands and Rio Tinto.

'Is it even possible to get income outside the sectors of sin?' asks Lane. Well, it is, although it will mean investors being more pragmatic in terms of the income they want from their shares. A little less income now, in the hope of a growing income in the future.

Andy Marsh is co-manager of Artemis Income, a 4.8billion fund popular with investors in search of income. It is currently delivering an overall income equivalent to around four per cent a year.

To get this, the fund holds some dividend-friendly 'sin' stocks such as Anglo American and BP in its 47-strong portfolio as well as Barclays  expected to be one of the market's biggest dividend payers this year. It also has exposure to some big 'yielders' such as Legal & General (seven per cent) and Direct Line (eight per cent). Yet a key part of Marsh's overall investment strategy is about identifying UK companies which pay a modest dividend (between two and three per cent a year), but offer the prospect of sustained dividend growth in the next three to five years.

'As a fund manager, cashflow is everything when it comes to looking for businesses which will pay shareholders a sustainable income,' says Marsh.

'We want to ensure a company will have sufficient cash left over to pay dividends once it has paid all its bills and made all the necessary investment in its business to protect and grow it. Strong cashflow drives strong dividends. But if a business's cashflow looks as if it could be compromised, red lights flash. It's a signal that a dividend shock could be around the corner.'

Marsh says the likes of Relx and London Stock Exchange are good examples of businesses underpinned by good cashflow.

He says: 'Although both have roots going back to the 19th Century, they have morphed  unnoticed by many  towards the new economy. They're profitable, growing, future facing and the dividends they pay appear sustainable. They also tick all the boxes as far as ESG investors are concerned.'

FTSE100 company Relx, he says, has embraced technology to digitalise its publishing business. Meanwhile, LSE, also FTSE100 listed, earns 70 per cent of its revenue from subscriptions built around its data and analytics.

'The digitalisation of financial markets' data is still in its early stages,' adds Marsh. 'It presents a long-term opportunity as demand grows from banks, wealth and asset managers.' Relx grew its dividend last year by just under three per cent and it currently offers a dividend yield equivalent to around 2.4 per cent. London Stock Exchange grew its dividend by seven per cent last year with Marsh predicting 'double-digit growth' over the next three to five years.

Both these companies appear on AJ Bell's list of FTSE100 companies which have grown their dividends every year for the past decade (see table). Last year, this list was 24-strong, but it has now shrunk to just 15.

Russ Mould, investment director at AJ Bell, says many of these companies do not offer dividends that in terms of yield are going to set income investors' pulses racing. But he says investors should not be put off.

Mould adds: 'History suggests it is not the highest-yielding stocks which prove to be the best long-term investments. Defending a high yield can become a burden for a business and the strongest long-term performance often comes from firms that have the best long-term dividend growth record.'

By way of example, he points to safety equipment manufacturer Halma, which is among the 15 'dividend aristocrats' listed in the table. It has increased dividends in each of the past 42 years, always by at least five per cent. Last year, the dividend totalled 17.65pence a share, a seven per cent increase on the year before. With a share price above 27, the dividends equate to a yield of just 0.6 per cent.

Mould says: 'Halma's share price was 1.9pence at the start of 1979 when its dividend growth streak began. So this year's forecasted dividend of 18.5pence looks pretty good against that.

'Its current share price represents an astonishing capital return over the past 40 years and shows how well-run, well-financed companies can reward truly patient investors  with a combination of capital gains and income growth.'

AND DON'T FORGET INVESTMENT TRUSTS

Among AJ Bell's FTSE100 'dividend aristocrats' is Scottish Mortgage, the country's largest investment trust.

Managed by Edinburgh-based Baillie Gifford, it has delivered 39 years of dividend growth although this aspect of its investment armoury often goes unnoticed by investors who get drawn into it because of its extraordinary investment record.

Over the past year, its share price has increased by nearly 44 per cent  144 per cent over three years.

Yet, Scottish Mortgage is not the only stock market-listed investment trust to have a record of sustained dividend growth. It is one of 18 which have grown their income to shareholders for at least 20 years. Top of the tree are Alliance, Bankers, Caledonia and City of London which have all increased dividends for 54 years.

ONE FINAL THOUGHT ON SIN STOCKS AND INCOME

Investment expert Rachel Winter believes that investors should not automatically snub all 'sin' stocks when searching for income. She says many such companies are striving to change the focus of their businesses to become more eco-friendly.

Others are involved in industries which are supplying the materials necessary to reduce the world's reliance on fossil fuels.

Winter, an associate director of stockbroker Killik, says: 'Yes, tobacco companies are sin stocks, but it all becomes a bit more subjective when you look at other businesses such as mining. Take Rio Tinto, for example. Yes, it has been involved in some big environmental controversies, but through its mining of copper it is playing a key role in facilitating the growth of the eco-friendly electric car.

'Similarly, while BP and Shell are still dependent on oil production, they have outlined plans to become net-zero emissions businesses by 2050.'

Winter's preferred eco-friendly income stock is energy supplier SSE which is busy building the world's largest offshore wind farm at Dogger Bank in the North Sea. Its dividend is equivalent to more than five per cent a year.
American tech giant Apple has threatened to quit the UK over a $7billion (5billion) legal row.

Apple's lawyers warned it could quit the UK market if a court forces the company to pay a 'commercially unacceptable' fee for the technology used in its iPhones.

The extraordinary threat raises the prospect of an end to new iPhone sales in the UK and the restriction of services and upgrades to existing customers.

Although Apple is highly unlikely to follow through with its ultimatum, the row is the latest sign of the escalating hostilities as British authorities try to rein in the powerful US tech giants.

Apple issued the warning as part of a court battle with UK patent holder Optis Cellular Technology.

Once bitten: Apple issued the warning as part of a court battle with UK patent holder Optis Cellular Technology

Optis is suing Apple for patent infringement after the iPhone maker refused to pay licence fees worth a possible $7billion for using 'standardised' smartphone technology in its products.

A High Court judge ruled last month that Apple had infringed two Optis patents, which help iPhones connect to the 3G and 4G networks.

Optis has brought a string of similar claims over patents for other technologies it says Apple has used.

Apple faces a trial in 2022 over how much it should pay. The UK Supreme Court ruled last year that a UK court is able to set the rate Apple should pay for all of its iPhone patents worldwide, even though the court only considers the infringement of UK patents.

At a hearing in January, Mr Justice Meade warned Apple that 'it might be disappointed' by the rate set by a judge.

Apple could walk away from the fees if it exits the UK market. But Mr Justice Meade suggested this was unlikely, saying: 'There is no evidence Apple is really going to say no [to paying the rate set by the judge], is there? There is no evidence it is even remotely possible Apple will leave the UK market?'

Apple's lawyer Marie Demetriou replied: 'I am not sure that is right... Apple's position is it should indeed be able to reflect on the terms and decide whether commercially it is right to accept them or to leave the UK market. There may be terms that are set by the court which are just commercially unacceptable.'

There will be a separate court case later this month over whether Apple should make a legally-binding pledge to abide by the payout rate decided at trial in July 2022.

Apple could be banned from selling iPhones in the UK if it refuses to make undertakings to the court.

Kathleen Fox Murphy of EIP Legal, representing Optis, said: 'Everyone thinks about Apple as the market leader in smartphones, but Apple has to buy in most of the technology in an iPhone.'
Tycoon Elliott Bernerd is in talks to buy a stake in a London-listed surveying firm in a move that could eventually see the return of his Chelsfield real estate empire to the stock market.

Bernerd, who made an estimated 250million in 40 years in the London property market, is in talks to buy a 29.9 per cent shareholding in Fletcher King.

City sources said the unusual deal could be part of a longer-term plan to merge Chelsfield with Fletcher King so that the real estate firm can attain a new listing on the stock market.

Bold return: City sources said the unusual deal could be part of a longer-term plan to merge Chelsfield with Fletcher King

Chelsfield floated in 1993 but in 2004 Bernerd took the company private for 1.86billion with the backing of a consortium that included the billionaire Reuben Brothers and Saudi Arabia's Olayan Group.

Bernerd, 76, worked as an estate agent in London before setting up Chelsfield. He was involved in the development of the Westfield shopping complex in West London.

City sources estimated Chelsfield would be valued at 100 million to 150 million if it were back on the London Stock Exchange.

Fletcher King, whose shares closed at 46p on Friday, said: 'Discussions are ongoing, including regarding price, and there can be no certainty that the potential transaction will proceed.' Chelsfield did not comment.
Royal Mail is preparing a Supreme Court appeal over a record 50million fine for alleged anti-competitive behaviour.

The huge penalty was imposed by regulator Ofcom in 2018 after a complaint by rival Whistl, then called TNT Post UK.

Whistl had conducted trials of direct letter deliveries. Royal Mail then put up its charges for firms handling bulk business mail. The trials were suspended after a backer pulled its funding.

Challenge: Royal Mail appealed against the fine to the Competition Appeal Tribunal, but this was rejected

Royal Mail appealed against the fine to the Competition Appeal Tribunal, but this was rejected. An appeal of that judgment was dismissed by the Court of Appeal earlier this summer.

A Royal Mail spokeswoman said: 'We are seeking permission to appeal this judgment to the Supreme Court.'

Separately, Whistl filed a damages claim against Royal Mail in the High Court in late 2018.

Royal Mail said: 'Whistl's High Court claim is on hold until after the completion of the appeal process.'
Britain's largest bookmakers have been given more than 600million in tax rebates on addictive gaming machines.

The taxman has been forced to reimburse bookmakers and casinos, who won a legal battle on VAT paid on fixed-odds betting terminals (FOBTs).

New documents show Betfred, owned by billionaire brothers Fred and Peter Done, has been paid 97.7million. William Hill confirmed it has been paid 208.3million.

A sign of the times: The taxman has been forced to reimburse bookmakers and casinos, who won a legal battle on VAT paid on fixed-odds betting terminals

Entain, which runs about 3,000 Ladbrokes and Coral betting shops, has received 217.5million and Flutter, the owner of Paddy Power, has been paid 15.9million. Rank, the owner of Mecca Bingo and Grosvenor Casinos, estimates its claim is about 80million.

Rank and the Done brothers jointly launched a tax tribunal against Revenue & Customs, saying they had been charged VAT on FOBTs in the years to 2013 even though FOBTs were similar to roulette wheels, which are exempt from VAT. A judge finally ruled in their favour in April last year.

The Revenue's decision not to appeal paved the way for William Hill and Entain to make similar claims.

Fixed-odds betting terminals once made up the bulk of bookmakers' profits. But their addictive nature saw them dubbed the 'crack cocaine' of gambling and in 2018 the Government curbed profits by reducing the maximum stake on each spin from 100 to 2.
Ministers were under pressure last night to order an inquiry into private equity plundering of British firms after Smiths Group became the latest to be targeted by a foreign predator.

Shares in the FTSE 100 company will be in focus this morning after it emerged that TA Associates had made a 2billion approach for its medical division, which makes ventilators for hospitals and has around 100 staff in the UK.

Swoop: TA Associates has made a 2billion approach for Smiths Group's medical division, which makes ventilators for hospitals and has around 100 staff in the UK

A successful sale would see Smiths Group, which is valued at 6.5billion and has 23,100 staff, effectively broken up.

The move led to cries for ministers to intervene amidst growing fears that prize British assets are being poached on the cheap, putting jobs, pensions and suppliers in the UK at risk. More than 135 firms have been sold to private equity since the start of 2020, according to Dealogic.

Nick Hood, a senior adviser at Opus Restructuring, said: 'There has to be an inquiry, there has to be some hardheaded analysis of what's happened so far. It's up to the Government to find a mechanism to prevent these companies being buried in debt.

'Some private equity companies are perfectly ethical and run their investments in a responsible manner, but far too many don't.'

His comments came as the board of Morrisons was placed under intense pressure to defend its decision to accept a 6.3billion bid from a consortium led by private equity firm Fortress. Chief executive David Potts has written to 3,000 farmers to say commitments from the potential new owners 'carry genuine weight', even though they are not legally binding.

Top ten shareholder Legal & General last week urged the grocer's board not to allow a takeover 'for the wrong reasons'.

At the same time, M&G slammed company directors for selling off the businesses they run too cheaply and cheating investors out of long-term gains.

Michael Stiasny, head of UK equities at the fund giant, said bosses were taking 'too much of a short-term view' and should be more 'willing to say no'. Smiths Group and TA Associates declined to comment.


remaining of

SUPPORT LOCAL JOURNALISM! On your next view you will be asked to log in to your subscriber account or create an account and subscribepurchase a subscription to continue reading.
The Rev. Gus Puleo is pastor of St. Patrick Church in Norristown and served as an adjunct professor of Spanish at St. Charles Borromeo Seminary in Philadelphia. He is a graduate of Norristown High School and attended Georgetown University, where he received B.A. and B.S. in Spanish and linguistics. He has masters degrees in Spanish, linguistics and divinity from Middlebury College, Georgetown University and St. Charles Borromeo Seminary. He holds a Ph.D. in Spanish from the University of Pennsylvania.
Princeton, KY (42445)

Today

Cloudy skies this morning followed by scattered showers and thunderstorms during the afternoon. High 78F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%..

Tonight

Variable clouds with showers and scattered thunderstorms. Storms more numerous this evening. Low 68F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 50%.
As you return to the office, heres what you need to know about your pets separation anxiety
Tenor Jude Balthazar will play a free concert at First Presbyterian Church in Kingsport on July 15.
We need all the law enforcement we can get
PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (AP)  Haitis interim government said Friday that it asked the U.S. to deploy troops to protect key infrastructure as it tries to stabilize the country and prepare the way for elections in the aftermath of the assassination of President Jovenel Moise.

We definitely need assistance and weve asked our international partners for help, Interim Prime Minister Claude Joseph told The Associated Press in an interview, declining to provide further details. We believe our partners can assist the national police in resolving the situation.

Joseph said that he was dismayed by opponents whove tried to take advantage of Moises murder to seize political power  an indirect reference to a group of lawmakers that have declared their loyalty and recognized Joseph Lambert, the head of Haitis dismantled senate, as provisional president and Ariel Henry, whom Moise designated as prime minister a day before he was killed, as prime minister.

"Im not interested in a power struggle, Joseph said in the brief phone interview, without mentioning Lambert by name. Theres only one way people can become president in Haiti. And thats through elections.

Joseph spoke just hours after the head of Colombia's police said that the Colombians implicated in Moise's assassination were recruited by four companies and traveled to the Caribbean nation in two groups via the Dominican Republic. Meanwhile, the U.S. said it would send senior FBI and Homeland Security officials to help in the investigation.

Haitian National Police Chief Leon Charles said 17 suspects have been detained in the brazen killing of Moise that stunned a nation already reeling from poverty, widespread violence and political instability.

As the investigation moved forward, the killing took on the air of a complicated international conspiracy. Besides the Colombians, among those detained by police were two Haitian Americans, who have been described as translators for the attackers. Some of the suspects were seized in a raid on Taiwans Embassy where they are believed to have sought refuge.

At a news conference in Colombias capital of Bogota, Gen. Jorge Luis Vargas Valencia said four companies had been involved in the recruitment, the gathering of these people implicated in the assassination, although he did not identify the companies because their names were still being verified.

Two of the suspects traveled to Haiti via Panama and the Dominican Republic, Vargas said, while a second group of 11 arrived in Haiti on July 4 from the Dominican Republic.

In Washington, White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said senior FBI and Department of Homeland Security officials will be sent to Haiti as soon as possible to assess the situation and how we may be able to assist.

The United States remains engaged and in close consultations with our Haitian and international partners to support the Haitian people in the aftermath of the assassination of the president, Psaki said.

Following Haiti's request for U.S. troops, a senior administration official reiterated Psakis earlier comments that the administration is sending officials to assess how it can be most helpful, but added there are no plans to provide military assistance at this time.

The U.S. sent troops to Haiti following the last presidential assassination in the country, the murder of President Vilbrun Guillaume Sam in 1915 at the hands of an angry mob that had raided the French Embassy where he had sought refuge.

In Haiti, National Police Chief Leon Charles said another eight suspects were still at large and being sought for

Investigative Judge Clement Noel told the French-language newspaper Le Nouvelliste that the Haitian Americans arrested, James Solages and Joseph Vincent, said the attackers originally planned only to arrest Moise, not kill him. Noel said Solages and Vincent were acting as translators for the attackers.

The same newspaper quoted Port-au-Prince prosecutor Bed-Ford Claude as saying he ordered an investigative unit of the National Police Force to interrogate all the security agents close to Moise. These include Moises security coordinator Jean Laguel Civil and Dimitri Herard, head of the General Security Unit of the National Palace.

If you are responsible for the presidents security, where have you been? What did you do to avoid this fate for the president? Claude said.

The attack, which took place at Moises home before dawn Wednesday, also seriously wounded his wife, who was flown to Miami for treatment.

Joseph assumed leadership with the backing of police and the military and declared a two-week state of siege. Port-au-Prince already has been on edge amid the growing power of gangs that displaced more than 14,700 people last month alone as they torched and ransacked homes in a fight over territory.

The killing brought the usually bustling capital to a standstill, but Joseph urged the public to return to work.

Vargas has pledged Colombias full cooperation, and authorities there identified 13 of the 15 Colombians implicated in the attack as retired members of the military, 11 captured and two killed. They range in rank from lieutenant colonel to soldier.

The commander of Colombias Armed Forces, Gen. Luis Fernando Navarro, said they had left the institution between 2018 and 2020.

In the criminal world, there is the concept of murder for hire and this is what happened: they hired some members of the (army) reserve for this purpose and they have to respond criminally for the acts they committed, said retired Colombian army general Jaime Ruiz Barrera.

Senior officials from Colombias security forces will travel to Haiti to help with the investigation.

U.S.-trained Colombian soldiers are heavily recruited by private security firms in global conflict zones because of their experience in a decades-long war against leftist rebels and powerful drug cartels.

The wife of one former Colombian soldier in custody said he was recruited by a security firm to travel to the Dominican Republic last month.

The woman, who identified herself only as Yuli, told Colombias W Radio that her husband, Francisco Uribe, was hired for $2,700 a month by a company named CTU to travel to the Dominican Republic, where he was told he would provide protection to some powerful families. She says she last spoke to him at 10 p.m. Wednesday  almost a day after Moises killing and said he was on guard duty at a house where he and others were staying.

The next day he wrote me a message that sounded like a farewell, the woman said. They were running, they had been attacked. ... That was the last contact I had.

The woman said she knew little about her husbands activities and was unaware he had even traveled to Haiti.

Uribe is under investigation for his alleged role in extrajudicial killings by Colombias U.S.-trained army more than a decade ago. Colombian court records show he and another soldier were accused of killing a civilian in 2008 who they later tried to present as a criminal killed in combat.

The CTU in question may be CTU Security in Miami-Dade. The business has two listed addresses on its website. One was a shuttered warehouse with no sign indicating who it belonged to. The other is a simple office under a different companys name where the receptionist says the CTU owner comes once a week to collect meal and hold the occasional meeting.

Solages, 35, described himself as a certified diplomatic agent, an advocate for children and budding politician on a now-removed website for a charity he started in 2019 in south Florida to assist resident of his home town of Jacmel, on Haitis southern coast.

Solages also said he had worked as a bodyguard at the Canadian Embassy in Haiti, and on his Facebook page, which was also taken down after news of his arrest, he showcased photos of armored military vehicles and a shot of himself standing in front of an American flag.

Canadas foreign relation department released a statement that did not refer to Solages by name but said one of the men detained for his alleged role in the killing had been briefly employed as a reserve bodyguard at its embassy by a private contractor.

Calls to the charity and Solages associates went unanswered. However, a relative in south Florida said Solages doesnt have any military training and doesnt believe he was involved in the killing.

I feel like my son killed my brother because I love my president and I love James Solages, Schubert Dorisme, whose wife is Solages aunt, told WPLG in Miami.

Taiwans Embassy in Port-au-Prince said police had arrested 11 individuals who tried to break into the compound early Thursday. It gave no details of their identities or a reason for the break-in but in a statement referred to the men as mercenaries and strongly condemned the cruel and barbaric assassination of Moise.

As for whether the suspects were involved in the assassination of the president of Haiti, that will need to be investigated by the Haitian police, Foreign Affairs spokesperson Joanne Ou told The Associated Press in Taipei.

Police were alerted by embassy security while Taiwanese diplomats were working from home. Haiti is one of a handful of countries with diplomatic relations with Taiwan.

___

Suarez reported from Bucaramanga, Colombia. Goodman reported from Miami. AP videographer Pierre-Richard Luxama in Port-au-Prince and Johnson Lai in Taipei, Taiwan, contributed.
A New York state DEC forest ranger is joining the fight to contain a wildfire in Oregon, according to a news release from the department.

The Department of Environmental Conservation ranger is an expert wildland firefighter according to the agency. Those firefighters are deployed nearly every year to help with fires in western states.

This ranger will help fight to Bootleg Fire, in the Fremont-Winema National Forest on Fuego Mountain. The fire is about 11 miles from the nearest town, but people have been ordered to evacuate areas outside of town close to the fire.

Its unseasonably hot and dry there and the fire is spreading toward a high-voltage powerline, according to the U.S. Forest Service.

"This is DECs first wildland firefighting deployment after 2020s busy fire season, DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos said in a statement. As climate change continues to drive wildfires that threaten communities throughout the West, New York state stands ready to assist our fellow states with expertise that our firefighters then bring back home to help with future emergency responses."

New York state began sending firefighting crews to western states in 1979 and usually sends one or two crews a year.

But in 2020, there were a record number of large wildfires. New York sent four 10-person crews to western states for two weeks each. Forest rangers also served as incident command specialists at various fires throughout the country.

All expenses for the crews are paid by the U.S. Forest Service, states or federal land agencies.
Lori Van Buren/Albany Times Union

The National Weather Service has issued a flash flood watch for western and northern parts of the Capital Region as heavy rain begins Sunday night.

The watch is for 8 p.m. Sunday to 2 p.m. Monday, and stretches in a wide swath from Binghamton, and then up through Syracuse and east to the Vermont border. It includes Fulton, Montgomery, Saratoga and Schenectady counties, as well as parts of Warren and Washington counties.
SEATTLE (AP)  Two Seattle police officers who were in Washington, D.C., during the Jan. 6 insurrection were illegally trespassing on Capitol grounds while rioters stormed the building, but they lied about their actions, a police watchdog said in a report released Thursday.

"They were both standing in the immediate vicinity of the Capitol Building in direct view of rioters lining the steps and climbing the walls," the Office of Police Accountability said in its report, citing video evidence. OPA finds it unbelievable that they could think that this behavior was not illegal, contrary to their claims at their OPA interviews.

After the release of the OPA report, Chief Adrian Diaz said he will hold accountable any Seattle Police Department officer involved in the insurrection, including disciplinary action up to and including termination. He said he would make a decision within 30 days.

The four officers who were cleared by the OPA are on active duty, but the two found to have violated the law and policy have been placed on administrative leave, police spokesperson Valerie Carson said.

The OPA Discipline Committee, which includes the officers chains of command, employment counsel and OPA Director Andrew Myerberg, recommended that the two officers be terminated.

The two were among a group of six Seattle officers who traveled to D.C. to attend President Donald Trump's Stop the Steal rally. Their trip became public after one of the officers posted a photo on Facebook of herself and a former officer at the demonstration. Four other officers later admitted that they were in D.C. on Jan. 6, too, but they said they had not participated in the riot.

The Office of Police Accountability launched an investigation to determine whether the officers violated the law or department policy. Their names have not been released because of contract restrictions with the City of Seattle. The officers also filed a lawsuit that sought to keep their names withheld from public records requests. That case is being appealed to the Washington Supreme Court.

The officers told investigators that they went to the Capitol to support Trump and hear him speak. Most said that they went back to their hotel after the rally and learned about the insurrection on the news.

But the OPA, using records, text messages, photographs, bank records and interviews with federal law enforcement, determined that two officers violated department policies and Washington, D.C., laws.

Seattle City Council President M. Lorena Gonzalez said the two officers should be fired.

Their participation in activities intended to undermine the lawful and legitimate results of our electoral system and diminish the integrity of our democracy, is unacceptable, she said in a statement. Additionally, there should be disciplinary action and accountability for the four other officers who participated in the reprehensible events on January 6.

The first officer, a man, said he and the other officer, a woman, left the rally and decided to go to the Capitol because President Trump had asked people to be there. He said he was exercising his First Amendment rights and was supporting a free and fair election.

The female officer said, while at the Capitol, she saw people peacefully standing on the lawn and around the building but couldn't see the Capitol steps.

But the FBI provided OPA investigators with three still photographs taken from a video of the two officers on the side of the Capitol as rioters were climbing scaffolding and surrounding the building.

The FBI said the person shooting the video turned to the male officer and asked well f***, doing it? Man with the camera then turned to face the building and a male off camera said: Thinking about it.

While shooting the video, the officers were standing in an area that was clearly marked off limits.

While they smiled and looked at the Capitol Building, as captured by the video stills, rioters defiled the seat of American democracy and assaulted numerous fellow officers, the OPA said. That they, as SPD officers, were direct witnesses to the acts that were going on around them, including the scaling of the Capitol Building walls, but did and said nothing, compounds this.

The video also undermines their claims that they didn't know they were trespassing, the OPA report said.

Not only were there signs posted in that area, but there were ongoing violent acts, the use of less-lethal tools by law enforcement officers, and multiple other signs that being in that location was inappropriate and impermissible, the report said.

The activities of a third officer were more difficult to confirm, the OPA said. He said he was in the grassy area with the first two officers for about 15 minutes but left to get food. Investigators said it was possible he was trespassing, but they didn't have video evidence.

By the same token, OPA could not find evidence to exonerate this employee, the report said. Accordingly, OPA recommended a finding of not sustained  inconclusive.

The investigation found that the other three officers did not violate the law or department policies.

Absent any illegal acts, the officers presence at this rally was absolutely protected by the Constitution, Myerberg said. OPA found this to be the case even if the views held by the officers and expressed at the rally were contrary to the majority view in Seattle or, for that matter, the views held by Myerberg as the factual decider in this case.
Charlie Riedel/AP

In response to the letter regarding the Catholic Church denying communion to the president, this is the exact line of thought that has forced many lifelong Catholics to find other places to worship. Everything in Brigid Rufos letter ("Catholic Church must deny communion to president," July 4, is the antithesis of what we have been taught Jesus preached. I was raised Catholic and attended Catholic school. I taught "faith formation" for many years as my children have grown up. I have held the hand of dear friends as they waited in Planned Parenthood awaiting pregnancy tests and an abortion. I have attended and celebrated with my gay friends as they married and became parents. I am no less of a Christian because of that. In fact, that makes me a true Christian actually living what I was taught all those years in Catholic school. Do unto others and the greatest of these is love are not only selective ideas when you think it should or shouldnt apply. My relationship with God is none of anyone's business and neither is whether or not I receive communion. Love, compassion, empathy, kindness, selflessness and forgiveness are the tenets of the Catholic Church, not judgment and fury. Perhaps those that judge so ferociously should step away from receiving communion for a while.

Eileen Carson

Clifton Park
Will Waldron/Albany Times Union

Thanks to the Times Union for highlighting the Hillside Views Neighborhood Revitalization housing program in Troy ("Affordable units planned in Troy," June 30), not only because it is replacing a local eyesore with desperately needed, beautiful affordable/supportive housing but also because it is being built steps away from the home of Darren Scott, a director with the state Division of Homes and Community Renewal. At the news conference, Scott said, "Yes, in my backyard."

Not mentioned in the article, however, was the fact that this excellent development was made possible in part by $2.6 million in federal funding through the National Housing Trust Fund. That funding helped make the project possible, leveraging $15 million in private, state and local funding.
ALBANY  Three openly gay members of the New York Assembly penned a letter to the Thruway Authority saying that Chick-fil-A should not be allowed to open locations inside Thruway rest stops as planned, because of the fast food chain's history of "opposing the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals."

Assembly members Harry Bronson, Deborah Glick and Daniel O'Donnell wrote the letter. Glick was the first openly gay or lesbian member of the Legislature, O'Donnell was the first openly gay man and Bronson, of Rochester, was the first openly gay member not from New York City. Bronson also owns an eatery, Equal=Grounds, a coffeehouse that he notes is "an inclusive public meeting place," in Rochester's South Wedge neighborhood.

The charity associated with Chick-fil-A and its founders for years donated to organizations, mostly religious groups, that took anti-LGBTQ+ stances. This has become a frequent talking point about Chick-fil-A, drawing controversy as the company has grown and established new locations. The company changed its charitable giving model last year to head-off criticism of its previous support of anti-LGBTQ oranizations, Vox reported. Its focuses now instead are on education, homelessness and hunger.

The Thruway is undergoing a $450 million project to renovate its rest stops that is starting this month. As part of the project, the Thruway announced a deal that would allow a host of different restaurants to open locations inside the rest stops, including Shake Shack, Popeyes, Panda Express, Starbucks, Panera and Chick-fil-A.

"As you may be aware, Chick-fil-A and its founders have a long and controversial history of opposing the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals and families," Friday's letter says. "This move by the Thruway Authority, strikes us, as sending a message to LGBTQ+ individuals and families that it doesn't share the same commitment to their civil rights as New York State. We are requesting that you re-examine the list of approved concessions for these rest spots considering Chick-fil-A's actions against the LGBTQ+ community."

The company already has locations throughout the state, including Buffalo, Rochester, New York City and the Albany International Airport  which is also run by a public authority, like the Thruway.

A spokesman for the fast food company offered a statement in response to the letter: Chick-fil-A is excited about the partnership and the opportunity to further serve the residents of New York. We want to be clear that Chick-fil-A does not have a political or social agenda, and we welcome everyone in our restaurants. We are proud to be represented by more than 200,000 diverse team members nationwide, and we strive to be a positive influence in our local communities. We do this, in part, by contributing $25,000 to food banks in each community where we open a new restaurant, and donating more than 10 million meals through our Shared Table program.

Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo was also cc'd on the assembly members' letter. As governor he pushed for legalization of gay marriage in 2011 and banned nonessential state travel to North Carolina over its trans bathroom law in 2016. This year, the Legislature passed - and Cuomo signed - the Gender Recognition Act, which allows more flexible gender identities on official state forms.

A spokesman for Cuomo did not respond to a request for comment.

"The New York State Thruway Authority, its Board of Directors, and staff support an inclusive environment that treats the tens of millions of people that travel our system with dignity and respect," said Thruway spokesman Jonathan Dougherty in an email.

The Thruway is partnering with a private company from Ireland, called Applegreen, which in turn is working with Chick-fil-A to bring locations to the rest stops. Dougherty said no taxpayer or toll dollars are being spent on the renovations (the $450 million is being generated because of a partnership with private business the authority says), and all the restaurants will have to follow existing state nondiscrimination laws.
Farmington, WV (26555)

Today

A mix of clouds and sun during the morning will give way to cloudy skies this afternoon. High near 80F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Clear to partly cloudy. Low 59F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph.
For copyright information, check with the distributor of this item, Star-Herald.
For copyright information, check with the distributor of this item, Traverse City Record-Eagle.
Black caucus: Several legislative aims were met this session

The Delaware Legislative Black Caucus says that several of its legislative aims were met during the General Assemblys latest session
Woman reels in wallet from 1980s while fishing, seeks owner

A woman in North Carolina says shes searching for a man who lost his wallet in a lake in the mid-1980s
[July 11, 2021] impress.ai Now Available on SAP(R) Store

SYDNEY, July 12, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Ideatory Australia Pty. Ltd. is pleased to announce that its impress.ai SaaS recruiting automation platform and conversational AI technology is now available on SAP Store, the online marketplace for SAP and partner offerings. "We aim to integrate our platform with all our clients' existing technology stacks, including with applicant tracking systems such as SAP SuccessFactors Recruiting," said Sudhanshu Ahuja, CEO and Co-Founder of impress.ai. "This integration can help companies dramatically improve their hiring efficiencies and effectiveness, while simultaneously improving candidate experience. It's a joyous moment for us to have impress.ai available on SAP Store for businesses using SAP solutions." The impress.ai platform integrates with the SAP SuccessFactors Recruiting solution to provide on-demand automation workflows and chatbots that users can access from within the applicat tracking system.



SAP Store, found at store.sap.com, delivers a simplified and connected digital customer experience for finding, trying, buying and renewing more than 1,800 solutions from SAP and its partners. There, customers can find the SAP solutions and SAP-validated solutions they need to grow their business. And for each purchase made through SAP Store, SAP will plant a tree. Ideatory Pte. Ltd. is a partner in the SAP PartnerEdge program. As such, it is empowered to build, market and sell software applications that supplement and build on SAP software and technology. The SAP PartnerEdge program provides the enablement tools, benefits and support to facilitate building high-quality, disruptive applications focused on specific business needs  quickly and cost-effectively. The program provides access to all relevant SAP technologies in one simple framework under a single, global contract.

About impress.ai impress.ai is a no-code, self-service platform that automates recruiting processes. It delivers up to 75% reduction in time to shortlist. AI chatbots are used to create seamless autonomous interview experiences for candidates, answering queries with a 96 percent accuracy rate while simultaneously delivering competency assessments. "impress.ai" and the "impress" logo are trademarks of Ideatory Pte. Ltd., which fully owns Ideatory Australia Pty. Ltd. Any statements in this release that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements as defined in the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All forward-looking statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties described in SAP's filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including its most recent annual report on Form 20-F, that could cause actual results to differ materially from expectations. SAP cautions readers not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements which SAP has no obligation to update and which speak only as of their dates. SAP and other SAP products and services mentioned herein as well as their respective logos are trademarks or registered trademarks of SAP SE in Germany and other countries. Please see https://www.sap.com/copyright for additional trademark information and notices. All other product and service names mentioned are the trademarks of their respective companies. SOURCE Ideatory Australia Pte. Ltd.

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
[July 11, 2021] IIIT Hyderabad Celebrates eConvocation 2021

523 students graduate, largest number in the institute's history 18 PhDs and 118 masters with thesis Convocation speaker Turing awardee Prof Yosuha Bengio, University of Montreal and Mila (Quebec AI Institute) HYDERABAD, India, July 11, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- International Institute of Information Technology, Hyderabad (IIITH) conducted its 20th convocation online this year due to the Covid-19 pandemic and live-streamed the eConvocation. It graduated 523 students and a record number of 18 PhDs and 118 Masters with thesis. Over 26% of today's graduates - 136 out of 523 - earned their degree based on a high-quality thesis. Graduates of IIITH's Dual-Degree, Master of Science and Ph.D programmes continue to make their mark in top universities and product groups globally. The past academic year was unique due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The institute continued to teach all its courses online using the best practices and technological tools available. Aadilmehdi J Sanchawala, B.Tech Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) was awarded the IIIT gold medal in recognition of his outstanding academic performance. The B.Tech Best All-rounder award was presented to Vakada Lakshmi Sireesha (dual degree in CSE) and Aashna Jena Dual Degree in Computation Linguistics. Fourteen students received programme gold medals. The Covid-19 pandemic did not affect placements. A total of 93 companies registered for conducting placements and made job offers to IIITH's graduating students. In his eConvocation address, Prof Yosuha Bengio, University of Montreal and Mila (Quebec AI Institute) encouraged the graduates to give meaning to their lives by helping society with their expertise and helping the next generation of researchers bloom. Commending the graduating students and their parents, Prof. P J Narayanan, Director, IIITH, said, "I congratulate the graduating students and their parents for their achievements. The world is going through unprecedented challenges right in front of our eyes. This is truly an opportunity to apply the knowledge, skills, and attitude gained in IIIT Hyderabad to alleviate the problems of the world, while enriching yourselves in multiple ways. I am confident you will do it admirably and make the institute proud. I urge you to stay connected with the institute so that your efforts and ours are amplified. Great institutions are fundamentally defined and owned by its alumni. It has been our privilege to play a small role in your journey of life and you wll be in our thoughts forever."



Turing award winner Prof. Raj Reddy, Chairman, Governing Council of IIIT-Hyderabad also dialled in to the eConvocation from the US to admit students to their degrees and congratulated the graduating students. The eConvocation is viewable at https://www.iiit.ac.in/notice/20thConvocation/.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE ACADEMIC YEAR - The graduating batch consists of 523 students (135 UG, 270 PG and 118 MSIT). apart from 18 Ph.Ds and 118 Masters with thesis. This has been the largest number of graduates in the institute's history. - 12 new regular faculty members joined the institute last year and 7 are yet to join. Two existing faculty were promoted. One faculty member retired. Faculty are given the flexibility of teaching loads to concentrate more on research, which creates a unique environment highly conducive to research. 6 faculty members were awarded faculty research award grants/Unrestricted grants from Adobe Systems, Facebook, Google and Qualcomm. IIITH started two new initiatives aimed at applying its research strengths to societal problems. The first is INAI, an effort to integrate AI research with population-scale problems in the Indian context, combining research and translation. INAI was set up in collaboration with Intel and the Government of Telangana. The second initiative is a Centre for Technology in Service of the Society named for Prof Raj Reddy. Prof Reddy has been passionate about research that benefits people at the bottom of the pyramid in society. The main objective of this initiative is to celebrate and amplify his passion in education and research for marginalized sections of society. - The institute has taken up an ambitious goal of enhancing Wikipedia in Indian languages tenfold, starting with Telugu. We are working with the central and state governments, Wikimedia Foundation, and other partners like Telugu University to create digital resources, productivity enhancement tools, training material, and to conduct several community development activities. - IHub-Data at IIIT Hyderabad is one of the Technology Innovation Hubs that has been established as part of the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems. The hub focuses on data driven technologies in Healthcare, Mobility, and other areas addressing India specific challenges. The mandate of the Hub is to develop datasets that will fuel applied research in these areas, and result in technologies/products that will make an impact to the larger society. Currently, we have undertaken problems such as Technology for Road Safety, Cancer Screening and Diagnostics, Mental/Neuro Health, etc. in collaboration with various academic, industry and healthcare partners. - The team of faculty, research students, research staff, and undergraduate students produced 469 papers in top rated conferences and peer reviewed journals. There was no chance to travel during Covid-19 pandemic yet, our faculty and students presented their papers orally in several top tier conferences virtually. In all, 15 of our Ph.D. students have external competitive fellowships from TCS, Google, Visvesvaraya, etc. and several more students qualified for CSIR and UGC grants. Three Dual Degree programme students were supported by Huawei Technologies India Pvt Ltd with scholarships worth Rs. 7.5 lakhs. - IIITH alumni have contributed a total of Rs. 1.6 crores towards a scholarship program for needy students. Since November 2020 64 lakhs was added to the fund. 54 students have received financial assistance through this Alumni Fund, and 28 student beneficiaries have returned the favor by sponsoring another. The Alumni Giving Month fundraising campaign to mitigate Covid impact raised around 20 lakhs between Nov 25- Dec 25 2020. The alumni also helped raise 33 lakhs to enable a cochlear implant of our staff's daughter and 21.6 lakhs towards Byagari Krishna's Memorial Fund. About IIIT-Hyderabad: The International Institute of Information Technology, Hyderabad (IIIT-H) is an autonomous research university founded in 1998 that focuses on the core areas of Information Technology, such as Computer Science, Electronics and Communications, and their applications in other domains through inter-disciplinary research that has a greater social impact. Some of its research domains include Visual Information Technologies, Human Language Technologies, Data Engineering, VLSI and Embedded Systems, Computer Architecture, Wireless Communications, Algorithms and Information Security, Robotics, Building Science, Earthquake Engineering, Computational Natural Sciences and Bioinformatics, Education Technologies, Power Systems, IT in Agriculture and e-Governance. Website: www.iiit.ac.in

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
[July 11, 2021] HICOOL 2021 Global Entrepreneurship Competition (Preliminary Round) is Launched in Full Swing on July 10th

BEIJING, July 11, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- On July 10th, HICOOL 2021 Global Entrepreneurship Competition (Qualifying Round) is launched in full swing. A total of 1,237 startups shortlisted for the preliminary round compete off-line in Beijing and online in a global context in six major industries: New Generation Information Technology, Cultural Creativity, Medicine and Health, High-end Equipment, Artificial Intelligence/Fintech as well as New Energy/New Materials/Energy Saving and Environmental Protection. As the most popular international entrepreneurship event this year, HICOOL 2021 Global Entrepreneurship Competition, with the theme of "Connect Startups Worldwide, Innovate Beijing Together", is hosted by Beijing Overseas Talents Association (BOTA). A total of 4,018 startups were received from 84 countries and regions around the world during the enrollment period. Upon online preliminary evaluation, a total of 1,237 startups have been successfully shortlisted for the preliminary round. The Preliminary Round Kicks off with the "7+3 Roadshow



The preliminary round of the HICOOL 2021 Global Entrepreneurship Competition is organized in the mode of a "7+3" roadshow. The candidates fully demonstrate the characteristics of their respective entrepreneurial projects through a 7-minute brilliant presentation and elaboration. The judging mentors take 3 minutes to raise questions and comment on the candidates in terms of project background, operation status, development prospect, technical advantages, etc. The candidates are given the space and stage to showcase themselves through the comprehensive assessment and screening of startups so as to identify high-quality entrepreneurial projects. The Competition provides overall process resource supports. To provide more entrepreneurial resources for the competing projects, the HICOOL All-in-One Solution Startup Ecosystem is made available to all competing projects free of charge throughout the competition period, including policy research, demand matching, business counseling, talent salon, venture capital matchmaking, government and corporate seminars, etc., providing comprehensive resource support for the candidates.

Gather Talents by Competition to Create Innovation and Entrepreneurship Ecosystem The "HICOOL Global Entrepreneur Summit and Entrepreneurship Competition" is a comprehensive international talent event focusing on entrepreneurship competitions at home and abroad. According to the information released by the Organizing Committee of the Competition, the preliminary round of HICOOL 2021 Global Entrepreneurship Competition covers over 20 offline and online events in Shunyi District, with a total coverage of more than 1,000 startups. For more information, please visit HICOOL. Media Contact: fuguiping@hicool.com SOURCE HICOOL

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
[July 11, 2021] QNB expands its footprint in Asia with Hong Kong branch opening

DOHA, Qatar, July 11, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- QNB Group, the largest financial institution in the Middle East and Africa, has opened officially its branch in Hong Kong, one of the world's prominent global financial hubs. Commenting on the occasion, QNB Group CEO, Mr. Abdulla Mubarak Al-Khalifa, said: "We are pleased to announce the official opening of our first branch in Hong Kong, one of the most attractive markets in the world. As part of our Group's strategy to expand into strategically located markets with excellent infrastructure and a business friendly environment, we are planning to continue diversifying our sources of revenue and profit, particularly in the MEASEA markets." As a newcomer to the market, QNB seeks to position itself as a reputable foreign bank to customers with trade and investent flows between Hong Kong, the Middle East, Africa, and Mainland China.



The Branch aims to facilitate cross border business with a range of corporate banking products and services, treasury and investments, foreign exchange solutions, syndication strategies, and project financing. Hong Kong is the gateway for the Group's clients to Mainland China and wider Asia. It is a major trade hub accounting for USD 1,077.5 billion in imports and exports.

The Branch will work closely with the Group's global network, and particularly the Singapore branch and Shanghai representative office. It will advise QNB's clients in China on their outbound growth through Hong Kong as a base and will link with Singapore to cover South East Asia region. In its keenness to become a leading bank in the Middle East, Africa and South East Asia, the Group's presence in Hong Kong reflects its commitment to develop a successful market expansion strategy, through in-depth insight and understanding. It is worth mentioning that QNB already has a presence in Asia, through branches in Singapore and India, a subsidiary in Indonesia, and representative offices in China, Vietnam and Myanmar. The QNB Group's presence through its subsidiaries and associate companies extends to more than 31 countries across three continents, providing a comprehensive range of advanced products and services. The total number of employees is more than 28,000 operating through 1,000 locations, with an ATM network of more than 4,600 machines. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1571422/QNB_Group_Head_Office.jpg

Contact:

Hissa AlSowaidi

hissa.alsowaidi@qnb.com

+974 44975725

[ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]
NASHVILLE, Tenn.  Today, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee unveiled three limited-edition posters highlighting each Tennessee grand division to celebrate 225 years of statehood. Tennesseans are invited to share an untold story and request a poster at www.Tennessee225.com.



From the Mississippi River to the Great Smoky Mountains, our grand divisions reflect their own unique character and represent the best of Tennessee, said Gov. Lee. I invite Tennesseans to submit untold stories that celebrate every corner of our state as we commemorate 225 years of statehood.

The limited-edition posters, designed by famed artist Justin Helton of Knoxville, highlight the culture and beauty of each Tennessee grand division.

###
Residents of Davidson, Williamson and Wilson counties have until July 7 to apply for FEMA disaster assistance if they had losses from the storms, tornadoes and flooding that occurred March 25 through April 3.

KEY MESSAGES

Tennessee residents affected by the spring storms in Davidson, Williamson and Wilson counties can still apply for federal assistance through July 7. Tennessee storm survivors are encouraged to apply to FEMA if they have uninsured losses or damage from the storms. The federal government cannot restore everything you may have lost. But you may be able to recover faster with money from FEMA to help pay for basic repairs to make your home safe, accessible and secure.

Ways to apply: Visit DisasterAssistance.gov or download the FEMA app to a smartphone or tablet or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585). The Helpline is your go to resource for answers to questions about your application or to update FEMA on your current housing situation. Lines are open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Central Time. If you use a relay service, such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel, update FEMA with the specific number assigned to that service.

As of June 13, 2021, the following federal assistance has been approved:

FEMAs Individuals & Households Program

Housing Assistance: $874,361

Other Needs Assistance: $73,805

Total $ Approved Individuals & Households Program: $948,166

Rental Assistance: $452,576

Total Registrations: 1,249

U.S. Small Business Administration

Total Loans Approved: 75 (includes 72 for homeowners and three for businesses)

Total $ Approved: $2.7 million

You may apply for a disaster loan online using SBAs secure website at https://DisasterLoanAssistance.sba.gov/ela/s/. Email FOCE-Help@SBA.gov to set up a phone appointment for assistance with your disaster loan application.

You may also call SBAs Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 or email DisasterCustomerService@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. The center is open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Central time, seven days a week. Individuals who are deaf or hardofhearing may call 800-877-8339

or email DisasterCustomerService@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. The center is open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Central time, seven days a week. Individuals who are deaf or hardofhearing may call SBA Loans: Low interest, long-term disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration help homeowners, renters, businesses of all sizes and some nonprofit organizations recover. FEMA may refer assistance applicants to SBA. Submitting an SBA loan application is a necessary step to being considered for some forms of disaster assistance.

Remote Inspections: To protect the safety and health of disaster survivors and FEMA workers, the agency is conducting remote inspections of homes reported to be severely damaged by the storms. Remote inspections are conducted by telephone or internet streaming service. These inspections are comparable to traditional, in-person assessments.

Rental Assistance Available: Residents of Davidson, Williamson and Wilson counties whose homes were made unsafe or uninhabitable by the storms may be eligible for temporary rental assistance from FEMA.

Rental assistance may be used to lease a house, apartment or manufactured home. It does not have to be repaid.

To be considered for temporary rental assistance, homeowners and renters must have been displaced from their primary residence because it became uninhabitable due to storm damage.

Free Legal Help: Low-income storm survivors facing legal issues as a result of the severe storms and flooding may call 1-844-HELP4TN (1-844-435-7486) to get help from a volunteer attorney. A lawyer may be able to help resolve questions about insurance claims, consumer protection with home repair or rebuilding, landlord/tenant problems or replacement of important legal documents. Attorneys are also available to answer questions online at https://tn.freelegalanswers.org/. Disaster legal services are authorized by FEMA in cooperation with the Tennessee Bar Association and the Tennessee Alliance for Legal Services.

Beware of Fraud: After a disaster, scam artists, identity thieves and other criminals sometimes try to take advantage of disaster survivors. Federal and Tennessee emergency management officials urge residents to watch for and report any suspicious activity such as people pretending to be FEMA employees. All FEMA representatives carry a laminated badge and have your FEMA registration number.

For more information on Tennessees disaster recovery, visit www.tn.gov/tema.html and www.fema.gov/disaster/4601. You may also follow FEMA on www.facebook.com/fema and Twitter @FEMARegion4.
Kansas City's most prolific crime fighter, Alonzo Washington has recently encountered some resistance from his own community amid his hope to elicit tips and community cooperation.

Recently, in KCK, a murder of a lady at her home has sparked a social media firestorm.

Here are the basics of the case . . .

One woman dead in Thursday morning KCK homicide by: Juan Cisneros Posted: / Updated: KANSAS CITY, Kan. - The Kansas City, Kansas Police Department is investigating a homicide near 1400 North Eighth Street Thursday morning. Police were called the area just before 10 a.m. on Thursday to help the KCK Fire Department and EMS on a medical call.

Accordingly, Mr. Washington notes a lackadaisical approach toward crime fighting within the African-American community . . .



Developing . . .
This week Kansas City police will earn permission to live outside of city limits.



This is possibly the biggest disaster in cowtown history and something that could completely transform local life for the worse.



Many cynical activists will now have another excuse to brand law enforcement as occupiers instead of locals working to benefit the community.

The Fire Department will likely seek this same dispensation to exit KCMO given that so many of them live on the edge of town anyhoo . . .

More importantly . . .

New rules for po-po offer one more sign that law enforcement governance has become far too politicized in Kansas City. Effective crime fighting strategy is no longer the main concern. Instead, local politicos seem preoccupied with court battles focused on garnering money and power.

It gets worse . . .

Apparently the Kansas City Star has committed to becoming nothing more or less than an anti-police publication.

Real talk, the daily rag editorial board is now slightly to the left of Mother Jones and/or Angela Davis.

That's a dumb move that won't draw readers amid harsh times for print media. However, the biggest KCMO daily newspaper turning against cops with a vengeance provides yet another reason for police to leave town.

And so, the question of a Kansas City law enforcement exodus isn't really a matter of "if" but "when" and the answer is likely sooner than most people think.

Accordingly, we share a few links on the topic and hope TKC readers will offer insight, analysis and maybe even solutions instead of gloating over Kansas City's worst political FAIL in a generation.

Check-it . . .

Parson to sign bill that will ban most police chokeholds, loosen residency requirements for Kansas City police KANSAS CITY, MO (KCTV/AP) --- Missouri Gov. Mike Parson is expected to sign legislation that will ban most chokeholds from police officers and loosen a residency requirement for members of the Kansas City Police Department. In a press release Friday, Parson announced he would sign this legislation during the upcoming week.

Five Kansas City police officers are charged with crimes. All remain on paid duty Seven months after a grand jury indicted Kansas City police detective Eric DeValkenaere in the 2019 shooting death of Cameron Lamb, the department veteran was back on the job and receiving a paycheck, The Star has confirmed. Yet department policy says the police chief will put an employee facing criminal charges related to the use of his weapon on suspension without pay.

Mitch McConnell calls defunding the police 'utter nonsense' while discussing US crime spikes The Left's "defund the police" movement is "utter nonsense" in light of rising crime rates in cities across the country, Senate GOP Leader Mitch McConnell said this week. "Last year, all of this talk about defunding the police was utter nonsense," McConnell told the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce on Thursday while back in his home state, according to WDRB-TV of Louisville.

White House: Actually, Republicans are trying to defund the police WASHINGTON - The White House is responding to relentless Republican charges that it wants to "defund the police" by embracing the message that there are, in fact, politicians angling to starve law enforcement of needed money: congressional Republicans.

Roll the tape: Republicans release video of all the times Democrats wanted to 'defund the police' EXCLUSIVE: The largest House conservative caucus on Friday released a mash-up video of the many times progressives have called for defunding the police to push back on Democrats' latest efforts to accuse the GOP of being the party that wants to cut law enforcement funds.

Defunding police amidst skyrocketing gun crime is a national embarrassment Gun violence in the United States is currently at epidemic levels , with no sign of decreasing anytime soon. This level of violence, which has not been seen in recent memory, is endangering the American public more than ever, tearing apart the very fabric of our communities and country.

Kansas City defund the police effort 'destructive and deadly,' Missouri AG says as he files amicus brief EXCLUSIVE: Missouri Attorney General Eric Schmitt filed an amicus brief opposing Kansas City's efforts to defund its police department, arguing it is illegal and will have "destructive and deadly" consequences for residents following last year, which recorded the highest rate of murder in the city's history.

Developing . . .


More local violence impacting the NEXTGEN.

Here's a glimpse at local reporting for those who haven't seen it already . . .

Juvenile shot near 11th and Belmont in Kansas City, Missouri Kansas City police are investigating a shooting near 11th Street and Belmont Avenue.Officers were called to the scene just before 4:30 p.m. Saturday.First responders located one juvenile suffering from a gunshot wound.The victim was transported to a local area hospital with critical injuries, but he was said to be in stable condition.Authorities are not releasing any suspect information at this time.KMBC 9 News will bring you more updates as this story develops.

Juvenile critically injured in shooting near 11th and Belmont Avenue KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A male juvenile was critically injured after being shot near east 11th Street & Belmont Avenue in Kansas City, Missouri. The incident happened around 4:30 p.m. on Saturday afternoon. The victim was transported to an area hospital where he was listed with critical injuries but was in stable condition.

Police say juvenile victim critically hurt in Kansas City shooting WASHINGTON (AP) - President Joe Biden has fired the commissioner of Social Security after the official refused to resign, and Biden accepted the deputy commissioner's resignation, the White House said. Biden asked commissioner Andrew Saul to resign, and his employment was terminated Friday after he refused the Democratic president's request, a White House official said.

Developing . . .
L.A. Parker is a Trentonian columnist. Find him on Twitter @LAParker6 or email him at LAParker@Trentonian.com.
Lorraine May Roberts passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 27, 2021. She was a devoted wife and mother and friend to all who knew her. Born on October 7, 1925 to Dorothy Weust and John Henry Ennen of Terre Haute, Indiana. Lorraine graduated from Terre Haute Honey Creek High School. After gr
You will receive full, ad-free access to TullahomaNews.com.com as well as full access to the Electronic Edition of the newspaper.





ONLY $3.99 per month for the first 3 months!

Only $5.99 per month after promotional period.



Or



ONLY $39.99 per year for the 1st year

Only $44.99 per year after promotional period.
New Delhi, Jul 8 (UNI) Uzbekistan will host an international conference on regional trade, economic, transport and communications links between Central and South Asia in capital Tashkent this month.

The press service of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev said on Thursday that the conference on "Central and South Asia: Regional Interconnectedness, Challenges and Opportunities" will be held on July 15-16.

Foreign ministers of the Central and South Asia, as well as representatives of major international and regional organizations, global financial institutions and companies, and leading research and analytical centres will attend the meeting.

"The main goal of the forum is to strengthen historically close and friendly ties, trust and good-neighbourliness between the states of Central and South Asia in the interests of all peoples and countries of both regions," the press service said.

Uzbek Foreign Minister Abdulaziz Kamilov visited New Delhi in February to invite India to the conference.

The agenda will include proposals to bolster the stability and security of the two regions.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and Afghan President Mohammad Ashraf Ghani are said to attend the forum.

UNI SRJ SHK1729
Register for a FREE account to keep reading!

Register now for a FREE account to keep reading. No cost and no credit card required!

Access up to 5 articles per month when you register, or get unlimited access to all of our content online starting at $1.99 now!

Already registered? Click the log in link below
THE CLASS of 2021 has now matriculated into our midst, those lean exuberant people with lead weights of debt around their ankles, and theyve set aside the commencement speakers advice to take this imperfect world and make it better and instead are trying to make car payments and avoid pare
WHEN I served in combat in Iraq, I knew I was doing the right thing  fighting for freedom, both for Iraqi civilians and for the folks at home. Back then, I never would have thought wed have to fight so hard for our freedoms  including the freedom to start and grow a business absent untowa
MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 11th July, 2021) Kristalina Georgieva, the head of the International Monetary Fund, said Saturday she was encouraged by the progress made by the G20 at this week's talks in Rome, in particular on a minimum corporate tax rate.

"I want to recognize the G20's support for the historic agreement on a minimum corporate tax rate.

This will help countries preserve their corporate tax base and mobilize revenue by ensuring that highly profitable companies pay their fair share everywhere," she said in a statement.

Finance ministers from the G20 group of industrialized nations endorsed a pact during their in-person meeting that will set a global minimum tax of at least 15% to prevent multinationals from shifting their profits to tax havens. A framework deal is expected by the G20 leaders' summit in October.
(@fidahassanain)

Mrs. Narmin Ismayilova, CEO of Gazelli Group who is in Pakistan for this purpose, held bilateral meetings with a number of Pakistani companies operating in this field, and informed them about local and natural products manufactured by Gazelli Group.

LAHORE: (UrduPoint/UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News-July 10th, 2021) With the initiative of the Embassy of the Republic of Azerbaijan to Pakistan, Gazelli Group, the first local natural cosmetics producer company of Azerbaijan, was introduced in Pakistan in order to sell "Made in Azerbaijan" products in Pakistan.

Mrs. Narmin Ismayilova, CEO of Gazelli Group who is in Pakistan for this purpose, held bilateral meetings with a number of Pakistani companies operating in this field, and informed them about local and natural products manufactured by Gazelli Group. She emphasized that her company is ready to do the necessary works to sell the high quality natural products of Gazelli Group in the Pakistani market.

During the meetings, an agreement was reached to sell the products of the Azerbaijani company Gazelli Group in the D.Watson chain of stores of Pakistan, which sells many different brands from around the world. Waqar Zafar Bakhtawari, Managing director of Pakistan's D.Watson chain of stores, expressed their interest in the products of Gazelli Group, a well-known brand of Azerbaijan, and told that they will visit Azerbaijan soon to get acquainted with the company's factories.
ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 11th Jul, 2021 ) :The Petroleum Division, during the current fiscal year, would initiate a new project to compile the data of available minerals for facilitation of investors and future projects' planning in the country.

The two-year project, titled National Minerals Data Centre (NMDC), is a joint venture of Petroleum and Planning Divisions that would be carried out at a total cost of Rs 295 million in consultation with all Provincial Mines & Minerals Departments including of Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Geological Survey of Pakistan.

"Pakistan has world-class minerals' resource potential but contribution in the national GDP is <1% which is considerably below the global average of 2-8% of GDP primarily due to non-availability of integrated geological, regulatory and other relevant data that is the basic requirement for investment facilitation and projects' planning," according to an official document available with APP.

The government has allocated funds amounting to Rs 263 million under the Public Sector Development Programme 2021-22 to start the NMDC project.

Under the project, Geographic Information System (GIS)- based integrated solutions and application development would be developed to ensure availability of online geo-spatial data and maps for investment facilitation and benefit of the stakeholders in the minerals sector.

The NMDC would contain information such as geological and geochemical maps, minerals sample analysis reports, airborne geophysical maps, areas granted and applied for mineral titles, roads and rails layers, geographical borderlines (province, district and town), reserves areas like 'strategic, forest and religious places.' The compiled data would be categorized for publication through web-portal as per guidelines issued by the government. "The exercise will be a regular activity and information will be updated accordingly."/395/778
ABU DHABI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News / WAM - 11th Jul, 2021) Abu Dhabi Health Services Company has opened a new orthopedic clinic in Abu Dhabis Baniyas and Al Bahia Healthcare Centers, which are managed by Ambulatory Healthcare Services, as part of the networks drive towards streamlining access for specialized services.

"Orthopedic challenges and pain in the bone, muscle, or joints have a significant impact on a persons overall quality of life, which is why early diagnosis and rapid treatment is extremely important. To ensure early diagnosis, we utilize the latest diagnostic tools available, such as the DEXA scan, which is a quick and painless procedure that measure bone density and is often used to diagnose or assess the risk of osteoporosis. In addition, treating orthopedic ailments is not limited to the orthopedic department, patients often require referral to rheumatology or endocrinology or physiotherapy sessions, to support overall treatment. Therefore, we ensure that we put a comprehensive treatment plan in place, coordinating it with the patients family physician and the relevant specialists, in order to provide a holistic treatment plan that improves the patients quality of life," said Dr. Ahmed Al Shamary, Orthopedic Specialist at the Oud-Al-Touba Diagnostic and Screening Center.

Recently, a 59-year-old patient visited Al Zafaranah Diagnostic and Screening Center suffering from multiple co-morbidities, including obesity, end stage kidney disease, and hypertension.

She came in sitting a wheelchair, as she had extreme pain in both knees. X-rays and ultrasounds carried out by the team showed signs of osteoarthritis of both knees, with the DEXA scan also revealing osteoporosis. The team developed a treatment plan that includes pain relief and anti-inflammatory injections for both knees with a two-week gap between each treatment. The injections helped relieve the pain in her knees and she soon began walking with the support of a walking stick, instead of a wheelchair.

The orthopedics clinics, which have a combined daily capacity of treating 120 patients, are available in Abu Dhabi at Al Zafaranah Diagnostic and Screening Center, in addition to the newly opened clinics in Baniyas and Al Bahia. And in Al Ain, the clinic is available at Oud Al Touba Diagnostic and Screening Center, Al Yahar, Al Hili and Al Quaa healthcare centers.

The DEXA scan is available for patients who visit Al Bateen Healthcare Center, Al Zafaranah Diagnostic and Screening Center, Madinat Khalifa Healthcare Center, and Baniyas Healthcare Center in Abu Dhabi. It is also available at Al Jahili Healthcare Center, Al Yahar Healthcare Center, and Oud Al Touba Diagnostic and Screening Center in Al Ain, and recently became available at Mezyad Healthcare Center.
(@ChaudhryMAli88)

DUBAI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News / WAM - 11th Jul, 2021) Brigadier General Jamal bin Aded Al Muhairi, Assistant Director-General for Resources and Support Services at Dubai Civil Defence, and Engineer Marwan Abdullah Al Mohammad, Chairman of Dubai's Committee for Building Permit Procedures Development, signed an agreement to establish a single window for the accreditation of building materials and systems in the emirate.

The agreement creates a framework for both organisations to work together to simplify the procedures for the accreditation of building materials and systems in addition to integrating the services provided by Dubai Civil Defence and Dubai Municipality, and digitising the accreditation service.

Engineer Al Mohammad said the agreement is aligned with Dubai Municipalitys strategic objectives of enhancing customer satisfaction levels and expediting the procedures for issuing building permits.

Establishing the single window reflects the committees efforts to streamline procedures for processing building permits, he noted.

Brigadier Gen. Al Muhairi said the agreement is part of the Dubai Governments commitment to providing integrated smart services that meet the needs of customers and investors and advance the emirates sustainable development plans. The agreement is a key initiative that contributes to raising the efficiency of government procedures in the construction sector, he added.

Assistant Director-General for Smart Services at Dubai Civil Defence, Brig. Rashid Khalifah Al Falasi, Assistant Director-General for Fire and Rescue at Dubai Civil Defence, Col. Expert Ali Hassan Al Mutawa and several senior officials of both organisations attended the signing ceremony
Sydney, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 11th Jul, 2021 ) :Australia's defence minister on Sunday confirmed the end of his country's involvement in the 20-year Afghanistan war, saying the troop withdrawal had taken place "in recent weeks".

Australia announced in April that it would remove its remaining troops by September in line with the US decision to end its military operations in the war-torn country.

Defence Minister Peter Dutton told Sky news that the country's last 80 support personnel had left Afghanistan "in recent weeks".

"That doesn't mean we won't be a part of campaigns with the United States... where we deem that to be in our national interest or in the interest of our allies," he added.

"For now, though, that campaign has come to an end."Australia had deployed 39,000 troops over the past 20 years as part of US and NATO-led operations against the Taliban and terrorist groups in Afghanistan, a mission that cost the country billions of Dollars and left 41 Australian soldiers dead.
Bdikro, Cte d'Ivoire, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 11th Jul, 2021 ) :Two former Ivory Coast presidents and longterm political rivals, Laurent Gbagbo and Henri Konan Bedie, on Sunday said they were uniting in opposition to current head of state Allasane Ouattara.

Gbagbo, 76, Bedie, 87, and Ouattara, 79, the current president, have dominated Ivory Coast's political scene for decades, often plunging into rivalries or forging alliances.

Gbago and Bedie decided to join forces because of an "urgent need to work for a return to a definitive and durable peace in Ivory Coast," they said in a joint statement following Gbagbo's visit to the Daoukro, which is Bedie's stronghold.

Throughout the weekend, the two men were seen smiling and shaking hands, striking images for former leaders who have mostly been at odds over the years.

During Gbagbo's decade-long stay in office, the country was wracked by revolt and turmoil, culminating in a conflict that erupted after he refused to cede electoral defeat to Ouattara.

Gbagbo was arrested in April 2011 and hauled before the International Criminal Court (ICC) to face charges of crimes against humanity resulting from the violence, which claimed around 3,000 lives.

He was acquitted in January 2019, a decision that was upheld in March this year and enabled him to return home on June 17.

Ouattara, his erstwhile rival, has officially welcomed his return, seeing in it a possibility of easing the country's entrenched problems, but the two men have yet to meet.

On Sunday, Bedie said Gbagbo had his "full confidence" to put in place a "project of reconciliation" without giving more details.

"Reconciliation will take place if there is a strong willingness from the head of state and all political actors," he said.

Bedie teamed up with Ouattara in the 2010 elections, but in 2018 his Democratic Party of the Ivory Coast (PDCI) joined the opposition.

In March, it forged an electoral alliance with Gbagbo's Ivorian Popular Front (PFI) party.
BEIJING (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 11th July, 2021) Beijing strongly objects to the United States blacklisting 23 Chinese companies and will adopt an appropriate response to that, the Chinese Ministry of Commerce said on Sunday.

Earlier in the week, the US Department of Commerce blacklisted 34 foreign entities, including 23 from China in connection to the alleged abuses against the Uyghurs in the Xinjiang province.

"This is an unjustified pressure against Chinese companies and a serious violation of economic and trade rules. China decisively objects to this," the ministry said in a statement.

The ministry went on to demand Washington to reverse the decision, warning that otherwise Chine will retaliate.

"We will take the necessary steps to vigorously defend our legitimate rights and interests," the ministry stated.

In recent years, Beijing has been under increased scrutiny and criticism over its allegedly repressive policies toward ethnic Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities as well as for clamping down on political opposition in Hong Kong and threatening Taiwan's independence. Beijing refutes these accusations, describing them as outside meddling.
Latvia's top general on Friday ordered all career soldiers in the Baltic NATO state to get vaccinated against Covid-19 by August or they will lose their jobs

Riga, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 9th Jul, 2021 ) :Latvia's top general on Friday ordered all career soldiers in the Baltic NATO state to get vaccinated against Covid-19 by August or they will lose their jobs.

"I have issued an order that makes vaccination against Covid-19 mandatory for all the professional military staff in Latvia by August 1, otherwise they will have to leave the forces," Lieutenant General Leonids Kalnins, told the public broadcaster LTV.

Personnel who do not want to get jabs "will have to make up their minds whether they will continue to serve in the armed forces or find a different job," he added.

Around 95 percent of Latvia's 6,500 career soldiers have already received at least one Covid-19 jab while 87 percent have had the second, Kalnins said, adding that Latvia's armed forces have seen only two Covid-19 infections.

Latvia's parliament is currently debating allowing employers to fire workers who refuse to get vaccinated, but the controversial proposed legislation has not yet mustered a majority votes.

As of Friday, nearly 600,000 people in Latvia had been vaccinated. The EU member of 1.9 million people has recorded 137,831 cases of Covid-19, including 2,536 fatalities.
(@ChaudhryMAli88)

MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 10th July, 2021) Russia and the United States are set to sign a barter agreement on the use and maintenance of the International Space Station (ISS), follows from the decree of the Russian government, published on the official portal of legal information on Friday.

"[Decree to] accept the proposal of the state space corporation Roscosmos, agreed on by the Russian Foreign Ministry and other interested Federal executive authorities, to negotiate the signing of an Agreement between the state space corporation Roscosmos and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (the United States)," the document signed by Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin said.

Under the agreement, Roscosmos will maintain and provide engineering support for the Zarya cargo module in exchange for "in-orbit storage services and communication services via a satellite tracking and data relay system" operated by NASA.
NOVOSIBIRSK (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 11th July, 2021) Viral vector and mRNA vaccines, including Russia's Sputnik V, provide enough protection against the new Delta strain of the coronavirus, Head of the Novosibirsk State University's Laboratory and corresponding member of the Russian academy of Sciences (RAS) Sergey Netesov told Sputnik.

"According to data from the UK, the US and other countries, mRNA and vector vaccines, including our Sputnik V, protect against it [the Delta variant], albeit to a lesser extent, but they do protect against it. They offered 95% protection against the initial strain and now they give 90% protection against the 'delta' variant," Netesov said.

He added that the vaccines already developed should be used as they are quite effective.

Asked about the danger of more waves in the pandemic, Netesov told Sputnik that new variants emerge because of slow vaccination and because people travel between countries. He urged everyone "to get vaccinated fast, so that the virus has only the minimal loopholes for change. So the fate of the epidemic is fundamentally dependent on our behavior, and people still do not understand this."

At the end of June, Vladimir Gushchin, the head of the population variability mechanisms laboratory of the Gamaleya research center that developed the Sputnik V vaccine, said that the Russian shots guarantee almost 100 percent protection against severe and fatal cases of COVID-19 caused by the Delta strain.

Russia became the first country in the world to register a vaccine against the coronavirus, dubbed Sputnik V, in August 2020.

Sputnik V, also known as Gam-COVID-Vac, uses two different engineered adenoviruses (rAd26 and rAd5 for the first and second doses, respectively) to deliver the genetic code for the spike protein of the coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) into human cells. Adenoviruses usually cause only mild illness in humans and by opting for two different delivery mechanisms, instead of just using one engineered adenovirus like the Oxford-AstraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson vaccines do, the Russian developers were aiming to increase the efficacy of the vaccine.

According to an interim analysis from a trial published in The Lancet medical journal, the Sputnik V vaccine has 91.6 percent efficacy. Meanwhile, the Gamaleya National Research Center of Epidemiology and Microbiology, which developed Sputnik V, and the Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF) have reported that Sputnik V has 97.6 percent efficacy.

Unlike for both the Oxford-AstraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson vaccines, there have been no reports of rare blood-clotting conditions in people vaccinated with Sputnik V from Russian health authorities or from over 60 countries now using Sputnik V.
Hundreds of Haitians gather in front of the US embassy in the hope they will be granted a visa to leave their country due to the uncertainty (ANSA)

Pope Francis joins the Haitian Bishops' urgent appeal to criminal ganglords and conflicting parties to depose arms and allow the country to resume a journey of peace and harmony.

By Linda Bordoni & James Blears

Pope Francis on Sunday called on conflicting Haitian parties and gangsters to end the spiral of violence in which the country as been plunged.

Speaking during the Angelus just days after the assassination of President Jovenal Moise, and a request by the interim Prime Minister for the deployment of UN and US troops to protect key infrastructure as the government tries to stabilize the country and prepare the way for elections, the Pope said in these days his prayers have often been for Haiti and its people.

I join the heartfelt appeal of the countrys Bishops to depose arms, choose life, choose to live together fraternally in the common interest of all and in the interest of Haiti, he said.

And expressing his closeness to the beloved people of Haiti the Pope called for an end to the spiral of violence and that the nation may resume its journey towards a future of peace and harmony.

Meanwhile, from her hospital bed in Miami, Martine Moise, wife of assassinated President of Haiti, gunned down by gunmen in their Port Au Prince home on Wednesday night, is urging the country not to lose its way.

The First Lady was shot multiple times by mercenary gunmen, who forced their way past hapless security guards, into their home and shot her husband the President twelve times. Jovenel Moise didn not even have time to utter a single word.

Critically wounded, Martine survived and has been airlifted to the United States, where she is being treated in a Miami Hospital. In a special message in Creole she says: "We cannot let the country lose its way. We cannot let his blood be spilled in vain."

Arrests and ongoing investigation

So far seventeen ex Colombian soldiers and two US Haitians have been arrested, while three men were shot dead. Eight are still on the run. Investigators are trying to discover just who was behind this brazen attack, aimed at toppling Haiti's political system.

Meanwhile, Haitian Officials are appealing to the United Nations and the United States to send peace keeping troops to help stabilize the volatile situation which has descended into a crisis. UN Peace Keepers were previously stationed in Haiti from 2004 to 2017. The US says it will not send troops, but it will send members of the FBI and Homeland Security.

Haiti violent political history which stretches back centuries, is again flaring up, in the form of assassination and political chaos.
On this Sea Sunday, the Stella Maris International Director, Fr Bruno Ciceri, praises seafarers for the work they do, and for the goods that they transport to make our lives more comfortable amid a global pandemic.

By Lydia OKane

The annual Sea Sunday, which this year is being observed on 11 July, is a day that invites us to give thanks for the lives and work of seafarers, and affords an opportunity to pray for them and their families.



There are around 2 million seafarers currently on board merchant ships, which carry everything from electronics to food and medicine.



Its estimated that in September 2020 there were 400,000 seafarers still stranded on their ships due to the difficulties of making crew changes amid the Covid-19 pandemic.

According to the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), another 400,000 are stuck at home, unable to join ships and provide for their families.

There is no doubt that the pandemic has had a severe impact upon more vulnerable sectors such as fisheries, yet through the hard work of seafarers, supermarket shelves around the world have continued to be stocked during the outbreak.

For charities such Stella Maris, its all the more reason that seafarers should be recognized as key workers and vaccinated, so that they can continue their vital work during this pandemic.

Fr Bruno Ciceri is the International Director for the Stella Maris network, based at the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development in Rome. In an interview with Vatican News, he described the current situation as very difficult, with some seafarers succumbing to mental stress and even suicide.

Listen to the interview with Fr Bruno Ciceri

Vaccination

On the question of vaccinations, Fr Ciceri said, there were a lot of appeals from the Secretary General of the United Nations, the Secretary also of IMO and ILO, even the Holy Father intervened on requesting that the seafarers would be declared as key workers.



He explained that being able to access a vaccine greatly depends on each individual country. In places like Belgium and the United States, crew members have been able to go to the Seafarers Centre to receive their jab. However, in other countries, being able to get the vaccine has proved a lot more difficult.

Piracy

A few years ago in 2011 and 2012, the issue of piracy was rampant, with hundreds of vessels being hijacked for their cargo in areas like the Gulf of Aden.

Fr Ciceri said that although the situation has since improved, there have been a least 38 incidents reported over the past year. He pointed out that piracy poses a real danger to seafarers especially in West Africa, Nigeria, Ivory Coast, Benin and Togo.

In other parts of the world, there is the threat posed by criminals who, according to the Stella Maris director, board vessels and try to steal anything they find on board. He went on to say that it is essential that ship owners make their vessels as secure as possible.

Sea Sunday

As Sea Sunday is marked around the world this 11 July, Fr Ciceri said it was important to remember that seafarers, even amid a pandemic, keeping working. They keep sailing from one port to another to deliver goods, to deliver also medicine.

He highlighted that during periods of lockdown, people experienced what it was like to live, at times, in confined spaces for a period of time.

But seafarers, emphasized Fr Ciceri, are locked down for the duration of their contracts, which are nine months minimum. He also noted that, amid the pandemic, they cannot even leave their ships.

It is worth reflecting on, said the Stella Maris international director, that 90% of the goods we consume are delivered to us courtesy of ships. So we are really in debt to the seafarers for the work that they do and for the goods that they bring to make our lives more comfortable.
Upon hearing that I was making a cheffed-up version of munggo, a rich Filipino mung bean stew, my husband gleefully quoted lines from the Candygram scene in Blazing Saddles (1974). Mongo like candy, he said. The band Mungo Jerry had a song titled In the Summertime, he went on to point out. I didnt know he was so full of mongo details. He also loves beans.

When I think of munggo, the little beans are top of mind because that is the star ingredient. Years ago, I learned about munggo stew from a Filipino friends mom, Mrs. Esperanza. I was intrigued by it. South Asian dals may be made with mung beans. But here was a classic dal-like dish from the Filipino kitchen. Mrs. Esperanza offered a recipe that was good and employed bittermelon leaves picked from the vines. She said the dish was healthy, though as I recall, she included pork in hers. It was delicious, albeit heavy. There are also versions of munggo that include shrimp or shrimp and pork.

Ive been keeping an eye out for interesting munggo recipes, and Alvin Cailan presents one in his book, Amboy: Recipes from the Filipino American Dream. Its smart and wonderfully satisfying with lots of umami built in via a shiitake mushroom broth. And, its vegan, if youre cooking for folks with such eating preferences.

Filipino Culinary Nimbleness

Cailan is an incredibly gifted chef from Los Angeles who has a knack for dissecting classics and creatively reinventing them. Filipino cooks are incredibly versatile and capable, given their geography (about 7,640 islands comprise the Philippines!) plus history and experiences of being guest workers all over the world, serving in the U.S. military, and negotiating colonization. Filipino-Americans like Ken Concepcion, a former high-end chef and now a cookbook shop owner, impact food on many levels.

Through his food and in his book, Cailan demonstrates his Filipino creativity many times over. For example, Amboy offers up cheeseburger lumpia on page 98, pulled pork adobo on page 218, and a lentil twist on oxtail kare kare stew on page 316. He takes on banh mi, Croque Madame, and Japanese noodle dishes. He puts his Filipino-American imprint on mazemen, a preparation akin to a brothless ramen (second photo below).

Amboy's Munggo

His memoir cookbook is an honest reflection of his life and he dispenses freely on what he loves and hates in food. Cailan admitted hating the earthy flavor of munggo when he was young. But then, he realized the little beans health benefits. He wanted to make mung beans shine, but without a ton of pork fat, as is often involved, he wrote. He eventually developed a healthy, brilliant iteration (the broth adds the savorines that pork would lend) and offered it as a side dish on his menus.

I like his recipe a lot but frankly, its cheffy. The shiitake stock yielded one gallon, but all I needed was 4 cups for the munggo stew (there was no pointer on freezing the stock). And the garlic chips required deep frying 8 thinly sliced garlic cloves. After I made the recipe the first time, I slightly adapted it for my home kitchen, and hopefully, yours too. Less time and smaller quantities of ingredients are involved. The recipe preserves Cailans gentle, balanced handling of ingredients.

Translating restaurant recipes well for home cooks isnt easy. But thats no reason to skip a cookbook. Theres lots of wonderful culinary ideas and stories in Cailans Amboy. If youre into exploring modern Filipino food, its a terrific book to include in your library.

Mung Beans Healthy Power

In English, we know this legume as mung beans but the powerhouse ingredient is known as mongo, munggo, moong, and maash in parts of South and Southeast Asian and the Middle East. In China and Vietnam, theyre called green beans, au xanh in Vietnamese.

Domesticated in the Indian Subcontinent as far back as 1500 B.C., mung beans have long been known as a healthy food. According to traditional Chinese medicine, mung beans power to include cooling the body, improving skin, and detoxifying your system. The India Times recently summarized mung beans potential benefits, such as helping with digestion, weight loss, and diabetes, in this article.

Sourcing Mung Beans

At most standard supermarkets, mung beans are seen as the common bean sprouts. If you shop at a health food store, youll encounter green, unhulled mung beans. Venture to a Chinese, Southeast Asian or South Asian market, youll see three (3) mung bean options: unhulled; split with their green hulls; and hulled and split as small yellow legumes. Some stores sell organically grown hulled mung beans too.

Hulled, split mung beans are what I mostly use in my kitchen because the legume cooks up fast and buttery tasting. Steamed ground mung beans are used as fillings and toppings in Viet dumplings, old school sizzling rice crepes, sticky rice, cakes and sweet soups. The unhulled beans are most sprouted, as Ive once done when I wanted homegrown bean sprouts. Now I have Cailans munggo to add to my mung bean repertoire.

When making this recipe, start with the stock since the mung beans need to soak for 2 hours or more, if you like.

Print Recipe Shiitake Mushroom Stock Use a medium grade dried shiitake for this stock. Theres no need to spend fortune, but dont skimp because good dried shiitakes help build savory depth in the munggo recipe. I slightly adapted this recipe from Amboy by Alvin Cailan. Each batch makes about 4 cups. If you double the recipe, use a larger pot. Ingredients 3 ounces dried shiitake mushrooms

5- by 10-inch piece of kombu dried kelp, snipped into 3 or 4 pieces

8 cups water Instructions Put the ingredients in a 3 or 4 -quart pot. Set over high heat and bring to a boil. Lower the heat to simmer until the liquid has reduced by nearly half, about 2 hours. The flavor will be very mushroomy and savory. Let cool for 15 minutes before filtering through a fine mesh strainer. Allow the mushroom to cool then squeeze on them to get any extra bits of liquid. Save the mushroom and seaweed for other uses; their flavor is mild but you can certainly eat them!

You should have about 4 cups. If you have a lot more, boil the stock down. If youre shy of the target amount, add water. The stock is ready to use, or to store (see below). Notes Refrigerate the stock for a week or freeze for up to 3 months. Alternatively, put the ingredients in the pot, then cover and refrigerate overnight. Return to room temperature, bring to a boil, the lower the heat to simmer for 45 minutes. Cool briefly then strain. You should have 4 cups. Kombu and dried shiitake are sold at many markets but your best selection will be at East or Southeast Asian markets. Never Miss a Recipe. Subscribe to the VWK Newsletter!
South Korea recorded a record number of new coronavirus infections for a third straight day, the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency said Saturday.

The country also recorded its highest-ever number of cases of COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus, in the 24-hour period ending Friday, with 1,378 infections. The previous record, set Thursday, as 1,316 new COVID-19 cases, the KDCA said.

Overall, South Korea has had 166,722 confirmed COVID-19 cases and 2,038 deaths, according to the Johns Hopkins Coronavirus Resource Center.

To combat the rise in cases, South Korea said, beginning Monday, it would enact its toughest coronavirus controls ever. Those measures include advising people to stay home as much as possible and to limit social gatherings to a total of four people before 6 p.m. and no more than two people after 6 p.m., according to a Reuters report.

The Johns Hopkins Vaccine Tracker said the country of 52 million has administered more than 21 million vaccine doses. The KDCA said 11% of South Koreas population is completely vaccinated while about 30% have received at least one dose of vaccine.

Australias most populous state, New South Wales, which is dealing with an outbreak of the delta variant of the coronavirus, recorded its largest rise in new cases of locally acquired infections  with 50 new cases in a 24-hour period, according to Reuters.

Overall, there are now 489 cases of the highly infectious delta variant in the state, which has a population of more than 8 million people. The capital city, Sydney, which has a population of 5 million, is in the third week of a hard lockdown that is set to end July 16.

"The only conclusion we can draw is that things are going to get worse before they get better," state Premier Gladys Berejiklian told a televised briefing on Saturday, according to Reuters. "I think it is pretty clear that unless we reduce that level of people in the community that are infectious, we won't be able to turn things around as quickly as we can or as quickly as we should."

Australia has been largely successful in containing the spread of COVID-19 due to aggressive lockdown efforts, posting just 31,017 total confirmed cases and 910 deaths, according to the Johns Hopkins Coronavirus Resource Center. However, it has proved vulnerable to fresh outbreaks due to a slow rollout of its vaccination campaign and confusing requirements involving the two-shot AstraZeneca vaccine, which is the dominant vaccine in its stockpile.

Overall, Australia has administered nearly 9 million doses of vaccine to its population of more than 25 million people, according to Johns Hopkins.

US Ships Moderna Vaccine to Indonesia Amid COVID-19 Surge Jakarta will use the doses as booster shots for health workers already vaccinated with Sinovac

Indonesia also is struggling with a rise in coronavirus cases, including the highly infectious delta variant, and has sought emergency supplies, including oxygen cylinders and ventilators.

"I asked for 100% of oxygen go to medical purposes first, meaning that all industrial allocations must be transferred to medical," Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, the government minister in charge of Indonesias pandemic response, said. "We are racing against time, we have to work fast."

Overall, Indonesia, the world's fourth-most populous country, has reported more than 2.4 million infections and 64,631 fatalities from COVID-19, according to Johns Hopkins. Those figures are widely believed to be a vast undercount due to low testing and poor tracing measures, according to an Associated Press report.

Other countries are also seeing an increase in COVID-19 cases related to the delta variant of the coronavirus. The Catalonia region of Spain plans to reimpose coronavirus curbs to slow the outbreak, such as requiring nightclubs to close this weekend and requiring a negative COVID-19 test for people wanting to join outdoor activities involving more than 500 people, according to an Agence France-Presse report Saturday.

"The pandemic has not ended, the new variants are very contagious, and we still have significant segments of the population that are not vaccinated," Patricia Plaja, a spokeswoman for the regional government told a news conference, AFP reported.

Also Saturday, Russia reported 25,082 new coronavirus cases and a record 752 deaths in the past 24 hours, according to Reuters.

Globally, there have been 186 million cases of COVID-19 and more than 4 million deaths, according to Johns Hopkins. The U.S. leads the world with 33.8 million COVID-19 cases and 606,993 virus-related deaths.

Some information for this report came from the Associated Press, Reuters and Agence France-Presse.
Pope Francis is recovering from colon surgery in a Rome hospital and the Vatican has announced that he will deliver his weekly Sunday blessing from there.

An exact date for his release has not been given, although the Vatican had said he would spend about seven days in the hospital, barring complications.

Pope Francis has been recovering from a three-hour operation that removed half of his colon last Sunday evening. He was taken to Romes Gemelli hospital for the planned surgery after delivering his weekly Sunday blessing.

This is the first time the pope has been hospitalized since he was elected head of the Catholic Church.

The pope temporarily ran a mild fever Wednesday, but routine tests proved negative. The Vatican said he was in generally good condition, alert, eating normally, taking walks in the corridor, and even reading and working.

The Vatican said, though, that Francis would be delivering this Sundays Angelus prayer and blessing from the 10th floor of the hospital, where he has a private suite, the same one where Pope John Paul II was also treated many times.

It will be the first time since his election in 2013 that Francis has missed his Sunday appointment from the balcony of the apostolic palace with the crowd in St. Peters Square, except for when he has been on his travels. The pope is not yet in good enough condition to be able to return to the Vatican, and no further announcement about his release has yet been given.

The 84-year-old popes most recent ailments include painful sciatica that causes him to walk with a pronounced limp.

Francis is expected to resume all his activities after July. Starting in September, the Vatican has said, he plans trips to Hungary and Slovakia. In November, he has plans to visit Greece and Cyprus and may also attend an international meeting on climate change in Scotland later that month.
South African police said on Saturday that 28 people had been arrested and one of the country's biggest highways remained closed over violent protests linked to former president Jacob Zuma's imprisonment.

Protests erupted this week in parts of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), Zuma's home province, after the ex-leader handed himself over to police to serve a 15-month jail term for contempt of court. On Friday, the high court dismissed Zuma's application to have his arrest overturned in a case that has been seen as a test of the post-apartheid nation's rule of law. An hour before the ruling, a Reuters photographer saw a group of protesters shouting "Zuma!" burning tires and blocking a road.

Zuma's imprisonment has laid bare deep divisions in the governing African National Congress (ANC), as a party faction remains loyal to the former president and has been a potent source of opposition to his successor, Cyril Ramaphosa.

KZN police spokesman Jay Naicker said the 28 arrests had happened since Friday on charges including public violence, burglary, malicious damage to property, and contravention of COVID-19 lockdown regulations.

He said protesters had burned some trucks near Mooi River, a town on the N3 highway that leads from Durban to Johannesburg, and shops had been looted in Mooi River and eThekwini, the municipality that includes Durban.

Law enforcement officers had been deployed to all districts in the province but there had been no deaths or injuries so far, he added. As of lunchtime, the N3 was closed at Mooi River. Ramaphosa, whose allies engineered Zuma's ouster in 2018, said in a statement that "criminal elements must be met with the full might of the law."

Asked about the protests by public broadcaster SABC, a spokesman for Zuma's charitable foundation said: "The righteous anger of the people is because of the injustices that they see being dispensed to President Zuma."

Zuma was given the jail term for defying an order from the constitutional court to give evidence at an inquiry investigating high-level corruption during his nine years in power.

He denies there was widespread corruption under his leadership but has refused to cooperate with the inquiry that was set up in his final weeks in office.

Zuma has challenged his sentence in the constitutional court, partly on the grounds of his alleged frail health and the risk of catching COVID-19. That challenge will be heard on Monday.

KZN Premier Sihle Zikalala said in a video message the provincial government understood the "extreme anger" of those protesting.

"We find ourselves in a ... unique situation wherein we are dealing with the arrest of the former president," he said.

"Unfortunately violence and destruction often attack and affect even people who are not involved."
Moderate mag. 4.3 earthquake - 1 km north of Thebes, Nomos Voiotias, Central Greece, on 11 Jul 3:00 am (GMT +3) -

Moderate magnitude 4.3 earthquake at 8 km depth

11 Jul 00:02 UTC: First to report: GFZ after 2 minutes.

11 Jul 00:06: Magnitude recalculated from 4.8 to 4.4. Epicenter location corrected by 3.4 km (2.1 mi) towards SSW.

... [show all] ... 11 Jul 00:07: Now using data updates from NOA

11 Jul 00:12: Hypocenter depth recalculated from 5.0 to 10.0 km (from 3.1 to 6.2 mi). Epicenter location corrected by 1.5 km (1 mi) towards SSW.

11 Jul 00:17: Magnitude recalculated from 4.2 to 4.3. Hypocenter depth recalculated from 10.0 to 8.2 km (from 6.2 to 5.1 mi). Epicenter location corrected by 1.9 km (1.2 mi) towards NNW.

Update Sun, 11 Jul 2021, 00:12

4.2 quake 11 Jul 3:00 am (GMT +3)

A magnitude 4.2 earthquake near Thebes, Voiotia, Central Greece, Greece, was reported only 12 minutes ago by the National Observatory of Athens (NOA), considered the main national agency that monitors seismic activity in Greece. The earthquake occurred at a very shallow depth of 5 km beneath the epicenter early morning on Sunday 11 July 2021 at 3:00 am local time. The exact magnitude, epicenter, and depth of the quake might be revised within the next few hours or minutes as seismologists review data and refine their calculations, or as other agencies issue their report.

A second report was later issued by the Kandilli Oservatory and Earthquake Research Institute in Istanbul (KOERI-RETMC), which listed it as a magnitude 4.2 earthquake as well. Other agencies reporting the same quake include the German Research Centre for Geosciences (GFZ) at magnitude 4.4, and the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) at magnitude 4.4.

Based on the preliminary seismic data, the quake was probably felt by many people in the area of the epicenter. It should not have caused significant damage, other than objects falling from shelves, broken windows, etc.

In Thebes (pop. 22,000) located 1 km from the epicenter, the quake should have been felt as light shaking.

Weak shaking might have been felt in Chalcis (pop. 59,100) located 28 km from the epicenter.

Other towns or cities near the epicenter where the quake might have been felt as very weak shaking include Petroupolis (pop. 59,000) located 45 km from the epicenter, Acharnes (pop. 99,300) 45 km away, Peristeri (pop. 140,000) 47 km away, Keratsini (pop. 77,100) 48 km away, Nikaia (pop. 89,400) 49 km away, Piraeus (pop. 163,700) 51 km away, Athens (pop. 664,000) 52 km away, and Lamia (pop. 52,000) 101 km away.

If you were or still are in this area during the quake help others with your feedback and file a quick report here . Download the Volcanoes & Earthquakes app to get one of the fastest seismic alerts online:

Android | IOS to get one of the fastest seismic alerts online:

Earthquake data:

[ show map ] Show interactive Map [ smaller ] [ bigger ]

please share your experience and submit a short "I felt it" report! Other users would love to hear about it!

Also if you did NOT feel the quake although you were in the area, please report it ! Your contribution is valuable also to earthquake science and earthquake hazard analysis and mitigation efforts. You can use your device location or the map to indicate where you were during the earthquake. Thank you! If you felt this quake (or if you were near the epicenter),Other users would love to hear about it!Alsoalthough you were in the area, please! Your contribution is valuable also to earthquake science and earthquake hazard analysis and mitigation efforts. You can use your device location or the map to indicate where you were during the earthquake. Thank you!

Data for the same earthquake reported by different agencies

Info: The more agencies report about the same quake and post similar data, the more confidence you can have in the data. It takes normally up to a few hours until earthquake parameters are calculated with near-optimum precision.

Mag. Depth Location Source 4.3 8.2 km Greece: 1 Km E From Thebes NOA 4.6 2 km GREECE EMSC 4.4 10 km Greece GFZ 4.2 5 km Greece: YUNANISTAN KOERI-RETMC 4.6 10 km 9 Km N of Thivai, Greece USGS 4.3 8 km Greece: Erithrai / Griechenland ZAMG

User reports for this quake (49) User reports estimate the perceived ground shaking intensity according to the MMI (Modified Mercalli Intensity) scale Contribute:

Leave a comment if you find a particular report interesting or want to add to it.

Flag as inappropriate.

Mark as helpful or interesting.

Send your own user report! Athens (52.9 km SE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / vertical swinging (up and down) / 30-60 s : The bed shaked and I could hear noises | One user found this interesting. 64.2 km SE of epicenter [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s : Fear | One user found this interesting. Valopoula (27.7 km NE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s : Rattling | One user found this interesting. Athens / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating : Woke me up ! | One user found this interesting. Peiraias / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s : It lasted a short time 1 second | One user found this interesting. Athens (128.1 km NNE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s : Light shaking in two waves Athenes (53.1 km SE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / single lateral shake / 2-5 s Loukisia (19.8 km NNE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / very short : Felt a jollt and heard rattling 1.9 km S of epicenter [ Map ] / Strong shaking (MMI VI) / rattling, vibrating / very short Piraeus (52.7 km SE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s 45.9 km SE of epicenter [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / complex motion difficult to describe / 2-5 s Nea Philadelphia (49 km SE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / single vertical bump / 1-2 s Athenes (63.4 km SE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 2-5 s 56.2 km SE of epicenter [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s (reported through our app / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s 39.3 km S of epicenter [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / vibration and rolling / 5-10 s pireas (52.6 km SE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / very short 56 km SE of epicenter [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 2-5 s Athens (52.7 km SE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 5-10 s Athens (53 km SE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / single lateral shake 48.1 km SE of epicenter [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s 37.6 km SSE of epicenter [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 2-5 s 57.7 km SE of epicenter [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) 52.9 km SE of epicenter [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 1-2 s Orchomenos (34.7 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / very short Athens / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / 2-5 s Loukisia / Light shaking (MMI IV) / single lateral shake / 1-2 s Athens / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / single vertical bump / 2-5 s Lutraki / Weak shaking (MMI III) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 2-5 s : Bed swayed just enough to wake me. Loukissia / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s Athens / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / single lateral shake / 2-5 s : Leger tremblement, pas de balancement d'objets, 4ieme etage d'un building a kallitea ( Athenes) Athens / Light shaking (MMI IV) / 5-10 s : Shaking woke me up athens / Weak shaking (MMI III) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 2-5 s Skroponeria / Light shaking (MMI IV) / 2-5 s Cholargos / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s Athens / Light shaking (MMI IV) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 2-5 s Athens / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 5-10 s Piraus / Weak shaking (MMI III) / 2-5 s glyfada / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 1-2 s VOULA / Weak shaking (MMI III) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 5-10 s Athens / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / single vertical bump / 2-5 s 12 naiadon petroupoli / Light shaking (MMI IV) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 2-5 s Glyfada / Weak shaking (MMI III) / 1-2 s Drapetsona / Weak shaking (MMI III) / single lateral shake / very short Athens / Weak shaking (MMI III) / 2-5 s athens / Weak shaking (MMI III) Pagrati Athens / Weak shaking (MMI III) / 5-10 s Piraeus, Kaminia / Weak shaking (MMI III) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 2-5 s Athens / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / very short athens / Weak shaking (MMI III) / very short

Look up aftershocks or earlier quakes

Earlier earthquakes in the same area since 1900

Map of earlier quakes
Stowe, VT (05672)

Today

A steady rain this morning. Showers continuing this afternoon. High 69F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 100%. Rainfall around a quarter of an inch..

Tonight

Cloudy skies this evening. A few showers developing late. Low 58F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 30%.
A new monthly child tax credit will hit some parent's bank accounts in just 5 days.

It's part of the "American Rescue Plan" and is an advanced credit payment for those who qualify.

WAAY-31 spoke with several parents about whether or not they're going to get it or not.

The consensus on whether or not parents want to use the newest child tax credit is somewhere in the middle.

Some say they will and others won't, but everyone we spoke to is happy they have options.

"I plan on using it for bills and some of it for my kids," said Keiston Hammett. "My son, he's about to 3 and he needs speech therapy, and the insurance doesn't cover it. So, we're going to use the child tax credit to pay for his speech therapy," said Heather Bridges.

Nearly 40,000,000 families are eligible to receive advance monthly credit starting July 15th.

The parents we spoke to say the funds will go towards childcare, school supplies and bills.

But there are some parents who are opting out.

"I was like okay we're getting more money but it's really my money and I don't want to be fronted," said Alexis Smith.

The credit is an early tax credit, so you can either get the money in increments monthly or just get a lump sum payment after you file taxes next year.

To be eligible, you must have a gross income of less than $75,000 for single parents and $150,000 for married couples.

If you have a child between the ages of 6 and 17, you could get $250 a month and any child under the age of 6, you could get $300 per month.

Parent, Keisten Hammett says this is a blessing for everyone and parents shouldn't hesitate to take advantage of it.

"If this can help ease some of the tension to be able to afford things for your kid that you're not able to afford anything or to help ease the tension of paying those month to month payments on your bills and stuff, then go for it," she said.

The monthly payments are set to be paid out through the end of this year, unless another law is set in place.

If you want to opt out, it's too late for this month bu,t you still have time to opt out for next month's payment.

To find out if you qualify for the payments click here or if you'd like to learn how to opt out of payments, click here
Decatur, IL (62521)

Today

Cloudy skies early, then partly cloudy this afternoon. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 82F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Mainly clear. Low 64F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph.
Decatur, IL (62521)

Today

Cloudy skies early, then partly cloudy this afternoon. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 82F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Mostly clear. Low 64F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph.
The idea on the surface sounds logical, Welch told me. Community colleges serve thousands, often students from low-income backgrounds like my students, and they can be an avenue toward attaining a higher education degree and the benefits that come with that. But what Bidens plan does is lower expectations for millions of students in poverty across the nation. Why should our goal for low-income students be community college? The goal for all students should be college.
Todays Headlines

The most important news stories of the day, curated by Post editors and delivered every morning.

By signing up you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy
The heat tourists are more interested in the daytime highs, which are projected to approach 130 degrees through Monday. Saturday was forecast to be the hottest day of the weekend, topping out at 132 degrees Fahrenheit. That would have bested the modern-day record of 130 degrees set here last August and then unexpectedly attained again on Friday. (Neither temperature has yet been officially verified by the National Weather Service.)
The power of those relationships will soon be tested further. The 2002 AUMF is only one of several AUMFs, and Abrams said it isnt currently being used for any ongoing military actions. However, a separate debate is already brewing around a 2001 AUMF authorizing war against the perpetrators of the September 11, 2001, attacks. Various presidents expanded its interpretation over the years  such as invoking it to justify aggression against the Islamic State group  and it is being used to defend ongoing military action.
In Japan, hundreds of thousands of fathers lose access to their children, with mothers also sometimes among the victims, and some are now beginning to come forward in public. Hundreds of American parents married to Japanese nationals have suffered the same fate, and have won support in Congress for their efforts to put pressure on the Japanese authorities to allow them to see their children.
But for those who came to see Francis, this Sunday was much different from the others, because it was a chance to give the pope their support, gauge his recovery and even see a little bit of his vulnerability. Francis appeared in good spirits but seemed slightly weakened. He held on to the lectern for support as he walked onto the balcony, and during his 10 minutes of remarks and prayers, his voice sounded a little clipped and tired.
Washington, IN (47501)

Today

Sunshine and a few clouds. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 81F. Winds light and variable..

Tonight

Mainly clear skies. Low 64F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph.
Strong performances from the ASXs biggest mining companies helped push the market higher on Monday, while the consumer sector was under pressure as Sydneys COVID outbreak worsened.

The S&P/ASX 200 added 60.2 points, or 0.8 per cent, to close at 7333.5, recovering most of Fridays losses.

Miners out-performed with BHP up 3.2 per cent to $51.05, Fortescue Metals gaining 3.3 per cent to $24.66, Mineral Resources up 4.2 per cent to a record $59.59, and Rio Tinto up 1.8 per cent to $127.60. The major banks and biotech CSL also rose.

The ASX 200 added 0.8 per cent on Monday. Credit:Jim Rice

The gains came despite New South Wales reporting 112 new locally acquired cases of the virus.

Moodys Analytics warned the virus Delta variant was likely to cause economic damage as Asia-Pacific countries were forced into lockdown due to their low vaccination rates.

Chief investment officer of Burman Invest Julia Lee said it was a good day on the ASX, particularly for iron ore miners, with Wall Street providing a strong lead.

Iron ore has been really quite strong in terms of prices, staying around $US200 per tonne and really defying those predictions that they will cool off. The longer prices remain above $US200 per tonne, the more likely we will see upgrades, she said, adding the miners were expected to pay out record-high dividends in the August results season.

The worst performing sector was consumer staples, with Coles down 1.2 per cent, Woolworths down 0.2 per cent from a record high, and United Malt down 1.3 per cent.

Businesses most impacted by lockdowns also declined. Casino operators Star, Skycity, and Crown fell, while gambling operators Pointsbet and Tabcorp also declined. However, travel stocks improved with Corporate Travel up 1.2 per cent, Flight Centre up 0.5 per cent, and Webjet up 0.4 per cent.

We know this playbook, Ms Lee said. There is probably going to be a dip in consumer confidence, some of the discretionary retailers are going to be hit. Once the lockdown reverses things will come down to a sustainable level.

The corporate news flow was light, except for a takeover offer from Wesfarmers for Australian Pharmaceutical Industries, API, which pushed the targets share price up nearly 20 per cent to an 18-month high of $1.37.

Senior investment advisor at Shaw & Partners, Adam Dawes, said the resources stocks put in a very strong performance on Monday after oil and iron ore prices improved.

Thats really positive because everyone has been talking down iron ore and talking down oil, and BHP is strong in both of those, he said.

Markets had also been talking down the likelihood of iron ore prices staying above the $US200 per tonne level. The average analyst target price for BHP was now at $50.68, but most recent reports assumed the price would fall below $US200 per tonne by the end of this year.

There has to be begrudging upgrades that will have to come while the commodity stocks still do very very well, Mr Dawes added.

Chief executive of Kalkine Group, Kunal Sawhney, speculated ongoing global demand for steel would keep iron ore prices high. While there has been market chatter about China cutting steel production to meet carbon emission targets, demand was staying high due to infrastructure stimulus programs around the world.

There is a possibility of resultant high steel prices encouraging mills to increase their operating rates, offsetting output reductions elsewhere, Mr Sawhney said.

This may refrain the country from succeeding in driving overall steel output lower, potentially creating upward pressure on iron ore prices. At the same time, one cannot neglect signs of slowing steel demand that are evident in China after the spectacular growth spurt seen initially in 2021 post last years Covid-19 slowdown.
Question: I went through a ghastly experience at work and went straight to our HR team. They said they would treat my experience with the utmost seriousness, but were not sympathetic or helpful. It was clear from the very start they didnt believe what I was saying and intended to side with the person who caused me such grief, no matter what.

I spoke with a friend about it who said words to the effect HR departments arent there for employees. Theyre there for the company.

Its been months and Ive finally had the issue resolved separate from the HR department. I dont work for the company anymore. But my question is, is my friends advice true? Is going to HR a waste of time no matter where you work, or was this just a bad HR team?

Illustration by John Shakespeare Credit:

Answer: Im sorry for what youve been through, the experience itself but also the promise of remedy that has gone unfulfilled.
Does Graham identify as a black person? I dont know how he identifies, but hes the most relaxed, unburdened man youll ever meet in your life. Hes so cool. They are my favourite actors: Sean Bean (Mark Cobden) and Stephen Graham (Eric McNally) in Time. If you tell me Sean Bean is that, I wont believe you! Oh Seans not black, McGovern says, misunderstanding me. Seans a white working-class Yorkshire man. But if youre about to tell me hes completely chilled and relaxed  No, hes OK Sean  hes a lovely man. I love him to bits, like. He says that a series he workshopped for nine months in Australia  Redfern Now in 2012  was the most rewarding thing Ive ever done in my life. It was just a buzz from start to finish. McGovern was invited over by the Australian writer Mac [Wolf Creek] Gudgeon when they met at a writers guild conference on the West Coast of America. In Australia he met Sally Riley, who went on to become the ABCs Head of Drama, Comedy and Indigenous and was a great fan of McGoverns The Street and hoping to recreate it in Australia. Instead, something original was worked up to become the first series commissioned, written, acted and produced by Indigenous Australians. It won a multitude of awards and was developed into a second series. McGovern meets with Indigenous writers working on the ABC series Redfern Now in 2010, from back, left to right, Adrian Wills, Steven McGregor, Tamara Whyte; middle row, Dennis Simmons, Danielle MacLean. front row, Jon Bell, Jimmy McGovern and Michelle Blanchard. Credit:James Brickwood

A non-Indigenous Australian, the British writer believes, wouldnt have been able to do and say the things he did and said: I realised I was asked because of what I didnt know about the Aboriginal experience; I was an ignorant bum! He had what he describes as an absolute ball but was less impressed by some aspects of the Australian way of life. He was in Paris doing a screenwriters thing and I remember saying If you think England is a racist country or France is  go to Australia! There was an Aussie in the audience who took great exception to what I said but I think its true. I love Australia and I love Australians but I dont think Ive ever been in such a racist society. Loading McGoverns interest in and knowledge about prisons has deepened over the years; early on in his writing career, when he first moved from teaching to scripting, he was invited to conduct workshops in prisons. More recently, he has spent time working with the Sycamore project, under the auspices of the prison chaplaincy, led by volunteers teaching the principles of restorative justice by focusing on victim awareness. As someone who works in prisons, myself, with Liberty Choir UK, the charity I co-founded with my wife seven years ago , I was struck by how accurately Time captures the inhumanity of life in prison  what civilised society would tolerate conditions that you wouldnt accept for animals, where two men in a tiny cell, built in Victorian times for one prisoner, are forced to eat and defecate virtually on top of one another? Time captures the inhumanity of life in prison. Sean Bean plays a teacher who has killed a man while driving drunk.

But I was also touched by how McGovern caught those rare, surprising moments of grace that can and do offer tiny shafts of light in a very dark place: as when an educated prisoner discreetly teaches an illiterate but proud fellow inmate to read and write, the kindness and concern that can manifest itself, how a caring and imaginative chaplain (such as the one played by Siobhan Finneran; the cast is a roll call of great British television actors) can transform the intolerable into something almost transcendent when she offers a prisoner the chance to experience a virtual funeral after he is denied the right to attend his fathers in person. Jimmy McGovern has been working as a volunteer on a restorative justice program. Credit:Colin McPherson/Corbis via Getty Im really proud of that scene, he says. Im so glad you picked that out. I loved that sequence. Ive never seen that done before, have you? It came to me and its amazing, isnt it? I have witnessed similar moments of reprieve in prison: how hard men can show emotion and even weep if they feel safe  alongside terrible events, more terrible because of how commonplace they are: suicide and self-harming, which has increased by 24 per cent in female prisons during COVID-19. Mental health, which has always been a major problem in prisons, has dramatically deteriorated with the further restrictions imposed because of the virus: the deprivation of fresh air, education, work, exercise, visits from family and none of the activities, such as our choirs, that offer relief from despair and can give prisoners the strength to survive another week.

McGovern, of course, sings from the same songbook  although not literally; he insists his voice is terrible, so much so that it is hard at times to remember that this is supposed to be an interview, not a meeting between like-minded people who are searching for a solution to an inhumane institution that is no longer fit for purpose. The main answer to making prisons work better is to empty them, he says: If you decriminalised drugs, you would have empty prisons. And Id do something about the cells; you shouldnt eat and shit in the same room. If you decriminalised drugs, you would have empty prisons. And do something about the cells; you shouldnt eat and shit in the same room. Jimmy MGovern There should also be a lot more meaningful activity, education and training. If only there was some way of altering the minds of the British public when it comes to sentencing. Its so easy for any political party to say tough on crime and get elected. Its ridiculous. The dynamic between Eric, the prison officer, and Mark, the prisoner  both trapped in different ways  came to McGovern for his script early on. During his research and in his various stints working in prison, he never encountered what he calls a real baddy of a prison officer. I thought they were people doing shitty jobs in shitty circumstances with very little money, and so I can see the temptation is there. But I never came across an out and out bastard  thats probably because I wasnt allowed to see the out and out bastards! he grins.  I didnt want to write an easy villain. And yet stuff does get into British prisons through staff. That is one way it does get in, and I had that story early on.

And the Sean Bean story is my kind of story  a man who needs to atone and cant even begin to atone, paralysed with guilt and grief and suffering. And then of course he gets picked on. And the only thing he does know about prison  having seen what happens to the other grass [who gets scalded horribly]  is that he knows he cannot grass. Stephen Graham is prison officer Eric McNally, who is forced into corruption to protect his son. In one of several hard-to-stomach scenes, one prisoner bites the ear off another inmate: Yes. I always had that in mind  the kind of level youve got to sink to in order to protect yourself. The brutalising nature of being in the belly of the beast, as prison has been called, is conveyed by the deafening cacophony of heavy doors slamming, men shouting at the top of their voices, banging of metal bars  and this is given an arresting counterpoint by the gentle, melancholic music of Elgar-like strings, suggesting the sadness, confusion and regret that is nearly always present when the men are alone in their cells, unmasked from the bravado and bluster of their strut in the wings. McGovern knew what prison drama cliches he was going to avoid, along with creating a multi-layered, subtle portrait of a prison officer who is a man of honour and integrity until he cant be, some of which are not even based on reality. You know how they always show a riot in the prison canteen? I have a very good friend who Ive known for 50 years and only the other day I said to him You do know that prisoners dont eat in canteens. And he was shocked when I told him that they pick up their food and take it back to eat in their cell  one person sitting on the lavatory and the other one on the lowest bunk. He was absolutely gobsmacked, you know.

And the other cliche I wanted to avoid was scenes of violence or homosexual rape in the showers.  There are some viscerally graphic scenes around self-harm in the first episode; how did he feel when he saw them? Its funny because it always happens to me and maybe to all writers  what we see in our minds eye is often less graphic that what appears on the screen. Having said that, I was served by a brilliant director [Lewis (Des; Broadchurch) Arnold] so Im not knocking him on this, but it was maybe a little more graphic than I envisaged it to be, but not that much more. Liberty Choir holds regular concerts in non-COVID-19 times in prisons (where the prisoners perform with the volunteers who come together for weekly sessions in a mixed choir) in front of an audience of prisoners families and friends. The dynamic in the hall with children running up to hug their fathers and where partners and wives, parents, grandparents or just supportive friends get to see their loved one in a different, joyous light, transforms a harsh environment. Time shows a similarly radiant moment when a child runs across the room at visiting time and everything changes in an instant: Its a beautiful meeting scene that, isnt it? All you see is love. Or when Marks mother  his parents visit him regularly  played by Sue Johnston says: Youre here as punishment, not for it. Is that yours? No, its not mine. Ive heard it said before about British prisons and I cant remember where but I clocked it when I heard it. He is talking on Zoom set up by Eileen  they have recently celebrated their golden wedding anniversary, he tells me  in his office across the lawn from their home. Behind him is a blue plaque that he takes down to show me, which says: JIMMY MCGOVERN Grandad since 2002 Health & Safety Expert Lives Here. The McGoverns have three children now in their late forties, Nicky, Joanne and Jimmy, and four teenage grandchildren: Hannah, Nancy, Tom and Jimmy jnr. Im a typical granddad, he says. Every time they come, I worry about their safety, so they call me the Health and Safety Expert.

Despite the serious subjects we tackle, there is often an air of merriment to the proceedings because of McGoverns frequent laughter and the twinkle in his eyes. The short vowels and Scouse thud are still very much intact, as is the occasional ghost of his childhood stutter, when the odd word stubbornly sticks. McGovern wanted to avoid the cliches of prison-based dramas. He talks about his memories of the 11 members of his family living in their little house, four boys to a bedroom until he was 10, thinning out as his older siblings married and left home: Me Mam would be singing Nat King Coles When I Fall in Love [he breaks into song, tunefully  despite his earlier protestations] as she washed the oilcloth over the table. Greenside is still there, he says, but now its got these pretty little houses built by the much-maligned Militant Tendency [of the Labour Party] in the 80s. Hes sensitive to the criticism that has been made of him reinforcing the negative stereotype of the Scouser: You know, What do you call a Scouser in a suit? The Accused. What do you call a Scouser in a big house? A burglar. When a drama works, its because its about flawed characters, and because I shoot in this city, giving jobs to my own people, I get accused of reinforcing that negative stereotype by our paper the Liverpool Echo, who cant even be arsed to print here, which is unfortunate.

I love this city, and the older I get, the more I love it. The architecture is second to none and you walk along the river and you see a proper river. Im sorry, but Manchester hasnt got a river like the Mersey, you know what I mean? He reads each of his characters lines out so they have a Scouse inflection, and I dont think Ive ever written a character who hasnt been part of me. Even the psychopaths in Cracker would be some deep and horrible part of me. He may have drunk more and smoked more to get into the head of Robbie Coltranes criminal psychologist Fitz, but the gambling addiction wasnt a stretch at all: I was a terrible gambler. I nearly lost everything to gambling. Loading McGovern used to pride himself on his discipline for writing, but now he can be distracted by the smallest things, such as fixing his lawn. Is it because, at 71, he gets tired easily? I dont know, he smiles, with a sort of rueful bemusement. I think its a lack of hunger. Im more successful now than I was  when youre younger you want success and appreciation. I dont particularly go after that now. I dont really go for the baubles.
ACTs Chief Minister Andrew Barr has slammed Victoria for restricting travel by designating the ACT as a red zone  the same rating as Sydney  despite Canberra being COVID-free.

After more than a year without local COVID cases, it is incredibly disappointing and frustrating that state borders are again being shut to Canberrans. Canberra is not part of Greater Sydney, Mr Barr wrote on Twitter.

At this time, there is very little justification to consider the ACT as a COVID-affected jurisdiction that requires the highest level of travel restrictions.

We understand that winter is a higher risk period for COVID transmission and states that have experienced extended lockdowns themselves will have low risk appetites for interstate travellers.

We are asking all states to remove the restrictions on the ACT as soon as possible.

So why is the ban in place? The short answer, according to the Victorian government, is because the ACT does not have a hard border in place with regional NSW.

And given health authorities are growing increasingly concerned about the potential of COVID-19 to leak into regional NSW, Victoria decided to go hard and take no chances by shutting the border with the ACT.

This change is about anticipating the potential for transmission in the near future in regional NSW and the ACT, which are closely connected, Acting Chief Health Officer Daniel OBrien said.

Shoring up the border and managing our inbound risks gives us more confidence when reducing restrictions here. Theres going to be some complexities at the border and we recognise that  but it will be far less complex than managing an outbreak.
Shoppers walk on George Street in Liverpool on Saturday. Credit:SAM MOOY Health authorities also revealed that of the 47 COVID-19 patients in the states hospitals, 37 had not received a single vaccine dose. Loading No-one who has received two doses is in hospital, and thats a key message with this Delta variant, Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant said. Please go and get vaccinated. If you have access according to the eligibility checker, make that appointment now. Five people in hospital who are fully vaccinated are aged care residents of SummitCare, who are in hospital as a precaution. Only four people in hospital have received their first dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine and one their first dose of the Pfizer vaccine.

The total number of people in ICU is now 16, including one teenager. Dr Chant said people were being admitted to hospital without other significant underlying health issues. There are currently more than 350 staff in NSWs centralised contact tracing team, in addition to those from public health units around the state. The team has more than doubled since May last year. Epidemiology chair at Deakin University, Catherine Bennett, said it was essential that people get tested as soon as they noticed symptoms. Professor Bennett said the problem was by the time people were being identified as positive cases, they had already passed on their virus to their close contacts and delaying testing by just a day could be enough to thwart the efforts of contact tracers.

Their contacts are already infectious by the time the health department knows about it, Professor Bennett said, adding in that scenario, it didnt matter how perfect contact tracing was. Contact tracing expert Marion Kainer, who is the head of infectious diseases at Western Health in Melbourne, said shopping centres had been a place of significant transmission during outbreaks in Melbourne and closing retail stores in Sydney could help with the key step needed to help contact tracers bring the outbreak under control - reducing movement. Loading There was the appeal for people to just go in and out and not to linger and not to browse, but people are human, she said. They may have gone in with the best of intentions, and then they get distracted and they just linger for a longer period of time.

The majority, 37, of Saturdays cases were linked to a known case or cluster - either household or close contacts - but 13 remain mystery cases. There were about 42,000 tests processed in the 24 hours to 8pm Friday. Of the cases reported yesterday, 29 are from south-west Sydney and 16 are from south-east Sydney. Police issued 167 infringement notices on Friday, including eight at a gathering in Randwick, six guests at a hotel on Kent Street in Sydneys CBD were fined for breaching the current public health orders and another six people were found at a Central Coast party. This type of behaviour is nothing short of disrespectful  weve already seen how easily the virus spread following the unlawful party at Waterloo, Deputy Commissioner Worboys said.

The state received 101,790 Pfizer doses from the federal government by Friday, however last week Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced 300,000 extra vaccine doses would be fast-tracked to NSW to boost inoculations in south-west Sydney. On Saturday Fairfield City Mayor Frank Carbone said he had written to the federal and state governments offering to host a mass vaccination hub at Fairfield Showground. Cafe owner Sam Aldoumany at the deserted Liverpool mall on Saturday. Credit:Sam Mooy The Showground is accessible to those wanting a vaccination. This would bring testing and vaccination to the one easily accessible location, Cr Carbone said. Loading

On Saturday the Public Health Order was amended, which places additional requirements on mask wearing, and restrictions on entering Greater Sydney. Masks are now required in all indoor areas of construction sites throughout NSW and in all indoor common property areas (such as lifts and lobbies) of residential premises in Greater Sydney. The Premier tightened lockdown restrictions on Friday, with exercising in group limited to two people within their local government area or 10 kilometres of home. People over 18 must carry proof of their address when heading outdoors for recreation and show it to a police officer if required. There were 167 infringement notices issued on Friday. Epidemiologist Meru Sheel said it was likely transmission will bubble away and that stemming non-essential contact between households is critical while boosting involvement of community leaders. We can expect more and more cases and the challenge is people are still out and about in the community. Transmission is still going on and we will see more cases, the problem is the speed at which transmission is happening. People need to be empowered to stay at home. Community engagement is the major challenge.
Washington: Over recent weeks, Americans have been revelling in what many here are calling their post-vax summer.

Bars and nightclubs are packed again; Bruce Springsteen is back playing to packed crowds on Broadway. Americans are embracing opportunities to get out-and-about, as shown by the fact theres a national shortage of rental cars. Its increasingly rare to see anyone wearing a face mask, except on a plane or public transport.

Bruce Springsteen has returned to the Broadway stage, signifying a return to pre-pandemic normality in the United States. Credit:Invision

Coronavirus cases, hospitalisations and death rates have been falling steadily since April, a testament to the effectiveness of the free and widely-available COVID-19 vaccines.

But the sense of progress has been punctured by a series of reminders that the pandemic is not over.
Malta is now requiring proof of vaccination for visitors to the Mediterranean island nation in hopes of stemming the latest rise in coronavirus infections
Last week, a former Australian spy was convicted over his unconfirmed role as a whistleblower who revealed an espionage operation against the government of East Timor.
Louisville, KY (40203)

Today

A few hit or miss storms and a touch less humid..

Tonight

Mostly cloudy, with a few showers and patchy fog
Weatherford, TX (76086)

Today

Mainly sunny to start, then a few afternoon clouds. High 94F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Some clouds. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low near 75F. Winds light and variable.
SPRINGFIELD, MA (WGGB/WSHM) -- It's been quite a wet start to the month of July, and as we begin to forget what the sun even looks like, many are wondering how long is this going to last and exactly how rare is it, or how about what's even causing all the rain to begin with?
Crayon, a global leader in IT services and innovation, today announced it has won the Saudi Arabia 2021 Microsoft Partner of the Year Award. The company was honored among a global field of top Microsoft partners for demonstrating excellence in innovation and implementation of customer solutions based on Microsoft technology.

Crayon, a global leader in IT services and innovation, today announced it has won the Saudi Arabia 2021 Microsoft Partner of the Year Award. The company was honored among a global field of top Microsoft partners for demonstrating excellence in innovation and implementation of customer solutions based on Microsoft technology.

We are honored to be recognized as the Microsoft Partner of the Year for the Kingdom as it is a strong testimony of our commitment in establishing a solid customer-centric organization in Saudi Arabia, said Feras Bilto, Country Manager for Crayon Saudi Arabia. Our team strives towards driving impact in our communities and ecosystems. The exceptional circumstances from the pandemic era highlighted how our partnership with Microsoft really made a difference in helping students adopt distant learning and customers in enabling their employees to work remotely.

The Microsoft Partner of the Year Awards recognize Microsoft partners that have developed and delivered outstanding Microsoft-based solutions during the past year. Awards were classified in various categories, with honorees chosen from a set of more than 4,400 submitted nominations from more than 100 countries worldwide. Crayon was recognized for providing outstanding solutions and services in Saudi Arabia.

As part of the Saudi 2030 vision, we are witnessing an incredible and ambitious journey where Technology and Digital Transformation is at the core. Our strong partnership with Microsoft, along with this award, further validates and accelerates Crayons ambitions in the Kingdom, in making it a regional hub for our Digital Transformation, AI and Cloud services. We are truly excited for what the future holds for Saudi and the positive impact that the Crayon and Microsoft partnership can have on it, said Ziad Rizk, CEO Crayon Middle East & Africa.

I am honored to announce the winners and finalists of the 2021 Microsoft Partner of the Year Awards, said Rodney Clark, corporate vice president, Global Partner Solutions, Channel Sales and Channel Chief, Microsoft. These remarkable partners have displayed a deep commitment to building world-class solutions for customers  from cloud-to-edge and represent some of the best and brightest our ecosystem has to offer.

For the original version on PRWeb visit: https://www.prweb.com/releases/crayon_recognized_as_the_winner_of_2021_microsoft_saudi_arabia_partner_of_the_year_award/prweb18059864.htm
The Anchorage Daily News reports that the leaders of Alaskas Republican Party on Saturday endorsed a challenger to incumbent U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski, who has been one of the GOPs most outspoken critics of former President Donald Trump. The Alaska Republican State Central Committee endorsed Kelly Tshibaka in the 2022 race for the U.S. Senate seat held by Murkowski. The committee approved Tshibakas endorsement in a 58-17 vote during a meeting in Fairbanks. Tshibaka says she will uphold conservative ideals. Murkowski said in a statement to the Daily News that she has fought for Alaskan values in the U.S. Senate and will continue to do so.
A pro-reform party in Moldova seeking closer ties with the European Union appears to be heading to a clear majority in early returns from Sunday's snap parliamentary elections. The election was called by President Maia Sandu in hopes of gaining a parliament made up of pro-EU reformists. Voter turnout in Europes poorest country, landlocked between Ukraine and Romania, was just over 48%. Sandu used to lead the pro-reform Party of Action and Solidarity and he has promised to clean up corruption, fight poverty and strengthen relations with the EU. The Socialists campaigned on high social spending, traditional family values and a distrust of closer ties with the West.
The views expressed by public comments are not those of this company or its affiliated companies. Please note by clicking on "Post" you acknowledge that you have read the TERMS OF USE and the comment you are posting is in compliance with such terms. Your comments may be used on air. Be polite. Inappropriate posts or posts containing offsite links, images, GIFs, inappropriate language, or memes may be removed by the moderator. Job listings and similar posts are likely automated SPAM messages from Facebook and are not placed by WFMZ-TV.
Joseph Newkirk is a local writer and photographer whose work has been widely published as a contributor to literary magazines, as a correspondent for Catholic Times, and for the past 23 years as a writer for the Library of Congress Veterans History Project. He is a member of the reorganized Quincy Bicycle Club and has logged more than 10,000 miles on bicycles in his life.

The Historical Society of Quincy and Adams County is preserving the Governor John Wood Mansion, the History Museum on the Square, the 1835 Log Cabin, the Livery, the Lincoln Gallery displays, and a collection of artifacts and documents that tell the story of who we are. This award-winning column is written by members of the Society. For more information visit hsqac.org or email info@hsqac.org.
Cheryl Ely, 58, is married to Larry Ely. They have two daughters, Tiana and Marissa, and three grandsons, Makhi, Montez and Mascen. Born in Effingham, Ely grew up in Quincy. She has worked at the Adams County States Attorneys office for 35 years. Ely enjoys spending time with family, watching sports and traveling to sunny beaches (which she doesnt do nearly enough!)




Have any questions? Please give us a call at 701-572-2165
SURFSIDE, Fla. (AP)  Authorities searching for victims of a deadly collapse in Florida said Sunday they hope to conclude their painstaking work in the coming weeks as a team of first responders from Israel departed the site.

Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava said 90 deaths have now been confirmed in last month's collapse of the 12-story Champlain Towers South in Surfside, up from 86 a day before. Among them are 71 bodies that have been identified, and their families have been notified, she said. Some 31 people remain listed as missing.

The Miami-Dade Police Department said three young children were among those recently identified.

Crews continued to search the remaining pile of rubble, peeling layer after layer of debris in search of bodies. The unrelenting search has resulted in the recovery of over 14 million pounds (about 6.4 million kilograms) of concrete and debris, Levine Cava said.

Miami-Dade Fire Chief Alan Cominsky said it was uncertain when recovery operations would be completed because it remains hard to know when the final body would be found.

When the recovery phase began Wednesday, officials were hoping it could be done within three weeks. In an interview Sunday morning near the site, Cominsky said it might now be as few as two weeks, based on the current pace of work.

We were looking at a 14-day to 21-day timeframe, he said, adding that the timeline remained a sliding scale.

Surfside Mayor Charles Burkett stressed the care that rescue workers are taking in peeling back layers of rubble in hopes of recovering not only bodies but also possessions of the victims. He said the work is so delicate that crews have found unbroken wine bottles amid the rubble.

It doesnt get any less difficult and finding victims, that experience doesnt change for our search and rescue folks, he said. It takes a toll, but youve got to love the heart that theyre putting into this and were very grateful.

On Saturday night, members of the community walked along Collins Avenue, the citys main thoroughfare, to celebrate the crews that have come from across the country  and as far as Israel and Mexico  to help in the rescue, and now recovery, effort. The Israeli search and rescue team arrived in South Florida shortly after the building collapsed on June 24 and was heading home Sunday.

Members of the crews that have been searching the site 24 hours a day since the collapse lined both sides of the street, shaking hands and bidding farewell to the Israeli team.

The Israeli team joined other task forces from around the United States to assist first responders from Miami and Miami-Dade County, working in 12-hour shifts. They have searched through South Florida's intense summer heat, and in pouring rain, pausing only when lightning was spotted nearby. They also paused operations as officials made plans to implode the still-standing portion of the condo tower on July 4.

The Israeli team used blueprints of the building to create detailed 3D images of the disaster site to aid in the search. They also gathered information from families of the missing, many of who were Jewish, to build a room-by-room model laying out where people would have been sleeping during the pre-dawn collapse.

Levina Cava said the memorial walk on Saturday night was a beautiful moment. She gave the keys to the county to the Israeli commander and colonel  her first two handed out as mayor.

Four teams from Florida, Indiana and Pennsylvania are still dedicated to the recovery effort, Cominsky said. Teams from Virginia, New Jersey and Ohio are preparing to leave.

To give you an answer when we feel well recover everyone, I cant give you an exact date, the fire chief said. Were doing everything that we can  everything possible  until we feel that weve delayered every floor.

___

Frisaro reported from Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
REGINA - People are excited but also admitting to trepidation as Saskatchewan becomes the second province to lift its remaining COVID-19 public health restrictions.

People are excited but also admitting to trepidation as Saskatchewan lifts its remaining COVID-19 public health restrictions. (Kayle Neis / Canadian Press files)

REGINA - People are excited but also admitting to trepidation as Saskatchewan becomes the second province to lift its remaining COVID-19 public health restrictions.

As of Sunday, masks and physical distancing are not required, and there are no longer capacity limits on gatherings.

Abigail Bissy-Aluko is an event planner in Saskatoon. She says the full reopening will be good for her business

"Were looking forward to celebrating with our clients and getting back to work fully," she said in an interview. "It looks like theres more hope. I dont think well be going back to another lockdown, hopefully."

Bissy-Aluko said her phone has been ringing non-stop with clients wanting to check what dates and venues are available.

"A lot of people are doing birthdays," she said. "Theres a lot of birthdays and a few weddings here and there.

"And the reason for the spike in birthdays is because most people who had planned a memorable year  like a 30th or 50th  last year postponed it to this year to celebrate."

Bissy-Aluko said people are excited about meeting with friends and family, but added most of her clients are still taking a cautious approach.

Outdoor venues have been especially popular this summer, she said, because many people dont feel ready to be part of an unmasked indoor crowd just yet.

Bissy-Aluko herself is feeling "a bit skeptical" about some parts of the reopening.

"Im hoping we dont see more cases as a result of people not wearing masks anymore in public," she said. "Were definitely trying to still be safe and follow COVID guidelines, but still be able to party and have fun."

Safety is also top of mind for Tracy Zambory, president of the Saskatchewan Union of Nurses. The pandemic continues to wear on nurses, she said.

"The members weve talked to, theyre exhausted," she said. "Theyre full of anxiety. And theyre really worried about what the future is going to look like."

Zambory said union members have mixed feelings about removing all of Saskatchewans public health restrictions at this point.

"We understand completely the need for people to get back to some sort of normalcy. It's been a long, long journey through COVID, but we know that we have to urge caution. We cant just base everything on a vaccination rollout."

But at the final scheduled COVID-19 briefing on Thursday, Premier Scott Moe said the province is relying on vaccines as a first line of defence. He said falling case numbers mean Saskatchewan is in "a very good place."

Zambory is worried about the spread of variants and how the number of first doses of vaccines has plateaued. She hopes the province wont hesitate to bring back restrictions if theyre needed.

"Registered nurses have the lived experience from the beginning of this pandemic," she said. "Weve been there every day since the inception. And we dont care to relive (the days) when the numbers were almost hitting 500 cases a day and we had to bypass intensive care units because they were so full.

"The hope is that  if we start to see an increase in our hospitalizations, the voices of the science and health-care professionals would be heard."

Saskatchewan cities are revising their guidelines in light of the provincial reopening. In Saskatoon, while masks and physical distancing will no longer be required for most city employees, facilities will keep vinyl and Plexiglas shields in place and do extra cleaning.

The City of Regina will also keep up enhanced sanitation and is encouraging residents to use contactless payment methods rather than cash wherever they can.

On Canada Day, Alberta became the first province to fully reopen.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 11, 2021.
A Winnipeg-based family doctor has surrendered his licence and promised to never practise in Canada or elsewhere again after allegations of sexual misconduct were levied against him by two female patients.

A Winnipeg-based family doctor has surrendered his licence and promised to never practise in Canada or elsewhere again after allegations of sexual misconduct were levied against him by two female patients.

To read more of this story first reported by CBC News, click here.

This content is made available to Free Press readers as part of an agreement with CBC that sees our two trusted news brands collaborate to better cover Manitoba. Questions about CBC content can be directed to talkback@cbc.ca.
ISTANBUL (AP)  A minibus carrying migrants overturned and caught fire in eastern Turkey, killing 12 people and injuring 20 others, the state-run Anadolu news agency reported Sunday.

ISTANBUL (AP)  A minibus carrying migrants overturned and caught fire in eastern Turkey, killing 12 people and injuring 20 others, the state-run Anadolu news agency reported Sunday.

The vehicle tumbled into a ditch while traveling overnight near Yumakli in Van province, which borders Iran.

Television broadcasts showed groaning survivors being treated by the roadside as emergency workers sifted through the burnt-out wreckage.

Migrants, mostly from Iran, Afghanistan and Pakistan, regularly cross the Iranian border into Turkey on foot before being ferried west to cities such as Istanbul and Ankara.

The planned U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan has given added impetus to young men trying the mountainous route, according to Metin Corabatir, president of the Ankara-based Center for Asylum and Migration Studies.

In June 2020, more than 60 migrants drowned in Lake Van when their boat sank.

Follow APs global migration coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/migration
SAN FRANCISCO - Firefighters working in searing heat struggled to contain the largest wildfire in California this year while state power operators urged people to conserve energy after a huge wildfire in neighboring Oregon disrupted the flow of electricity from three major transmission lines.

A firefighter sprays water while trying to stop the Sugar Fire, part of the Beckwourth Complex Fire, from spreading to neighboring homes in Doyle, Calif., Saturday, July 10, 2021. Pushed by heavy winds amid a heat wave, the fire came out of the hills and destroyed multiple residences in central Doyle. (AP Photo/Noah Berger)

SAN FRANCISCO - Firefighters working in searing heat struggled to contain the largest wildfire in California this year while state power operators urged people to conserve energy after a huge wildfire in neighboring Oregon disrupted the flow of electricity from three major transmission lines.

A large swath of the West baked during the weekend in triple-digit temperatures that were expected to continue into the start of the work week. The California Independent System Operator that manages the states power grid issued a five-hour flex alert starting at 4 p.m. Monday and asked consumers to conserve as much electricity as possible" to avoid any outages.

California and other parts of the West are sinking deeper into drought and that has sent fire danger sky high in many areas. In Arizona, a small plane crashed Saturday during a survey of a wildfire in rural Mohave County, killing both crew members.

The Beech C-90 aircraft was helping perform reconnaissance over the lightning-caused Cedar Basin Fire, near the tiny community of Wikieup northwest of Phoenix.

Officials on Sunday identified the victims as Air Tactical Group Supervisor Jeff Piechura, 62, a retired Tucson-area fire chief who was working for the Coronado National Forest, and Matthew Miller, 48, a pilot with Falcon Executive Aviation contracted by the U.S. Forest Service. The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the crash.

The Sugar Fire, part of the Beckwourth Complex Fire, burns in Doyle, Calif., on Saturday, July 10, 2021. (AP Photo/Noah Berger)

In Oregon, the Bootleg Fire exploded to 224 square miles (580 square kilometers) as it raced through heavy timber in the Fremont-Winema National Forest, near the Klamath County town of Sprague River. The fire disrupted service on three transmission lines providing up to 5,500 megawatts of electricity to neighboring California.

The largest wildfire of the year in California was raging near the border with Nevada. The Beckwourth Complex Fire  a combination of two lightning-caused blazes burning north of Lake Tahoe  grew by a third Sunday to 134 square miles (348 kilometers). However, firefighters working in temperatures that topped 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) were able to gain some ground, doubling containment to 20%.

Late Saturday, flames jumped U.S. 395, which was closed near the small town of Doyle in California's Lassen County. The lanes reopened Sunday, and officials urged motorists to use caution and keep moving along the key north-south route where flames were still active.

Dave Ferner drinks a beer while watching multiple homes burn in central Doyle, Calif., as the Sugar Fire, part of the Beckwourth Complex Fire, tears through town on Saturday, July 10, 2021. Ferner said he saved his home using a bulldozer earlier in the day. (AP Photo/Noah Berger)

Do not stop and take pictures, said the fire's Operations Section Chief Jake Cagle. You are going to impede our operations if you stop and look at what's going on.

Cagle said structures had burned in Doyle, but he didn't have an exact number. Bob Prary, who manages the Buck-Inn Bar in the town of about 600 people, said he saw at least six houses destroyed after Saturday's flareup. The fire was smoldering Sunday in and around Doyle, but he feared some remote ranch properties were still in danger.

It seems like the worst is over in town, but back on the mountainside the fire's still going strong, Prary said.

A wildfire in southeast Washington grew to almost 60 square miles (155 square kilometers) as it blackened grass and timber while it moved into the Umatilla National Forest.

In Idaho, Gov. Brad Little declared a wildfire emergency Friday and mobilized the states National Guard to help fight fires sparked after lightning storms swept across the drought-stricken region.
CHISINAU (AP)  A pro-reform party seeking closer ties for Moldova with the European Union appeared to be heading to a clear majority in Sundays snap parliamentary elections, according to early results.

Moldova's President Maia Sandu arrives at a polling station to cast her vote in a snap parliamentary election, in Chisinau, Moldova, Sunday, July 11, 2021. Moldovan citizens vote in a key snap parliamentary election that could decide whether the former Soviet republic fully embraces pro-Western reform or prolongs a political impasse with strong Russian influence. (AP Photo/Aurel Obreja)

CHISINAU (AP)  A pro-reform party seeking closer ties for Moldova with the European Union appeared to be heading to a clear majority in Sundays snap parliamentary elections, according to early results.

The election was called by President Maia Sandu, who sought to gain a parliament made up of pro-EU reformists in the former Soviet republic.

Voter turnout in the nation of 3.5 million people  Europes poorest country, landlocked between Ukraine and Romania  was just over 48%.

Sandu, a former prime minister who used to lead the pro-reform Party of Action and Solidarity, or PAS, promised to clean up corruption, fight poverty and strengthen relations with the EU.

I hope today will be the end of a hard era for Moldova, Sandu, a former World Bank official, wrote online after polls closed. I hope today will be the end of the thieves reign over Moldova ... People must soon feel the benefits of a clean parliament and a government that actually concerns population problems.

A man casts his vote in a snap parliamentary election, in Chisinau, Moldova, Sunday, July 11, 2021. Moldovan citizens vote in a key snap parliamentary election that could decide whether the former Soviet republic fully embraces pro-Western reform or prolongs a political impasse with strong Russian influence. (AP Photo/Aurel Obreja)

Moldova signed a deal in 2014 with the EU on forging closer ties, but high levels of corruption and lack of reform have stunted development in the country, which ranked 115th out of 180 countries in Transparency Internationals 2020 Corruption Perception Index.

In last years presidential election, Sandu beat Moscow-friendly incumbent Igor Dodon, the current leader of the Socialists, who campaigned on high social spending, traditional family values and a distrust of closer ties with the West.

Dodon said Sundays vote could decide whether there will be peace and order in the country or permanent conflict and chaos.

Dionis Cenusa, an analyst at the Chisinau-based think tank Expert Group, told The Associated Press that a parliamentary majority for PAS would mean critical anti-corruption (efforts) can be implemented without resistance from parliament or the executive.

This will also mean that dialogue with the EU and other Western partners will increase their assistance for the internal reforms in the country, he said.

Voters chose between more than 20 parties, but the early results suggested that only three had won enough support to enter the countrys 101-seat legislature. Votes for parties that don't meet the parliamentary threshold will be distributed among the parties that did.

The election was called in April by Sandu after the countrys Constitutional Court abolished a state of emergency that was introduced to handle the coronavirus pandemic.

For Ilinca Mazureac, a third-year biology student at Harvard University, a PAS victory would mean "hope after so many disappointments in the previous elections.

With a clear pro-European majority in the parliament and a very skilled president, I am very optimistic about the future of my country, she told AP. I hope that the new majority will start by tackling corruption in the justice system so that people can finally regain trust in the authorities..

Vadim Pistrinciuc, executive director of Chisinau-based Institute for Strategic Initiatives, and a former lawmaker, told AP that a PAS win would mean immediately a much better relationship with the EU.

Radu Magdin, an analyst at Smartlink Communications, said that with great power and great expectations, comes great responsibility.

PAS got, in the year when Moldova turns 30 (since its independence from the Soviet Union in 1991), the highest score for a pro-EU party ever," he said.

"Swift and decisive action in the health, economy, and judicial fields is key.
WASHINGTON (AP)  U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen says she will lead an effort by top U.S. regulators to assess the potential risk that climate change poses to America's financial system, part of a wide-ranging initiative launched by the Biden administration.

United States Secretary of the Treasury Janet Yellen arrives to attend a press conference at a G20 Economy, Finance ministers and Central bank governors' meeting in Venice, Italy, Sunday, July 11, 2021. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

WASHINGTON (AP)  U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen says she will lead an effort by top U.S. regulators to assess the potential risk that climate change poses to America's financial system, part of a wide-ranging initiative launched by the Biden administration.

Yellen says the regulatory review, which will be done by the Financial Stability Oversight Council, will examine whether banks and other lending institutions are properly assessing the risks to financial stability. She chairs the committee, which includes Treasury, the Federal Reserve, the Securities and Exchange Commission and other financial regulators.

The current financial system is not producing reliable disclosures, Yellen said in remarks prepared for the Venice International Conference on Climate and released in Washington.

FILE - In this May 7, 2021, file photo Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen speaks during a press briefing at the White House in Washington. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky, File)

As part of President Joe Biden's whole-of-government approach, Yellen said, the council will examine what should be done to improve current regulations on climate-related financial disclosures.

The council was created by Congress in 2010 to improve regulatory coordination in the wake of the 2008 financial crisis.

Banking executives are concerned that the administration's effort could lead to increased regulatory oversight that will drive up banks' cost of doing business and lessen their ability to make loans.

Yellen said the United States also intended to enlist the support of the International Monetary Fund, the World Bank and other multilateral development banks to focus more resources on combating climate change. The World Bank and the regional development banks are leading sources of the loans used by poor nations for dams and other development projects.

Developing countries are particularly vulnerable to climate change with poverty, food security and health outcomes impacted by extreme weather shocks, Yellen said.

She said the administration is backing international efforts to mobilize $100 billion per year from a variety of public and private sources to support efforts by developing countries to combat climate change.

Yellen said she planned to convene a meeting of the heads of the international lending institutions to discuss ways to better align their efforts with the Paris climate agreement. The Trump administration pulled the United States out of the Paris climate agreement, but Biden reversed that decision after taking office this year.

Since taking over as Treasury secretary, Yellen has been one of the leading voices in the administration to boost government efforts to combat climate change.

The administration is also making a big push to include huge investments to slow global warming in the multitrillion-dollar infrastructure spending measures Biden is pushing Congress to approve. That effort has run into Republican opposition with various Biden climate initiatives striped out of a bipartisan infrastructure measure.

The Venice international conference on climate Sunday followed a meeting of finance officials from the Group of 20 major economies in Venice on Saturday. That group backed a sweeping revision of international taxation that includes a 15% global minimum tax on corporations to deter big companies from seeking out low-rate tax havens.

The measure is scheduled to be a key agenda item when Biden and other G-20 leaders meet for a summit in Rome on Oct. 30-31.
The news and information about the SARS-Cov-2 coronavirus delta variant (cDv) is currently swamping us. Since the viral story is very fluid as the virus keeps us guessing, well try to distill some points about it at this juncture. The labels being used for the mutations as they arise follow the Greek alphabet. Hence, the U.K. variant as the first change from the initially known or ancestral strain from Wuhan, China, is alpha. The second variant arose in South Africa, and is beta. The third one popped up in Brazil, and is gamma. And the latest (and not greatest), which emerged in India, is delta.

The cDv is currently causing medical havoc in over 85 countries, including the U.S. We have the blessing of some vaccinations being done in most parts of the country, which is not the case globally where they often lack vaccines. It is also not the case in sparse U.S. areas. CDv accounts for 18 % of cases in Colorado, Montana, the Dakotas, Utah, Missouri and Wyoming. It was previously believed that it caused 25% of infections nationwide. As this is being written, the CDC newly estimates the cDv is causing 51% of cases in the U.S. and 80% in certain Midwestern states. In India and the U.K., it is the dominant strain. It is now in all 50 U.S. states.
A criminal complaint has been filed in La Crosse County Circuit Court against a Fargo, North Dakota, woman accused of driving nearly 140 mph on Interstate 90 before running out of gas.

Amy Torres faces a felony charge of attempting to elude an officer and misdemeanor charges of possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

According to the complaint, a Town of Campbell police officer was running radar checks on Interstate 90 and detected a westbound vehicle operated by Torres traveling 119 mph in a 70 mph zone. The complaint says the vehicle had no license plates.

After the officer attempted to conduct a traffic stop, Torres reportedly accelerated and reached a speed of 137 mph before exiting onto Hwy. B. The officer briefly lost sight of the vehicle but located it again on Interstate 90 parked on the westbound Mississippi River bridge with its hazard lights activated.

The officer reported that Torres was visibly upset and crying. She reportedly told the officer she was visiting friends in Austin, Minnesota, but left after they began acting weird. She said she intended to return to Fargo but headed the wrong way on Interstate 90.

Support Local Journalism Your membership makes our reporting possible. {{featured_button_text}}
Abbott has called the special session because the Texas legislature  thanks to the Democrats denying him quorum in a parliamentary procedure  didnt get what amounts to a rollback of democracy in the regular session. Second time lucky.

What these Republicans are doing is equivalent to forcing men to wear blinders so they dont stare at naked women on our streets, even though there are no naked women on our streets. Better be sure.

Behind all this refutation of truth is the Big Lie. It is promoted, cherished, and burnished by former President Donald Trump and those who swallowed his brand of fact-free ideology. The Big Lie is with us and will cast its shadow of pernicious doubt over future elections down through time. The loser will cry fraud and state lawmakers will, under the new scheme of things, be entitled to overturn election results, violating the will of the people to serve their own political goals.

Mark Twain wrote a short essay in 1880 entitled On the Decay of the Art of Lying. If Twain were alive today, he might be tempted to retitle his work The Ascent of the Art of Lying.
The first time I was introduced to Blue Zones Project, I was working as a downtown community development director in Mayville. Our organization was always looking for ways to create events for everyone in our Main Street district and support the economic development for our local businesses. So many things about Blue Zones Project made sense, from hosting community events to enriching relationships, learning about how our streets could be better designed for walkability, and helping people live longer, better. Some of the ways that we and our local businesses in the district partnered with Blue Zones Project included hosting healthy cooking demonstrations at our downtown restaurants, organizing potluck moais, conducting purpose workshops, encouraging movement with historic walking tours, and rethinking some of the food and beverage options wed have available at our community events. I created a new event combining some of Blue Zones Projects Power 9 principles-Wine & Yoga. Looking at the work we did through this new lens, we adopted new behaviors on how we approached the support we were offering the community. It was exciting, refreshing, invigorating, and the boost we needed to ignite new ideas and opportunities.

Change does not just effortlessly happen overnight, but new programs can bring energy to a community, especially when collaborations between groups and organizations are strengthened. Blue Zones Project has had the opportunity to collaborate with more than 100 places in Dodge County since the initiative was launched in 2017. One current collaboration is with the Dodge County Historical Society and other partners for our Beaver Dam 7 at 7 Slow Roll monthly bike rides. Our next ride is at 7 p.m. Tuesday, meeting at Swan Park at 6:30 p.m. then ride about seven miles around town pointing out historical sites along the way. After the ride, participants are invited to join us at sponsoring partner Art of the Town Wisconsin: The Studio for a free glass of wine. As with all of our Blue Zones Project events, this is free and the ride is open to anyone. The pace is casual and on our previous rides weve seen adults and children really enjoy the chance to move, learn, and connect. If it doesnt work for you to join us this month, save the date for next months ride on Aug. 10. In addition to a fun time and a mini local history lesson, we always bring a free Blue Zones Project goodie for you to take home.
Columbus Area Historical Society

1971

Columbus Contractors, which included five area businessmen, Hans Oelke, Terry Schilling, Melvin Lange, James Berry, and Charlie Jones, purchased the Parkview Addition from real estate developer Bud Lueders. The subdivision may include 94 single family homes.

Earl Witthuhn was the 1971 Parade director for the July 4th parade.

1981

Co-chairpersons Connie Diancin and Bill Kranz kicked off a fundraiser for the St. Jerome Parish to raise $40,000 to cover the cost of a new roof on the school gym and adjoining classrooms.

Support Local Journalism Your membership makes our reporting possible. {{featured_button_text}}

Twenty-three members of the Continental Columbus Factory Workers Union went out on strike. At issue was the length of contract, insurance provisions, and contract language.

1991

Faith Lutherans lawn was the site of this years outdoor ecumenical church service sponsored by the Columbus Ministerial Association and cooperating Columbus churches. Guest preacher was the Rev. Bryan Sirchio a U.C.C. minister.
Woodward, OK (73801)

Today

Sunshine and clouds mixed. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 93F. Winds E at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy with late night showers or thunderstorms. Gusty winds and small hail are possible. Low 68F. Winds E at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%.
Welsh Government announce face coverings to continue to help keep Wales safe

Ministers have confirmed face coverings will continue to play an important role in helping keep us all safe from coronavirus in Wales.

As the Welsh Government prepares to publish an updated Coronavirus Control Plan, setting out what will happen beyond alert level one, face coverings will continue to be required in certain settings, such as public transport and taxis, and health and social care, as a minimum while coronavirus remains a public health threat.

Active further consideration is being given to whether face coverings should also be required in other settings, such as retail, if restrictions are relaxed further.

Wales is currently at alert level one  face coverings are mandatory in all indoor public places at alert level one and above.

Next week, Ministers will hold the regular 21-day review of the coronavirus regulations, which will set out whether restrictions can be relaxed in some indoor places, including peoples homes.

They will also publish new plans setting out how Wales will move beyond alert level one to a new alert level zero, with fewer legal restrictions.

But Ministers today confirmed face coverings will continue to be required by law in some places while coronavirus remains a public health threat.

First Minister Mark Drakeford said: We will need everyones help to keep coronavirus under control as we continue to respond to the pandemic  this virus has quite certainly not gone away.

We know many people are still worried and anxious about going out. We will maintain the requirement to wear face coverings in certain places  on public transport and health and social care settings, and others where necessary  to help keep us all safe.

Scientific evidence supports the use of face coverings, alongside other measures, as a way of reducing the transmission of the virus.

Welsh Government explain they largely protect other people, rather than the wearer, against the spread of infection because they cover the nose and mouth, which are the main sources of transmission of virus, and that they are particularly useful in busy or crowded, indoor and poorly-ventilated areas.

Public transport vehicles are usually enclosed spaces. If a train or bus is crowded it may not be possible for people to choose not to get on as it could be their only route to work.

Health and social care settings can be high risk environments where sick patients and staff could be at increased risk of exposure to the virus. Wearing face coverings in these areas can help protect others.

The rules on face masks will also be changing in schools. On Friday, Education Minister Jeremy Miles wrote to all schools in Wales explaining that wearing face coverings in the classroom will no longer be recommended from September.

Health Minister Eluned Morgan added: Wearing face masks is an effective way of reducing the transmission of coronavirus.

We all have a duty to help to protect each other. Keeping everyone safe has been the Welsh Governments priority through the pandemic and will continue to be the priority in future.

The First Minister will make a statement to Plenary on Wednesday setting out the outcome of the 21-day review and providing further details on the new alert level zero.
CADIZ, KY (WSMV) - Two people were found dead at a home on Saturday morning on Cerulean Road, according to Kentucky State Police.

KSP received a call around 8:45 a.m. regarding the discovery of the two bodies. The circumstances surrounding the deaths are under investigation.

Emergency personnel told WKDZ Radio that the victims were found bleeding and unconscious inside the home in the 200 block of Cerulean Road.

Authorities identified the victims as Mildred Faris, 76, and Matthew Blakeley, 28, both of Cadiz, after autopsies were conducted. KSP said the victims died as a result of gunshot wounds.

Detectives are searching for Landon W. Stinson, 29, of Cadiz, for questioning. If anyone knows the whereabouts of Stinson, call Kentucky State Police Post 1 at 270-856-3721.
CADIZ, KY (WSMV) - A suspect in the deaths of two people inside a Trigg County home has been arrested in California.

Kentucky State Police said Landon Stinson, 29, of Cadiz, KY, was arrested on California charges on Monday.

Mildred Faris, 76, and Matthew Blakeley, 28, both of Cadiz, KY, were found dead inside a home on Cerulean Road on July 3.

2 found dead inside Cadiz home Two people were found dead at a home on Saturday morning on Cerulean Road, according to Kentucky State Police.

KSP detectives traveled to Los Angeles and interviewed Stinson in connection with the death investigation. He was served with Trigg County arrest warrants on Possession of Controlled Substance, 1st degree, first offense.

Stinson will appear in Los Angeles Municipal Court on the felony charge on July 19. He is being held without bond.
NASHVILLE, TN (WSMV) - All 120 passengers aboard the American Jazz cruise liner have been safely removed from the vessel. Now, the challenge of refloating the large ship is underway.

The American Cruise Lines' ship was on its way to Nashville from Memphis when it got stuck on a sandbar in Lake Barkley in Kentucky.

American Cruise Lines is actively engaged in a refloat plan with the United States Coast Guard and its own team of marine engineers. To get the ship moving again, water depth measurements are being done around the vessel.

American Cruise Lines said in a statement that all mechanical components of the ship are in working order. They added the ship has not been damaged at all during the incident.

The company added, that currently, there are no safety concerns, injuries or any pollution to the environment.

Coast Guard rescues passengers off riverboat stuck on Kentucky lake TRIGG COUNTY, KY (WSMV) - Passengers on board the American Jazz were stuck in a sandbar on Lake Barkley, Kentucky, since Wednesday. On Frida

While the passengers were safely removed from the ship on Friday by the Coast Guard, 41 crew members remain on board. American Cruise Lines said the staff are in high spirits and are already preparing the ship for more guests.

The American Jazz has been stuck since Wednesday after it came to rest on the soft and muddy bottom of the sandbar. American Cruise Lines said the riverboat is designed to make bow landings along river banks in shallow water.

The vessel is expected to resume normal operations as soon as it is freed and moving once more.
TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTHI) - Rose-Hulman will be hosting a Sustainable Alternative Energy Boot Camp for Educators starting Sunday, July 11th. This year the Duke Energy Foundation will be funding this event.

Teachers in the program will be staying on campus where they will be involved with lab activities, field trips, and lectures.

This educational program is meant to pass along ways to incorporate lessons about sustainable energy into the teachers classrooms.

Patricia Carlson, the director of the PRISM program at Rose-Hulman says this boot camp spreads the awareness of energy sustainability from teachers to students.

I think students, once they see how much energy is being used in any given activity, really its an eye-opener for them.

This boot camp helps teachers earn points toward their professional growth in Indianas teachers license renewal.

There will be two workshop series. One that runs from July 11-July 16. And the second workshop runs from July 18-July 23. Some spots are still available for the second workshop.

If you are interested in joining or for more information, you can reach out to Patricia Carlson at carlsonp@rose-hulman.edu.
The Mountain States TRUSTED news source.

Click here to stay informed and subscribe to The Charleston Gazette-Mail.

Click #isupportlocal for more information on supporting our local journalists.

Learn more about HD Media
Please purchase a subscription to continue reading. If you have a subscription, please Log In .

Your current subscription does not provide access to this content. If you believe you've gotten this message in error, please Log In.


Thank you for Reading.

As a community service, our obituaries are always free to view. In order to better know our audience, we ask that you register to continuing viewing.
Staff Writer JoAnn Snoderly can be reached at 304-626-1445, by email at jsnoderly@theet.com or on Twitter at @JoAnnSnoderly.
Because Grand Targhee is located up the road east of Alta in Wyoming, county commissioners in the Equality State oversee planning, zoning and development on the 120 acres of private land at the base area of the westslope Teton Range resort.
Three years ago, Florida lawyer Eric Glazer offered a dire warning: The state's condo buildings faced an "absolutely avoidable" crisis stemming from years of willfully neglected maintenance combined with lax government oversight.

Writing on his blog "Condo Craze and HOAs," Glazer warned that building after building lacked the savings to fund increasingly common repairs. He understood, he wrote, why it's hard to get condo and homeowners associations to set aside money for maintenance, especially for retirees on limited incomes.

Still, he said, hoping that cracking concrete and leaky roofs would fix themselves was gambling with property and lives.

"So many people, especially seniors, are rolling the dice thinking that none of these repairs will be necessary while they own the property. That may be true for now, but eventually, everyone rolls a 7," Glazer predicted. "I see buildings getting older and unavoidable repairs coming on strong. I also see hurricane seasons becoming active with the potential to cause catastrophic results to our communities."

What remained standing after the June 24 partial collapse of Champlain Towers South in Surfside was demolished on July 24, ahead of the approach of Hurricane Elsa.

In the wake of the June 24 Surfside condo collapse that has caused 90 confirmed deaths through Sunday, Glazer takes no pleasure in his prediction being right. While investigators have not yet determined a cause, owners of Champlain Towers South had been told in 2018 of structural issues with cracking concrete  and then argued for years about paying for repairs.

That tragedy has jolted some local governments into deploying building inspectors and condo associations into hiring engineers to look for damage, a USA TODAY Network survey of communities along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts found. Others are discussing options while waiting for more information.

Yet even those that take action face a challenge in pushing condo associations to foot the bill for more inspections and the repairs they may uncover, experts caution.

Compounding risks ignored for years

Story continues

A largely hands-off, low-tax approach helped Florida's economy boom during the late 1970s and early 1980s as retirees flocked south from more expensive states. But that has led to what some experts describe as widespread complacency from both governments and the HOA and condo boards responsible for maintaining the buildings.

In Florida, government building inspectors typically set foot in a condo building only before it's occupied. On top of that, condo associations routinely waive a state requirement requiring them to set aside money for repair costs. Only a few jurisdictions in Florida, including Miami-Dade County, require inspections of tall buildings, and the 12-story Champlain Towers South was in the midst of the county's 40-year recertification process when it collapsed.

And money that might have gone toward educating HOA and condo associations about their legal responsibilities has routinely been diverted by the Florida Legislature, a USA TODAY Network investigation found. Lawmakers siphoned off $65 million funded through condo association fees since 2008, nearly 40% of the $167 million raised during that time.

A collection of wooden hearts with the names of some of those who were lost in the Champlain Towers South condo collapse in Surfside Fla., photographed July 8, 2021.The hearts have been placed at the memorial wall dedicated to those lost.

Glazer, who has been warning of these risks for years, said he hopes the Surfside tragedy will spur needed action, both by the independently elected condo association boards and lawmakers who have the power to mandate tougher oversight.

"I'm all in favor of having the government being hands off  except when it comes to giving people enough rope to hang themselves with," Glazer said. "The reality is that nobody ever thought for a second that a building could collapse the way it did. Now we know a building can collapse, and if there's any good that comes out of this tragedy, its the future lives that will have been saved."

Unlike single-family homes where the owner is solely responsible for the property inside and out, condo owners bear responsibility for the interior of their units and pay monthly maintenance fees to share the costs of upkeep for the building, its grounds and common areas like elevators.

But that can mean elected condo boards must persuade their neighbors to pay more so that the association can build reserves sufficient to cover the costs of major repairs, like a new roof or restoration of balconies. Under Florida law, condo associations are supposed to set aside money each year so they can afford to replace, for instance, the roof at the end of a 20-year lifespan. But the law also allows condo associations to skip that step if they wish, holding down short-term costs.

The Surfside collapse demonstrated the potential consequences of those decisions.

In that case, an engineer hired by the condo association in 2018 warned of concrete deterioration that could "expand exponentially" if repairs weren't made. Ultimately, the condo association faced a bill of more than $16 million with barely more than $700,000 in reserves. Residents agreed to impose assessments ranging from $80,190 to $150,330 per unit to cover the costs.

"It's your neighbors, retired school teachers, former accountants, working people," said Jim Emory, a licensed public engineer with more than 30 years of experience in Florida. "You've got condo board members thinking to themselves, 'I know that Mary in Unit 3 can't afford it.' Maybe the board members themselves can't afford it."

Emory is the president of Cocoa Beach-based Keystone Engineering & Consulting, which provides condo building inspections and manages maintenance projects. Since the Surfside collapse, his firm is fielding as many inquiries a day from condo boards as they used to handle in a month.

While a qualified expert is needed to properly diagnose problems, buildings will oftentimes show signs of deterioration that anyone can see, Emory said.

"A lot of people are nervous. They know they've neglected their buildings and they want reassurance," he said. "It's not uncommon for folks to ignore the signs of damage because the answers are unpleasant. Sometimes ignorance is bliss."

Emory said he and his staff are essentially tripping over government building inspectors now  a much-needed change given that condo boards have been shirking their responsibilities.

"They are out looking for anything that's even remotely a safety concern. Because none of them wants to end up on TV like in Surfside," he said. "I don't know how aggressive they're going to get, but changes are coming, and it's definitely for the better."

Varying responses to Surfside condo collapse

In Volusia County, home to Daytona Beach, the county chair said council members had been inundated with emails. The public is demanding something be done, said Jeff Brower, adding that he plans to bring the matter up at the councils July 20 meeting.

"Weve got structures on the beachside that have been there 40 years, and the salt air is just destructive. I think wed be remiss not to take this warning from South Florida," Brower said. "I want to be known as the safe place to come and vacation."

Brower proposed requiring an inspection 10 years after construction, with its results determining how often future inspections are required. He said the costs should be paid by condo associations and hoteliers, not taxpayers.

"I know it's an extra cost," he said. " But what is a human life worth?"

In Palm Beach County, Boca Raton Councilman Andy Thomson said the oversight that comes with an inspection program would help keep residents safe, given that HOA boards are often reluctant to assess property owners for maintenance.

"The condos should really be doing that themselves," he said, "but condo boards are notorious for not necessarily moving quickly, so having that kind of process that we're contemplating really draws the line and says, 'Look, we understand you all have had plenty of time to do this, but this is really the deadline, and you need to do this now.

In Riviera Beach, north of West Palm Beach, building officials urged owners to conduct inspections of structures 25 years or older. Jupiter town officials are investigating how other communities inspect tall, coastal buildings, and Lake Park officials have joined a countywide effort to create standardized inspections.

Lake Park's building official, Shane Kittendorf, said the town will now mandate that new buildings built near the ocean have extra protective coatings on steel parts and additional waterproofing on ocean-facing balconies.

But preparation only goes so far, he said: Something of this nature is only as good as long as the HOA maintains it.

Other communities are taking more of a wait-and-see approach. Officials in West Palm Beach, Sarasota, Bay County and Panama City all said they are considering how to proceed.

Daytona Beach Shores building official Fred Hiatt noted the city's code of ordinances includes guidance set by the American Society of Civil Engineers granting officials the power to "periodically inspect buildings and structures."

"Were constantly in these buildings for a variety of different permitting reasons," Hiatt said. "Anytime we see evidence of structural deterioration, we require them to retain an engineer."

Hiatt said crafting different sets of rules for every community in Florida could prove tricky, both for construction companies and building officials.

"I dont think the solution is a city-by-city, county-by-county thing. It needs to be statewide," Hiatt said. "Right now, Im looking to the engineers and investigators down in Surfside and if they're able to determine what the cause was. Before we get those facts, I think it would be premature."

Not just Florida reacting to Surfside

In neighboring Alabama, Gulf Shores officials have long conducted inspections of tall buildings every three years. They expanded the program to all rental properties regardless of height eight years ago after a wooden deck collapsed on a condo rental.

Because Gulf Shores sees so many hurricanes, city officials said, they routinely inspect buildings for storm damage, which also gives them a chance to uncover more serious issues.

We feel very confident and comfortable in our ability to understand whats happening with these buildings and make sure our properties are safe, Gulf Shores city spokesman Grant Brown said.

Orange Beach, Alabama, has left decisions on inspections up to condo associations, but city officials are now considering whether to mandate them in the wake of Surfside. "Has it created discussion? Absolutely," said City Administrator Ken Grimes. "I dont think its just coastal communities. Anyone with high-rise buildings (is) talking about the what-ifs.

Like in some Florida towns, officials in Hilton Head, South Carolina, are contacting building owners and recommending that they schedule regular inspections.

New Jersey is another state that doesn't require inspections after buildings are occupied, but Edgewater Borough Administrator Greg Franz said the Surfside collapse has prompted new conversations about what could be done for high-rises on the Hudson River and the state's "Gold Coast."

The heart of the matter is, a lot of it has to do with the condo and co-op boards," Franz added. "Are they willing to authorize the extensive work that is sometimes required in some of these older buildings?

That was the question at the City Place in Edgewater, a condo building undergoing a four-year, $8 million repair project launched when inspectors found steel reinforcing bars inside its concrete walls had began rusting, weakening the structure.

Salt air and spray is tough on concrete and the steel reinforcing bars within that support oceanfront buildings, making a priority of regular maintenance and inspections, engineers say.

The work began two years ago, said Jim Tracy, the chairman of the condos board of directors. But instead of being grateful the inspection found flaws before they could get worse, people wanted to recall me and they wanted a new board of directors, Tracy said. They didnt want to hear the truth.

Ultimately, the people who own the buildings are responsible for their upkeep, experts said. More government inspections might help nudge them to do the right thing in a timely fashion, they say, and stricter requirements for reserves can help make sure condos can afford the inevitable repairs that crop up.

That's why Glazer, the prescient condo attorney, is now predicting change for an industry that's been making bad bets for too long.

"Everybody's certainly nervous now because we now know this can happen. That really has stirred the pot, really gotten a lot of board members nervous," Glazer said. "My phone is ringing off the hook from boards that are now wanting to do the right thing. I can only tell them that what they're doing is so dangerous, it's playing Russian roulette by not putting money away for repairs."

Contributing: Nathaniel Cobb, Mary Helen Moore, James Coleman, Kirsten Fiscus, Victoria Villanueva-Marquez, Hannah Morse, Kristie Cattafi, Derek Gilliam and Katie Wedell of the USA TODAY Network.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Florida condo collapse: Will residents heed call for more inspections?
Around 5,000 computers were used in the mine, Ukraine officials said. Security Service of Ukraine

Ukraine police last week seized around 9,000 games consoles and computers in an illegal crypto mine.

The mine was stealing as much as $259,300 in electricity each month, investigators said.

Police said it was the largest underground crypto mine to have been discovered in Ukraine.

See more stories on Insider's business page.

A huge underground cryptocurrency mining operation has been busted by Ukraine police for allegedly stealing electricity from the grid.

Police said they'd seized 5,000 computers and 3,800 games consoles that were being used in the illegal mine, the largest discovered in the country.

The mine, in the city of Vinnytsia, near Kyiv, stole as much as $259,300 in electricity each month, the Security Service of Ukraine said. To conceal the theft, the operators of the mine used electricity meters that did not reflect their actual energy consumption, officials said.

"Such illegal activity could lead to power surges and left people without electricity," the security service said.

Police said that criminal proceedings had begun over the theft of water, electricity, and thermal energy. The mine was run by residents of Kyiv and Vinnytsia, a city about three hours outside the capital, police said.

Gaming consoles in the crypto mine in a photo released by officials. Security Service of Ukraine

Photos released by state investigators show a cavernous room filled wall-to-wall with metal racks of neatly lined-up computers and Sony Playstation consoles.

Along with the computers and consoles, officials said they also seized more than 500 graphic cards, 50 processors, and documentation on the site's electricity consumption. They also took notebooks, phones, and flash drives, according to the press statement.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Former Southern Charm Star Ashley Jacobs Celebrates Baby Grayson With Lavish Shower

Landon Clements/Instagram

Baby Grayson is almost here!

Former Southern Charm star Ashley Jacobs is gearing up for the birth of her first child, a baby boy, with husband Mike Appel. The 36-year-old announced the pregnancy  and her marriage to Appel, 40,  in an interview with PEOPLE in June.

On Saturday, fellow Southern Charm alum Landon Clements posted a picture of her posing alongside Jacobs at a beautifully decorated baby shower. The two grinned ear-to-ear as the mom-to-be clutched her ever-growing baby bump.

RELATED: Southern Charm's Ashley Jacobs Announces Pregnancy - and Surprise Marriage! 'We Are Over the Moon'

"I loved celebrating you and baby Grayson today! Thank you for having me it was so special. ," Clements captioned the image.

Grayson is due in August, the happy couple confirmed to PEOPLE.

This content is not available due to your privacy preferences. Update your settings here to see it.

Clements and Jacobs have been by each other's side through thick and thin since first starring in Bravo's hit reality show together. In July 2019, Clements supported Jacobs amid her turbulent return to the show in season 6 following her breakup with Thomas Ravenel.

"I wish everyone got to meet the girl I know," she captioned a selfie of her and Jacobs.

Two months prior, Jacobs posted her own special tribute to Clements, who she said was "the only person from the show who has been there for me."

"We have been put through the wringer and we came out stronger," Jacobs wrote. "I feel so fortunate to have found such a great support system and true friend in @alandonclements. Onwards and upwards!"

This content is not available due to your privacy preferences. Update your settings here to see it.

Jacobs and Appel, owner of Related Garments clothing apparel and creative agency Nnovate, met in August 2019 at a rooftop party in Jacobs' hometown of Santa Barbara, California. The couple made their relationship official on social media in December.

Now, the couple is expecting their first child on a very special day  the anniversary of their first meeting.

RELATED GALLERY: The Most Charming Pics of the Southern Charm Cast Hanging Out

Story continues

"It's wild how the universe works - our first child together is due the same day we met, two years ago!" the couple told PEOPLE in June.

They later added, "We are over the moon to be on this adventure together, as newlyweds."

PEOPLE first revealed the couple's engagement in March. Appel popped the question while out on a snowmobile ride with Jacobs in Park City, Utah.

"After a year and half of dating, we can both agree that this adventure we're on together is just getting started," Jacobs told PEOPLE at the time. "We're a great team and we can't wait for what's ahead! Buckle up!"
Volvo's engine plant in Skovde, Sweden, will continue to produce low-emission powertrains, transmissions, and hybrid solutions for the automaker for the next half decade or so as the company moves toward full electrification. (Volvo)
News

Detroit, Michigan - The Justice Department announced that a Michigan man was sentenced Thursday for willfully causing bodily injury to a Black teenager because of the teenagers race.

Lee Mouat, 43, pleaded guilty on March 4. He was sentenced to 60 months in prison and three years of supervised release for his hate crime.

According to documents filed in connection with this case, Mouat admitted that he confronted a group of Black teenagers, including the victim, at a state park in Monroe, Michigan. Mouat repeatedly used racial slurs and said that Black people had no right to use the public beach where the incident occurred. Mouat then struck one of the teens in the face with a bike lock, knocking out several of the victims teeth, lacerating his face and mouth, and fracturing his jaw. Mouat also attempted to strike another Black teenager with the bike lock.

The defendant brutally attacked teenagers at a public beach because these young people are Black, said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke for the Justice Departments Civil Rights Division. Hate-fueled violent crimes like this have no place in our communities. Protecting Americans from hate crimes is a top priority of the Justice Department and we will use every tool available to bring perpetrators to justice.

Our office is committed to protecting the rights of all citizens, and prosecuting hate crimes is a top priority, said Acting U.S. Attorney Saima Mohsin for the Eastern District of Michigan. The cowardly and unprovoked attack on this young victim is terribly disturbing. Every individual citizen has the right to not live in fear of violence or attack based on the color of their skin.

Combating hate crimes and protecting individual's civil rights is one of the top priorities of the FBI, said Special Agent in Charge Timothy Waters of the FBI Detroit Field Office. Mouat was held accountable for his violent and hateful actions due to the collaborative efforts of the FBI, the Monroe County Sheriff's Office and the Department of Justice. The outcome of this case sends a clear message to our community that law enforcement at every level will investigate crimes motivated by hate and bring the perpetrators to justice.

This case was investigated by the FBI and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Frances Carlson of the Eastern District of Michigan and Trial Attorney Tara Allison of the Civil Rights Division.
News

Miami, Florida - A Peruvian national has been sentenced to 90 months in prison for operating a series of call centers in Peru that defrauded Spanish-speaking U.S. residents by falsely threatening them with arrest, deportation and other legal consequences. In the same case, two additional Peruvian co-conspirators pleaded guilty and two others were extradited to the Southern District of Florida to face prosecution for their roles in the scheme.

According to court documents, Omar Cuzcano Marroquin, 32, of Lima, Peru, was sentenced for conspiring to commit mail fraud and wire fraud through a series of Peruvian call centers that used false statements and threats to obtain money from Spanish-speaking individuals across the United States. Cuzcano and others falsely told victims that they were required to accept and pay for English-language courses and other educational products and that failure to do so placed them in legal jeopardy.

Cuzcano admitted that he and his employees falsely claimed to be lawyers, court officials, federal agents and representatives of a so-called minor crimes court, which does not exist. The callers falsely threatened victims with court proceedings, negative marks on their credit reports, imprisonment and immigration consequences if they did not immediately pay for the purportedly delivered products and settlement fees. Between April 2011 and July 2019, thousands of U.S. victims made payments based on calls from their call centers. Cuzcano and his co-conspirators collected millions of dollars from victims.

The Department of Justices Consumer Protection Branch will steadfastly pursue and prosecute transnational criminals who defraud vulnerable U.S. consumers, said Acting Assistant Attorney General Brian M. Boynton of the Justice Departments Civil Division. The defendants in this case brazenly defrauded recent immigrants by falsely promising free products to improve their English. In reality, the defendants were luring their victims into a trap of intimidation and fear, leaving them far worse off  with substantial financial losses and, often, emotional scars from these crimes. Todays sentence demonstrates that defendants who prey upon U.S. consumers from abroad will not do so with impunity.

Todays sentence serves not only as just punishment for this defendant but also as notice to others who seek to prey on vulnerable victims in the United States, said Acting U.S. Attorney Juan Antonio Gonzalez for the Southern District of Florida. Know that the Justice Department and its partners will aggressively investigate such criminal activity. Wherever you are, we will find you and hold you accountable.

In this international telemarketing scheme, deceptive scare tactics were used to threaten thousands of vulnerable U.S. consumers into purchasing undelivered products by falsely purporting to use Americas legal system against them and coercing them out of millions of dollars, said Inspector in Charge Joseph Cronin of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Miami Division. Todays sentencing hopefully brings relief to U.S. residents who were victimized by this transnational fraudulent scheme. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service, along with the Department of Justices Consumer Protection branch and the U.S. Attorneys Office, are committed to holding individuals who use the U.S. Mail to defraud consumers accountable.

Two of Cuzcanos co-defendants also recently pleaded guilty for their roles in the scheme. Henrry Adrian Milla Campuzano, 37, of Lima, Peru, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud earlier today. According to court documents, Milla was the owner and operator of fraudulent call centers located in Peru called Latinos en Accion and Accion Latino, which similarly extorted immigrants in the U.S. by falsely identifying themselves as private company lawyers and court or immigrations officials.

Another co-defendant, Fernan Huerta Haro, 34, of Lima, Peru, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud on June 11. According to court documents, Huerta owned and operated call centers called Camino Al Progreso and Neshuer Corporation in Peru. In pleading guilty, Huerta admitted that, from 2011 until his 2019 arrest, he and his employees threatened and defrauded many Spanish-speaking recent immigrants to the United States as part of the scheme.

Milla and Huerta will be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Robert N. Scola Jr. this fall, and both face a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. Judge Scola will determine their sentences after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Cuzcano, Milla and Huerta were part of a group of five defendants who were arrested on July 2, 2019, by Peruvian authorities based on a U.S. extradition request, and each has remained incarcerated since that time. The defendants were extradited to the Southern District of Florida on Oct. 23, 2020. All five defendants have now been convicted of conspiring to commit mail and wire fraud. Two additional indicted co-defendants in the case  Carlos Alberto Espinoza Huerta and Josmell Arturo Espinoza Huerta  evaded arrest at the time of their five co-defendants arrests in Peru. They were eventually located and arrested by Peruvian law enforcement, were extradited to the United States on June 25 and are being detained at the Federal Detention Center in Miami.

The U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Civil Divisions Consumer Protection Branch investigated the case. Trial Attorneys Phil Toomajian and Max Goldman of the Consumer Protection Branch are prosecuting the case. The Federal Trade Commission, the Justice Departments Office of International Affairs, the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Southern District of Florida, the State Departments Diplomatic Security Service and the Peruvian National Police provided critical assistance.
Our directory features more than 18 million business listings from across the entire US. However, if we're missing your business, add your business by clicking on Add Your Business.
New Delhi: Top finance officials representing most of the world's economy have backed a sweeping revision of international taxation that includes a 15% global minimum corporate levy to deter big companies from resorting to low-rate tax-havens. Finance ministers from the Group of 20 countries endorsed the plan at a meeting Saturday in Venice.

US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said the proposal would end a self-defeating international tax competition in which countries have for years lowered their rates to attract companies.

She said that it had been a race that nobody has won. What it has done instead is to deprive us of the resources we need to invest in our people, our workforces, our infrastructure?

The next steps include more work on key details at the Paris-based Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development and then a final decision at the Group of 20 meeting of presidents and prime ministers on Oct. 30-31 in Rome.

Implementation, expected as early as 2023, would depend on action at the national level. Countries would enact the minimum tax requirement into their own laws. Other parts could require a formal treaty. The draft proposal was approved July 1 in talks among more than 130 countries convened by the OECD.

Italy hosted the finance minister's meeting in Venice because it holds the rotating chair of the G-20, which makes up more than 80% of the world economy. The event also attracted around 1,000 protesters under the banner We Are The Tide, an umbrella group of environmental and social justice activists, including opponents of large cruise ships and the hordes of tourists they bring to the lagoon city. A small group scuffled Saturday with police after breaking away from an approved demonstration area.

The U.S. already has a minimum tax on overseas earnings, but President Joe Biden has proposed roughly doubling the rate to 21%, which would more than comply with the proposed global minimum. Raising the rate is part of a broader proposal to fund Biden's jobs and infrastructure plan by raising the domestic corporate tax rate to 28% from 21%.

Yellen said she was very optimistic that Biden's infrastructure and tax legislation will include what 'we need for the United States to come into compliance' with the minimum tax proposal.

Republicans in the Congress have expressed opposition to the measure. Rep. Kevin Brady of Texas, the top Republican on the tax-writing Ways and Means Committee, has blasted the OECD deal, saying, This is an economic surrender to China, Europe and the world that Congress will reject.

The international tax proposal aims to deter the world's biggest firms from using accounting and legal schemes to shift their profits to countries where little or no tax is due and where the company may do little or no actual business. Under the minimum, companies that escape taxes abroad would pay them at home. That would eliminate incentives for using tax havens or for setting them up.

From 2000-2018, U.S. Companies booked half of all foreign profits in seven low-tax jurisdictions: Bermuda, the Cayman Islands, Ireland, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Singapore and Switzerland.

A second part of the tax plan is to permit countries to tax a portion of the profits of companies that earn profits without a physical presence, such as through online retailing or digital advertising. That part arose after France, followed by other countries, imposed a digital service tax on U.S. Tech giants such as Amazon and Google. The U.S. Government regards those national taxes as unfair trade practices and is holding out the threat of retaliation against those countries' imports into the U.S. Through higher import taxes. Also Read: Petrol, Diesel Prices Today, July 11, 2021: Petrol above Rs 100 in metros, check rates in your city

Under the tax deal, those countries would have to drop or refrain from national taxes in favor of a single global approach, in theory ending the trade disputes with the U.S. Tech companies would then face only the one tax regime, instead of a multitude of different national digital taxes. Also Read: Delhi Metro update: Services on Pink line to be affected from July 12-15

Live TV

#mute
New Delhi: Candidates appearing for the JEE Main 2021 should note that the National Testing Agency, NTA, is expected to release the admit cards for the JEE Main 2021 April session soon. The admit cards for the April session are likely to be out next week. The JEE Main exams will be held from July 20 to July 25 for B.Tech, B.E. and B.Arch. paper.

Candidates are requested to keep an eye on the official website for any updates regarding the admit card. Here's how to download the admit cards from the official website, i.e., jeemain.nta.nic.in.

JEE Main 2021 Admit Card: How to download

* Log in to official website, www.jeemain.nta.nic.in.

* Click on the link that reads, 'JEE Main admit cards for April session'. (once released)

* Enter credentials and click on the submit

* Your JEE Main Admit Card will appear on the screen.

* Download your admit card.

* Take a printout for future reference.

Further, NTA will close the registration process of JEE Main 2021 for the May session on July 12, 2021. Candidates who have not yet applied are requested to visit the official website and apply for the same.

These sessions were scheduled for April and May, but owing to the second wave of the pandemic, the NTA had to postpone them. The first two sessions of JEE-Main 2021 were already completed in February and March.
New Delhi: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday (July 11, 2021) inaugurated City Civic Centre at South Bopal in Gujarat's Ahmedabad. While speaking at the ceremony, Shah hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his development-oriented vision and said that he is the type of leader who continues to ensure that the development projects deliver even after his tenure.

"I have seen three types of leaders, one who just takes part in the inauguration. Second who makes sure in their time period that development work done, and third is Narendra Modi who makes sure that after he leaves, the development work continues," said Shah at the inauguration ceremony.

The Union Home Minister also expressed his happiness in inaugurating other development projects including the AUDA and Western Railway project costing Rs 267 crore.

Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated City Civic Centre at South Bopal in Gujarat's Ahmedabad pic.twitter.com/q3oJdpZx91  ANI (@ANI) July 11, 2021

"Today is a happy day for me as today I got a chance to inaugurate development work of Rs. 267 crore of AUDA and Western Railway," Shah, who is on a three-day visit to Gujarat, said.

Live TV
New Delhi: Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday (July 11) promised to provide 300 units of free electricity in Uttarakhand if the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) comes to power in the state. Uttarakhand will witness Assembly elections in 2022.

Kejriwal who is on a one-day visit to Dehradun, addressing a press conference, made four promises to the citizens of Uttarakhand. In terms of electricity, I guarantee four things. After our government is made, we will provide 300 units of free electricity. Farmers will receive free electricity. Old electricity bills will be waived off. It will take some time to provide 24-hour electricity, but we will do it, ANI quoted the Delhi CM as saying.

Uttarakhand   Kejriwal   4   AAP          -   300 Unit Bijli Free   Bill   24  Electricity       - CM @ArvindKejriwal#KejriwalKiBijliGuarantee pic.twitter.com/IzeG1R8EhT  AAP (@AamAadmiParty) July 11, 2021

Earlier, Kejriwal had promised 300 units of free electricity and unperturbed power supply in poll-bound Punjab if AAP comes to power in the state next year.

Comparing the work done by his government in Delhi with that by the BJP-led Uttarakhand government, Kejriwal said that the tasks which remain incomplete in Uttarakhand for 70 years have been completed in Delhi. He added, Uttarakhand has decided to bring AAP to the state. I would like to give them faith that we will build good schools and work on electricity, water, farming and more.

Meanwhile, taking a dig at the ruling BJP in the state which recently changed the Uttarakhand CM for the third time since 2017 Assembly polls, Kejriwal said, Leaders of Uttarakhand have left no stone unturned to destroy the state. Both parties have made an arrangement from 2000 to loot the state after the other. The ruling party doesn't have CM. For the first time in 70 years, a party says its CM is useless.

Further, he slammed Congress and said it does not have a leader. Opposition doesn't have a leader. They are coming to Delhi for the past month to select a leader. Who will think about the development of Uttarakhand residents? Are these parties concerned about the people of U'khand? They do not care. They are only fighting for power, the AAP chief claimed.

The tasks which have not been done in Uttarakhand for 70 years have been completed in Delhi. U'khand has decided to bring AAP to the state. I would like to give them faith that we will build good schools and work on electricity, water, farming and more: Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal pic.twitter.com/Oisto5QHM3  ANI (@ANI) July 11, 2021

Setting the poll-pitch ahead of his visit today, Arvind Kejriwal had raised the issue of electricity on Saturday. Taking to Twitter, he wrote, "Uttarakhand itself generates electricity, also sells it to other states. Then why so expensive electricity to the people of Uttarakhand? Delhi does not generate its own electricity, buys it from other states. Still, electricity in Delhi is free. Shouldn't the people of Uttarakhand get free electricity?"

Newly sworn-in Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami had responded to Kejriwals claims and said, He may have an agenda for election but our agenda is to give the best work to the people of the state. We are not working for the sake of elections. Development is the only challenge in front of us."

(With agency inputs)

Live TV
New Delhi: The BJP-led Assam government would restrict some state government schemes to the two-child norm, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said here on Saturday. Addressing the media, Sarma said that everyone will be allowed to avail the basic government schemes, but in case of some selective schemes, the two-child norm would come into play.

Explaining further, the Chief Minister said that for example, the housing scheme would be restricted to the two-child norm.

"An important announcement pertaining to population policy, including voluntary sterilisation, would be made in the state Budget. The Budget Session of the state Assembly would begin on July 12. Assam`s first woman Finance Minister (Ajanta Neog) would table the Budget for FY 2021-22 on the floor of the House on July 16," Himanta Biswa Sarma said.

The Chief Minister also said that a very big announcement would be made in the state Budget about voluntary sterilisation, which will be aimed at controlling the state`s population.

"As per the BJP`s election manifesto, the government would act against marriage by deceit or fraud. We would enact a law to this effect. With emphasis on population control, the Assam government after consultation with the Muslim intellectuals has decided to form eight sub-committees, which would lay down a roadmap for holistic development of the community in the next five years," he added.

Amid his insistence on a population policy with a two-child norm and adoption of `decent` family planning norms by Muslims to eradicate poverty in the northeastern state, the Assam Chief Minister had held an interactive meeting with intellectuals and leading citizens from the Muslim community on July 4.

The eight sub-groups with representatives of the indigenous Muslim community will deliberate on issues such as health, education, skill development, preservation of cultural identity, financial inclusion and empowerment of women.

Muslims comprise 34.22 percent of the 3.12 crore population of Assam, of which 4 percent are indigenous Assamese Muslims and the remaining are mostly Bengali-speaking Muslims.

Muslim votes are a determining factor in at least 30 to 35 seats out of Assam`s total 126 Assembly seats.

Of Assams 34 districts, 19 districts have 12 percent or more Muslim population and in six districts (out of these 19 districts), the Muslim population constitutes 50 percent or more.

Live TV
New Delhi: The Council for Indian School Certificate (CISCE) on Friday (July 9, 2021) further reduced the syllabus for classes 10 and 12 for the academic year 2021-2022.

The ICSE subjects for which the syllabus has been reduced namely are Geography, History and Civics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics, Economics, Commercial Studies, Computer Applications, Economic Applications, Commercial Applications, Environmental Applications, Home Science, Physical Education and Yoga.

Similarly, the ISC subjects for which syllabus has been reduced namely are Accounts, Commerce, Economics, Business Studies, History, Political Science, Geography, Sociology, Psychology, Computer Science, Biotechnology, Environmental Science.

Earlier, on 2nd July the council had reduced the ISC and ICSE for both English and Indian Languages. CISCE had sent a letter to all the heads of affiliated schools informing them about the decision. In the letter, the council also revealed the process of reviewing the syllabus of other subjects as well for 2022 examinations.

The council will continue with the process of syllabus reduction for the remaining subjects and they will be made available on CISCE's official website soon.

Live TV
New Delhi: As tourists are rushing to hill stations in order to get some respite from heatwave in north India, gross violation of COVID-19 appropriate behaviour by these visitors has generated a cause of concern for the authorities. A large number of tourists have thronged Himachal Pradeshs Kasauli and Dharamshala amid threat of a possible third coronavirus wave.

As locals are happy with getting some business, it has become a worrisome concern for the authorities.

Satish Kumar, a junior engineer in Kasauli told ANI that it is mostly crowded during the weekends."During the weekend, the number of tourists in Kasauli is double. It is very busy from Friday to Sunday. From Sunday to Thursday it is quieter. The police are quite active and are issuing challans to all tourists who are not following mask protocol. People are slowly recovering from the financial losses they suffered during the lockdown," he was quoted as saying.

Himachal Pradesh | A large number of tourists reach Kasauli as the state government relaxes COVID19 restrictions "The police here are issuing challans to tourists not following mask protocol. On weekends, the city sees a large number of tourists, says a local. pic.twitter.com/0BojgZY2Ey  ANI (@ANI) July 10, 2021

With such a huge gathering, social distancing has gone for a toss in these tourist destinations. Hundreds of tourists were seen without masks in Dharamshala, violating COVID-19 protocols, the news agency reported.

On Friday (July 9), Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Jairam Thakur had urged tourists to follow COVID-19 norms. Thakur told ANI, "We are concerned about the number of tourists coming to the State. Tourists are welcome here but I appeal to them to follow COVID19 norms."

The Himachal Pradesh CM assured instructions have been issued to regulate crowds. "We need to save the tourism industry also. I held a virtual meeting with districts officials and directed them to monitor and regulate the crowd. COVID-19 is not over yet. Hotels are being asked to follow SOPs," he added.

Joint Secretary of Union Health Ministry, Lav Agarwal on July 6, referring to the massive footfall of people in hill stations, warned, "People travelling to hill stations are not following COVID-appropriate behaviour. We can nullify the ease in restrictions again if protocols not complied with."

Meanwhile, after pictures of visitors thronging Kempty Falls went viral, the Uttarakhand authorities decided to restrict the number of visitors at the falls to 50. A negative RT-PCR report has also been made mandatory for people visiting Mussoorie.

(With agency inputs)

Live TV
Nagpur: Former Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis on Sunday (July 11) welcomed the Uttar Pradesh government's new population policy for 2021-2030 and said if needed, such a law should be formulated for the entire country.

Talking to reporters, the BJP leader said such a law should be there in states where there is a huge "population explosion", according to news agency PTI.

UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday unveiled the Uttar Pradesh Population Policy 2021-2030, saying increasing population was a "hurdle in development" and more efforts are needed to control it.

The UP government recently put up a draft of its population control bill on the state's law commission website, saying people having more than two children in UP will be debarred from contesting local bodies polls, applying for government jobs or receiving any kind of subsidy.

It also prohibits promotions in government jobs for such people, while offering incentives to those limiting their children to two.

The draft says it is necessary to control and stabilise the population of the state for the promotion of sustainable development with more equitable distribution.

Replying to a query on it, Fadnavis said, "I feel that if needed, such a law should also be framed for the entire country."

"We don't want to do it like China, but at the same time we need to control our population. We live in a democracy and if we implement such a law through incentives, then we can certainly control our population," he said.

Notably, the UP government has said that as part of its new policy, it will incentivise people to help in population control.

Live TV
New Delhi: Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) leader Sadhvi Prachi is often in news for making statements. In a recent development, she has replied to Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat's recent remark on DNA.

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat has said that that all Indians, regardless of their religion, share the same DNA. Sadhvi Prachi while speaking at an event Rajasthans Dausa said that everyones DNA is one except those who eat cow meat.'

A law should be passed in Parliament regarding population control and government facilities for people having more than two children should be stopped as well as the right to vote should also be taken away. It does not matter how many wives you have, there should be only two children, Times Now quoted the VHP leader as saying.

Speaking on the issue of love jihad, the controversial leader urged the Rajasthan government to intervene and put an end to alleged religious conversions of women.

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat addressed an event Hindustan First Hindustani Best organized by the Muslim Rashtriya Manch in Ghaziabad. Mohan Bhagwat had said that the DNA of all Indians is the same and those asking Muslims to leave the country cannot call themselves Hindus. He had also urged Muslims not to get trapped in the cycle of fear that Islam is in danger in India.

Live TV
New Delhi: Former Union Minister Salman Khurshid slammed the Yogi Adityanath-led Uttar Pradesh government over its new population control bill and said that before implementing the new policy, the ministers and leaders of the government should give information about their legitimate and illegitimate children, as per Zee Salaam report.

The remark comes amid the Uttar Pradesh government introducing a new population policy for 2021-2030 which will offer several incentives to people with only two children.

The draft of the population control bill says that people having more than two children in Uttar Pradesh will be debarred from contesting local bodies polls, applying for government jobs or receiving any kind of subsidy.

The draft bill also prohibits promotions in government jobs for such people, while offering incentives to those limiting their children to two. The government has also invited suggestions for the draft bill from the public till July 19.

Meanwhile, senior Congress leader Khurshid dismissed the results of the recent local body elections held in the state which witnessed BJP winning with a huge margin. He said what happened cannot be called elections. Several reports of violence from Siddharthnagar, Sitapur, Gorakhpur and Sambhal were reported during the filing of nomination papers in the recently concluded Uttar Pradesh block pramukh elections. The SP has also alleged that its candidates were not allowed to file nomination papers. SP MLC Sunil Kumar Sajan, in Unnao, alleged that the police were working actively to prevent non-BJP candidates from filing nominations.

The ruling BJP claimed a "historic victory" in the Uttar Pradesh Block Panchayat chief polls on Saturday. The saffron party won 635 posts out of the total 825 blocks. Earlier, during the Zila Panchayat chairperson election, BJP had bagged 67 of 75 seats. The state will witness high-profile Assembly elections in 2022.

Live TV
New Delhi: Heavy rains on Sunday (July 11, 2021) morning triggered a major landslide on the National Highway-10 which connects Gangtok (Sikkim) with Siliguri (West Bengal). The landslide hit the 29th mile on the NH-10 following which the road was blocked and traffic movement was affected.

As per the latest reports, the clearing process is underway. Meanwhile, small vehicles towards Siliguri are being diverted via Peshok Road from Teesta.

Major landslide hit 29th mile on the NH 10 connecting Gangtok with Siliguri this morning. Road has been blocked, clearing process may take around 2 -3 hrs. Small vehicles towards Siliguri is being diverted via Peshok Road from Teesta. #landslide pic.twitter.com/AaFCszfH6X  Pooja Mehta (@pooja_news) July 11, 2021









West Bengal and Sikkim have been witnessing heavy to very heavy rainfall for the past few days.

Earlier last week, the Sikkim government started efforts to revive the tourism industry by allowing inter-state tourists under its 'unlock process'. Kapil Meena, Additional Secretary of the Tourism Department in the state, said that the government has decided to allow entry of only those in Sikkim who have been fully vaccinated against the COVID-19.

He had also said that the state government is making great efforts to make the tourists feel welcomed and comfortable.

Live TV
New Delhi: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Saturday (July 10, 2021) said that a Hindu boy lying to a Hindu girl is also Jihad and added that the state government will bring a law against it.

During a media conference, Sarma said, "Hindu boy lying to a Hindu girl is also Jihad. We will bring a law against it."

The BJP leader added that Hindutva is a way of life and claimed that adherents of most religions are descendants of Hindus. He said that Hindutva began 5,000 years ago and it cannot be stopped.

"Hindutva is a way of life. How can I or anybody stop it? It has been flowing through the ages. Almost all of us are descendants of Hindus. A Christian or a Muslim has also descended from Hindus at some point in time."

On the Love Jihad issue, Sarma said that he has reservations for the term but asserted that nobody will be allowed to cheat a woman.

"The government will not tolerate any woman being cheated by anyone -- whether Hindu or Muslim. Appropriate action will be taken against such offenders to ensure the safety and security of our sisters," he said.

The Assam Chief Minister also commented on the Delta plus variant of COVID-19 and said that the northeastern state has not recorded any case to date.

He said, "As of now, there is no Delta plus variant of COVID-19 in Assam. We are doing genomic sequencing in the state. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold a meeting to take stock of vaccination status in northeastern states on Tuesday at 11 am."

Sarma also spoke on resolving the boundary issue with other northeastern states and said, "Some tension is going on in both Assam-Nagaland and Assam-Mizoram borders. Assam Police has been deployed to protect our constitutional boundary. Being the gateway to the northeast, we are always open to discussions but do not encroach on our land."

(With agency inputs)
New Delhi: Union Home Minister Amit Shah is likely to visit the North Eastern Space Applications Centre (NESAC) in Shillong on July 17 to review the functioning of the space science and technology centre of the region.

The NESAC, a joint initiative of the Department of Space (DOS) and the North Eastern Council (NEC), helps augment the process of development in the region by providing advanced space technology support.

Being the chairman of the NEC, the Union home minister is also the president of the NESAC Society.

Shah is likely to visit the NESAC on July 17 to review its functioning, officials said on Sunday, reported news agency PTI.

The chief ministers of all the northeastern States, Union minister Jitendra Singh and top officials of the central and state governments are expected to attend the event.

Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and Secretary of the Department of Space K Sivan, who is also the chairman of the NESAC Governing Council, may attend it as well.

The home minister is expected to take stock of the plan of action of the NESAC envisaged for all the northeastern states and the progress of the works.

During his last visit to Shillong, Shah had chaired a meeting of the NESAC and gave a few action plans for implementation.

He is expected to review the progress of the tasks, the officials said.

Shah is also scheduled to attend a closed-door meeting with the chief ministers of all northeastern states at the NESAC campus.

The NESAC is located at picturesque Umiam, about 20 km from Shillong. It is a well-equipped state-of-the-art facility in the areas of remote sensing and geographical information system, disaster management, satellite communication and space and atmospheric science research.

The Centre has provided more than 20 years of dedicated service to the eight northeastern states using space science and technology.

The major objectives of the NESAC are: to provide an operational remote sensing and geographic information system-aided natural resource information base to support activities on development, management of natural resources and infrastructure planning in the region.

It provides operational satellite communication application services in the region in education, healthcare, disaster management support and developmental communication.

The other objectives include taking up research in the space and atmospheric science area, establishing an instrumentation hub and networking with various academic institutions of the region to enable single-window delivery of all possible space-based support for disaster management and set up regional-level infrastructure for capacity building in the field of geospatial technology.

(Wih inputs from news agencies)

Live TV
New Delhi: The NIA on Sunday conducted searches at the premises of an arms trafficker at Uttar Pradesh's Meerut, he is allegedly involved in an extortion case, in which Khalistani terrorists are also named. The central probe agency arrested Mohammad Asif Ali (32) after the searches, the agency said in a statement.

Issuing a statement to this effect, the probe agency said that the case relates to information received by the Punjab Police that Arshdeep Singh and Ramandeep Singh, currently abroad, had formed a gang and were threatening and extorting money from businessmen in Punjab.

The NIA took over the investigation and during the search conducted in Meerut on Saturday, two country-made pistols of 0.315 bore, 10 live rounds of 0.315 bore, one mobile phone, two SIM cards and one memory card were seized. Subsequently, the NIA arrested Ali.

One Gagandeep used to purchase arms and ammunition from Ali and supply them to Kamaljeet Sharma, who has been arrested, and his associates, the NIA official said. These weapons were used in faith-based targeted killings and for threatening and extorting money from businessmen in Punjab.

The NIA on Sunday also conducted a search at the premises of Paramjit Singh in Meerut, another arms trafficker involved in the case. It seized Rs 9 lakh cash, mobile phones and incriminating documents, the official said.
World Population Day is observed on July 11 every year, to raise awareness about global population issues. India, with a current population size of 1.37 billion, has the second largest population in the world. By 2027, we are expected to overtake China to become the most populous country (UN World Population Prospects 2019). Rajasthans population in 2021 is estimated to be 79.28 million (7.92 crores) with its youth and adolescent population pegged at 32 percent.

The constant decline in fertility and mortality in India during the 1980s has brought positive change in age structure of population and has resulted in a huge young force of human capital and the trend will remain until early 2030. However, the assets of adolescence and young are not provided with opportunity to grow with full potential. They face social, cultural and economic challenges even to access basic education and healthcare. says Dr Dhirendra Kumar (Population Scientist and Dean, IIHMR University) adding, According to the fourth National Family Health Survey (2015-16), more than 35 percent of girls in Rajasthan are married before the age of 18. The 2020 Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) survey states that in Rajasthan 12.5 percent of girls aged 15-16-year-old drop out of school due to diverse reasons, including early marriage and childbearing. The COVID-19 pandemic has further deteriorated the situation and has highlighted the need to invest in our young to convert them into demographic bonus.

Investments in the future of Rajasthans youth population is critical because caste dynamics and social mores inhibit the opportunities to access education, health, nutrition, employment, and empowerment, especially for women and girls. There are compelling examples from states like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh to indicate the importance of investing in education and improving access to quality healthcare in order to achieve population stabilisation.

Divya Santhanam, Senior State Programme Manager, Population Foundation of India, says, In Rajasthan, work is being done by grassroots agencies and the government to promote the importance of education for girls, family planning and dispersal of information about sexual and reproductive health. The pandemic had an impact on equal access to contraceptives and safe abortions and increased the risk of teen pregnancies but the government has shown a willingness to address these issues with its outreach programs and network of adolescent friendly health centres.

Experts agree unanimously that coercive population control measures are not the solution and could instead lead to a potential increase in sex-selection practices. This is likely to have a negative impact on the Child Sex Ratio, affecting Central Government campaigns such as the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao programme.

China recently rescinded its stringent population policy, having found itself in the midst of a population crisis. On the other hand, neighbouring Sri Lanka successfully stabilized fertility rates by simply increasing the age at marriage, a move that was made more effective by ensuring girls were educated. With increased access to education, economic and other development opportunities, fertility decline is the natural demographic phenomenon.

For Rajasthans youth population, family planning and access to contraceptives is a critical element of the primary care component, given its crucial role in delaying first births, ensuring spacing between births, lowering maternal and child mortality, and preventing unsafe abortions.

Ms Divya Santhanam adds, Keeping girls in schools and increasing the number of years girls remain in school, can have a huge impact on the health and wellbeing of the population, particularly among young people. This helps in delaying the age at marriage/cohabitation and increasing the interval between marriage and the first pregnancy. We need to expand the range and reach of the current basket of contraceptive choices, and consider adding more Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptives (LARC), which are critical in view of our large population of young people."

Allaying irrational fears about a possible population explosion, a recent study by The Lancet indicates that Indias Total Fertility Rate (the average number of children born to each woman) could decline steeply to 1.29 by 2100, from 2.2 in 2017. However, even the current population momentum will create unmet needs at every level, for young people, and that is why we need to take steps towards population stabilization and not population control through coercive population policies.
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to visit his parliamentary constituency Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh on July 15, ANI reported. The PM is likely to inaugurate a total of 75 development projects worth around Rs 736.38 crores in the city.

Modi is scheduled to inaugurate Rudraksh International Convention Centre at Sigra in Varanasi during his visit. The Convention Centre, which was built with the help of Japan, will be inaugurated by the PM along with the Ambassador of Japan to India, as per the news agency.

Apart from the Convention Centre, PM Modi will unveil a 100-bedded Model Maternal and Child Health (MCH) wing at Sir Sunderlal Hospital, BHU. The other projects that the PM is likely to inaugurate, a three-lane flyover on Varanasi-Ghazipur Road, 80 residential flats for teachers in BHU, Girls Hostel at Primary School Katari and Cholapur, among others.

For tourism development in the state, the PM will launch ro-ro ferry service in the city. He will also launch cruise boat operations from Rajghat in Varanasi to Assi Ghat. In view of the COVID-19 pandemic, the PM will unveil PSA Oxygen Generation Plants in various hospitals and health centers.

Meanwhile, projects whose foundation stone will be laid by PM Modi include:

1.Central Petrochemicals Engineering and Technical Institute

2. Mango and Vegetable Integrated Packhouse at Karkhianv, Varanasi

3. A shooting range in Varanasi

4. Foundation stone for tourism development and beautification works of Ashram at Manikarnika Ghat

5. Sitara Automation Work of Water Supply Projects in Trans-Varuna Region

6. Installation of 2 MW Solar Power Plant at Water Treatment Plan, Bhelupur

7. Foundation stone for renovation and repair works of many rural roads

The PM's visit becomes significant as Uttar Pradesh is all set to witness high-profile Assembly elections next year. BJP, the current ruling party in the state, is looking for a comeback with Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath vying for a second tenure. BJPs spirits seem high with its win in recently concluded Block Pramukh Chief elections and Zila Panchayat chairperson election.

(With agency inputs)

Live TV
New Delhi: The Sabarimala temple authorities on Saturday (July 10, 2021) informed that the temple will open its gate for the devotees for its monthly puja from July 17 to 21. The decision to allow the entry of devotees in the temple premises, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, comes with many restrictions.

The temple authorities stated that the people will be required to strictly adhere to COVID-19 safety protocol and curbs to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

Read COVID-19 rules for entering the temple here:

- Only those people will be allowed to enter the temple who will show either a complete COVID vaccination certificate or RTPCR negative report, issued within 48 hrs.

- People will also need to book their slot on the online booking system and no more than 5,000 devotees will be allowed to attend.

Meanwhile, according to PTI report, Kerala on Saturday logged 14,087 fresh COVID-19 cases, pushing the infection caseload to 30,53,116, while 109 more deaths took the toll to 14,489. As many as 11,867 people have been recovered from the infection, taking the total recoveries to 29,22,921 and the number of active cases in the state currently stands at 1,15,226, a state government release said.

Live TV
Houston: Sirisha Bandla, a 34-year-old aeronautical engineer, is set to become the third Indian-origin woman to head to space when she flies as part of Virgin Galactic's first fully crewed flight test on Sunday.

Bandla, who was born in the Guntur district in Andhra Pradesh and brought up in Houston, Texas, will join Sir Richard Branson, the company's billionaire founder, and five others on board Virgin Galactic's SpaceShipTwo Unity to make a journey to the edge of space from New Mexico.

"I am so incredibly honoured to be a part of the amazing crew of #Unity22, and to be a part of a company whose mission is to make space available to all," she tweeted.

Bandla will be astronaut no 004 and her flight role will be Researcher Experience, according to her profile on Virgin Galactic.

She will become the third Indian-origin woman to fly into space after Kalpana Chawla and Sunita Williams.

"When I first heard that I was getting this opportunity, it was just. I think that that probably captured it very well, I was speechless. This is an incredible opportunity to get people from different backgrounds, different geographies and different communities into space," she said in a video posted on Virgin Galactic Twitter on July 6.

You can catch the live stream on Virgin Galactic.com and it will also be simulcast on the Virgin Galactic Twitter, YouTube, and Facebook channels. It is likely to begin at 9:00 am EDT (6:30 pm IST) on the day of the flight.

Bandla, a Purdue University alumna, will be evaluating the human-tended research experience, using an experiment from the University of Florida that requires several handheld fixation tubes that will be activated at various points in the flight profile, a statement on the Galactic website said.

Bandla started in her role as the Vice President of Government Affairs and Research Operations at Virgin Galactic in January 2021, the university said in a statement.

Bandla grew up in Houston, near NASA's Johnson Space Center, and always wanted to become an astronaut. But poor eyesight meant she could not meet the requirements to become a pilot or an astronaut, derailing her high-school plan to go the Air Force-to-NASA route, she said in the statement.

"I've had fond memories of my time at Purdue," Bandla said in 2021, being part of a group of passionate individuals... Purdue built a strong foundation of technical and programmatic principles we all carried into our successful careers.

The flight window for the next rocket-powered test flight of its SpaceShipTwo Unity opens July 11, pending weather and technical checks, Galactic said in a statement.

Welcome Sirisha Bandla, Colin Bennett, and Beth Moses  our expert crew members joining @richardbranson on our #Unity22 test flight. Watch LIVE this Sunday at https://t.co/5UalYT7Hjb. @SirishaBandla @VGChiefTrainer pic.twitter.com/F4ZrGnH3vo  Virgin Galactic (@virgingalactic) July 5, 2021

The 'Unity 22' mission will be the twenty-second flight test for VSS Unity and the company's fourth crewed spaceflight. It will also be the first to carry a full crew of two pilots and four mission specialists in the cabin, including the company's founder, Sir Branson, who will be testing the private astronaut experience, it said.

"I've always been a dreamer. My mum taught me to never give up and to reach for the stars. On July 11, it's time to turn that dream into a reality aboard the next @VirginGalatic spaceflight," Branson tweeted following the announcement on July 2.

Building on the success of the company's most recent spaceflight in May, Unity 22 will focus on cabin and customer experience objectives.
New Delhi: Delhi Police Special Cell registered an FIR against the creators of a mobile application for allegedly uploading photos of Muslim women without their consent and using inappropriate remarks against them. The case is related to an app named `SULLI DEAL` that allegedly uploads photos of women without their consent and uses the hosting platform `GITHUB` to auction the stolen photos.

"Acting on a complaint received on National Cybercrime Reporting Portal regarding Sulli Deals Mobile Application, a case FIR under section 354-A of IPC has been registered by Cyber Crime Unit on July 7 and investigation has been taken up. Notices have been sent to GitHub to share the relevant details," said Delhi Police.

Meanwhile, the National Commission for Women (NCW) took suo moto cognisance of the "defunct website called `Sulli Deals` on an internet platform named `Ghithub` that was uploading pictures of many Muslim women including journalists, activists. analysts, artists and researchers with derogatory remarks and had put them up for auction.

"The NCW chairperson wrote to Delhi Police Commissioner seeking intervention to investigate the matter and for filing FIR under relevant sections so that the "perpetrators of the crime cannot escape punishment."

"The detailed action taken report in the matter has to be informed to the Commission within 10 days. A copy of the letter has also been sent to the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Cyber Crime Unit, Delhi Police," reads an NCW release.

Live TV
Kolkata: Three suspected terrorists belonging to Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB) were on Sunday (July 11) arrested in Kolkata.

They were arrested by Kolkata Polices Special Task Force.

According to the police, the terrorists had been living in a rented accommodation for the last few months in a middle-class locality in the city.

The STF is expected to brief about the operation at 4:30 pm.

Live TV
New Delhi: The Uttar Pradesh Anti Terrorist Squad (ATS) on Sunday (July 11, 2021) arrested two people who are suspected to be Al-Qaeda terrorists. They were held after the UP ATS team raided a house in Uttar Pradesh's Kakori area.

GK Goswami, UP ATS's IG told Zee News that they were in search of these terrorists for a long time. The apprehended terrorists were reportedly planning suicide attacks and serial blasts.

Explosives were also recovered from the house. However, there is no official statement yet.

(More details awaited)

Live TV
New Delhi: AAP's Chief Spokesperson Saurabh Bhardwaj emphatically stated on Saturday (July 10, 2021) that if the BJP-led Haryana government does not release Delhis rightful portion of water in 24 hours, they will stop the connection of water supply in Delhi BJPs Chief Adesh Guptas house.

He further added that out of a total of 900 MGD of water consumed by Delhi, approximately 100 MGD of water has been curtailed by the BJP led Haryana.

Bhardwaj emphasised that BJPs dirty politics is costing the water of 20 lakh people of Delhi.

"The people of Delhi and Aam Aadmi Party will no longer tolerate this domineering attitude and downright politics of the BJP led Haryana Government. The Haryana government has been repeatedly stalling Delhis and we have to very often go to the High Court or Supreme Court. Stopping the water connection of Adesh Guptas house is the only way to bring them on the right track. The state governments do not have the time and energy to go to court and get their rightful portion of water. Only when the court gives a strongly-worded judgement des the BJP release our water," he said.

Throwing light upon how in the past few days Delhi has had to face a shortage in water supply, Bhardwaj stated, The leaders of Bharatiya Janata Party are taking undue advantage of this situation in a lot of ways. Today, the Delhi Jal Board (DJB) conducted an official press conference in which it was stated that a large portion of Delhis water comes from the state of Haryana. And, this water being supplied from Haryana, the BJP led state, has been deliberately trying to stall the supply due to unreasonable politicisation.

Bhardwaj further added that approximately 100 MGD (million gallons per day) of water is being curtailed by the BJP led Haryana.

He added, Moreover, Delhi currently consumes 900 MGD of water. And, if 100 MGD is not supplied, that means nearly 10% of the total consumption of water is not coming. Which means, out of the population of 2 crore people of Delhi, the water of 20 lakh people has been stalled due to dirty politics by the BJP led Haryana government.

Bhardwaj cited, We were listening to one of the Press Conferences of BJP in which they were citing various points regarding the water supply. The people of Delhi and the Aam Aadmi Party have decided that we will no more tolerate this domineering attitude of the BJP led Haryana Government. We will no longer tolerate this downright politics of BJP.

Bhardwaj lastly stated, The people of Delhi have decided that they can give 24 hours to BJP to restart and supply water which is their staunch right. If this does not happen, we shall stop the connection of water supply in Delhi BJPs Chief Adesh Guptas house. Thats because this is the only way out to bring them on the right track. The Haryana government has been repeatedly stalling the water supply of Delhi and we have to very often go to the High Court or Supreme Court. This takes a lot of time and energy and only when the court gives a strongly-worded judgement do they release the water. However, it is not feasible for any state government to do this and repeat this entire process. Hence, we have decided that we will stop the water connection of Delhis BJP Chief Adesh Gupta after 24 hours, in case they fail to supply water.
New Delhi: Amid concerns of Zika virus detected in Kerala with 14 cases having been reported so far, Public health expert Dr Mathew Varghese warned that epidemiologists must be concerned about the resurfacing of the virus, adding that people should not be scared.

"Zika virus is not spread by contact or aerosols. It is spread by mosquitos. That is a different epidemiology. I would not worry about it at this point in time. Epidemiologists and the Kerala Public Health dept has to be concerned that from somewhere Zika has come, and find a way to control the virus and mosquitoes. We should not create a scare among the people," he told ANI.

After 14 cases of Zika virus were found in Kerala, high alert was flagged in all districts, especially for pregnant women. The Karnataka government on Friday (July 9) also issued guidelines in order to prevent the spread of the Zika virus from neighbouring Kerala.

Meanwhile, a six-member central team of experts was dispatched to Kerala to monitor the Zika virus situation and support the state government in management of cases, the Union health ministry informed on Friday.

Zika virus, first reported in India at Ahmedabad in January 2017, spreads mostly by the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito, which bites during the day. The same mosquito is responsible for transmitting other diseases like dengue, chikungunya and yellow fever.

Meanwhile, Varghese, also former director of St Stephens Hospital in Delhi, commented on the mutation of COVID-19 virus and said we have to be careful. "It is normal for viruses to mutate. They will keep mutating. This is the norm, it's not unusual. We have to be prepared for various types of variants in the environment and have to be careful, he added.

The health expert defended visitors thronging tourist spots, however, cautioned that strict compliance to COVID-19 norms must be adopted by them. "Tourist spots are getting crowded because people are getting more and more fed up with the closed lockdown life, and I think we need to grant it to them. Allow them to have open spaces but they must follow precautions very strictly, especially in indoor spaces," Varghese told ANI.

(With agency inputs)

Live TV
New Delhi: Kerala reported three more Zika virus infections on Sunday taking the total count in the state to 18 even as the southern state is already battling a spurt in fresh COVID-19 infections.

In a press release, the new cases were confirmed by the state health department. "A 22-month-old toddler was found infected. A 46-year- old man and a 29- year-old health worker have also been found infected. We have 18 confirmed cases of infection in the state," the statement read.

The state Health Minister Veena George claimed that the government has arranged for testing facilities at several places in the state including Thiruvananthapuram, Thrissur and Kozhikode Medical colleges and National Institute of Virology (NIV) unit at Alappuzha. Around 2,100 test kits were received from NIV Pune and 1,000 have been given to Thiruvananthapuram, 300 each to Thrissur and Kozhikode and 500 to NIV in Alappuzha.

The minister said that instructions have been given to hospitals to test those patients, especially pregnant women, with fever, rashes and body pain.

Meanwhile, the state had reported 14,087 fresh covid infections on Saturday and 109 deaths taking the total caseload to 30,39,029 and toll to 14,380. The active cases touched 1,13,115. The state is now seeing daily fresh cases between 12,000 to 15,000 with no end in sight to the prolonged surge, as some experts put it.

Live TV
Bengaluru: Karnataka Congress President D K Shivakumar has allegedly slapped a man who attempted to put his arms around him, drawing flak from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and in social media.

The incident occurred on Friday, and in the video that has since gone viral, Shivakumar can be seen getting irritated by the action of the man, who tried to get close to him and pace along with him.

The Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee Chief, who appeared to lose cool, can then be heard telling the man, said to be a party worker: "...You should be responsible", before asking cameramen present there to delete the footage.

The incident took place on Friday during his visit to KM Doddi in Mandya to inquire about the health of ailing veteran leader, former Minister and MP G Made Gowda.

When reporters questioned Shivakumar about the viral video and the incident, he in a way tried to defend his action.

"...What to say if one puts his arms around? What will the people say? Can we allow such a thing because he is a karyakarta (worker)? What will others looking at it say?" he asked.

Tweeting the video of the incident, BJP national General Secretary CT Ravi asked Congress national leader Rahul Gandhi whether he had given a "licence for violence" to Shivakumar, whom he referred to as a follower of Kotwal Ramachandra, one of the underworld dons of Bengaluru in the 1970s and 1980s.

"Karnataka CONgress President @DKShivakumar SLAPS his party worker in full public view. If this is how the "former shishya" of Kotwal Ramachandra treats his party worker, one can imagine what he would do with Others.

Have you given DKS the "licence for violence", @RahulGandhi?" he asked.

Karnataka CONgress President @DKShivakumar SLAPS his party worker in full public view. If this is how the "former shishya" of Kotwal Ramachandra treats his party worker, one can imagine what he would do with Others. Have you given DKS the "licence for violence", @RahulGandhi? pic.twitter.com/JuuSBsALwG  C T Ravi (@CTRavi_BJP) July 10, 2021

The Karnataka BJP, hitting out at Shivakumar for his "behaviour" and calling him "Rowdi DKShi", said he should learn how to conduct himself in public.

Posting a video of an earlier incident where Shivakumar can be seen hitting a youth who was clicking selfies as he was about to address the media, the BJP in a tweet asked him to quit public life if "underworld-like behaviour" is unavoidable.
New Delhi: Days after the sad demise of husband and filmmaker Raj Kaushal, actress-presenter Mandira Bedi was spotted for a morning walk with her mother on Sunday.

The duo can be seen involved in an intense conversation while having their walk. The video was shared by a celebrity paparazzo Viral Bhayani on his Instagram handle.

He wrote, A very good stress reliever #mandirabedi seen with her mom for a walk.

Walking increases cardiovascular and pulmonary (heart and lung) fitness. reduced risk of heart disease and stroke. improved management of conditions such as hypertension (high blood pressure), high cholesterol, joint and muscular pain or stiffness, and diabetes. stronger bones and improved balance.

In the video, Mandira can be seen wearing a black tank top and paired it with grey track pants.

This is Mandiras first public appearance post the sudden demise of her husband Raj Kaushal to a heart attack on June 30. Raj was 49 years old.

Hearing the unfortunate news of his demise, several of his celeb friends and fans thronged social media and extended their condolences to the family.

On Saturday (July 3), many celebs were spotted at Mandira Bedi's house for a prayer meet dedicated to the late Raj Kaushal. Mouni Roy, Samita Bangargi, and Vidya Malavade among others were present to provide emotional support to a shattered Mandira.

Mandira Bedi and Raj Kaushal got hitched in 1999. The couple has a 9-year-old son named Vir and had adopted a 4-year-old girl named Tara in July 2020.
New Delhi: Banking customers are facing issues related to net banking and online money transfer because the IFSC (Indian Financial System Codes) of many banks have been changed due to the recent mergers of several state-owned lenders. Banks have been advising their customers to use the new IFSC codes that have replaced the older ones which are no longer valid for online transactions via NEFT, RTGS or IMPS.

State-owned banks which have recently merged include Syndicate Bank, Allahabad Bank, Dena Bank, United Bank of India, Vijaya Bank, the Oriental Bank of Commerce, Andhra Bank and Corporation Bank.

Bank customers with accounts in these banks need to use their updated IFSC codes for online transactions. You can easily get the IFSC codes from the merged banks website of customer support.

You can register for the new IFSC codes via the banks website. You will have to fill in the required details to get the new IFSC code. You can also reach out to the banks toll-free numbers to get the details. Moreover, customers can also visit their nearby bank branches to update their IFSC details.

Meanwhile, if youre transferring money to a bank that has been merged then ensure that youre using the updated IFSC codes. Using the old IFSC codes that are no longer valid will result in failed transactions. Also Read: Good news! Contractual employees of THIS state to get bumper bonus

The rule is applicable to mobile banking customers as well. Notably, finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman had announced the merger of 10 state-owned lenders in August 2019 into four banks. Also Read: Twitter names Vinay Prakash as Resident Grievance Officer for India
New Delhi: Gold prices have been dropping in the last few weeks. Trading for gold September futures last week ended at Rs 47,920 per 10 gram on the Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX), a massive from June prices.

In June, gold September futures were trading at around Rs 49,000. So, in July, gold is selling cheaper than the last few months, offering a wonderful opportunity to investors to invest in the yellow shining metal.

As far as the major cities are concerned, the 24-carat gold is currently selling at Rs 47,810 while the 22-carat gold is retailing at Rs 46,800 per 10 gram in Delhi. In Mumbai, the 22 carat gold per 10 gram is selling at Rs 46,800. Meanwhile, the 24-carat gold per 10 gram is selling at Rs 47,800 per 10 gram in the financial capital of India.

In Kolkata, the 22-carat gold is selling at Rs 47,200 per 10 grams while the 24-carat gold is retailing at Rs 49,900.

Gold prices in Indian cities:

City 22-carat gold price 24-carat gold price

Bangalore Rs 44,750 Rs 48,820

Hyderabad Rs 44,750 Rs 48,820

Pune Rs 46,800 Rs 47,800

Jaipur Rs 46,910 Rs 50,960

Lucknow Rs 46,910 Rs 50,960

Patna Rs 46,800 Rs 47,800

Chandigarh Rs 46,910 Rs 50,960

Surat Rs 47,150 Rs 49,150

- The data is sourced from Good Returns.

Gold selling cheaper by around Rs 8300 from record highs

In 2020, stock markets around the world crashed amid fears of COVID-19 led economic downturn. The crash led investors to flock to invest in safer instruments such as precious metals, which led to an increase in the prices of gold due to strong demand. Also Read: Good news! Contractual employees of THIS state to get bumper bonus

In August, the gold prices per 10 gram reached their record levels of Rs 56,191 per 10 grams on MCX. This means that gold is currently selling cheaper by Rs 8300 from record highs. Also Read: Bank alert! IFSC codes of THESE banks have changed, heres how you can get new ones
New Delhi: In a bid to provide major respite to contractual employees, the Rajasthan government has announced a one-time bonus for all such workers employed with the National Health Mission (NHM) in the state. Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has approved the proposal of transferring a one-time bonus in the accounts of contractual workers in the state.

Who are eligible for a one-time bonus?

According to an official statement, the one-time loyalty and experience-based bonus will be credited to contractual personnel who have completed three to five years of service in NHM on March 31, 2021.

However, the benefit will not be payable to contractual employees of NHM who have already availed benefits as of 31st March 2017.

How much bonus will NHM contractual employees receive?

Contractual employees of NHM who have completed three years of service as of March 31, 2021, will receive a bonus at a 10% rate while those who have completed five years of service on the cut-off date will receive a bonus at a 15% rate. Also Read: Delhi police registers FIR against mobile app for allegedly auctioning Muslim women

The Rajasthan state government will be spending a total of Rs 987.62 lakh to provide NHM contract workers with a one-time bonus based on their experience at the mission. Also Read: Twitter names Vinay Prakash as Resident Grievance Officer for India

Live TV

#mute
New Delhi: Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) of India offers a slew of investment schemes for Indians providing impressive returns and security on invested money. In such a scheme aimed at making Indian women self-reliant and self-reliant, LIC is offering a chance to grow money in a snap. Women aged anywhere between 8 to 55 years can invest in the scheme named Aadhar Shila. Investors can start investing in the scheme with an amount as little as Rs per day to get roughly around Rs 4 lakh at the time of maturity.

Besides assured returns on your investments, LIC is also offering protection coverage in the plan. For instance, if the investor dies before maturity, then the state-owned insurer offers financial assistance to the family. In the LIC Aadhar Shila scheme, the minimum sum assured is Rs 75,000 while the maximum is Rs 3,00,000.

Women investors can invest in the scheme for a minimum term of 10 years to a maximum term of 20 years. Investors will need Aadhar Card to open an account in the LIC Aadhar Shila scheme, which is a guaranteed return endowment plan. Interested people can start investing in the scheme by contacting a LIC agent or visiting a nearby branch.

How to get Rs 4 lakh on maturity?

For growing your investment to roughly around Rs 4 lakhs, women investors will have to start investing Rs 10,959 a year along with 4.5% tax for straight 20 years. On a daily basis, your saving will stand at around Rs 29 per day. Also Read: Gold Price Today, 11 July 2021: Gold cheaper by Rs 8300 from record highs, right time to buy?

In the next 20 years, youll end up paying Rs 2,14,696 to LIC. However, on maturity, LIC will return you Rs 4 lakh for your investment. Investors can choose to pay their premiums on monthly, quarterly or half-yearly basis. Also Read: India poised for double-digit growth, disinvestment climate looks better: Niti VC
New Delhi: A Bengali actress has filed a police complaint for getting rape threats online according to Hindustan Times.

The actress has claimed that her morphed and sexually explicit pictures were posted on social media.

We have initiated a case under various sections of the Information Technology (IT) Act 2000 and the Indian Penal Code on the basis of a complaint lodged by the woman, a senior officer of the detective department told HT.

I was receiving threats that I would be raped. Initially, I was asked by the police to ignore it but the harassment went on. I feared for my life, shares the actress about her ordeal. She further adds, The morphed pictures were even sent to my mother and friends.

Another similar incident took place in West Bengal where the son of a local Trinamool Congress leader from Hooghly district has allegedly uploaded the morphed pictures of the daughter of a police officer on social media. He also shared her phone number online. According to the officials who spoke to HT, the woman and the accused knew each other.

I was getting calls not only from other states but also from abroad after my morphed photo and number was uploaded on porn sites, shares the woman.

If being a police officer I dont get justice then what would happen to the common citizens, tells the woman's father to HT, who is also a deputy superintendent of police.

The two incidents have triggered a fresh political banter between the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Police have become inactive. Some of the efficient officers have been sidelined by the TMC government. Maybe they didnt do the task which the ruling party asked them to during the elections. They had to face the consequences. What would the police do? Ultimately it is the party leaders who are running the police, said Dilip Ghosh, BJP president in West Bengal.

Cybercrime is not just restricted to West Bengal. It happens across the world. West Bengal police act on such cases very promptly. There is no party interference. Such allegations are baseless, retorted TMC minister Sujit Bose.
New Delhi: A stream of highly charged particles - or solar winds, from the Sun is hurtling towards the Earth and is expected to reach sometime between Sunday and Monday (July 11 to 12), as per a report by Spaceweather.com. This stream of highly charged particles could likely trigger a minor solar storm in the Earth's magnetosphere - a region of space dominated by Earth's magnetic field, and could affect cellphone, GPS signals, space weather forecasters warned.

"As the wind flows toward Earth, it carries with it the Suns magnetic field. It moves very fast, the smacks right into Earth's magnetic field. The blow causes a shock to our magnetic protection, which can result in turbulence," Nicky Fox, of NASA's Director of the Heliophysics Science Division told express.co.uk.

Solar winds are streams of charged particles or plasma that erupt from the Sun and out into space. The "high-speed" stream is a result of a hole in the Sun's atmosphere and it is spewing a stream of solar wind in Earth's direction. While, NASA estimates these winds top, on average, speeds of about one million miles per hour but can go faster. Such space weather events disrupt satellite operations, affect radio communications and even cause power outages.

In a post on their official website, Spaceweather.com cautioned, "A high-speed stream of solar wind is expected to hit Earths magnetic field. Flowing from an equatorial hole in the suns atmosphere, wind speeds could top 500 km/s. Full-fledged geomagnetic storms are unlikely, but lesser geomagnetic unrest could spark high latitude auroras.

Also, people living at northerly or southerly latitudes could witness fascinating celestial lighting or aurora at night.
Lucknow: The Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terror Squad on Sunday (July 11, 2021) arrested two Al-Qaeda terrorists accused of planning a major attack in the capital city before August 15. They were held after the UP ATS team raided a house in Uttar Pradesh's Kakori area.

UP ATS's IG GK Goswami told Zee News that these terrorists were being hunted for a long time. Two pressure-cooker bombs, a detonator, and 6 to 7 kilograms of explosives was recovered from the house. The apprehended terrorists were reportedly planning suicide attacks and serial blasts.

ATS managed to bust Al-Qaeda`s terror module in Lucknow and apprehended two terrorists who were reportedly planning attacks in the city. The arrested persons identified as Minhaz Ahmad (30) and Maseeruddin (50) were arrested in Lucknow`s Kakori earlier on Sunday.

They were apparently planning to conduct a blast in Lucknow and surrounding areas before August 15.

"Pistols, IED and huge explosives were recovered from their possession. The search operation is underway to nab their other associates," Prashant Kumar, ADG Law and Order, Uttar Pradesh told ANI.

An alert has been sounded in the Lucknow Commissionerate area, as well as in Hardoi, Sitapur, Barabanki, Unnao and Rae Bareli districts and western Uttar Pradesh in view of the terror strike plan.

While one has been arrested from Kakori Police Station, the other has been nabbed from Mariahu PS. The ADG said the terror module is being operated by their masterminds sitting across the border.

Live TV
New Delhi: In a horrific incident, an amusement ride at a local festival in Michigan, United States started to malfunction midway. The whole incident was caught on camera and now the video is doing rounds on social media platforms. While some of the onlookers, in the video, can be seen gasping for breath others rushed to the rescue of those on board the ride.

In the video, the magic carpet amusement ride at the National Cherry Festival can be seen swinging violently which in turn rocks its metallic foundations. As the ride was on the verge of toppling over, the quick thinking of some of the onlookers averted any major accident.

One of the passersby can be seen hopping on the foundation of the ride in order to balance it. Following him, several others can also be seen rushing towards the ride to do the same and this stabilised the structure of the ride.

One of the netizens posted the video of on social media with the message, Bystanders at the Cherry Festival in Traverse City, Michigan rushed over to stop a carnival ride from tipping over.

Take a look at the horrific video here:

Bystanders at the Cherry Festival in Traverse City, Michigan rushed over to stop a carnival ride from tipping over https://t.co/OeE4sASyF6 pic.twitter.com/ulLbxgQNRB  philip lewis (@Phil_Lewis_) July 10, 2021

ALSO READ: Boy asking tourists to wear masks in viral video made mascot by Dharamshala police

A report in a leading news portal said that no injuries were reported and the ride was disassembled by Friday morning, adding that the harnesses remained locked for several minutes even after the ride came to a stop. When everyone was released from the ride the onlookers cheered and clapped. Netizens are posting numerous messages on social media cheering vans lauding the efforts of the strangers which saved many lives.

Live TV
New Delhi: In yet another terrifying incident of caste atrocity, a Dalit man was assaulted by a group in Uttar Pradeshs Kanpur Dehat district. The horrific incident took place two days ago when a group of men violently assaulted a 20-year-old Dalit youth over an alleged affair with a woman of a nearby village in the Akbarpur area.

The incident caught the attention of the authorities after the video of the violent assault went viral on social media. In the video, the youth can be seen tired up to a tree partly naked while the group keeps questioning him about his caste.

As per the reports, the man, being identified as a painter by profession, was called by the woman for a meet. But as soon as he reached the location, the mob caught hold of him and mercilessly assaulted him. Following this, the video of the extreme brutality went viral on social media.

As soon as the video caught the Kanpur polices attention, they started a probe into the case. As per the latest information, the police have identified the culprits from the viral video and filed a case under relevant sections of the IPC.

The 20-year-old victim is now undergoing treatment at a hospital in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh and his condition is said to be stable.

Live TV
KABUL: Afghan security forces, with the help of air strikes, repelled an assault by Taliban fighters on the provincial centre of a key northern province bordering Tajikistan on Sunday (July 11), officials said.

The Taliban assault was the latest in a string of offensives that has seen insurgents capture territory across Afghanistan as U.S.-led foreign forces are in the final stages of withdrawing troops after almost 20 years of fighting.

"The enemy`s offensive attacks were repelled, and they suffered heavy and unprecedented casualties, as a result of which 55 enemy soldiers were killed and 90 were wounded," the governor of Takhar province Abdullah Qarluq said.

Reuters could not independently confirm his account.

More than a dozen Taliban fighters were killed in air strikes by the Afghan Air Force on hideouts on the outskirts of Takhar`s provincial center, Taluqan, Afghanistan`s defence ministry said on Twitter.

"The Taliban attacked Taluqan from four directions last night (Saturday), but were faced with strong resistance from security forces and (local) people," Khalil Asir, spokesman for Takhar Police Command, told Reuters.

Taluqan is just the latest provincial capital to come under Taliban pressure. Earlier this week Taliban fighters entered the capital of the western province of Badghis, seizing police and security facilities and attempting to take over the governor`s office before special forces pushed them back.

Insurgents have made a fresh push to gain territory in recent weeks, emboldened by the departure of foreign forces. The Pentagon believes that after taking dozens of district centres, the Taliban will make a push for provincial centres.

In southern Afghanistan, too, clashes continued.

India said on Sunday it had temporarily repatriated officials from its consulate in Kandahar, a major city in southern Afghanistan.

"Due to the intense fighting near Kandahar city, India-based personnel have been brought back for the time being," Arindam Bagchi, chief spokesperson at India`s foreign ministry, said in a statement.

"India is closely monitoring the evolving security situation in Afghanistan," Bagchi said, adding that India`s consulate in Kandahar was being run by local staff temporarily.

Taliban officials said on Friday that the Sunni Muslim insurgent group had taken control of 85% of Afghanistan`s territory. Afghan government officials dismissed the assertion as propaganda.

Live TV
New Delhi: British billionaire Richard Branson was due on Sunday to climb into his Virgin Galactic passenger rocket plane and soar more than 50 miles above the New Mexico desert in the vehicle`s first fully crewed test flight to the edge of space.

Branson, one of six Virgin Galactic Holding Inc employees strapping in for the ride, has touted the flight as a precursor to a new era of space tourism, with the company he founded poised to begin commercial operations next year.

A discount travel service it is not. But demand is apparently strong, with several hundred wealthy would-be citizen astronauts already having booked reservations, priced at around $250,000 per ticket.

The Swiss-based investment bank UBS has estimated the potential value of the space tourism market reaching $3 billion annually by 2030.

Proving rocket travel safe for the general public is key, given the inherent dangers of spaceflight.

An earlier prototype of the Virgin Galactic rocket plane crashed during a test flight over California`s Mojave Desert in 2014, killing one pilot and seriously injuring another.

Branson`s participation in Sunday`s flight, announced just over a week ago, is in keeping with his persona as the daredevil executive whose Virgin brands - from airlines to music companies - have long been associated with ocean-crossing exploits in sailboats and hot-air balloons.

His ride-along also upstages rival astro-tourism venture Blue Origin and its founder, Amazon mogul Jeff Bezos, in what has been popularized as the "billionaire space race." Bezos has been planning to fly aboard his own suborbital rocketship, the New Shepard, later this month.

Branson, a week away from his 71st birthday, has insisted he and Bezos are friendly rivals and not engaged in a personal contest to beat one another into space.

A third player, fellow billionaire proprietor Elon Musk`s SpaceX, plans to send its first all-civilian crew (without Musk) into orbit in September, after having already launched numerous cargo payloads and astronauts to the International Space Station for NASA.

The launch of Virgin Galactic`s VSS Unity rocket plane on Sunday will mark the company`s 22nd test flight of its SpaceShipTwo system, and its fourth crewed mission beyond Earth`s atmosphere. But it will be the first to carry a full compliment of space travelers - two pilots and four "mission specialists," Branson among them.

Weather permitting, the gleaming white spaceplane will take off at around 0900 ET (1300 GMT) on Sunday attached to the underside of the twin-fuselage carrier jet VMS Eve - named for Branson`s mother - from Spaceport America near the aptly named New Mexico town of Truth or Consequences. Virgin Galactic occupies a large section of that facility, about 75 miles (120 km) north of Las Cruces.

Separating from the carrier jet at an altitude of 50,000 feet, Unity`s pilots will ignite its rocket engine to send the spaceplane streaking in a near-vertical climb to the blackness of space some 55 miles high, where the crew will experience about 4 minutes of microgravity.

The vehicle`s engine will then be shut down, and the craft will be shifted into re-entry mode and make a gliding descent to a runway at the spaceport. The entire flight, from takeoff to landing, should take about 90 minutes.

Branson`s official role is to "evaluate the private astronaut experience," and his observations will be used to "enhance the journey for all future astronaut customers," according to Virgin`s press materials.

The spaceplane`s two pilots, Dave Mackay and Michael Masucci, will control the ignition and shutoff of the ship`s rocket engine, and activate the vehicle`s "feathered" tail maneuver for re-entry.

The three other mission specialists are Beth Moses, the company`s chief astronaut instructor; Virgin Galactic`s lead operations engineer Colin Bennett; and Sirisha Bandla, a research operations and government affairs vice president. Also Read: India poised for double-digit growth, disinvestment climate looks better: Niti VC

Assuming the mission goes well, Virgin has plans for two further test flights of the spaceplane before beginning commercial service in 2022. Also Read: Gold Price Today, 11 July 2021: Gold cheaper by Rs 8300 from record highs, right time to buy?